From One Mommy to Another

Who's Going to #DisneySMMoms 2012 Celebration? We Are!!

2012-01-28T17:08:00.000-07:00

Invites to the Social Media Moms Celebration went out this week; it is so fun to see all of the happiness from those who are going.

I know our family is BEYOND thrilled to be attending, even more so because this is our first year of being invited.

How did I share the happy news with Mr. C and Princess A that they were going on their FIRST TRIP TO DISNEY WORLD? Yeah...big deal for them!

I printed a picture I had taken of their favorite breakfast ever...

I mean really...who doesn't love Mickey Mouse waffles? :) I made a quick card with the printed picture and surprised the kids with them right before they left for school!

Yes, those are leaps of true joy from Mr. C.

Disney Social Media Moms Celebration 2012 is two weeks before his 8th birthday so he feels an extra special glow around the trip.

Are you attending Social Media Moms Celebration 2012 at Disney World? I would love to connect with you! I am kind of nervous...It feels like many people have gone a few times or know each other. You can find me on Twitter @MommyMentor or on Facebook on my "Mommy Mentor" fan page. Leave your information in a comment and I will find you! :)

Review and Giveaway: Elizabeth Grant @EGSkincare Face Masks

2012-01-25T11:16:00.000-07:00

Your face.

How many of you love it? Do you love your skin? Does the sign of a wrinkle make your cringe or do you accept them with open arms?

If you are like me, your response to those questions can kind of depend on the day.

I have those days where I am ready to grow old gracefully...and then the others where I am willing to take a little help.

I found some new help with Elizabeth Grant Skincare (@Egskincare). Elizabeth Grant just released three new fantastic face masks that we can all use in the comfort of their home. All you need is 20 minutes to allow your skin the time to enjoy the benefits of this line.

I apply my Elizabeth Grant Skincare masks in the morning before I shower. I cleanse my face and apply while I get clothes laid out for the children or lunches made. Before my business trip, I applied the Red Algae mask for some added "radiance" and then did some sit ups and push ups. I love how time friendly these masks are and that I can easily find the time to pamper myself and my face.

Elizabeth Grant Skincare's three new masks are each valuable and an essential part of any skin care regime.

Black Algae Anti-Aging Mask

This ultimate anti-aging treatment brings together two marine treasures with extraordinary properties: Black Algae and black pearl extract. Black Algae, rich in alginic acid, helps to fight the free radicals responsible for the cellular aging. It develops specific sugars providing ability to resist against coldness. It helps protect the epidermis against external aggressions. Black pearl extract nourishes the skin and slows down the aging processes by improving the metabolism, supporting moisturization and protecting against damaging environmental effects. [$19.99, available on elizabethgrant.com]

Blue Algae Purifying Mask

A delightfully facial treatment for intense detoxification and purification. This mask will invigorate your skin in just minutes. The Blue Algae Extract increases the toxins elimination process and stimulates the cellular exchanges. A cocktail of balancing minerals and vitamins helps tighten pores while refining skin texture and comforts and tones your complexion. It contains an ultra-refined grade of hyaluronic acid to restore vital moisture. Your skin will recover its purity and youthful healthy appearance. [$19.99, available onelizabethgrant.com]

Red Algae Radiance Mask

Designed to refresh and energize the skin, this mask will immerse your skin in powerful, radiance-boosting, soothing care. At the heart of this formula, Red Algae Extract increases cell turnover and provides a radiant and youthful appearance. It is an instant smoother, softening the appearance of the skin and improving its texture. Its ultra-performing formula will leave your skin feeling energized, moisturized and wonderfully refreshed. [$19.99, available on elizabethgrant.com]

As you can see, the prices are incredibly reasonable with an astounding amount of benefits. While I love each mask for its own reasons and purposes, I am drawn to the Red and Black Algae masks. So many 'purifying masks' leave my skin feeling stripped and raw, which is something I am keenly aware of our here in Arizona. Stripped means that much more sun damage and the Red Algae mask from Elizabeth Grant Skincare is nothing like this. My skin feels nourished, smooth, and glowing after using this.

I am happy to tell you that Elizabeth Grant Skincare is giving 2 FOMTA readers their own Black Algae masks! Enter to win!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received a sample of each face mask to review and share my thoughts. My opinions are honest and mine, as they always are.

Smart and Final #MyBaristaMoment Ambiance Coffee and Raspberry Swirl Brownies Recipe #Cbias

2012-01-18T05:00:00.000-07:00

I love coffee.

In a serious way. One that some think is a bit weird.

But I go to bed looking forward to the morning.

Why?

Coffee. And a quiet house.

When I go to Smart and Final to buy Ambiance coffee, I always end up in the same spot...

We love so many of the Ambiance coffees that it is hard to choose.

We have yet to try the large cans of coffee.....................................because we love the smaller bags. The variety we can get is fun and makes our morning coffee even more enjoyable.

Which Ambiance coffees are our favorites? In no particular order...the photo above shows them. Kona and French Vanilla are probably our top faves and also go well when you mix them up a bit with the House or Gourmet Supreme.

Since I was shopping for Ambiance coffee and items for some brownies to go with that coffee, I decided that if I could not possibly choose....

I should just get them all, right? :)

So I mentioned I was going to bake, right? And part of the fun is experimenting sometimes! I figured if I could enjoy a nice cup of Ambiance coffee while doing it, what did I really have to lose? :)

You see this picture to the left? That would be my eager and THRILLED children when they saw I purchased a cake pop pan at Smart and Final. They love cake pops and have been begging me to try and make them.

So the good news? They love me because I made them. But experimenting with something that should be thick enough to let a stick hold it is not the wisest choice I have made. They were DELISH - don't get me wrong! But, I am fairly certain that in order to qualify as a cake pop (and a recipe you would vote for), the stick needs to stay IN the cake pop...as opposed to the warm ball of ooey gooey chocolate we ate...

without the stick.

Mind you, that ooey gooey chocolate tasted D-I-V-I-N-E with the Ambiance Kona coffee. It gave me just the recharge I needed to make another recipe (no sticks this time, I promise)! Here is the recipe for the yummy Raspberry Swirl Brownies I made with First Street items from Smart and Final.

Raspberry Swirl Brownies

Ingredients:
7.5 cups First Street Moist Brownie Mix
1 cup oil
4 eggs
Raspberry filling (find at bakery store)
Powdered Sugar
Almond Extract

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees

2. Mix brownie mix according to direction on First Street Moist Brownie Mix package (mix, oil, eggs, and water)

3. Spray 9x13 pan with non-stick spray.

4. Pour 1/2 of brownie mix into pan.

5. Squeeze raspberry filling in a zig zag pattern over this brownie mix.

6. Pour remaining brownie mix over the top.

7. Bake at 350 for 35 -50 minutes until a toothpick comes out clean when poked in the middle. (Note: This may take longer than normal because of the jelly filling.)

Frosting:

1. Mix 1 cup powdered sugar with 2 teaspoons of Almond Extract. Add 1 tbsp. of water to mixture and mix until desired consistency.

Let them cool for 30 minutes. When cool drizzle frosting over the top of the brownies to desired amount.

I hope you enjoy these Raspberry Swirl Brownies...now for some fun news and FREE stuff!

If YOU make the switch to Ambiance coffee from Smart and Final, you can win some seriously great prizes.

Simply go to www.smartandfinal.com/Ambiance2012 enter the code on your receipt from your purchase of Ambiance products and be entered to win some of these amazing prizes:

Grand Prize (one grand prize per week for three total) is a DeLonghi BCO264B Cafe Nero Combo Coffee/Espresso Maker! Yes, that's a $200 value!
One of six $50 SmartCash cards to use at Smart and Final when you shop (Two winners per week for 6 winners total). I know I am not the only one out there who dislikes the cost of groceries so a $50 savings helps a ton!

Also, be sure you head on over and vote for MY RECIPE (or your favorite :) ) at www.smartandfinal.com/Ambiance2012. You will be able to vote for your favorite Ambiance Coffee recipe and everyone who votes will be entered for a chance to win $50 worth of Ambiance products! (6 winners with two winners per week)

Be sure to check out all of the fun items I found on my shopping excursion to Smart and Final as well. You can really find some great deals and get your staple items all in one trip!

Disclosure:
This project has been compensated as part of a social shopper insights study for #collectivebias #CBias. All opinions are my own as they always are.

@AngiesKettle Corn Valentine Snack Packs: Our Valentine Treat of Choice for our Kids to Give Out

2012-01-16T07:08:00.000-07:00

Do you remember when I went to BlogHer last August?

Okay, probably not, but I do. That's when I learned about Angie's Kettle Corn.

And guess what?

I am being 100% honest when I say that NOT A DAY has gone by since then that Angie's Kettle Corn has not been in our house.

Angie's Kettle Corn is the only kettle corn we will eat! We loaded up on the Halloween snack packs at Target in fall and those little packs still taste fabulous.

As in...you have to try them.

At 70 calories per .5-ounce snack-sized bag, Angie's is a cholesterol-free treat made with whole grain and four simple—and simply irresistible—sweet-and-salty ingredients: popcorn, corn oil, sea salt and sugar.

Really? 4 ingredients?

Everyone in our family loves Angie's and Mr. C's teachers love the snack packs he brings them as well!

Thus, we were thrilled to hear that Angie's will be making Valentine's Snack Packs as well! What a fabulous way to offer children a healthy treat they will simply love (and let me tell you...their parents will SO love you for giving them Angie's instead of another sugar filled snack that their children will ultimately not eat).

Sold exclusively at Target, Angie’s Kettle Corn Valentine’s Snack Packs are a sweetheart of an all-natural treat, packaged in portable and convenient packs. And they are very cost friendly too at only $5.99 for 20 treat sized bags with customizable message stickers for easy and fun gifting. “With no trans-fats, artificial flavors, preservatives or cholesterol, our snack packs are a naturally delicious treat that Cupids of all ages will love from the inside—out,” said Bastian.

“Being able to offer parents a new option that their children can share with friends during Valentine’s parties is nothing short of heartwarming,” said Angie Bastian, namesake and co-founder of Angie’s Kettle Corn. “As a mom, I wanted to be able to provide other moms with a healthier alternative to artificially colored and flavored candies and those containing high amounts of sugar and saturated fat.”

Both Mr. C and Princess A will be giving Angie's Snack Packs to their classmates and friends for Valentine's Day...will yours?

Disclosure: Angie's sent me a sample of their kettle corn, but we will be purchasing the snack bags for Valentine's Day on our own. Why? Because all opinions are my own...as they always are. I tell it like it is and we love Angie's Kettle Corn!

About Angie's Kettle Corn...

Husband and wife entrepreneurs Dan and Angie Bastian founded Angie’s Kettle Corn in 2001 as a family-run, outdoor vendor operation. Today, Angie’s has increased in sales and popularity, moving the operation from outdoor festivals and events to a production facility with expanded distribution. Angie’s Classic, Caramel and Lite flavors are distributed to 50 states and found in locations that include Costco, SuperTarget, Target and Whole Foods as well as in co-ops, health food stores or ordered online. Learn more at www.angieskettlecorn.com and follow us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/angieskettlecorn or Twitter @AngiesKettle.

@Freschef Meals @FrysFoodStores in Arizona: Amazing Meals to the Table in 20 Minutes

2012-01-15T09:43:00.000-07:00

Last week, I had the chance to learn about an amazing new company based here in Mesa, Arizona.

freschef.

As you will see on their website, "freschef was created by people just like you who want to make better eating choices and are struggling to do so in this busy life! We set out to find the best dietitian and chefs who share our vision of making it easier to eat more healthful meals at home. Our approach has been simple…keep it real, keep it wholesome, keep it balanced, and keep it, well…simple!

We hope you enjoy the ability to put a fresh, homemade meal on your table…and may you find more balance in all aspects of life."

Not only is their mission a great one, but the people behind the company are real and so incredibly genuine.

You know me.

I truly love good companies with good people - it is why I love what I do so much.

As I listened and learned about freschef, I quickly learned that the people behind it are truly passionate about their goal. Providing real people with a reality that allows them to make real healthy food for themselves and their families is so important to them.

I teared up when I heard GayeLyn tell the story of an elderly gentleman thanking her because he could finally make his wife, who he cared for at home, really good meals. He wasn't able to chop fresh vegetables for her but now he didn't have to worry about it.

And that got me thinking about how many people freschef can really help.

Bachelors and bachelorettes - portion controlled meals with a leftover meal for lunch at work. No more wasting money and ingredients when you get tired of the same leftovers for 5 days.

Elderly - fresh vegetable and cuts of meat with flavor that are easy to make for each other. No more worrying about having the right spices or chopping vegetables.

Families - the ability to prepare a high quality meal for your family and save time.

Couples without children - again, forget wasting money on too much food and eating the same leftovers all week.

freschef offers a wide range of meals that are fully all cleaned and prepared. All you have to do is cut open the packages and follow the directions.

freschef meals can all be made and are to your table in 20 minutes or less.

I was able to try a few of the meals this week at Fry's Signature Marketplace on Tatum and Shea. The Thai Honey Chicken was really good; my husband thought it needed a bit more sauce and it was a tad too sweet for him. However, that makes sense since he likes Pad Thai whenever we order Thai food. The Italian Sausage Penne Marinara was very tasty and incredibly filling. I don't like preparing sausage so this offers us a nice way to get a tasty meal in proper portions. And next on my to do list is trying the Black Bean Turkey Chili in the crock pot...

A clear positive of freschef meals is that the company has clearly thought out their packaging. They formed focus groups and gathered their feedback as well before launching the clear packaging.

The clear packaging of freschef meals offer consumers transparency into the quality of the ingredients they are going to purchase. The nutrition information for EACH part of the meal is displayed on the back of each container (love that I can leave avoid my allergen of tree nuts without missing out on the whole meal)! Additionally, the directions are easily visible on the side of each meal so you can see what is all entailed in making each freschef meal.

Now, you may be wondering why this is important to me, especially given the meals are prepared for you...

freschef meals support our lifestyle; with sports and dance class three nights a week (I can almost here the "I hear ya sister!" from you as you read), time is precious. So, when we have dance class for Princess A right after school but are home shortly after 5pm, making Steak au Poivre with a few extra dishes is totally fine. However, when we get home after 6 from Mr. C's baseball, I would choose a meal with few dishes to clean up. Something like Black Bean Turkey Chili possibly.

The great thing is that unless we are getting in the door at 7, I can make a freschef meal instead of running through the drive through! The time savings in preparation of a meal is a huge one. The meats are trimmed, vegetables are cleaned, and sauces are made.

Last week, I gave freschef what I would consider a "real test".

Steak au Poivre.

Steak? For two? For $15.99?

I have to admit, I was rather skeptical...as was my husband.

Preparation was easy and the kitchen was immediately filled with delicious aromas.

15 minutes later, we made the sauce. I will not tell you too much, but just let me say this.

Butter...onions...thickened...AMAZING!

Here is a picture of my meal to show you the doneness of the steak. Again something I was rather skeptical of. You all know how bad steak can just never cook right....not the case at all with freschef. The portions were perfect and the meal was incredible, especially for the price.

freschef meals are truly a new concept in my opinions and I am thrilled to have these meals as a healthy option for our family. Week days are cram packed and to know I can purchase these meals for such a low price is a life saver. I can say without reservation that freschef meals will be a regular item for our family.

Take a minute and find your closest store that carries freschef meals here. Does your closest store carry them?

Disclosure: freschef and Fry's hosted a lunch for us to test these meals and learn about them. I received two meals to test at home. All opinions are my own as they always are.

Beauty and the Beast 3D Screening Birthday Celebration: Opens in theaters TODAY!

2012-01-13T14:22:00.000-07:00

This past week we had the pleasure of attending the "Beauty and the Beast 3D" Screening here in Mesa. A screening before a movie is in theaters is a HUGE thrill for the kids, but was even more special this time since it was Princess A's birthday.

Somehow that little thing is 5 years old.

What better way to celebrate than with her favorite princess, Belle, and her best friend by her side?

Well, and let's not forget about the 3D sunglasses. :)

The kids all loved seeing "Beauty and the Beast 3D" on the big screen.

One of my favorite things is to watch children reach their hands out to grab at the 3 dimensional objects. To me it captures them in a true childlike state...love those moments.

Overall, "Beauty and the Beast 3D" was lighter on 3D effects than some other movies we have seen. Personally, I enjoyed that because it did not become too overwhelming visually for the younger children.

Or the mother with vertigo...like myself.

At times, too many 3D effects can also interrupt the integrity of the original film. Disney got it just right with this version of "Beauty and the Beast".

I also had to share this awesome picture of my absolute favorite...Celine Dion, with Belle and the Beast. I have seen Celine in concert so many times and have worked my way up to the 4th row. Maybe if I get a Beast costume, I can meet her face to face. :)

Note to self...get Beast costume for our next Celine Vegas show...

Céline Dion/“Beauty and the Beast” 3D Disney’s beloved Belle, and the Beast from “Beauty and the Beast,” flank internationally acclaimed singing superstar Céline Dion (center, left) and her family (center left to right) Nelson, René-Charles, Eddy, and husband René Angélil, backstage at The Colosseum in Caesars Palace, Las Vegas, on the occasion of The Walt Disney Studios’ Academy Award®-nominated classic animated feature being released for the first time in 3D on January 13. Céline Dion won a GRAMMY® Award (with Peabo Bryson) for her chart-topping recording of the title song.

“©2012 Disney Enterprises, Inc. All Rights Reserved.”

Photo credit: Jerry Metellus

Truly, I think Belle from "Beauty and the Beast" was a defining female for many young girls out there. For our little Princess A, she was her first princess exposure, so Belle holds a special place in her heart...

and dress up bin.

We all loved seeing "Beauty and the Beast 3D" and hope you will too. "Beauty and the Beast 3D" opens in theaters TODAY!

So the big question is...when are you planning on seeing it?

Disclosure:

Thank you to Disney for the screening tickets to this film and for allowing our own girl to celebrate her 5th birthday like a true princess.

Guest Post: Five Things to Do Instead of Watching Television

2012-01-13T10:27:00.001-07:00

We've all done it: We head home after a long day and click on the television, which stays on until it's time for bed. What can be framed as an evening of entertainment is also roughly five hours of television viewing each night. Continue this habit for only a week and you've spent 35 hours in front of the tube. Even if you're watching nothing but the History Channel or NOVA documentaries, you're still pulled away from other aspects of your life, like physical fitness and time with your family. Tonight, consider shutting off the set and trying one or more of these activities.

1. Exercise

A top priority for many, especially at the beginning of the year, exercise is a great way to get in or stay in shape, as well as spend quality time with likeminded friends. Bring that exercise bike you stored in the basement back upstairs, wipe it down, and make anew a commitment to your health. Lead by example and encourage your children to exercise regularly, whether that's in your home gym, the YMCA, or a local park.

2. Host a family game night

This opportunity can be anything you make it: Compete in a gin rummy or Uno tournament; drag out old favorites like Clue, Life, or Monopoly; or get out the Twister mat and camcorder for YouTube video potential. The hours that you would normally spend in front of the television can be a wonderful time for your family to bond and have great fun outside of work and school.

3. Read

All too often we depend on the television or movie adaptation of a book to learn a story, but remember the original source of all those great stories. Renew your library card and walk out of the stacks with hardbacks, browse your local bookstore for tomes on sale, load your Kindle with hot titles, or join a book club and read with friends or coworkers. As your parents may have said when you were a kid, television rots your brain. Let reading help heal the damage.

4. Try on a toque

Whether you're a world-class cook, or just learning how to make your way around the kitchen, use your TV-less time to build upon your skills. You can teach yourself with one of the cookbooks you borrowed from the library, enroll in a cooking course, or involve the family in preparing the evening meal. Experiment with recipes you've always wanted to try and use the opportunity to teach kids about proper nutrition.

5. Pursue a passion

TV-free time is time to start doing that thing you've long dreamed of doing. Maybe you want to start a blog, flex your muscle as a creative writer or visual artist, or remodel a room in your house. Hobbies can take a backseat in favor of getting through the workday, taking a class, and raising children. If you want time to make an impact on the world with your writing, art, Bob Villa skills, or more, abandon the TV and get started.

As you begin doing more tasks away from the television, consider keeping a log that will let you know what you've accomplished. You might write down titles of books you've read, pull together a binder full of recipes you've tried and loved, or keep track of a weight-loss goal. You might just be surprised with what you can do with a little extra time on your hands.

Holly Watson, who blogs on behalf of Sears and other prestigious brands, is a stay-at-home mom and former financial adviser. She loves making cake pops and is training to run in her third marathon later this summer.

Coupon Code for 10% off at Target.com

2012-01-10T09:32:00.000-07:00

We can all benefit from saving at Target! Click here to save 10% Off Site Wide at Target!

@WholeFoods Giveaway Winner!

2012-01-06T09:34:00.000-07:00

The Whole Foods giveaway has come to an end! Congrats to Suburban Prep on winning the gift card!

True Random Number GeneratorMin: Max: Result:8Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Thank you to everyone who entered and to Whole Foods for sponsoring this giveaway.

Win a 10 Day Arizona Vacation Package from @ArizonaTourism!

2012-01-05T09:32:00.002-07:00

No one is more deserving of a relaxing getaway than hard-working parents. So, naturally, I thought of all of you when I saw this chance to win the Arizona Adventure of a Lifetime.

The winner of this sweepstakes can escape to the warm, desert dotted by calming, cool resort pools for a 10-day getaway to several wonderful cities, complete with complimentary lodging, airfare and a rental car. And, with so many things to do in the state – ranging from hiking the majestic Grand Canyon to experiencing the amazing varieties of cuisines, taking a hot air ballon ride over the stunning desert landscape or savoring Arizona’s wines – they're sure to have an amazing trip.

The Arizona Office of Tourism's Arizona Adventure of a Lifetime sweepstakes is in full swing!

Entries will be accepted starting January 1st, 2012 and submissions will close on January 31st, 2012.

Simply go to the Arizona Off of Tourism's website.
Share an Arizona ePostcard with a friend or a loved one between January 1st and January 31st and you’ll be automatically entered into a drawing to win a ten-day Arizona vacation package.

The Arizona Adventure of a Lifetime trip includes roundtrip airfare for two (2)*, car rental and resort stays in Scottsdale, the Grand Canyon, Prescott, Tucson and Tempe.

Ok, I am off to enter...are you?

@WholeFoods Gift Card Giveaway / 3 Day Beef Roast Sale-CLOSED

2012-01-04T10:48:00.001-07:00

We love Whole Foods and their weekend sales are awesome! This weekend (Jan. 6-8), Whole Foods Market is hosting a three-day sale on beef roasts. With this meat-stravaganza, boneless chuck, bottom round, rump roast and more (specific cuts vary by region) will be just $3.49/lb., a savings of around $2/lb.!

Whole Foods Market’s trained butchers can offer expert advice to shoppers looking to try something new with a tasty roast; scroll down to the “Ask the Butcher” series on our Meat Department facebook page for first-hand advice. As always, when you buy your beef from Whole Foods Market, you know it comes from an animal raised on a vegetarian diet, without being administered antibiotics or added growth hormones. And all of the ranches from which we source our beef are certified to meet the Global Animal Partnership’s 5-Step™ Animal Welfare Rating program so you also know how the animal was raised for the meat you are buying. Check out these simple and scrumptious recipes:

How to cook pot roast

Honey glazed black pepper roast beef

Cranberry-orange braised beef on ciabatta

Roast beef and brie croissant sandwiches

Visit our Whole Story blog for shopping and cooking tips.

I also have one $10 gift card to Whole Foods to give away to one reader! Simply leave a comment letting me know what you would buy with it! :)

A winner will be randomly chosen on January 6th, 2012 at 6am Mountain Time via random.org. Thank you to Whole Foods for sponsoring this giveaway!

Great Coupon Codes! Take Advantage Before They Expire...

2012-01-03T16:20:00.000-07:00

There are some great clearance coupon codes to take advantage of! Check these out to save at Snapfish,Weight Watchers Online, and Lane Bryant...

Save 50% on Snapfish Calendars, Photo Books, and Mugs. Coupon code: YEAREND50 Expires 1/6/2012

Save $29.95 on Weight Watchers Online with our 3-Month Savings Plan. Get the Information &
Resources You Need to Follow the Plan Online. Sign Up Now. Code automatically applied through link. Offer ends 1/31/12.

Save 30% off your entire order at Lane Bryant with coupon code: 000301879.

Book Review: Silver Smoke by Monica Leonelle

2011-12-31T10:00:00.000-07:00

Silver Smoke is the first book in a series by new author Monica Leonelle. She reached out to me to see if I had any interest in being part of her book tour. I love supporting people and businesses so of course was happy to work with her and help spread the word about her new book, but I didn't realize that I would be the lucky one.

Honestly, I have had so little time to read lately that I wondered if I could actually finish Silver Smoke in under two weeks, especially during this busy time of the year. But one week later, the book was finished.

I absolutely LOVE finding a book or series that sucks me in. One that I crave time to read...it has been awhile since I was sucked in like this. But Silver Smoke pulled me in and it felt amazing, probably even more so because it did so during this insanely busy time of the year.

Fantasy books are a favorite of mine, but finding well written one's are hard to find. Leonelle builds an entertaining and rich world for the Nephilms and Hallows in Silver Smoke...one with a rich history that left me with so many questions. From the sounds of it in this interview with Monica Leonelle, the author, readers will not be disappointed; we will learn more as we read the remaining six books in the series.

Silver Smoke is well written with a complex story line. The bonus is that readers can easily navigate the multifaceted characters and world they live in. When I began reading, I found myself trying to keep a mental list of the characters so I could fully understand the story. I quickly realized I could relinquish that and simply sit back and enjoy this book because the author would not leave me hanging and back tracking to remember who was who and who did what.

The multiple angles to each character keep readers engaged...whether you enjoy a bit of history, magic, love, suspense, mythology, or relationships, Silver Smoke fulfills them all and then some. I stayed up late reading and ignored many other aspects of my life simply because I had to know what would happen to Rykken or when Brie and her father would finally break the silence between them. And let's not forget about Kennedy...I had this intense desire to stop the inevitable train wreck for Pilot since he was so clueless.

Here is an excerpt from Silver Smoke by Monica Leonelle...just in case you need some temptation. :) But honestly, just read it and you will know what I am talking about. When you do, please stop back and leave a comment letting me know what you thought of the book. I love to hear from you!

The No Need for Disclosure Disclosure: Since I receive so many products to review, I always feel the need to disclose...that I don't need to disclose. I purchased this book because I wanted to read it and I wrote this review because I love the book and you will too :).

Interview with Monica Leonelle, Author of "Silver Smoke" and Seven Halo Series

2011-12-31T05:57:00.000-07:00

I just finished reading Silver Smoke by Monica Leonelle and had the wonderful opportunity to get to know her a little better. As I have stated multiple times, I LOVED her book Silver Smoke but these questions helped me to really like Monica. I think it takes a strong person to fight for what they really want out of life and being a really good author is hard work. I also have great respect for how transparent she is with the responses to the questions I asked.

So without further ado...here are her responses to my interview questions I asked her.

1. What was your inspiration for Silver Smoke?

Inspiration comes from everywhere; with Silver Smoke, I really wrote it a bit like a TV show, like The Vampire Diaries or The Secret Circle. There is a deep mythology that can be hard to keep track of at times, but it all comes together and makes sense by the end. The first book is a completed story arc on its own, but still such an introduction to the series-- readers definitely seem to want to know much more about the Hallows and the Nephilim. Luckily, there are 6 more books!

2. Which character do you like the most and like the least?

Oh man, it's hard to choose. At times I really dislike Brie, who is the protagonist. She's an interesting person, but also a bit selfish and infuriating. One of my favorite characters is Kennedy, because she's just like, psycho. It's so fun to try to get into her head. And I love and always will love Rykken. He's a sweet guy, all around.

3. Tell us more about how you organized your thoughts and writing for Silver Smoke.

I use a software program called Scrivener and I plot my books by scene. I usually plot about 60-70 scenes per book, and try to write at least 1,000 words (4 pages) for each scene. Often, I write up to 12 pages for one scene--it just depends. But that way, by the time I'm done writing the book, it's a good sized book of at least 250 pages, and often more (Silver Smoke is around 400 pages... some of my other books are smaller, around 300 pages). I'm very methodical and somewhat of a perfectionist, so I can't do the whole "write by the seat of my pants" thing. I've got to know ahead of time that the end product is what I'll expect it to be.

4. Which character do you identify with the most and why?

I identify the most with Sirena--I think she'll do anything to have a family, even if it breaks the law (the Hallow law). She's a fighter and a survivor. She is also a great strategist. She has both the feel of an old soul who's been around the block a few times and a child who doesn't have all the answers and feels lost. We don't see much of her in Silver Smoke because honestly, the book is already 400 pages and there was just no time to get to know her. But she plays a bigger role in the second book and is one of the main viewpoints in the third book. So you'll get to know her better as the series goes on.

5. Do you hit roadblocks as an author and if so, how do you deal with them?

Yes! Roadblocks include finding time to write, and also, dealing with the uncertainty of how many books you can sell and how financially stable you'll be in the foreseeable future.

In terms of writing, I will ignore my boyfriend and all my friends for weeks and just sit at my apartment, basically not leaving for hardly anything until I get a book done. I'm not the type who can write 1,000 words a day--I'm manic. I have to write 10,000 words a day for a week and a half and then take the rest of the month off. So that just involves ignoring everything else and getting into the zone.

With finances, I just deal with bills as they come. I'm lucky that I don't have a family to support and/or care for right now. A big part of dealing with uncertainty is a) having a backup plan and b) believing in yourself so much that you don't think you'll need your backup plan. I also spend a lot of time marketing when I'm not writing. I have a lot of passion for writing--it's what I've always wanted to do--so those things help me get through the roadblocks.

6. Tell us about your family and what you enjoy doing in your "free" time.

My family is basically just me and my westie dog, Mia. In my free time, I watch a decent amount of TV (my favorite shows include Revenge, Once Upon a Time, and Breaking Bad) and I go out to eat with my friends. I'm a bit of a foodie and Chicago is perfect for finding new restaurants. I also love marketing--I have an MBA and I'm obsessed with learning how celebrities rise to fame, make a living, and weather bad PR. I follow people like the Kardashians like it's my job.

7. Why should someone who does not know you or your writing read Silver Smoke?

There are a billion books to choose from and everyone's taste is different, so it's hard to say. For the most part, you have to trust the good and bad reviews and match them to your tastes when it comes to any book. And then, you just have to take a leap of faith and try something to see if you'll like it.

As for Silver Smoke, I love my book--it's exactly the kind of book I love to read. I'd equate it to a PG-13 version of Harry Potter... if you want to explore a really deep world that exists within our own, and you have the patience to read a seven-book series, you'll probably love Silver Smoke.

8. For Silver Smoke fans, what is one thing we have to look forward to in Tin Soldier?

Definitely Bristol. Readers of Silver Smoke will know her as Kennedy's sister. And she's nuts! Also, fans will learn a ton more about the Nephilim.

No Need for Disclosure Disclosure: No need to disclose, but I kinda feel like you need to know that as well. I bought this book and am writing these posts because I really liked the book and want to support the author.

Exclusive Excerpt from "Silver Smoke" by Monica Leonelle

2011-12-29T15:06:00.001-07:00

I just finished reading Silver Smoke, a new novel to the Seven Halos series by author Monica Leonelle. My review is coming, but let me tell you this. If you like, love, or obsessed over the Twilight series, you will LOVE Silver Smoke!

Here is an Exclusive Excerpt from Silver Smoke:

Pilot heard a soft tread on the carpet, and he knew it was her without turning around. “I guess I shouldn’t bother asking how you got inside,” Pilot said, facing the map on the wall. “I know all about Silver Smoke and the Hallows and Nephilim.”

The footsteps coming toward him stopped abruptly. He took her silence for guilt.

“Where have you been?” he asked, trying to keep the accusation out of his voice. Give her a chance to explain, he reminded himself.

“Trying to figure out how to get your powers back.” She spoke softly, with none of the playfulness that normally filled her voice. The difference startled Pilot in a way her presence couldn’t.

“My powers?” he asked.

Her voice just above a whisper, she said, “Aren’t you curious why you don’t have powers?”

Pilot finally looked at her. She wore her usual black ensemble, and the dim lamp lighting reflected off her pale, platinum blonde hair while relinquishing the rest of her face and body to the shadows. Her wet, silver eyes twinkled like the surface of a lake beneath a full moon.

“I’ve been wondering,” he admitted.

Her shoulders fell back from their stiff, upright position. “You should have powers, and I think I know how to get them back for you.” Her voice picked up, returning to a normal volume. “We just need Brie’s help.”

Contest information:

To celebrate the release of a new novel to the Seven Halos series, author Monica Leonelle is doing a Kindle Fire giveaway for Silver Smoke, the first novel in the series! Silver Smoke is the highly-rated (4.8 stars on Amazon) debut novel about the Hallows and the Nephilim, the descendants of archangels and humans.

Here's a description of the book:

Brie van Rossum has fame, fortune, and beauty, but there’s one thing she doesn’t have–the name of her mother’s supernatural killer.
The Hallows, descendants of the archangels, don’t think Milena was murdered.. but can Brie trust them when their government, the New Order, wants her dead?

She’d better figure it all out soon…

… because when Brie finds out who she really is, the hunt will begin.

And Milena might not be the only casualty.

Like mother, like daughter…

CONTEST DATES:

December 20th thru December 31st (12 days long)

EASY WAYS TO ENTER:
(3 entries) Blog about this contest and forward a link to monicaleonellecontests@gmail.com (see copy + paste instructions for the contest below)
(3 entries each) Share a sentence about the book with your Facebook or Twitter followers, and include a link to the book on Amazon or Barnes and Noble (you pick). One entry per social media account per day during the contest. Forward a screenshot or link of your sentence+link to monicaleonellecontests@gmail.com. The links are available below:
Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/Silver-Smoke-Seven-Halos-ebook/dp/B004MMERZ6/ref=sr_1_2
B&N: http://www.barnesandnoble.com/w/silver-smoke-monica-leonelle/1103721670?ean=2940012105332&format=nook-book
(10 entries each) Write an honest Amazon and/or B&N review of Silver Smoke and send a link to monicaleonellecontests@gmail.com

PRIZES!!!

Grand Prize Winner: Kindle Fire (or cash-equivalent Amazon gift card)
2nd Place (two winners): Kindle Touch (or cash-equivalent Amazon gift card)
3rd Place (three winners): Kindle (or cash-equivalent Amazon gift card)
Special Bloggers-Only Winner* (for blogger entrants – must enter via the web form): Kindle Fire (or cash-equivalent Amazon gift card)

Winners will be selected using Random.org on January 1, 2012 and announced on How To Be An Author by January 2, 2012.

Guest Post: A New Year...A New “Old” Routine

2011-12-27T05:41:00.000-07:00

With the start of the year, it seems that it should be just as easy as coming back from Christmas vacation and returning to the same return that we had just a week or two ago. Right?! Generally, not so much. Somehow, the combination of the “month of December,” the holiday “season” and that oh-so-special time of vacation completely free of routine, have a combined way of making the old routine seem like a distant memory. For many families, finding their swing again can be rather tough, especially coming after the letdown of holiday happiness to the doldrums of winter ahead. If you’ve experienced this before or fear it may be in your near future, here are some ways to transition smoothly into a new year.

First things First: Clear Out the Décor

While it seems fun to leave the tree and all the festive decorations up as long as possible, it can make the transition harder. Putting everything away and letting your kids start the New Year fresh with Christmas and the holiday season solidly behind them will help them focus on the future, not what they’re missing.

Carry Over the Merriment

Ask the kids what they enjoyed most about the month. Was it baking cookies? Ice skating parties? Late night Christmas movies in tents in the living rooms? Chances are that the “gifts” part of it won’t rank all that high, so pencil in time for the same sort of activities and events that created the best memories earlier and re-do them throughout the next couple months. Who says you can’t bake cookies in January or stay up late on a Friday night watching movies in February? Still having things to look forward to will reduce the letdown children tend to experience. Put activities on the calendar so the kids can visually see when the next “exciting” thing comes up. After the business of December, this will make January seem much less dull.

Find the Positives!

Most often, the return to school is seen as a drag and dreaded highly. (Who would really ever want to leave sleeping in and playing with toys and eating candy all day?) However, if you can find the positives about the return to school and help your kids see them clearly, you can take away the dread and sadness associated with going back. Have them make lists of what they missed when they weren’t in school and what they’re looking forward to again. Perhaps it’s seeing what their friends got for Christmas and sharing their own new toys/gadgets. It might just be seeing their friends again! Maybe it’s getting back in gym class or starting back to regular dance classes after school. Reminders of all the good perks coming just around the corner make a huge difference!

Make New “After-Christmas” Traditions

If your family doesn’t have any “after-Christmas” traditions, make this the year to start yours! Come up with a few fun things that you’ll do a week after, three weeks after, a day after, etc. Maybe every weekend after Christmas you take a box of goodies to an elderly home and help them beat the January blues too! Anytime we (kids & adults!) take the focus off of ourselves and what we’re dreading, to help someone else, the dread tends to vanish! Maybe you film a fun family home-video every January so that you can compile them all together 10 years down the road. The opportunities for January traditions are endless and can sometimes be almost as fun as Christmas.

Find Your Groove as Quickly as Possible

Many of us tend to take a laid back approach to hitting a routine again, thinking it will help us if we can break it in slowly. However, this generally leaves us feeling more lost and out of sorts/disjointed than before, especially the kids. As soon as possible, even a few days before the return to school happens, get back to the routine you had worked out earlier – your new “old” routine for this New Year. If there were issues with it (maybe bed time was a touch too early/too late, breakfast needed some extra wiggle room, etc.) start those right off the bat. Getting your kids back on their regular bedtimes and regular eating patterns a few days before school will help eliminate the tired-groggy-sad feelings that typically get associated with heading back to school suddenly and without structure back in place yet.

Finally, helping your children look forward to things far off in the distance can put December behind and the future front and center. Maybe it’s summer vacation or a birthday in February they can create a countdown for, whatever it is, remind them frequently that not all the fun is over, there’s simply a new year for new fun to be created!

Freelancer Jocelyn Anne writes full time for a heating & cooling appliance site, helping them write content for electric heaters for home use, but branches out into family topics whenever she gets the chance.

Walt Disney Pictures 2012 Film Line Up...Which Ones Will You See?

2011-12-22T07:30:00.000-07:00

Walt Disney Pictures has some great movies in store for us in 2012. Here is the current line up for the upcoming year!

January 13: BEAUTY AND THE BEAST 3D, also in Disney Digital 3D

February 17: THE SECRET WORLD OF ARRIETTY

March 9: JOHN CARTER, also in Disney Digital 3D and IMAX 3D

April 20 (Earth Day): CHIMPANZEE (Disneynature)

May 4: MARVEL’S THE AVENGERS, also in 3D and IMAX 3D (Marvel Studios)

June 22: BRAVE, also in Disney Digital 3D (Disney/Pixar)

August 15: THE ODD LIFE OF TIMOTHY GREEN

September 14: FINDING NEMO 3D (Disney/Pixar)

October 5: FRANKENWEENIE, also in Disney Digital 3D

November 12: WRECK-IT RALPH, also in Disney Digital 3D (Walt Disney Animation Studios)

Beauty and the Beast 3D aligns perfectly with Princess A's birthday so that is on the absolute list. I can't WAIT for Chimpanzee and Finding Nemo 3D. The Odd Life of Timothy Green looks great as well!

What's on your must see list from Walt Disney Pictures in 2012?

Coupon Code: Save $10 on purchase of $49.99 or more at 1800Flowers.com

2011-12-20T16:25:00.000-07:00

Have any last minute shopping to do or wondering what to do for those hard to buy for people? Save $10 on Flower & Gift purchases $49.99 or more at 1800Flowers.com with RetailMeNot’s exclusive coupon code: RMNTEN. Hurry – ends 12/31!

Beauty and the Beast 3D Coloring Sheets for Your Kids

2011-12-20T16:05:00.001-07:00

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST returns to theatres next month for the first time in 3D. While we wait...and believe me this is a WAIT for Princess A...I hope your kiddos have fun with these coloring sheets featuring your favorite characters! Be sure to "Like" BEAUTY AND THE BEAST on Facebook, too! And most importantly, will you go see this in theaters?

BEAUTY AND THE BEAST (In Disney Digital 3D™)

WALT DISNEY PICTURES

Genre: Animation

Rating: G

Release Date: January 13, 2012

Voice Cast: Paige O’Hara, Robby Benson, Richard White, Jerry Orbach, David Ogden Stiers,

Angela Lansbury, Bradley Pierce, Rex Everhart, Jesse Corti, Hal Smith,
JoAnne Worley

Directors: Gary Trousdale and Kirk Wise

Producer: Don Hahn

Executive Producer: Howard Ashman

Screenplay by: Linda Woolverton

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ magical classic “Beauty and the Beast” returns to the big screen in Disney Digital 3D™, introducing a whole new generation to the Disney classic with stunning new 3D imagery. The film captures the fantastic journey of Belle (voice of Paige O’Hara), a bright and beautiful young woman who’s taken prisoner by a hideous beast (voice of Robby Benson) in his castle. Despite her precarious situation, Belle befriends the castle’s enchanted staff—a teapot, a candelabra and a mantel clock, among others—and ultimately learns to see beneath the Beast’s exterior to discover the heart and soul of a prince.

Featuring unforgettable music by Howard Ashman and Alan Menken, and an enormously talented vocal ensemble, “Beauty and the Beast” was the first animated feature to receive a Best Picture nomination from the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences.

Notes:

· The film was nominated for six Academy Awards®, winning Oscars® for Best Song, by the renowned Alan Menken and Howard Ashman, and Best Original Score (Menken).

· “Beauty and the Beast” was the first animated feature to cross the $100 million plateau in its initial release.
Alan Menken has been nominated by the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences 15 times with seven wins. Prior to his death in 1991, Howard Ashman received six Oscar® nominations with two wins.
Three years after the film’s debut, “Beauty and the Beast” hit Broadway. The musical opened at the Palace Theatre and ran in New York for 5,464 performances between 1994 and 2007, becoming the eighth-longest running production. It has played in 13 countries and 115 cities and continues to enchant audiences worldwide.

Walt Disney Animation Studios’ magical classic “Beauty and the Beast” returns to the big screen in Disney Digital 3D™, introducing a whole new generation to Belle (voice ofPaige O’Hara), the Beast (voice of Robby Benson) and the castle’s enchanted staff—a teapot, a candelabra and a mantel clock.

Making Christmas A Reality for Children with #RAZ2011 from @Zhuniverse and @FrysFoodStores

2011-12-20T09:29:00.001-07:00

It is that time of the year again and we were fortunate to be asked to participate in Random Acts of Zhu again this year for #RAZ2011.

Just what is #RAZ? An amazing program started by Cepia LLC, the makers of Zhu Zhu Pets and DaGeDar, where they send an abundance of their products to bloggers like me and let us donate them to a charity of our choice.

#RAZ2011 is a wonderful opportunity for people like myself to support our local area and make Christmas a reality for families that need some support at this time of the year.

It is always fun to see what I get, too. Last year I received 100 Zhu Zhu Pets and this year I received about 27 Zhu Zhu Pets and enough accessories to give 27 children two accessories each. A total "WOW!" effect for sure for the children that would receive them.

This year I wanted to find a charity or organization in one of our outlying areas. Phoenix is so large so I wanted to make sure some children in a smaller outlying community received some support as well.

An added bonus this year was having Fry's Food Stores here in Arizona join in the giving of #RAZ2011. They provided reusable shopping bags, pretzels and granola bars for all of the children. They also donated tissue paper to complete the wrapping process!

Personally, I think it is great that Cepia LLC wanted us to invite other companies into this process.

This year I chose to partner with my dad's retirement community at the Lost Dutchman Park. The couples adopt children from the local community who are in need. The children write letters to Santa, the couples buy the toy for their adopted child, and Santa shows up to hand deliver the presents to them.

It was great to work together as a family - including grandma and grandpa. And even better was that these children had no idea there would be anything else aside from their one present from Santa.

To see their faces when we surprised them with yet an additional gift was beyond amazing for everyone in our family. I even think I saw my dad shed a tear or two...

One the way back to my dad's house, I had to chance to sit with little Ava and ask her what she loved most about giving presents to those children.

Her response? "We made those kids REALLY happy!"

#RAZ2011 brings us together as a family and helps our children see how fortunate they are and for that, I am so grateful. The hands on experience allows them to see where their feelings and efforts go.

And just when we thought #RAZ2011 was finished, the bus with all of the children came through the community with children yelling...

"THANK YOU FOR THE ZHU ZHU PETS!!!!"

This picture really captures what #RAZ2011 is all about. Giving to others during a time of year where hope may be gone for them.

I am honored to have been part of #RAZ again this year and thank Cepia LLC and Mom Select for choosing me to participate. I also thank Fry's Food Stores for partnering with us this year. I know that together we made Christmas a reality for 27 families that really needed us.

From our family to yours....we wish you a holiday filled with joy and hopefully, a little giving...

Guest Post: 3 Quick and Affordable Christmas Crafts

2011-12-20T04:17:00.000-07:00

The holidays are here! Use these great ideas to craft presents that are cheap and cheer-worthy.

Cookie Cutter Fudge

To make these adorable fudge treats, use cookie cutters with simple shapes. Making fudge is extremely easy. This recipe uses a microwave, but electric tops or gas ranges also work splendidly. Use aluminum foil to create a bottom for each mold by sealing the foil tightly around the outside. Lightly spray a cookie sheet. To make the fudge you will need to microwave 1 ½ cups semisweet chocolate chips with 1 cup peanut butter chips, 1 can sweetened condensed milk and 2 tablespoons butter on high for 1.5 minutes. Stir every 30 seconds and mix in 1 teaspoon of vanilla when they are melted.

Hand Painted Wine Glasses

Plain wine glasses can be found very cheaply. You'll need to use glass paint, but it's readily available in most craft stores. You don't have to be overwhelmingly artistic to end-up with an attractive glass. Even just painting lines, dots or circles will create an attractive end product. You could also print a stencil off of the Internet.

Wash the glasses before painting. If you are using a stencil, then apply the paint with a small brush around the edges first. Set the final product on a cookie sheet and allow it to dry.

To set the paint, put the glasses in a cold oven and turn it to 325 degrees Fahrenheit. Once 375 is reached, bake for 30 minutes then turn the oven off. Let the glasses cool gradually in the oven. Setting the paint will make it dishwasher safe.

Bird Seed Ornaments

Birdseed ornaments can be made simply and cheaply. They can be hung inside and then put outside when the season passes or you can place them outside right away. These hangers will attract all sorts of feathered friends and bring some life to your yard in the dreary winter.

Birdseed is inexpensive, but different kinds of seed attract different types of birds—so keep that in mind. You will need about four cups of seed to make one batch of ornaments. You will also need ¾ cup all purpose four, ½ warm water, 3 T corn syrup and 1 package of plain gelatin.

Start with the water and gelatin in a large mixing bowl. Stir the mixture until the gelatin is completely dissolved. Whisk in the corn syrup and flour to create a paste, then just add your birdseed and mix well. The mixture can be poured into a number of molds; individual ornaments as well as a large bunt pan all work. Whatever you end-up using, spray it generously with a non-stick spray. After pouring into your mold, use a spoon to press the seed down. Let your shapes dry for several hours before removing them from the mold. Small ornaments should get 3-6 hours, an entire wreath should be allowed to rest for a day. After removing, give the same amount of time to be sure the core is dry as well.

Pour your mixture into the molds, filling to the brim. Your creations should be refrigerated, uncovered, for two hours or until they are firm. Once they are firm feel free to decorate with candy, icing or candles.

This is a guest post from Holly Watson. She is a wife and stay-at-home mother. Holly enjoys traveling, eating grapes, and writing on behalf of Sears and other great brands. Her children always seem to have a Kool-Aid stain on their upper lip. You can follow her daily mantras on www.eatbreatheblog.com.

The BEST Pocket Thins or Pita Bread Ever = Arnold and Oroweat Pocket Thins!Flatbread

2011-12-15T06:20:00.000-07:00

So you may have seen my posts last week on my Facebook page about the fun box I received from Arnold and Oroweat, which included some of their new Pocket Thins™ flatbread...

And an adorable pillow, which has become the new favorite for snuggle time on the couch.

Sorry, I digress...back to the flatbread.

What do you need to know about Arnold and Oroweat Pocket Thins?

You MUST try them! They are phenomenal.

Soft, so versatile, and better than ANY pita bread we have tried to date! We made PB&J's that the kids loved because they were so soft! Then we made sandwiches for lunch with deli meat and I knew were found something great...

You see...Ava has this tiny little 4 year old mouth. She still truly tires from chewing. So almost every sandwich with meat makes her tire quickly. The Arnold and Oroweat Pocket Thins are so soft that she enjoyed her sandwich all the way through.

We made Chicken Caesar Salad one night and tossed it in the Arnold and Oroweat Pocket Thins. Another Winner!

Then I had one half on the side with a bowl of soup and just tossed little pieces in here or there. The Italian Herb is perfect for this as it has a great flavor that is not too overpowering.

Arnold and Oroweat Pocket Thins™ flatbread are only 100-calories and have 5 grams of fiber and 8 grams of whole grains. They are offered in Italian Herb and 8 Grain and sold under the Arnold® brand name in the East and Oroweat® in the West. Currently available in the Northeast, Pocket Thins™ flatbread will roll out to the Midwest in December and the Pacific region in January.

Arnold and Oroweat Pocket Thins™ flatbread sell for $3.99. Grab some at the store next time and be sure to stop back and tell me what you think!

For more information, visit the NEW Pocket Thins™ flatbread tab on Facebook!

Winners of Snoopy Bell Ringer and A Charlie Brown Christmas Book

2011-12-14T06:34:00.001-07:00

Thank you to everyone for entering the fun Snoopy Giveaway on Monday! We have three lucky winners....

True Random Number Generator
Min: Max: Result:21
Entry 21 belongs to Wendy!!
Winner #2 is:

True Random Number GeneratorMin: Max: Result:3Powered by RANDOM.ORG
Entry 3 belongs to Cameron!!
And finally winner 3 is Samantha!

True Random Number GeneratorMin: Max: Result:11Powered by RANDOM.ORG

Congratulations to our winners and thank you again to Current PR for sponsoring this giveaway! Please email me your shipping information so we can get these on their way to you! :)

One Day Giveaway: Charlie Brown Christmas Recordable Storybook & Plush Snoopy

2011-12-12T04:42:00.000-07:00

Happiness is a Charlie Brown Christmas!

Which means there will be a lot of happiness in the home of the lucky winners (Yep, three of you...) of this holiday-themed PEANUTS package, featuring Hallmark’s Snoopy Bell Ringer with sound and motion and the recordable storybook version of A Charlie Brown Christmas.

Enter to win ONE OF THREE these adorable gift packages!
Then join me tomorrow for a Twitter party, co-hosted by Snoopy and Real Housewife of Beverly Hills Kyle Richards, to celebrate the launch of the adorable "A Charlie Brown Christmas" app—named Apple's iPhone and iPad App of the Week! The party will take place from 2:00PM to 4:00PM EST/11:00AM to 1:00PM PST; follow hashtag #CharlieBrownChristmas.

Carter, Eric, and Patrick...Oh My... (aka @GM LAAuto Show Social Highs)

2011-12-03T06:41:00.001-07:00

The cars were fun and all, but let's face it...the LA Auto Show had some other perks.

Like seeing Patrick Dempsey at the Mazda exhibit. He has no clue who I am and I am totally okay with that. :)

But, the giddy laughter with Becca after we managed to get our pic taken with him was so worth it!

And of course spending time with the amazing GM / GMC team was wonderful!

This is one of those business relationships I feel so blessed to have formed because they are just good people.

Truly good within.

Like real friends.

Another total high was meeting Eric Stromer and Carter Oosterhouse from GMC Trade Secrets. Joe and Lisa said we were going to have dinner with them.

I pictured it kind of like we all ate in another small room and were called out to have a photo with them.

Needless to say, I was wrong. We really got to have dinner WITH them.

As in across the table...

Yep, total high.

And not just because Eric and Carter are who they are and I am little ol' me, but because they are truly nice guys. They could have been all showy and did their own thing.

But they didn't. They truly talked with us, shared things about their lives and asked us about ours.

Like the fact that both of their wives are named Amy?!?

Best name E-V-E-R! :)

Plus, I managed to get a nice photo for my mom.

And I am totally okay knowing this will be enlarged and cropped so I am no longer in the photo.

As I sit and write this post, I am literally smiling looking at this photo.

Because this photo captures why I do what I do the way I do.

I build relationships with brands because I truly love it.

And every once in awhile you are lucky enough to build a relationship with the people too because you truly adore them.

Thank you to GM for the trip to the LA Auto Show and for being who you are as a company. You don't get this many good people in one place by chance. I have to believe it is just part of their culture.