Summer is a great time to indulge on yummy cold treats (like ice cream) and what a perfect time to try the new Breyers Smooth & Dreamy ice cream bars and sandwiches!
We tried two of the six flavors of these delicious new treats from Breyers- Vanilla Fudge Brownie and Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough and my, they're both heavenly! My honey loves the Vanilla Fudge Brownie better and my kids and I devoured the Chocolate Chip Cookie Dough like we'd never eaten ice cream before. :)
So get this: you can never tell that Breyers Smooth & Dreamy ice cream bars and sandwiches are actually made with less fat and calories- only 120-160 calories and 4-6g of fat per serving with no artificial flavors or colors. The texture and taste is just like the regular ice cream bars and sandwiches that are high in fat and calories- so delicious and yes, very indulgent. So what can I say? Here's another new reason to love ice cream!
Breyers Smooth & Dreamy ice cream bars and sandwiches are also available in four other flavors: Chocolate Caramel Brownie, Chocolate Covered Strawberry, Vanilla Caramel Chip and Triple Chocolate Chip. Mmmm.. I could definitely indulge more with these other ice cream flavors!
Want to try Breyers Smooth & Dreamy ice cream bars and sandwiches? You can save by downloading a Breyers printable $1 coupon.
Also, check out the Breyers Smooth & Dreamy website for their Wheel of Delights Instant Win & Sweepstakes where you can spin the wheel daily and win an instant prize like Maid for a Day, Day at the Spa, Movie Tickets, Bookstore Giftcards and more! Plus, the Grand Prize is a whopping $10,000 cash plus a Day with Celebrity Trainer Kathy Kaehler! So I'm heading over there to try my luck after I write this post. :)
Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: "I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Breyers and received products necessary to facilitate my review. In addition, I received a gift certificate to thank me for taking the time to participate."
About the Author: Jocelyn Duncan is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
** ~~~~~~ CURRENT REVIEWS, DEALS, FREEBIES AND GIVEAWAYS ~~~~~~ **
Friday, July 30, 2010
A New Reason To Love Ice Cream: Breyers Smooth & Dreamy Ice Cream Bars & Sandwiches- Review
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Clarisonic Skin Care System and a $100 SkinCareRX Giveaway!
On a recent trip to the spa, my aesthetician told me about using the Clarisonic brush to exfoliate my skin and give it a beautiful 'glow'. I definitely saw an instant radiance to my face after the facial. I think it had something to do with the Clarisonic brush she used. 
My aesthetician told me that I could actually get my own Clarisonic Skin Care System and recommended getting it at SkinCareRX.com. I was glad to hear that because I am already a frequent shopper at SkinCareRX.com for my personal skin care. In fact, I just bought my latest sunscreen at this very reputable skincare online store a few weeks ago.
So here's the thing. If you're looking to improve the texture of your skin and achieve a smoother, more glowing complexion, the Clarisonic Skin Care System will definitely help.
Here's how the Clarisonic works:
Clarisonic uses a sonic frequency of over 300 movements per second to give your skin a cleaning more than twice as effective as cleaning the skin manually. Clarisonic products are guaranteed to make your skin clean, smooth, and radiant. The Clarisonic brush head oscillates back and forth clarifying and gently exfoliating the skin. The flexing action between the outer and inner brushes works deep within the pores to loosen dirt and oil. To use along with a cleanser, serum, and replacement brushes, Clarisonic will have your skin looking at its absolute best. And because it's designed to make your skin treatment products absorb better, you're actually saving big bucks!
Starting at $195.00, the Clarisonic Skin Care System is an investment- but definitely a worthy one. Imagine going to the spa and paying at least $200 for one facial. With the Clarisonic Skin Care System, you can use it many times over and you don't have to shell out $200 every time you use it. Now to me, that is well worth the investment! Get yours today at SkinCareRX.com!
*WIN IT!
*Win a $100 SkinCareRx Gift Certificate, good towards any purchase at SkinCareRX.com!
*CONTEST GUIDELINES:
To enter the contest, please leave a comment on this post and tell me what you know about SkinCareRX.com and the skin care products they offer. Please leave your email address (if you don't have a blog). This contest is open until August 13th, 2010 at 12MN, EST to U.S. AND CANADA ADDRESSES ONLY. I will choose one (1) winner using Random.org and will be announced as a comment on this post. The winner will also be notified by email and/or through a comment on the winner's blog (if available).
*IMPORTANT: PLEASE DO NOT CROSS-PROMOTE ANY OTHER GIVEAWAYS HAPPENING ON ANY OTHER BLOG OR WEBSITE. I WILL APPRECIATE IT VERY MUCH.
*EXTRA ENTRIES for many chances to win!
Your comment is your one required entry. To earn extra entries, just do the following:
1. Become a fan of SkinCareRX on FaceBook (2 extra entries, leave 2 comments)
2. Follow SkinCareRX on Twitter (2 extra entries, leave 2 comments)
3. Sign up for the SkinCareRx Newsletter- the link is on the very bottom left of the SkinCareRX.com website (3 extra entries, leave 3 comments)
4. Write a blog post with a link to Clarisonic Skin Care System on SkinCareRX.com. Each blog post must have a minimum of 100 words (10 entries, leave 10 comments)
5. Tweet this event on Twitter however you like, but include this URL page and hash tags at the end of your comment: http://bit.ly/cUV92S #giveaways #skincare #SkinCareRX (5 EXTRA ENTRIES, leave 5 comments)
Example:
I just entered the $100 SkinCareRX.com GC giveaway on Hip Mama's Place! http://bit.ly/cUV92S #giveaways #skincare #SkinCareRX
6. Like or Become a fan of Hip Mama's Place on Facebook and post a comment on our wall and tell me why you like visiting Hip Mama's Place or reply to the latest post on our wall (3 EXTRA ENTRIES, leave 3 comments)
7. Follow me or friend me on Google Friend Connect (link is under "Our Hip Followers" on the left side bar) (3 EXTRA ENTRIES, leave 3 comments)
8. Follow Hip Mama's Place on Twitter (2 extra entries, leave 2 comments)
9. Join the Hip Mama's Place Community and EARN 2 EXTRA ENTRIES. You can earn 3 more extra entries by creating a new post or join in on the conversations on the "Forum" section of our mom community. (3 TOTAL EXTRA ENTRIES, leave 3 comments)
10. Grab the Hip Mama's Place badge code under the "Grab Our Fabulous Button" and paste it on an HTML page on your blog sidebar. (3 EXTRA ENTRIES, leave 3 comments)
Remember, the more entries you have, the greater chances of winning! Please make sure to leave a separate comment for each thing you do for your extra entries, as specified and listed on 1-10 above. Good luck!
*Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: “My opinions remain my own. I did not receive compensation for this post. The $100 SkinCareRX Gift Certificate giveaway is provided solely by SkinCareRX.com". About the Author: Jocelyn Duncan is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Total Beauty's Make Your Face Jealous Sweepstakes
Enter for a chance to win an Yves Saint Laurent handbag
This is a TotalBeauty.com skin care article
Want to get a handbag that's worth over $1,300 … for free? We thought so. Enter our sweepstakes and you could be sporting some Yves Saint Laurent arm candy come September.
Saturday, July 24, 2010
Kohl's Now Offers Winnie the Pooh Books and Plush Toys for $5 Each!
I get excited whenever I hear about new Kohl's Cares $5 merchandise. My boys love the earlier $5 books and coordinating plush toys we got from Kohl's, so I was happy to receive the new set of Winnie the Pooh and Friends books and plush toys to review (and add to our collection). :) 
From now through the end of September, go head over to your nearest Kohl's store or online at Kohls.com to grab these new books from Disney Book Group: Winnie the Pooh: Nature's True Colors; Winnie the Pooh: One Special Tree; Winnie the Pooh: Roo's Big Nature Day; and Winnie the Pooh: Somebody's Treasure and coordinating plush toys Pooh, Tigger and Eeyore - all for just $5 each! Soon, the kids are going back to school and these books are a perfect way for them to bounce back into reading.
Kohl's Cares also offers something good for adults in a new cookbook, Deliciously Deceptive by Jessica Seinfeld. A mother of three, Ms. Seinfeld shares her recipes and valuable tips on how to sneak healthy things into foods your kids already love to eat. 
And what's good about buying these $5 merchandise from Kohl's is that you're helping a really great cause for needy children. Yes, 100 percent of the net profit from the sale of these items benefits children's health and education initiatives nationwide through Kohl's Cares.
*WIN THEM ALL!
So how about owning all four of the Winnie the Pooh and Friends books, 3 coordinating plush toys Pooh, Tigger and Eeyore- plus, the new cookbook "Deceptively Delicious" by Jessica Seinfeld- all a $40 value!
Sounds awesome, right? :)
*HOW TO WIN:
Leave a comment on this post by August 7th, 2010 at 12MN, EST. Please leave your email address (if you don't have a blog). This contest is open to U.S. ADDRESSES ONLY. I will choose one (1) winner using Random.org and will be announced as a comment on this post. The winner will also be notified by email and/or through a comment on the winner's blog (if available).
*IMPORTANT: PLEASE DO NOT CROSS-PROMOTE ANY OTHER GIVEAWAYS HAPPENING ON ANY OTHER BLOG OR WEBSITE. I WILL APPRECIATE IT VERY MUCH.
*EXTRA ENTRIES for many chances to win!
Your comment is your one required entry. To earn extra entries, just do the following:
1. Tweet this event on Twitter however you like, but include this URL page and hash tags at the end of your comment: http://bit.ly/cxoMYL #giveaways #KohlsCares #cookbook (5 EXTRA ENTRIES)
Example:
I'm trying to win the Winnie the Pooh books and toys set giveaway on Hip Mama's Place! http://bit.ly/cxoMYL #giveaways #KohlsCares #cookbook
2. Like or Become a fan of Hip Mama's Place on Facebook and post a comment on our wall and tell me why you like visiting Hip Mama's Place or reply to the latest post on our wall (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
3. Follow me or friend me on Google Friend Connect (link is under "Our Hip Followers" on the left side bar) (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
4. Write a short post about this giveaway on your blog linking to our home page or the URL page address for this post: (5 EXTRA ENTRIES)
http://www.hipmamasplace.com/2010/07/kohls-now-offers-winnie-pooh-books-and.html
5. Follow Hip Mama's Place on Twitter (2 EXTRA ENTRIES)
6. Join the Hip Mama's Place Community and EARN 2 EXTRA ENTRIES. You can earn 3 more extra entries by creating a new post or join in on the conversations on the "Forum" section of our mom community. (5 TOTAL EXTRA ENTRIES)
7. Grab the Hip Mama's Place badge code under the "Grab Our Fabulous Button" and paste it on an HTML page on your blog sidebar. (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
Remember, the more entries you have, the greater chances of winning! Please make sure to leave a separate comment for each thing you do for your extra entries (i.e. your name on HMP Community name, Google Friend Connect, blog posts, Facebook name, Twitter name and post links, etcetera). Good luck!
*Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: “My opinions remain my own. I received all four Winnie the Pooh and Friends books, three coordinating plush toys and the cookbook, "Deceptively Delicious" by Jessica Seinfeld from Kohl's to facilitate this review. The giveaway is provided solely by Kohl's Department Stores". About the Author: Jocelyn Duncan is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Friday, July 23, 2010
Summertime Makeovers
Check out these women's transformations and get wallet-friendly beauty tips on how to give your look a boost
This is a TotalBeauty.com makeover article
Three working mothers were pampered and given a makeover by team of experts. They came out on the other side with an extra bounce in their step.
Wednesday, July 21, 2010
Nickelodeon Your Stay at Marriott
Summer is synonymous with family vacations and when we think about going on a vacation, we also think of a perfect place to stay. Of course, we all want a place that's not only clean and comfortable, but also a place that's fun and suits everyone, no matter the age.
Well, here's some real good news for those who are planning to go on vacation and looking for a fun, family-friendly place to stay.
Recently, Marriott and Nickelodeon came up with a great new promotion to keep kids happy and busy throughout their stay. Starting July 1st, you can arrange to "Nickelodeon Your Stay" at nearly 2,000 hotels with the Marriott brands. All kids get free activities including a Nickelodeon bracelet with a code to access free online games at Nick.com, and an activity book with challenging puzzles and mazes. Kids who eat at the hotels' restaurants also receive a place mat featuring favorite Nickelodeon characters, SpongeBob SquarePants and Dora the Explorer.
To further the experience, Marriott and Nickelodeon also offer an upgrade package at several of Marriott's brands, including Courtyard, Fairfield Inn & Suites, SpringHill Suites, Residence Inn and TownePlace Suites locations for $10 that includes all the free items plus a SpongeBob activity bag and splash ball, Nickelodeon sunglasses, and a 3-D build-your-own SpongeBob craft. The package costs $20 at Marriott and JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts and kids get all the above items and a special SpongeBob SquarePants or Dora the Explorer pillowcase and storybook.
With this new venture, Marriott and Nickelodeon truly make everyone's stay easier and more engaging for us as parents and for the kids.
Visit www.nickelodeonyourstay.com for more information on the promotion and to start booking. This site also has free, downloadable, Nickelodeon themed travel games under the free goodies section, including a travel journal, travel bingo and coloring sheets.
Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: “I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Marriott and received a Nickelodeon gift pack to facilitate my candid review. Mom Central also sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.”
About the Author: Jocelyn Duncan is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Tuesday, July 20, 2010
Tuesday Giveaway Roundup #8: Link Up Your Giveaways!
Busy, busy week. Wedding planning (halfway through all the details.. thank God!). Summer school camps. As you can all see, I haven't had a post here in a few days.
Anyway, I won't make this post too long. I am working in the office today and I am super swamped. Please feel free to link up your giveaways and please leave a comment after linking. Thank you and I hope you're all having a fantastic Tuesday!
Thought for the week:
“I attribute my success to this - I never gave or took any excuse". (Florence Nightingale)
About the Author: Jocelyn Duncan is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Friday, July 16, 2010
Get More Bang for the Beauty Buck
See how to make things like manis and highlights last longer
This is a TotalBeauty.com beauty tips article
Beauty treatments are expensive, right? But we picked the brains of everyone from brow to makeup experts to give you insider-y tips on how to make them last longer -- consequently saving you money.
Wednesday, July 14, 2010
Smart For Life Cookie Diet and underWAY Health Drinks: A Healthy and Nutritious Way To Lose Weight - Review and Coupon Codes
If you're one of the many men and women who is constantly striving to reach for your "ideal" weight and your hectic daily schedule just gets in the way from achieving your weight loss goals, underWAY health drinks and Smart for Life cookie products might be your answer.
I can personally attest to the fact that it's a challenge to eat healthy with my own on-the-go lifestyle. Even exercising suffer when my daily schedule become busier. Plus, it doesn't help that there are a plethora of products and services on the market these days that make choosing an overwhelming task in itself.
Well, I recently found out about underWAY supplement drink- an appetite suppressant supplement drink that's infused with a special HeroFiber and heart-healthy vitamins. I have trouble controlling my eating these days and underWAY supplement drinks could be my answer to naturally suppress my appetite! And, it's really a thirst quencher too. I love the Acai-Pomegranate flavor the best!
Here's how underWAY curbs your hunger: It has special formulation that does not only take longer for the stomach to absorb- it also slows the absorption of what's already there, thus making you feel fuller, longer. And what's more, its unique ingredients stimulate your stomach, telling your brain you've consumed more calories that you really have which, with underWAY, is almost zero! underWAY drinks contain no preservatives, sodium or caffeine, with only 10 calories and 2 grams of carbs per 8 oz. serving. By the way, HeroFiber- a soluble dietary fiber, can help maintain normal levels of cholesterol, glucose and insulin in your system!
And cookie lovers everywhere (including myself!).. check this out. There's a new way to safely and efficiently lose weight by eating cookies! Yup. With the all-natural, appetite suppressing meal replacement diet cookies made by Smart for Life® Cookie Diet.
Smart for Life all natural (meaning, made without toxins and preservatives), 60% organic products offer great snacking on-the-go, containing necessary nutrients like Omega-3 fatty acids and HeroFiber, with zero trans fat and making you feel fuller, quicker. Adopting a new 7-meals-per-day schedule featuring 6 cookies or products plus a balanced dinner allows your body to maintain steady blood sugar and glucose levels, and to burn more fat for a longer portion of the day. For variety, Smart for Life also offers soups, shakes, bagels, cereals, cupcakes and more. I got to try some of the Smart for Life products and I am loving their cupcakes and cookies! Hmmm.. I might be able to convince my fiance to put me on this unique cookie diet soon! :)
And, here's an interesting information about a recent study done at the Boca Raton Smart for Life Weight Management Center:
Out of 46 subjects that visited and used a portion-controlled, protein-rich, low fat cookie with unique fiber technology, all subjects lost weight with the average being 13.1 pounds in 35 days. Five subjects lost over 20 pounds in 35 days and 20 subjects lost over 15 pounds in the first 35 days. The 46 participants lost a total of 601 pounds with one patient losing 38.7 pounds in 35 days.
Smart for Life and underWAY products were developed by physician Dr. Sasson Moulavi, a board certified bariatric weight loss doctor.
Got your interest piqued? Go to www.smartforlife.com and www.under-way.com to learn about these products today!
*COUPON CODES FOR 10% OFF!!!
I'm happy to tell you all that Hip Mama's Place readers have been offered a special 10% discount code for underWAY and Smart for Life products! Please use MCUS10OFFUW for underWAY products at www.underWAY.com and MCUS10OFFSFL at www.smartforlife.com. This offer is good from July 2nd and expires August 30th.
Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: "I wrote this review while participating in a blog tour campaign by Mom Central on behalf of underWAY and Smart for Life and received samples of the products to review."
About the Author: Jocelyn Duncan is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Monday, July 12, 2010
Tuesday Giveaway Roundup #7: Link Up Your Giveaways!
Happy Tuesday, friends! How was your weekend? :)
This past Saturday, we celebrated my son Gabriel's 5th birthday. It was fun and we had a lot of food. It was one of those family gatherings with a few friends invited so it was more of a small get-together than a real party.
I usually don't talk much about my kids. But for the sake of amusement, I'll tell you all a bit about my first-born kid Gabriel.
Gabriel amazes everyone with some of the stuff he does, like:
*He can read and spell words like a ten year old. Give him any book and he'll read it word for word. All his teachers adore him and think he's definitely smarter than most of the kids his age.
*He can say the alphabet backwards. Yup. From A to Z. I can't even do that, lol. :)
*He can write his full name very legibly. Take note, he just turned 5 years old.
*Most of all, he's so lovable and he says "I love you" back when you tell him you love him.
So much about my five year old. Link up your giveaways below if you have some. Please leave a comment after linking.
Enjoy your week ahead and don't forget to stop and smell the roses. :)
Thought for the week:
There's nothing you can do that can't be done. Nothing you can sing that can't be sung. Nothing you can say but you can learn how to play the game. It's easy...all you need is love. (From the song, "All You Need Is Love" by The Beatles)
About the Author: Jocelyn Duncan is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Sesame Street: 20 Years and Still Counting DVD Out Tomorrow, July 13th
I grew up with Sesame Street and yes, after all these years, I still enjoy watching Big Bird, Grover and Elmo! :) 
My boys love Sesame Street too and we were so excited to receive our new Sesame Street: 20 Years and Still Counting DVD to review! Wow, this DVD reminds me so much of my Sesame Street-watching years. I enjoyed watching this DVD as much as my boys did the first time we played it! :)
Synopsis:
Experience this captivating special that marked the 20th anniversary of the groundbreaking children's series that taught us our ABCs, 123s, and so much more! Hosted by Bill Cosby, Sesame Street: 20 Years and Still Counting includes appearances by favorite Sesame Street residents like Big Bird, Grover, Bob and Maria. It also features timeless clips from past episodes; performances by Ray Charles and famed tenor Placido Domingo (with his operatic Muppet™ counterpart, Placido Flamingo); and in-depth interviews with the series’ creators. Sweep the clouds away and rediscover the carefree days of childhood with this delightful special! Sesame Street is produced by the non profit educational organization, Sesame Workshop.
Available to fans from Lionsgate Home Entertainment for the first time on DVD and digital download starting tomorrow, July 13th, Sesame Street: 20 Years and Still Counting celebrates the 20th anniversary of the groundbreaking educational series, Sesame Street. Hosted by legendary comic Bill Cosby and featuring special appearances by Jim Henson, Kermit the Frog, Ray Charles and famed tenor Placido Domingo, the special includes classic Sesame Street scenes and interviews with those who were involved with the series’ early years and created a foundation for a show as relevant today as when it first debuted in 1969. The Sesame Street: 20 Years and Still Counting DVD has a suggested retail price of $14.98.
*Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: “My opinions remain my own. I received the Sesame Street: 20 Years and Still Counting DVD to facilitate this review and I was allowed to keep it". About the Author: Jocelyn Duncan is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Sunday, July 11, 2010
Borders Launches eBook Store This Week Offering 5 FREE Top-Selling Books!
I just received a head's up from the Borders® peeps that they've launched their new eBook Store this week and they're offering five top-selling books- TOTALLY FREE! (Valued at more than $40!)
Yes, you read that right! :)
Beginning this Friday, July 9th through Sunday, July 11th, anyone who downloads a free Borders app on their iPad, iPhone and a variety of BlackBerry® and Android devices will get these top-selling books:
1. Dean Koontz’s “Frankenstein: Prodigal Son”
2. “One Shot” by Lee Child
3. “The Alchemyst” by Michael Scott
4. Julia Child’s “Kitchen Wisdom”
5. “Master your Metabolism” by Jillian Michaels
The free Borders app, powered by Kobo, can be downloaded free of charge! Additionally, Borders is offering exclusive content that readers can currently find only through their app — chapter 6 of Danielle Steele’s upcoming novel, “Legacy,” which hits shelves September 28th.
So what are you waiting on? If you live within the U.S. 50 states, this free Borders app is available to you! CLICK HERE for more details.
About the Author: Jocelyn Duncan is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Friday, July 9, 2010
THE SECRET INGREDIENT Cookbook by Sally Bee- Review and Giveaway!
We all know the benefits of eating healthy, but most of the time living it becomes a challenge especially if you're pressed for time and you want to find healthy, affordable meals that you can easily prepare for your family. 
THE SECRET INGREDIENT- a new cookbook by Sally Bee will help you cook delicious, easy to prepare and healthy recipes that your whole family will enjoy. How about Chili Con Healthy, Healthiest-Ever Lasagna or BBQ Fruit Skewers with Ice Cream for dinner tonight? Yummm! :)
About the Author:
At the age of 36, Sally Bee suffered three major heart attacks in the space of a week and the doctors called her husband so he could say goodbye before she died. She had never smoked, didn’t drink and was fit and healthy. Sally Bee’s story of survival and recovery from her heart attacks are nothing short of a miracle. Baby-step by baby-step, Sally defied all the odds and, five years later, is vital and healthy.
Sally Bee was juggling being a writer, television personality, wife and mother of three when she suffered three major heart attacks in a week in 2004. After a full recovery she credits to healthy eating, Sally is now a spokeswoman for the British Heart Foundation and a trained heart therapist giving regular talks to heart rehabilitation groups. This is her first cookbook.
What's also great about this cookbook is that not only it features deliciously unique and healthy recipes, the author also tells her inspirational story and gives encouragement and support for changing your eating habits.
Here's a fun, fruit-inspired recipe from Sally Bee's cookbook that I'm sure you all will enjoy these hot summer days! :)
Red Berry Meringue Pie
This pie calls for no pastry, so while it still contains a bit of sugar it has virtually no fat. It’s also easy to make and tastes absolutely delicious. If you have a really sweet tooth, you will like the slightly sharp taste of the fruit cut cut by the sweet meringue. For extra crunch and texture, almonds are added and believe it or not, the fat they contain is healthy fat!
Serves 4
4oz whole, unbalanced almonds (optional)
1 ½ cups strawberries
1 ½ cups raspberries
1 ½ cups blueberries
3 egg whites
Generous 3/4 cup caster sugar
4 x 3 ½ in diameter ramekins
Directions:
1.) Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2.) Divide the almonds between the four ramekins and place on the bottom.
3.) Wash and prepare the fruit, hulling the strawberries but leaving them whole. Then mix the berries together and put on top of the almonds. Make sure you fill the ramekins to only halfway.
4.) Preferably with an electric whisk, whisk the egg whites in a clean bowl until they form
stiff peaks.
5.) Add half the sugar and whisk again until the mixture ‘shines’.
6.) Fold in the remaining sugar and divide the meringue between the four dishes.
7.) Bake in the oven for 15 minutes. Then remove and leave to cool for about 5 minutes before serving. Be careful, because the fruit will be extremely hot!
* Omit the almonds if you are serving anyone with a nut allergy. Otherwise, try sprinkling a few crushed almonds on top of the meringue before cooking- delicious.
THE SECRET INGREDIENT Cookbook by Sally Bee is now available at your leading book retailers and at Amazon.
*WIN IT!
One of you lucky Hip Mama's Place reader, will win a copy of Sally Bee's cookbook, "THE SECRET INGREDIENT"!
To enter the contest, please leave a comment on this post telling me why you would like to win this book. Please leave your email address (if you don't have a blog). This contest is open until July 23rd, 2010 at 12MN, EST to U.S. AND CANADA ADDRESSES ONLY. I will choose one (1) winner using Random.org and will be announced as a comment on this post. The winner will also be notified by email and/or through a comment on the winner's blog (if available).
*IMPORTANT: PLEASE DO NOT CROSS-PROMOTE ANY OTHER GIVEAWAYS HAPPENING ON ANY OTHER BLOG OR WEBSITE. I WILL APPRECIATE IT VERY MUCH.
*EXTRA ENTRIES for many chances to win!
Your comment is your one required entry. To earn extra entries, just do the following:
1. Tweet this event on Twitter however you like, but include this URL page and hash tags at the end of your comment: http://bit.ly/dr6Z1g #giveaways #cooking #cookbook (5 EXTRA ENTRIES)
Example:
I just entered the "THE SECRET INGREDIENT" Cookbook giveaway on Hip Mama's Place! http://bit.ly/dr6Z1g #giveaways #cooking #cookbook
2. Like or Become a fan of Hip Mama's Place on Facebook and post a comment on our wall and tell me why you like visiting Hip Mama's Place or reply to the latest post on our wall (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
3. Follow me or friend me on Google Friend Connect (link is under "Our Hip Followers" on the left side bar) (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
4. Write a short post about this giveaway on your blog linking to our home page or the URL page address for this post: (5 EXTRA ENTRIES)
http://www.hipmamasplace.com/2010/07/secret-ingredient-cookbook-by-sally-bee.html
5. Follow Hip Mama's Place on Twitter (2 EXTRA ENTRIES)
6. Join the Hip Mama's Place Community and EARN 2 EXTRA ENTRIES. You can earn 3 more extra entries by creating a new post or join in on the conversations on the "Forum" section of our mom community. (5 TOTAL EXTRA ENTRIES)
7. Grab the Hip Mama's Place badge code under the "Grab Our Fabulous Button" and paste it on an HTML page on your blog sidebar. (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
Remember, the more entries you have, the greater chances of winning! Please make sure to leave a separate comment for each thing you do for your extra entries (i.e. your name on HMP Community name, Google Friend Connect, blog posts, Facebook name, Twitter name and post links, etcetera). Good luck!
*Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: “My opinions remain my own. I received the cookbook, "THE SECRET INGREDIENT" by Sally Bee to facilitate this review. The book giveaway is provided solely by Sterling Publishing Co. on behalf of Sally Bee. Photo Credits: Kate Whitaker". About the Author: Jocelyn Duncan is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Thursday, July 8, 2010
11 Sexy Makeup Ideas for Summer
See which celeb-inspired makeup looks will look best on your skin tone
This is a TotalBeauty.com makeup article
Get privy to summer's hottest makeup trends with tips on how to make 'em work for your skin tone.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
New Hunt’s 100% Natural Ketchup Review + Hunt’s High Five Family Photo Fun Contest
This summer, Hunt's wants to give us moms "High Five!" to show their acknowledgment and appreciation for the caring things we do for our families, for the simple victories in our daily lives and for "being mom".
With the hectic summer days ahead and kids already out of school, Hunt’s is honoring us moms and our families by offering us a chance to win a family vacation (up to $5,000) through a new photo contest called "Hunt’s High Five Family Photo Fun Contest".
How to enter the photo contest:
Starting July 2nd, you can go to Hunt's on Facebook and submit a photo of you and your family achieving a "simple victory" or family accomplishment and you could win that summer vacation you've been longing for!
Prices include: Fun summertime barbeque packs awarded to five (5) weekly winners, and one lucky winner to receive a family vacation worth up to $5,000!
Whether on home fries at breakfast, on a hotdog at lunch, in a secret meatloaf recipe at dinner or on whatever our children feel like dipping it with tonight, we can feel good about serving Hunt's Ketchup with its reformulated recipe that includes no high fructose corn syrup and no artificial ingredients or preservatives. By 100% Natural ingredients- meaning, they only use natural ingredients that includes: tomatoes, sugar, vinegar, salt, garlic and other associated spices.
Now available at your leading grocery stores, Hunt's 100% Natural Tomato Ketchup is made from the best and carefully hand-selected tomatoes picked at the peak of their ripeness to ensure they meet the standard for Hunt's- a quality brand that's been around for over 100 years.
Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: “I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Hunt’s and received a ketchup sample to facilitate my candid review. Mom Central also sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.”
About the Author: Jocelyn Duncan is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
9 Best Self-Tanning Tools
Get your sexy, summer tan on -- the sunless way
This is a TotalBeauty.com skin care products article
Total Beauty readers give these self-tanning lotions and potions a tanned thumbs up.
No. 9: Aveeno Continuous Radiance Moisturizing Lotion, $11.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8
"It adds a nice sun-kissed glow without streaks or an orange cast …"
No. 8: Bath & Body Works True Blue Spa Shade to Order, $18.50
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.1
"Best of the best tanners out there …"
No. 7: L'Oreal Paris Sublime Bronze Any Angle Self-Tanning Spray, $9.99
TotalBeauty.com average reader rating: 8.2
"It is the easiest self tanner I've ever tried …"
Tuesday, July 6, 2010
Tuesday Giveaway Roundup #6: Link Up Your Giveaways!
Hello and happy Tuesday, everyone! I hope you all had a wonderful July 4th weekend! How was it for you? How did you celebrate Independence Day? Did your family host a party in your house? Did you go watch the fireworks?
As far as my family goes, we didn't really do much this year for July 4th. We usually either host a party in our house or go somewhere fun to celebrate it. But this year, we were just being laid-back. And actually on Saturday, my fiance and I had a fun day up the Shenandoah Mountains on our convertible, drove around the long Skyline Drive and went wine-tasting at one of the vineyards we passed by. Here are a few photos we took from our little trip. The Blue Ridge Mountains is really awesome!
So much about our weekend. How was yours? Please share and link up your giveaways!
Please follow this format:
Hip Mama's Place- 25,000 Marriott Points- 7/19
And oh, while you're here, please don't forget to enter my awesome giveaways for the week. Just scroll up to the very top of the page for the links. A comment after linking is very much appreciated. :)
About the Author: Jocelyn Duncan is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Monday, July 5, 2010
Earn Points with Marriott Rewards® Instant Redemption + 25,000 Marriott Points Giveaway!
Summer is all about vacations and now, Marriott Hotels has made it easier for anyone to go on vacations with their new Marriott Rewards® Instant Redemption program. 
With Marriott Rewards® Instant Redemption, members can use points to pay for anything that appears on their hotel folio at the spur of the moment. Whether it’s a spa treatment, room service or cocktails in the bar, Marriott Rewards® points can be used at any point during your stay.
Marriott Rewards points can be earned at over 3,200 Marriott International hotels around the world, including Marriott Hotels & Resorts, JW Marriott Hotels & Resorts, Renaissance Hotels, Courtyard, Residence Inn, Fairfield Inn & Suites, TownePlace Suites, SpringHill Suites, and Marriott Vacation Club. Plus, with Marriott Rewards, there are no blackout dates and points can be redeemed for hotel stays, frequent flyer miles, cruises, car rentals, brand-name merchandise and more.
For more details on how you can sign up for the Marriott Rewards® Instant Redemption program, go HERE.
*WIN IT!
Win a 25,000 Marriott Rewards® Instant Redemption points- an approximate value of $50 US Dollars good to use towards your next Marriott Hotel stay in the U.S.!
To enter the contest, please leave a comment on this post and tell me your favorite vacation spot within the U.S. and why. Please leave your email address (if you don't have a blog). This contest is open until July 19th, 2010 at 12MN, EST to U.S. ADDRESSES ONLY. I will choose one (1) winner using Random.org and will be announced as a comment on this post. The winner will also be notified by email and/or through a comment on the winner's blog (if available).
*IMPORTANT: PLEASE DO NOT CROSS-PROMOTE ANY OTHER GIVEAWAYS HAPPENING ON ANY OTHER BLOG OR WEBSITE. I WILL APPRECIATE IT VERY MUCH.
*EXTRA ENTRIES for many chances to win!
Your comment is your one required entry. To earn extra entries, just do the following:
1. Tweet this event on Twitter however you like, but include this URL page and hash tags at the end of your comment: http://bit.ly/aRIEux #giveaways #Marriott #hotel #vacation (5 EXTRA ENTRIES)
Example:
I just entered the 25,000 Marriott points giveaway on Hip Mama's Place! http://bit.ly/aRIEux #giveaways #Marriott #hotel #vacation
2. Like or Become a fan of Hip Mama's Place on Facebook and post a comment on our wall and tell me why you like visiting Hip Mama's Place or reply to the latest post on our wall (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
3. Follow me or friend me on Google Friend Connect (link is under "Our Hip Followers" on the left side bar) (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
4. Write a short post about this giveaway on your blog linking to our home page or the URL page address for this post: (5 EXTRA ENTRIES)
http://www.hipmamasplace.com/2010/07/earn-points-with-marriott-rewards.html
5. Follow Hip Mama's Place on Twitter (2 EXTRA ENTRIES)
6. Join the Hip Mama's Place Community and EARN 2 EXTRA ENTRIES. You can earn 3 more extra entries by creating a new post or join in on the conversations on the "Forum" section of our mom community. (5 TOTAL EXTRA ENTRIES)
7. Grab the Hip Mama's Place badge code under the "Grab Our Fabulous Button" and paste it on an HTML page on your blog sidebar. (3 EXTRA ENTRIES)
Remember, the more entries you have, the greater chances of winning! Please make sure to leave a separate comment for each thing you do for your extra entries (i.e. your name on HMP Community name, Google Friend Connect, blog posts, Facebook name, Twitter name and post links, etcetera). Good luck!
*Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: “My opinions remain my own. I did not receive compensation for this post. The 25,000 Marriott Points giveaway is provided solely by Marriott Rewards®". About the Author: Jocelyn Duncan is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
Saturday, July 3, 2010
The Best Wedding Hairstyles
Pick your gown, then find the best 'do to pair it with
This is a TotalBeauty.com wedding hairstyle article
Whether your wedding dress is classic or modern or something in between, you'll find the best hairstyle to compliment it.
Friday, July 2, 2010
Accor Hotels Around the World Photo Hunt Sweepstakes.. Enter Today!
Summer is here and Accor Hotels is giving us all a chance to win many fantastic prizes, including a Grand Prize of a 12-night European vacation in the AccorHotels.com Around The World Photo Hunt Sweepstakes!
Think beautiful Paris, Berlin and Barcelona. Oh, my dream places to visit!
How the Game Works:
Travel around the world by clicking the four differences in the photos before your time runs out. Remaining time and unused hints will earn you bonus miles. Wrong guesses will cost you time and could end your trip early.
Game players can post their score on Facebook and Twitter and challenge their friends. The top player on the leader board at the conclusion of the game will win the Grand Prize, which is an amazing 12 night European vacation! There are also top 10 prizes and $50 Mastercard gift card prizes awarded daily for the top score of the day.
To enter for a chance to win these fantastic prizes, go play the game today at: www.accoraroundtheworld.com
Hip Mama's Place Disclosure: "My opinions remain my own. I received a gift card from Accor Hotels in exchange for this post".
About the Author: Jocelyn Duncan is a working mom of two boys and is a recognized blogger and mom influencer in the Washington, DC area. In her spare time, she designs and creates her own handmade jewelry, maintains her jewelry store on Etsy and is an active moms group organizer and leader both online and offline. Follow Jocelyn on Twitter and/or Facebook.
