There's an exciting new contest I'd like for you all to check out.
DOLE, in conjunction with their newly-launched product DOLE Fruit Parfaits, is inviting everyone to participate in the "DOLE Fruit Parfait Sweet Retreat Contest".
Here's how the contest works:
Just take a picture of your DOLE Parfait Moment at home, at work, at play, with your friends or on-the-go. Then upload your photo and caption to www.DoleSweetRetreat.com and you will be entered to win these great prizes!
·Grand Prize: a three day/two night luxury Spa Retreat Getaway for two at the 27-acre Hyatt Regency Scottsdale Resort and Spa at Gainey Ranch in Scottsdale, Arizona. This heavenly spa retreat is set amidst flowering cactus and framed against the majestic McDowell Mountains. The prize includes airfare, accommodations, $500 gift certificate to the Avania Spa, a one-of-a-kind, holistic, total-immersion experience that is synchronized with the body's changing rhythms and requirements. Also included in the prize is a $750 VISA gift card to cover your meals and other hotel amenities you feel like taking advantage of including, championship golf, water playground or tennis.
·Five First Prize winners: each winner will receive a Homedics Personal Massage Lounger valued at $100 to have a relaxing moment anytime in their home.
Here are the entry category/breakdown for entry ideas:
o At Home – Where is your special retreat at home where you get away and enjoy your DOLE Fruit Parfait? Do you prefer your DOLE Parfait Moment watching a movie or surfing the Internet once everyone else is asleep?
o At Work – Where do you take that much needed break to indulge and re-energize with a DOLE Fruit Parfait? Is it at your desk, the break room or an outdoor area?
o At Play – Whether it is a walk in the park, a basketball, baseball or soccer game for you or the kids, is a DOLE Fruit Parfait your snack of choice?
o With Your Friends – DOLE Fruit Parfaits are too good to keep all to yourself! When and where do you and your friends get together to share?
o On-the-Go –Show us how your car’s cup holder is just the right size for a DOLE Fruit Parfait and how you enjoy its creamy goodness as a pick-me-up while you are driving all over town, just making life happen or taking a few quiet moments before picking up the kids?
So go on, enter today for your chance to win any of the above prizes! Just log on to: www.dolesweetretreat.com You only got until March 14th to upload your photo entries, so don't wait long!
And if you haven't tried the DOLE Fruit Parfaits yet, they come in 4 flavor varieties: Peaches & Crème Parfait, Pineapple & Crème Parfait, Apples & Crème Parfait and Mandarins & Crème Parfait. So far, my kids and I only tried the Apples & Creme Parfait and we all love it!
DOLE Fruit Parfaits are truly indulgent, guilt-free treats. They are low in fat (all 4 varieties only have 130 calories or fewer!), low in saturated fat, sodium-free, and are loaded with Vitamin C. They're available for purchase now at your local grocery stores nationwide.
** ~~~~~~ CURRENT REVIEWS, DEALS, FREEBIES AND GIVEAWAYS ~~~~~~ **
Friday, February 27, 2009
DOLE Fruit Parfaits Sweet Retreat Contest
Wednesday, February 25, 2009
See Kai Run Shoes: Fresh, New Styles for Spring/Summer 2009
Spring is right around the corner which also means switching to cooler, comfier clothes and shoes (oh, yeah!).
Speaking of shoes, we recently received the Grayson sandals for our little Jaden. This is one of the newest shoe styles for Spring/Summer 2009 offered by See Kai Run.
It's not quite warm here in Virginia just yet, but I am sure Jaden will love wearing his new SKR sandals come Spring. These sandals look really comfy and although they're constructed in leather, they're soft and flexible. He could definitely wear these all spring and summer long!
See Kai Run offers hip, stylish and high quality shoes for little boys and girls ages 6 months to 3 years old. They also offer shoes for infants 0-18 months old in their Smaller shoe line and Eleven for older kids 3-8 years old. Their footwear meets the American Podiatric Medical Association's rigorous standards for foot health and functionality and has been awarded the APMA's prestigious Seal of Acceptance.
Shop Spring/Summer shoe styles today at: www.seekairun.com. Right now, they are running a FREE SHOE GIVEAWAY. Everyday for the whole month of February, they are giving away a free pair of See Kai Run or Smaller shoes to one lucky winner! Just fill out the form here to enter the contest.
*Win a pair of See Kai Run or Smaller shoes here too! Leave a comment on this post with your favorite See Kai Run or Smaller shoe style and size by Wednesday, March 4th, 2009 at 12MN, EST. This contest is open to US and Canada residents only. One comment per entrant, please. Non-bloggers are always welcome to enter. I will pick one winner using Random.org. The winner will be notified via email or you can check the winner announcement via Prizey.Fetch. You can also choose to enter the name or nickname you use to enter this contest while you're there. Goodluck!
Wordful/Wordless Wednesday: Beach Photos
I took these photos during our stay at the Intercontinental Presidente Cozumel Beach Resort Hotel on February 14th, 2009.
The weather was perfect and the breath-taking photos say it all. Cozumel is such a beautiful island... a place to relax and treat yourself to the beauty and serenity of the ocean.
Check out Wordless Wednesday HQ, 5 Minutes for Mom , and 7 Clown Circus for more great photos.
Tuesday, February 24, 2009
Accessorize with Watches
Watches are a fashionable accessory to wear. A trendy tank watch on casual days, a bracelet-style one on semi-formal or formal occassions, watches are versatile and are a great way to make your own personal statement.
There are countless of ways and possibilities to accessorize your wardrobe. A stylish watch is certainly one accessory you can wear to get that instantly polished look. 
Like this Seiko watch that has pink Mother of pearl dial with genuine small diamonds set into the case and a cabochon crown- simply trendy and beautiful!
Speaking of watches, if you're shopping for discounted luxury watches online, check out BlueDial.com. They offer a wide range of popular brands of watches at incredible prices such as Gucci, Fossil, ESQ, Jules Jurgensen, Seiko watches, and many more!
10 Basic Food Handling Tips
I found these really neat tips on basic food-safety. These can be a great handy guide to post in the refrigerator or kitchen cabinet for quick reference. Kraft Foods.com suggests making everyone in the family - even the babysitter - reads through it before handling food.
1. Rub A Dub Dub
Always wash your hands with hot soapy water for at least 20 seconds before and after handling food.
2. 2-Hour Rule
Refrigerate or freeze perishables, prepared food and leftovers within 2 hours. Do not leave them sitting out at room temperature.
3. Thaw Law
Always thaw food in the refrigerator. Never defrost food at room temperature on the countertop.
4. Temperature's Rising
Cook food to the proper internal temperature and check for doneness with a thermometer. Here are a few basic temps:
FOOD/ INTERNAL TEMPERATURE
Beef(Ground) 160°F
Chicken or Turkey (Ground) 165°
Beef, Veal & Lamb
(Roasts, Chops, Steaks) 160-170°F
Pork 160°F
Chicken and Turkey Breasts 170°
Chicken or Turkey (legs, thighs & wings) 180°F
5. Cutting Edge Clean
Wash cutting boards and knives with hot soapy water after food preparation, especially after cutting raw meat, poultry or seafood. Sanitize cutting boards and counters with a dilute bleach solution - Add 2/3 cup bleach to a gallon of water; put in a spray bottle for easy use.
6. Raw Deal
Never place food on the same plate or cutting board that previously held raw meat, poultry or seafood unless the cutting board has been thoroughly washed.
7. The Eyes Have It
Use visual signs of doneness when a thermometer is not used:
·Steam rises from food
·Clear juices run from meat and poultry, not pink
·Pork, veal and poultry are white inside, not pink or red
·Shellfish is opaque and fish flakes easily with a fork
·Egg yolks are firm, not runny, and egg whites are opaque
8. Bottom Line
Store raw meat, poultry and seafood tightly wrapped on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator. This prevents the raw juices from dripping on other food.
9. Mindful Marinating
Always marinate food in the refrigerator, not on the countertop. Discard leftover marinades that have been used with raw meat, poultry or seafood.
10. Towel Turnover
Replace and wash dish towels and sponges often to prevent the spread of harmful bacteria throughout the kitchen. Use paper towels to dry washed hands after handling raw foods.
Monday, February 23, 2009
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey's ZING ZANG ZOOM
Bring back the magic of the circus in your family with Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey's ZING ZANG ZOOM- a new spectacular circus show that will enchant you with music, dancing, lots of thrills and outstanding illusions.
This show will have you spellbound with the magical Zingmaster Alex Ramon and his grand illusions. According to the Mom Central Team, who recently experienced the spectacular ZING ZANG ZOOM, "..the amazing interactive family experience merged with traditional circus acts was remarkable. It brought back the magic of the circus from our own childhoods and reminded us of the importance of passing down the lifetime memory and tradition of experiencing Ringling Bros. as a family to our children".
To help start the family traditions early, the Baby’s First Circus program allows babies to receive a free ticket voucher that can be exchanged for a free ticket to any Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey performance anytime, anywhere with no expiration date!
With the economy posing a challenge for many families, the value of a night out at Ringling Bros. is high, as the experience includes the All Access Pre-show, a fun opportunity to meet circus performers and dress up in clown costumes, which happens one hour before each performance.
Here are some great family offers from Ringling Bros.:
Offer #1: Get 4 tickets for just $44 by entering the code "MOM" at select ticketing channels**. Offer good on all performances, minimum purchase of 4 tickets required; additional tickets above 4 can be purchased at $11 each. Offer not valid on Circus Celebrity Seating, Front Row and VIP seating or combinable with other offers. Other Restrictions May Apply.
Offer #2: A select amount of Front Row and VIP seats have been reserved for you to buy before they go on sale to the public - just enter the code "MOM" when purchasing those seats.
Dates and cities where families can use the national MOM discount code this spring are as follows:
Newark/East Rutherford/Uniondale/NYC
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® presents ZING ZANG ZOOM
March 5 - April 13
Offer not valid on performances from April 10 - 13 at Madison Square Garden
Washington D.C./ Fairfax, VA/ Baltimore, MD
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® proudly presents Over The Top
March 18-April 19
Philadelphia
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® presents ZING ZANG ZOOM
May 13-May 25
Phoenix
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® presents ZING ZANG ZOOM
June 24-June 28
Houston
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® proudly presents Over The Top
July 15-July 26
Anaheim/LA/Ontario
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® presents ZING ZANG ZOOM
July 8-August 2
San Francisco
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® presents ZING ZANG ZOOM
August 12-August 23
Dallas/Ft Worth
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® proudly presents Over The Top
July 29-August 16
Sacramento
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® presents ZING ZANG ZOOM
August 27-August 30
Kansas City
Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey® proudly presents Over The Top
September 16-September 20
To see which Ringling Bros. tour is coming to a town near you, visit www.Ringling.com. You can also visit www.ticketmaster.com to use the 4 tickets for $44 code, "MOM".
Enjoy the show! :D
Saturday, February 21, 2009
Weekend Review and Giveaway: {sweeter than me} designs handmade jewelry by Kristin Friesen
Rich harmony of colors, beautiful glass rhinestones and Swarovski crystal accents, stunning style. These are the kind of handmade jewelry you will find in {sweeter than me} designs.
Kristin Friesen is the very creative jewelry designer behind {sweeter than me} designs. Each jewelry piece she sells in her Etsy shop is one-of-a-kind and personally hand-crafted by her.
From enchanting glass jewel necklaces, sparkly earrings to whimsical, sweet rings, Kristin Friesen certainly knows how to satisfy her clients through each handmade jewelry piece she creates.
Here are some of what her happy customers had to say about her handmade jewelry:
"I was so impressed with the first set, I had to buy one for myself! Beautifully made and so stunning to wear (Constellation Set in Godl). Thank you for such a wonderful set and such perfect detail to every ounce of this transaction".
This (Rapture) necklace is even more beautiful in person! You are such an angel and really know how to take care of your customers! Thank you for everything!
The (Migration) Earrings are beyond cute and very well made. Thank you so much! I'll be recommending you :D 
Well, personallly- I "heart" my Tropical Blossom Bracelet from {sweeter than me} designs right now. The combination of blue and green Czech glass rounds and the pewter rosebud toggle clasp is so lovely! This is one classic and beautiful bracelet I am certain to wear for a long time.
So don't miss out on stunning, unique (and very affordable!) handmade jewelry by Kristin Friesen. Visit her chic Etsy shop at: {sweeter than me} designs and see for yourself!
*Good news, my dear readers! Kristin is offering a set of her lovely Thicket Necklace and Earrings Set in your choice of color (gold, silver or brass), valued @ $23.40! Want to enter to win? Just browse through {sweeter than me} designs, come back to this post and leave a comment with your most favorite jewelry piece(s) from her shop. This contest ends on Saturday, February 28th at 12MN, EST and is open to US and Canada residents only. One comment per entrant, please. Non-bloggers are always welcome to enter. I will pick one winner using Random.org.The winner will be notified via email or you can check the winner announcement via Prizey.Fetch. You can also choose to enter the name or nickname you use to enter this contest while you're there. Goodluck!
Friday, February 20, 2009
TotalBeauty.com's 10 Best Beauty Breakthroughs
| These products have changed the way we color our hair, erase wrinkles, zap brown spots and more |
 Thousands of beauty products debut each year so it takes something special for a product to stand out from the crowd. These are the goods we think deserve a prime spot on your bathroom counter. So without further ado... |
Thursday, February 19, 2009
Grow Gorgeous, Fuller Lashes with LashFood Eyelash Conditioner
Long, lush, and dark eyelashes are the next beauty must-have for 2009. From the pages of magazines to Hollywood’s red carpet, batting full, luxurious lashes is the latest “It” beauty accessory.
Do you notice that no matter how many coats of mascara or layers of eyelash extensions you apply, it seems like you never achieve the look without getting the “Tammy Faye Baker” effect? Some mascaras and lash extensions are harsh and can make eyelashes dry, brittle, and damaged.
Now lash lovers can feel good about giving themselves healthier and stronger lashes the safe and natural way.
Introducing the new LashFood, a natural eyelash conditioning stimulant that helps grow thicker, stronger and more beautiful lashes in just 2 to 4 weeks! The breakthrough natural ingredients in LashFood includes Biotin (an essential vitamin), Arginine (a natural amino acid), and herbal extracts. These ingredients help promote the natural growth and strength of eyelashes and eyebrows. The result: lashes become thicker, darker, and longer with this revolutionary conditioner.
“Many women denote their eyes as their best feature,” says Jane Kim, President and Founder of LashFood. “Long, full eyelashes have always symbolized femininity and exudes Hollywood glamour. For great eyelashes, it used to be either you had them, or you didn't. Now, with LashFood we can all have captivating eyes like legendary femme fatale Brigitte Bardot and iconic supermodel Twiggy. At LashFood, we provide consumers with the best eyelash care products to enhance their natural beauty.”
How to Use LashFood?
The LashFood applicator is very similar to a liquid eyeliner applicator. One should apply the stimulating serum nightly along the root of the lashes. For faster results, apply the serum in the morning and in the evening. LashFood does not disrupt the daily application of make-up or other skincare routines.
What is in LashFood?
LashFood is formulated with the highest grade all natural ingredients available, and is designed to condition, repair, restore, and create longer healthier and more beautiful eyelashes and eyebrows.
When Can I Expect to See Results?
One should begin to see the lash line becoming thicker, fuller and healthier looking in just 2 to 4 weeks. LashFood will continue to prove results over time if used on a consistent basis.
Can LashFood be Used with Eyelash Extensions?
LashFood is a natural and water based product designed to be used with natural lashes as well as with eyelash extensions. LashFood can coincide with any daily mascara or eyelash extension product.
Grab your own LashFood Eyelash Conditioner at: www.lashfood.com. Retail price: $129.00 (10 ml) and will last up to 5 months.
*Win it! Leave your comment on this post by Thursday, February 26th at 12MN, EST to be entered to win the new LashFood Eyelash Conditioner! This contest is open to US and Canada residents only. One comment per entrant, please. Non-bloggers are always welcome to enter. I will pick one winner using Random.org.The winner will be notified via email or you can check the winner announcement via Prizey.Fetch. You can also choose to enter the name or nickname you use to enter this contest while you're there. Goodluck!
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
Real Mom Wins On Weight Loss Web Reality Show (Learn How!)
Many moms face the challenge of losing their post-baby weight. It even becomes more difficult with a new little one at home.
But Caprice Corona, a 33 year-old opera singer and a stay-at-home new mom from New York, took the weight loss challenge on the Web show series – “Knock Out the Fat With George” even with an eight-month old baby at home. Over a six-month period, Corona lost a total of 56 pounds making her the grand prize winner out of three other contestants on the weight loss competition. Back to her coveted pre-pregnancy weight, Caprice received a trip for two to the spa of her choice worth $15,000. The series finale can be viewed at www.KnockOutTheFat.com.
Unlike other popular weight-loss shows that isolate participants and require intense workout and diet regimens, “Knock Out the Fat With George” presented a realistic approach that is replicable for viewers and maintainable for anyone interested in achieving a healthier weight. Contestants engaged in friendly competition and moderate exercise and used George Foreman grills to cook flavorful meals made healthier by the patented grill design.
The contestants were afforded exciting opportunities such as filming episodes with tennis star Monica Seles at the 2008 U.S. Open and the inspirational Heath Smith, a formerly obese Colorado resident who lost nearly 300 pounds by initiating a healthy cooking and eating plan using a George Foreman grill. Since his transformation, Smith has shared his inspirational story with many through appearances on national television and committed himself to motivating others to lead healthier lives.
Following are the results for all four contenders, who achieved significant weight loss despite their busy daily schedules:
·WINNER: Caprice Corona, 33, an opera singer and stay-at-home mom in New York, NY was ready to get back to her pre-pregnancy weight for auditions.
-Total Weight Loss: 56 pounds; 20.36 percent of original body weight
·2ND PLACE: Troy Goodwin, 22, a paralegal in Boston, MA, was looking to lose the weight he put on since his knee-injury playing Division II basketball with Southern New Hampshire University.
-Total Weight Loss: 44 pounds; 16.99 percent of original body weight
·3RD PLACE: Yannick Yasmine, 28, a residence hall director and adjunct professor for William Patterson University in Wayne, NJ aspired to reach her goal weight in time for her 10-year high school reunion.
-Total Weight Loss: 22 pounds; 11.28 percent of original body weight
·4TH PLACE: Derek Walker, 40, a flight attendant and former entertainer living in New Jersey set out to lose weight to make himself feel healthier and more energetic.
-Total Weight Loss: 30 pounds; 11.27 percent of original body weight
“Providing healthy, affordable and convenient ways to prepare foods is what the George Foreman brand is all about, and we’re excited that our health-focused principles made these admirable success stories possible,” Milan Poidl, brand manager for George Foreman products at Applica. “The show is a testament to the George Foreman line’s ability to enable healthier meals that are easy to make and even easier to enjoy.” 
Speaking of George Foreman products, I had the wonderful opportunity to test out the new George Foreman 360 Grill-- the biggest, most versatile grill with a removable plate. With 106 square inches of round cooking surface, the new George Foreman 360 Grill allows me to prepare everything from omelet, panini, quesadillas to traditional grilled items and even bake homemade pizzas on the grill.
Also, with the patented angled cooking surface George Foreman 360 Grill offers, we can now enjoy mouth-watering steaks, chops, seafood, and burgers minus all the greasy fat! Now, how cool is that?
The new George Foreman 360 Grill is perfect for families who enjoy cooking delicious, healthy meals. Available at Amazon, Target, Best Buy, and other leading home appliance stores, George Foreman 360 Grill retails for around $170.
For details on the George Foreman 360 Grill and other George Foreman cooking products, go to: www.GeorgeForemanCooking.com.
*Win the George Foreman 360 Grill, Valued @ $170! Leave a comment on this post telling us how you would use your new George Foreman 360 Grill by Wednesday, February 25th at 12MN, EST to be entered to win. Contest is open to US and Canada residents only. One comment per entrant, please. Non-bloggers are always welcome to enter. I will pick one winner using Random.org.The winner will be notified via email or you can check the winner announcement via Prizey.Fetch. You can also choose to enter the name or nickname you use to enter this contest while you're there. Goodluck!
Wordless Wednesday: Sunset in Beautiful Cozumel Island, Mexico
It took my breath away watching the sunset while we were at a beach in beautiful Cozumel Island, Mexico last Saturday, (Valentine's Day).
The sun went from this...
to this...
to this...
down to this...
then dusk sat in...
Check out Wordless Wednesday HQ, 5 Minutes for Mom , and 7 Clown Circus for more great photos.
Tuesday, February 17, 2009
Review and Giveaway: Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! A Little Help From My Friends
The award-winning hit pre-school series, Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! returns to DVD with more than 90 minutes of Wubbtastic Friendship Fun with the new released . ‘Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! A Little Help From My Friends’
My toddlers loved the first Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! "A Tale of Tails" DVD and they had as much fun and entertainment watching the new "A Little Help From My Friends".
About Wubbzy and Friends:
Wubbzy is a fun, lovable, curious little guy who just likes to play, play, play with his friends in the wild and wacky town of Wuzzleburg. He’s charmed young children, been a smash hit online, wowed an array of top licensees and otherwise won over anyone who’s met the most famous, lovable resident of Wuzzleburg. Now, kids can watch Wubbzy and his pals discover the importance of friendship, cooperation, sharing and teamwork in the Emmy® Award-winning series that provides essential, wholesome life lessons while keeping the kid’s laughing. “Wow! Wow! Wubbzy!” has been a hit with pre-schoolers since its August 2006 premiere on Nick Jr. in the U.S. and now channels in more than 50 markets worldwide. Currently, “Wow! Wow! Wubbzy!” airs nearly 40 times a week on Nick Jr. and Noggin.
“Wubbzy” is also a huge success on other platforms. On Nick Jr.com, it is the No. 1 game for preschoolers with more than 220 million game plays! The property has also partnered with dozens of high profile licensees, including Fisher Price, Hasbro, Scholastic, Simon & Schuster and Ty Beanie, among many others who are all set to make Wubbzy the next big retail star! “Wow! Wow! Wubbzy!” was created by Bob Boyle and is produced by Bolder Media, Inc. in association with Film Roman, a Starz Media company. Boyle, Susan Miller and Fred Seibert are the executive producers.
DVD extras on “A Little Help From My Friends” include:
· 2 Bonus Episodes
· Bonus Music Video
· Kooky Kostume Game
· Coloring Pages
· Printable Activities
· Sneak Peeks
The DVD features six great episodes plus two bonus episodes, all focused on the important values of friendship:
· A Little Help From My Friends – When Wubbzy wants to borrow a wrench from Widget to fix his bike, Widget takes over the whole operation. Wubbzy is tired of needing help from his friends – they treat him like a little kid. He decides to cook them a dinner all by himself. Can Wubbzy pull off the dinner with no help at all?
· A Clean Sweep – It’s house-cleaning time, and Wubbzy has plenty of chores to do but he’s having too much fun with his kickity-kick ball to clean the house or do anything else. With the mess piling up, Wubbzy looses his ball. Hopefully Wubbzy, Walden and Widget can restore order.
· Mr. Cool – Walden wants to go the Wuzzleburg Boogie Bash, but he thinks you have to be cool to go. Walden tries to be cool but realizes everyone likes him just the way he is.
· Wubbzy in the Middle – When Walden needs to clean up his library, Widget brings in a new machine, the Handy Helper 3000. The machine malfunctions and tosses the books all over the place. Walden and Widget will no longer talk to each other and now Wubbzy is caught in the middle.
· Gidget the Super-Robot – Widget builds a mirror-image robot of herself, called Gidget, which can do anything she can. Wubbzy and Walden start playing with the robot more than with her! Will Gidget the Super-Robot take over Widget’s life?
· Broken Record – Walden is handing out trophies to everyone who qualifies for the Wuzzleburg Book of Records. Wubbzy decides that he wants to break a record and collect a trophy but each time he tries someone needs his help. Which record will Wubbzy break?
The bonus friendship episodes are:
· Widget gets the Blooey Blues – Widget’s new invention, the Happy Hopper, fails and she starts turning blue - she’s got the Blooey Blues. How can she save Wubbzy if she’s got the blues?
· Where’s My Wiggle Wrench? – On the eve of the big Construction Contest, Widget loses her lucky wiggle wrench. She can’t possibly win the contest without her favorite tool. Widget creates the Super Searcher 3000 which proves to be more than a searching machine.
Featuring an amazing silver foil o-card, Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! A Little Help From My Friends’ runs for 92 minutes and is now available from Anchor Bay Entertainment for the suggested retail price of $16.98. You can grab your copy on Amazon.com(on sale now for $11.49) or Walmart (on sale now for $11.32).
*Win It! Win a new Wow! Wow! Wubbzy! A Little Help From My Friends’ DVD! Leave a comment on this post by Tuesday, February 24th, 2008 at 12MN, EST with your email address to contact you in case you win. Contest is open to US and Canada residents only. One comment per entrant, please. Non-bloggers are always welcome. I will pick two winners using Random.org. The winners will be notified via email or you can check the winner announcement via Prizey.Fetch. You can also choose to enter the name or nickname you use to enter this contest while you're there. Goodluck! (This contest is closed).
Thursday, February 12, 2009
Bach Rescue Cream: Help for Dry and Damaged Skin
Rough, dry, and damaged skin is never a good thing. But there's hope in new Rescue Cream from the Bach Rescue Remedy line of products.
Rescue Cream is an all-natural, multi-purpose skin moisturizer designed to sooth dry, irritated, and damaged skin. Based on the six Bach Flower Essences, it offers the therapeutic benefits of the flower essences in a non-greasy, fragrance-free cream. It quickly absorbs to heal dry, rough, and dull-looking skin. This moisturizer
will restore your skin to its natural good condition.
In the winter, my hands and feet get extremely dry. I have used the Rescue Cream and I've seen visible results in my skin after only a few applications: softer and more hydrated skin.
Rescue Cream has also been heralded by its users to cure external traumas and conditions, such as itchy, sensitive skin, nappy rash, eczema, and even blemishes caused by stress. Truly, Rescue Cream is a skin wonder!
Rescue Cream comes in a 50g tube and retails for $14 at Whole Foods nationwide.
Are you using Rescue Cream? If so, how do you use it?
Right now, Nelson Bach USA is holding a contest to find the most innovative user of the Rescue Cream. To enter the contest, just go to: www.RescueCreamContest.com and submit in 250 words or less describing how you use your Rescue Cream. (One) 1 Grand Prize winner will receive a gift basket containing one of each product from the Bach Flower Essences family, the Rescue Remedy range of products, and the Nelson's Homeopathy range of products. (Ten) 10 First Prize winners will receive a year's supply of Rescue Cream and in addition, the first 1,000 eligible contest entrants will win a set of 10 sample size Rescue Cream packets to share with friends.
So go ahead and get a chance to win. Log on to: www.RescueCreamContest.com for more details and to enter to win today!
Wednesday, February 11, 2009
Wordless Wednesday: Gorgeous Cashmere Pashmina Shawl
For more Wordless Wednesday participants, CLICK HERE.
Tuesday, February 10, 2009
High-Quality Eyeglasses At Low, Low Prices
Nowadays, getting high-quality prescription eyeglasses don't have to cost a fortune anymore.
Check out Optical4Less.com - an online retailer of quality discounted prescription eyeglasses. By discounted I mean, eyeglasses that starts at only $15! I know. The price is really cheap but the quality and features these eyeglasses have are not at all low quality like you would expect in eyeglasses this cheap.
Optical4Less offers alloy, rimless, semi-rimless, hingeless, titanium, rhinestone eyeglasses, frames and much more! They even offer stylish sunglasses, kid's eyeglasses, and progressive reading eyeglasses. They also have a wide selection of high index lenses with remarkable craftsmanship. Their super thin lens selections include these and more: GN® Super high index 1.74 plastic Lens, Extrem® 1.9 high index glass lens and Myothin® Lenticular(myodisc) minerial Lens.
Optical4Less.com also offers a really cool a virtual try-on system on their website where you can try on any style of eyeglasses you want and find the one that best suits you, all done on your computer! They also offer worldwide shipping and whether you have an address in the US or international, the shipping cost comes absolutely free when you order two or more pairs of eyeglasses.
Ready to order your pair of high-quality, stylish, and very affordable prescription eyeglasses? Just go to: www.optical4less.com.
Heart-Healthy Turkey Burger
I love burgers. Once in a while, I try and make them from scratch instead of buying them already made and ready-to-eat.
Here's a new easy-to-make, heart-healthy recipe for turkey burgers I found on FoodNetwork.com. This is not your typical turkey burger. It's mixed in with a little sirloin, Worcestershire sauce and balsamic vinegar for flavor. This turkey burger will make your mouth water even more with caramelized onions to top it off. Yumm. Enjoy!
*Turkey Burgers
Prep Time: 10 min
Inactive Prep Time: 6 min
Cook Time: 25 min
Serves: 4 servings
Ingredients
1 clove garlic
Kosher salt
2 tablespoons balsamic vinegar, plus 1 teaspoon
2 teaspoons Worcestershire sauce
2 teaspoons hot sauce
14 ounces lean 93% ground turkey meat
6 ounces lean ground sirloin
2 tablespoons olive oil
1 large onion, thinly sliced
Freshly ground black pepper
4 whole-wheat buns or pita bread, toasted
Garnishes:
Lettuce
Tomatoes
Mustard
Ketchup
Directions
1. Preheat the oven to 375 degrees F.
2. Smash the garlic cloves, sprinkle with some salt, and, with the flat side of a large knife, mash and smear the mixture to a coarse paste. Whisk the garlic with the balsamic, Worcestershire, and hot sauce in a small bowl.
3. Crumble the turkey and beef into a large mixing bowl. Pour the garlic mixture over the meat and form into 4 (5-ounce) burgers. Cover and set aside while you cook the onions.
4. Meanwhile, heat 1 tablespoon of the olive oil in a skillet over medium-high heat. Add the onion and cook, stirring occasionally, until browned but not mushy, about 15 minutes. Season the onions with the remaining teaspoon of balsamic and salt and pepper, to taste.
5. Heat a large nonstick skillet over medium-high heat for a minute. Brush 1 side of the burgers with the oil and season with salt and pepper, to taste. Cook seasoned side down until browned, about 2 minutes. Brush and season the top of the burgers, flip and cook until other side is brown, about 2 minutes more.
6. Transfer burgers to a baking dish and bake until an instant-read thermometer inserted side ways into the burgers registers 160 degrees F, about 5 minutes. Place the burgers on the buns or in pita and let rest for a few minutes. Serve with the caramelized onions and garnishes of your choice.
Monday, February 9, 2009
Nimli: Promoting Natural, Organic & Green Lifestyle
Have you all heard about Nimli?
Nimli is an online marketplace that provides natural, organic, and sustainable lifestyle products such as clothing, accessories, home décor, beauty products and much more from independent designers. I was completely impressed while browsing through the vast array of products Nimli offers. Their products clearly embrace style and aesthetic sense while promoting a lifestyle that cultivates a green conscious mind, body, and soul.
Here are a few of my top picks from Nimli:
*Azuri Cashmere Pashmina Shawl
I love the finely woven texture of this Pashmina Shawl- warm, soft and very elegant. The quality and durability of this Pashmina shawl is undeniable. Expertly woven with only the finest Pashmina & Silk, this Pashmina Shawl is great to use for any occasion. I own one in pink (yeah, the girly girl that I am! LOL), and I've used it day and night. This shawl/wrap/scarf is so versatile! And yes, I am packing it along with my swimsuit and sun dresses for my getaway trip to the Bahamas this weekend (can't wait!). Available in 110 colors mind you, this Pashmina Shawl is a timeless, must-have piece that you can always carry with you wherever you go! Originally listed for $150, now on sale for just $34! Now a shawl that's made with 70% Pashmina and 30% Silk, how can you go wrong at that price? 
*Jill Italiano Large Bubble Pendant
Offered in recycled sterling silver, this pendant is modern and stylish. This pendant comes with matching earrings and ring. Only by Jill Italiano. Price: $75
*Scrubz All Natural Sugar Body Scrub
As the name implies, this sugar body scrub is made with natural ingredients: natural sucrose and 9 naturall oils that do wonders for the skin- it exfoliates, smooths, softens, and it smells really great! Very affordably-priced at only $8.
Nimli offers an array of ecologically friendly products that are natural, organic, recycled, sweatshop-free, and cruelty-free. Nimli was founded in New York City in 2003 by entrepreneur Rajat Arora, a vegetarian since early childhood and a keen advocate of an organic way of life free from cruelty. Conscious of the pertinence of preserving thnvironment, Rajat created Nimli with the vision, hope, and philosophy of making it possible for people to adopt a sustainable lifestyle through an extensive offering of green products and services.
Nimli is one of the most environmentally mindful retailers due to their practice and policy of requiring all their designers to ship their products directly to their customers. This results in placing a much lower carbon footprint by eliminating the unnecessary step of shipping items to a warehouse for future re-shipment. Further advancing this model and striving to become completely carbon neutral, Nimli purchases Green Tags to offset the carbon released from shipping, energy consumption and other business activities.
*Good news, dear Hip Mama's Place readers! Nimli is offering one lucky reader to win the beautiful Azuri Cashmere Pashmina Shawl in your choice of color. Leave a comment on this post by Monday, February 16th, 2008 at 12MN, EST with your choice of shawl color. One comment per entrant, please. I will pick one winner using Random.org. The winner will be notified via email or you can check the winner announcement via Prizey.Fetch. You can also choose to enter the name or nickname you use to enter this contest while you're there. Goodluck!
*For other current Giveaways on Hip Mama's Place, check my left sidebar. Make sure to check the deadline date for each contest listed before entering your comment as some of them may have already expired. Thank you!
Saturday, February 7, 2009
Weekend Review and Giveaway: Baby Star "Rock The Tote" for Tot-Toting Moms
It's an everyday tote. A diaper bag. A laptop bag. In fact, it's a bag that's so versatile that you can stuff anything you need in it and you'll still look and feel fabulous carrying it. It's the Rock the Tote by Baby Star.
This trendy and multi-functional diaper/tote bag features a wide zipper pocket on one side and two open pockets on the other side to hold your baby essentials such as a wipe case, bottle or cell phone. It comes with a matching changing pad and a BPA free wipe case.
Product details:
* Size: 18" x 36"
* Styles: offered in daisy chain print, and a variety of metallics: turquoise, pink, blue, green and silver
* Materials: daisy chain print is produced with a BPA-free laminate. metallics are produced with a polyurethane exterior and fabric interior.
* FORMALDEHYDE-FREE and AZO-FREE, which makes them safe for baby and the environment 
Baby Star has blended style, function and sustainability to create and introduce hip new products for stylish moms on the move- an award-winning diaper bag and a nursing blanket.
The brand new "Rock the Tote" diaper bag was named one of 10 "Most Notable" products by Baby & Kids Magazine at the at the ABC Kids Expo hosted by the Juvenile Products Manufacturers Association (JPMA) in September last year.
"The modern mom on the move wants stylish accessories that have multi-use. We invite parents discover the beautiful silhouette of our new tote bags and the smart design and hip prints of our new nursing blanket," said Baby Star Founder and Chief Creative Officer, Dana Bach Johnson.
Visit www.babystar.com for hip and adorable baby gift ideas such as baby clothing, baby blankets, crib bedding, hooded towels, bibs, and more. Just in time for Valentine's Day!
*Win the "Rock the Tote" bag in your choice of fabric color (except silver), valued @ $88, courtesy of Baby Star! Leave a comment on this post with your choice of favorite items from www.babystar.com. Please include your email address in your comment, whether you have or don't have a blog. Contest is open to US and Canada residents only and ends Wednesday, February 11th, 2008 at 12MN, EST. One comment per entrant, please. I will pick one winner using Random.org. The winner will be notified via email or you can check the winner announcement via Prizey.Fetch. You can also choose to enter the name or nickname you use to enter this contest while you're there. Goodluck!
*For other current Giveaways on Hip Mama's Place, check my left sidebar. Make sure to check the deadline date for each contest listed before entering your comment as some of them may have already expired. Thank you!
Friday, February 6, 2009
Green Works™ Natural Biodegradable Cleaning Wipes
Green Works™, a new brand of natural products that effectively cleans without the harsh chemical fumes or residue, recently introduced their latest product to stores nationwide- Green Works™ Natural Biodegradable Cleaning Wipes.
This is a cleaning product you can feel good about using. Not only these wipes clean naturally with the cleaning power of Clorox, they are also made from 100% cellulose fibers and derived from renewable farm grown trees. And like all Green Works products, they are formulated using biodegradable ingredients, are packaged in recyclable canisters and are not tested on animals.
I'm glad to have the opportunity to sample the Green Works™ Natural Biodegradable Cleaning Wipes, courtesy of Mom Central. These wipes are great and have been really good at wiping off dirt, grime, grease, messes and spills. I've used them on my kitchen and bathroom counters, appliances, cooktop hoods, sinks, and toilets and it works really well. Best of all, it's good to have peace of mind knowing that my kids are not exposed to the harmful effects of chemicals using these wipes. I'd give Green Works™ Natural Biodegradable Cleaning Wipes two thumbs up!
More on Green Works:
*New Green Works Natural Biodegradable Cleaning Wipes will feature the Sierra Club logo on package, marking the brand's financial commitment to support the organization's conservation efforts, and are recognized by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency for using environmentally preferred chemistry.
*The Green Works team wants to nurture your eco-friendly project with green! Through its new "Green Heroes Grant Program," the brand team will award five grants of $10,000 each to eco-friendly community projects across the country. Between January 15 and February 28, 2009, individuals can nominate eco-friendly community projects for a Green Heroes grant by submitting a photo and short essay about the project for consideration online at www.greenworkscleaners.com/greenhero. Each winner - or "Green Hero"- will receive a $10,000 grant to help their eco-friendly community projects grow and flourish! Then, beginning on March 16 through April 10, 2009, the public will have the opportunity to vote online for their favorite eco-friendly community project. The final five Green Heroes will be announced on April 22- just in time for Earth Day.
For more information about the Green Heroes Grant Program, including official contest rules and entry guidelines, log on to www.greenworkscleaners.com/greenhero.
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Unique Valentine's Day Gifts from Cheryl & Co. (And A Sweet Giveaway!)
Are you tired of getting the same gifts for Valentine's Day year after year? Or do you have trouble finding the perfect gift for that special man in your life?
This year, Cheryl & Co, a well-known retailer of fresh baked gourmet cookies, desserts, and gifts, is offering a variety of unique gifts for that special someone in your life and fun gifts for children.
Looking to get flowers and something sweet? Don't settle for the ordinary. Order Cheryl & Co.'s exclusive Chocolate Chip and Buttercream Frosted Long Stem Cookie Flowers (pictured) that will arrive specially wrapped as a bouquet and tied with a satin ribbon, priced at only $39.95.
There are also unique and fun gifts such as the Dancing Heart Cookie Gifts and cookie tins that come in a variety of assortments- they even come sugar free! The nice thing is that you can add your own flavor to a gift. Just choose your own assortment when you order.
Here are a few of Cheryl & Co. favorites:
* Frosted Heart Cut-Out
* Chocolate Chip
* Oatmeal Raisin
* Sugar
* Frosted Triple Chocolate
* Snickerdoodle
Looking to impress your mother in-law or trying to find the perfect gift for your bestfriend this Valentine's Day? Then you will love the Dancing Hearts Gift Tower from Cheryl & Co. This striking gift is overflowing with a delicious dessert assortment including, individually wrapped mini cookies, drizzled pretzels, buttercream frosted cookies, fudge brownies and pretzel clusters for only $39.95!
If you feel charitable, choose the Make-A-Wish Buttercream Duo- a very popular gift that includes buttercream frosted heart cut-out cookies and candy topped buttercream frosted fudge brownies. For each gift that is sold approximately 20% of the proceeds go to the Make-A-Wish foundation.
So check out Cheryl&Co. today. Right now, they are offering free ground shipping on over 100 gifts, including the Sweetheart Flower Bakery Sampler that my whole family is enjoying at the moment. These are really delectable, sweet treats!
Save more money! Hip Mama's Place readers can save $10 off any order of $50 or more good now through February 16th, 2009. Just enter coupon code 4A at checkout to receive your discount.
*Win the Dancing Hearts Gift Tin (Ultimate Assortment of 15 cookies) valued at $33, courtesy of Cheryl & Co! Leave a comment on this post and answer the question: "What is your most favorite Valentine gift item at Cheryl & Co and who would you like to give it to?". Contest open to US and Canada residents and ends February 10th, at 12MN, EST. One comment per entrant, please. Non-bloggers are always welcome. Just make sure to include your email address in your comment to contact you in case you win. I will pick one lucky winner using Random.org. The winner will be notified via email or you can check the winner announcement via Prizey.Fetch. You can also choose to enter the name or nickname you use to enter this contest while you're there. Goodluck!
*For other current Giveaways on Hip Mama's Place, check my left sidebar. Make sure to check the deadline date for each contest listed before entering your comment as some of them may have already expired. Thank you!
Create Art From Your Photos At Photofiddle.com (And A Giveaway!)
This Valentine's Day, give someone you love a wonderful piece of art with a heart- and that's easily possible by transforming your favorite ordinary photo or picture into a work of art.
Photofiddle.com online instantly and easily transforms any photo into artwork in minutes. With over 50 photo art styles to choose from, Photofiddle.com allows users to create art from photos with free online photo effects software. Select from oil painting, Warhol pop art, watercolor painting, modern art, abstract art, Leroy neiman art style, Lichtenstein art style, color pencil sketches, photo collages, and more! You can even request to add a photographic tint to your picture like a sepia tint, blue tint, red tint, or green tint. You also have a choice to have your prints on canvas art or printing your photos on art paper or art print. Photofiddle.com will produce art on stretched canvas, rolled canvas, framed art print or even art posters.
I had one of my photos sent to Photofiddle.com to be transformed into an oil painting on canvas and wow, I was totally impressed! My photo went from an ordinary-looking print to a beautiful art canvas. Magnificent!
Looking for ideas to liven up any room in your home or office? Why not turn your photos and pictures into canvas, pop art poster, or painting?
Whether you're looking for a personalized gift idea for a new baby, or for a birthday, anniversary, or something special to give to your loved one this Valentine's Day, Photofiddle.com photo art gifts are best to show someone you really care.. with art and style!
Here's a short background on Photofiddle.com:
The Photofiddle.com site went online in June 2004 and not to long after the launch we received a bit of press from the Washington Post, USA Today, PC Magazine & more. The Washington Post called us "buzz worthy", USA Today reviewed our photo on canvas and picked us as the best, and PC Mag rated us 4 out of 5 stars. What really put Photofiddle.com on the map was when Oprah put us on the O list in 2006. Since then we have become one of the top sites on the Internet. Our current Alexa traffic rating is 182,995. More recently, the Today Show picked Photofiddle.com as a great DIY decorating idea, the CBS Early Show featured us as a best Mother's Day gift idea, and the New York Times editor wrote a great article including Photofiddle.com. Photofiddle.com was recently voted by the viewers of the CNBC show "The Next Big Idea" as a million dollar idea.(From the Photofiddle.com Team)
So check out Photofiddle.com online today and browse through their popular designs and gallery page for gift ideas. They got ongoing specials all the time too! And what's exciting, they are offering you- Hip Mama's Place readers, an exclusive discount of 15% off your purchases. Just enter discount code hip15 to be eligible for the discount.
*Win a $50 Gift Certificate to Photofiddle.com! Leave a comment on this post telling us your most favorite photo art design at Photofiddle.com and be entered to win! Contest ends Saturday, February 7th at 12MN, EST. US and Canada residents only. One comment per entrant, please. Non-bloggers are always welcome. Just please don't forget to leave your email address in your comment to contact you in case you win. I will pick one winner using Random.org. Goodluck!
*For other current Giveaways on Hip Mama's Place, check my left sidebar. Make sure to check the deadline date for each contest listed before entering your comment as some of them may have already expired. Thank you!
JAG Jeans: Fit, Flatter and Fashion
There are a zillion brand names of jeans in the market today, But JAG Jeans have remained current with the trends. The fit and styles are sexy, figure-flattering, and are comfortable to wear.
I literally grew up with JAG Jeans and I still remember the few pairs I owned years back. Today, I still love wearing JAG Jeans. 
My new favorite pair of jeans is JAG's Lucy Fit Stretch Jeans. It's got JAG's great fit and unique style and it flatters my figure perfectly! It's simple yet, trendy and comfortable. Nothing too fancy. 
For more than 30 years, JAG's sexy and easy to wear denim has walked the walk and gone the distance. In the 1970's, JAG introduced contemporary sportswear designs and re-invented denim, which became an integral part of the brand. Today, JAG Jeans are about great fit, and just the right amount of fashion. With over three decades of experience, JAG designers are experts in fit and fabic. They consider every woman, every size, every shape so that when a woman buys a pair of JAG Jeans, they will fit, flatter, and make her feel good. The fabrics have just the right amount of stretch to perfect the fit, and add the comfort. Even the waistband has some stretch, making JAG Jeans unique.
JAG Jeans cater to women of all ages and sizes and for under $100, you can't go wrong with these jeans!
Wednesday, February 4, 2009
Eating Right
Here are some fast facts on eating right:
*Super Salad
Organic fruit and veggies are 25 percent more nutrient-dense on average than conventionally grown ones, a report by The Organic Center notes. If you don't want to pay extra, standard produce is plenty healthy.
*Bad-day diet
A study in the journal of Appetite found suggests that thinking about a negative event could contribute to emotional overeating by making you feel worse rather than helping you cope. When you find yourself brooding, call a friend to seek support.
*Fill your tank
Eat right to shine at work. A survey by ComPsych, a provider of employee assistance, indicates that half of employees who had balanced diets boasted high energy compared with 5 percent of unhealthy eaters.
*It's in the mix
Don't stick to a few staple fruits and vegetables. The fiber in some produce may reduce your ability to absorb iron from other foods, a study from The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition shows. Combine fiber-rich items (applies) with low-fiber picks (melon).
*Courtesy, Self.com
Monday, February 2, 2009
Myrtle Beach Vacation
This summer, one of the most popular vacation places my family is looking to visit is Myrtle Beach in South Carolina. I have never been to this tourist destination, but I've heard so many wonderful things about it.
So the past couple of months, we've started looking around for accommodations- hotels, beach houses, and condos. We've stayed in so many hotels in past vacations and based on our experience, staying in a vacation rental is much more private, comfy, spacious, and affordable than staying in small, crowded hotel rooms.
For our summer vacation in Myrtle Beach, we're looking to stay in a vacation rental with extra amenities like the ones usually offered in Myrtle Beach resorts. Think roomy kitchen, multiple bedrooms, free wireless internet, easy access to the beach, great oceanfront views, a spa, pool, or fitness center and the kind of privacy and comfort you'd normally associate with your home-- not a hotel.
I am very excited...
Great Tips To Save On Groceries
The next time you're out grocery shopping, follow these very helpful money-saving tips from Good Housekeeping.
*Watch the register. In most grocery stores, advertised sales change every week, so the scanners have to be updated constantly. But surprisingly often, they're not, so they charge you the full amount, not the discounted price. To get the deal you're after, keep an eye on the price being registered by the scanner, whether you're operating it yourself or dealing with a cashier. Put all the week's specials in a corner of your cart and line them up on the checkout counter together so you can easily keep track of the prices you're being charged as the items are scanned.
*Don't be fooled by deals like two for $1. You don't have to buy two. If the ad says "Buy two for $5" and you want only one, you can still get it for $2.50. If the item doesn't automatically scan that way, point out the sale price to the cashier.
*Stock up, but wisely. Before you stash 10 boxes of something on your shelves, check the sell-by date. Even seemingly ageless products like tea bags and toothpaste eventually expire — and you don't want to be stuck owning eight more when they do.
*Weigh before you pay. If you're buying a 10-pound bag of potatoes, put it on the scale before you put it in your cart. Many items weigh less than what the package says.
*Don't pay extra for convenience. It's easier to pick up personal-care products and other nongrocery items at the supermarket. But this stuff often costs more than it does at a big drugstore chain.
Sunday, February 1, 2009
Cash4Gold In Super Bowl Commercial
Cash 4 Gold, America's #1 buyer of precious metals direct from the general public, produced a Super Bowl ad starring Ed McMahon and MC Hammer set to air today during Super Bowl XLIII Sunday.
The company had signed Ed McMahon and MC Hammer to star in a commercial for Sunday's Super Bowl for one of the last few slots NBC had available. Hammer had starred in Lay's Super Bowl spot in 2005. And McMahon has been into corporate sponsorship himself.
"As a nation, we are in uncharted economic territory, and Cash4Gold’s rapid growth is a clear indicator of our new reality," CEO Jeff Aronson said in a recent press release.
Cash4Gold was derived from Albar Precious Metal Refining, founded in 2001 with more than 60 years experience in the precious metals business. Since their inception, Cash4Gold have grown into one of the largest and most respected precious metal refineries in the United States. They are the only refinery ever to be listed by the prestigious Inc. 500 Magazine for both 2006 and 2007 as one of the fastest growing 500 companies in America. Along with the accomplishment of reaching #129 in Inc. 500 Magazine, they have also ranked #57 in Entrepreneur Magazine. Finally, their success comes from Forbes Magazine being awarded as as one of the top companies to watch in 2008.
Cash4Gold purchases second hand jewelry for refining. Prices are based solely on the weight and karat grade contained in the jewelry. The company does not generally pay for gemstones other than small diamonds. If you wish to sell your fine jewelry, such as estate pieces, diamonds over 1 carat and fine time pieces, you can obtain a quote on possible value by contacting their affiliated website, www.theestatebuyer.com
So if you have scrap gold, broken gold, gold coins and fine jewelry, Cash4Gold will buy them for you. Get cashforgold and unwanted gold jewelry today!
Nutrition For Toddlers
One of the most common dillemmas by parents is having a toddler who is a picky eater. Rest assured, it is common for toddlers to eat great at breakfast, eat "ok" at lunch and come dinner time, your toddler may eat either miniscule bites or leave behind a 99% full plate.
Most toddlers will only eat between 1 to 2 "meals" per day. Yes, it's true!
If you think that your toddler should be eating a full meal at each mealtime, take heart - your toddler won't eat 3 "full" meals and further, does not need to eat 3"full" meals per day! What your toddler does need is at least 1000 calories per day, according to the AAP.
The AAP (American Academy of Pediatrics) recommends that children age 1 to 3 years get about 40 calories per inch of height a day.
Translation: Your 32-inch-tall toddler ideally should eat about 1,300 calories a day for normal growth and weight gain.
*Source: WholesomeToddlerFood.com
Frosted Flakes Plant A Seed: Rebuilding America's Playing Fields
For so many of us, we find ourselves living during a challenging time in history. In his inauguration speech last week, President Obama asked what we will do, as individuals, to help rebuild our country. Taking steps toward improving our own communities remains one of the most effective ways each of us can get involved.
Embracing this spirit of making a difference, Kellogg's Frosted Flakes Earn Your Stripes program has initiated a call-to-action for a national field renovation program that kicks off today, Super Bowl Sunday, with a commercial entitled "Plant a Seed."
The ad focuses on the role we all play in building stronger communities and making a difference in kids' lives. Because the Earn Your StripesTM program is about inspiring kids to be their very best, "Plant a Seed" shows that before anyone can earn a single stripe, someone has to plant a seed and help give kids places to realize their promise and potential.
The field renovation initiative will make over approximately 50 fields across the United States to help provide better places for families to stay active. Through this program, fields will once again become central and vibrant places of activity and community in cities and towns across the country.
*This post is brought to you by Mom Central.
Beauty Talk
*Low-cost cosmetics
Love high-end beauty but not high-end prices? Haed to Target. Luxe makeup brands Napoleon Perdis, Pixi, and Jemma Kidd have nicely priced collections exclusively for the chain. The coolest part: All three lines, which include more than 80 products each, will allow you to pre-buy so you look lovely for less!
*Tweeze carefully!
The shape of your brows significantly influences how others perceive your mood, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons in Arlington Heights, Illinois, reports. The study shows that overplucking above inner brows can make you look angry, overtweezing below arches, surprised. So be careful tweezing your brows!
*De-stress Skin
Stress damages skin; but you can help reverse the effects-fast. One tip from Self.com: Soak a washcloth in whole milk (fat soothes skin, so skim won't do) and drape over your face for five minutes. The milk's lactic acid gently exfoliates.
Fresh Flowers and Gifts by FTD.com
A bouquet of my favorite pink or red roses never fails to bring a smile on my face- whether it's given to me on Valentine's Day or on any occasion. To me, nothing feels more special than a bouquet of flowers.
This Valentine's Day, are you thinking of sending beautiful flower arrangements to your loved ones?
Then you should check out FTD.com.
FTD.com offers an extensive collection of Valentine's Day gifts for everyone in your life. From beautiful roses, flower bouquets, to candy gourmets and chocolates, you'll find the perfect gift you're looking for at FTD.com.
If you are a budget-conscious mama but still want to find beautiful gifts that won't break the bank, FTD offers beautiful, fresh flowers and Valentines Candy gifts starting at only $19.99. Of course, if you want to give a more elaborate flower arrangement, you also have the option to upgrade your choice of flower design or arrangement.
FTD.com delivers flowers, plants, and specialty gifts to almost 100% of the United States and Canada, as well as worldwide, to more than 150 countries across the globe. They are committed to delivering the freshest flowers and plants and the highest quality gifts and unique gift baskets to their customers.
For more details, go to FTD.com or call 1-800-SEND FTD.
Blueberry Scones Recipe
Scones have traditionally been served with afternoon tea, although they have recently found their way onto the breakfast table. In this recipe, the heavy cream was replaced with lowfat yogurt.
Scones are best when served warm – try them with your favorite jam!
Ingredients
1 cup white flour
1 cup whole wheat flour
1/4 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 tablespoon baking powder
1 tablespoon baking soda
1 1/4 cups plain Stonyfield Farm Yogurt
1 cup blueberries, frozen
Glaze
3 tablespoons butter, melted
2 tablespoons granulated sugar
Directions
Preheat the oven to 425ºF. Combine the flours, baking powder and soda, salt and sugar in a bowl, stirring with a fork to mix well. Add in the yogurt and frozen blueberries and continue to stir with a fork. The dough will become very sticky, and will hold together in a rough mass. Lightly flour a cutting board and transfer the dough to it. Knead the dough 5 or 6 times and form into a circle about 10 inches around. For the glaze, spread the butter over the top and the sides of the circle, and sprinkle sugar on top. Cut the circle into twelve wedges and place each wedge on a non-stick cookie sheet, allowing about an inch between pieces. Bake for about 15 minutes, or until golden brown.
Yields
12 scones
Nutrition Facts
Calories 140; Calories from Fat 30; Total Fat 3.5g; Cholesterol 10mg; Total Carbohydrates 25g; Protein 4g
*Courtesy, Stonyfield Farm Yogurt
