Bordreaux's Butt Paste! Keeping Your Baby Dry!

This post brought to you by Boudreaux's Butt Paste. All opinions are 100% mine.

 

 

Yes, I realize this product has a name that can be used in endless jokes and limericks.  I think it is actually part of it's appeal.  And the baby on the front is too cute as well!

What is more important is that is really works to keep your baby dry and comfortable and prevent that terrible diaper rash that seems inevitable in the cold, wintry months.  I remember how much I struggled with that when Sarah was young and how I thought when I first heard about Boudreaux's Butt Paste and the problems that it solves so easily.

I really like that it is not greasy and that it has a pleasant scent; that is a big part of what sets this product apart from others in the same category.  This allows me to use Boudreaux's Butt Paste on my own skin when it gets chafed and raw. And not only on my butt either! The same ingredients that protect baby also protect me and that is just an added plus in my book.  How many other products can both you and your baby use?

Boudreaux's Butt Paste was  specifically formulated by a pharmacist with direction from a respected pediatrician to provide effective diaper rash care.

Pediatrician recommended

• Goes on and cleans off easily
• Available in convenient sizes
• Flip top cap (tubes)
• Handy travel size
• Pleasant scent

Skin protectant

• 16% Zinc Oxide
• Peruvian Balsam
•  Treats diaper rash and soothes irritated skin

This stuff is actually that good!

 It is available for purchase online at Drugstore.com as well as a number of other retailers in your area. 

They also have this great sample offer going on now:

Send a 6x9 self addressed, stamped envelope ( with $1.39 postage) to:

 

Boudreaux's Butt Paste

1600 Brian Drive

Columbus, Indiana 47201 

 

With a name like " Butt Paste" you really can't go wrong!

 

 

OPI Nail Polish - Sponsored Post

OPI nail polish is the best...Amazing pink collection

Imagining The Possibilities: This Is The Moment!

I have been noticeably absent from the usual posts on this blog.  There is a good reason for that and it is time to share that reason with my readers and followers.  And that reason is all about new possibilities and snatching that one moment in time that affords us the ability to change our direction.

I was recently contacted via a Facebook message that a person from a long ago past was looking to talk to me.  I hesitated at first thinking, " Maybe this was a can of worms that should stay sealed?".  I thought about the possible motivations as well as if this opening of communication would have a negative effect on my life.

I opened my mind and my heart in that instant and decided that if I limited myself by trying to second guess another persons motivations without opening my ears to listen perhaps I would be making a mistake.  I reasoned that there was possibility in stepping outside the box and taking a chance.

And I am so glad that I did!  For now it is important to know that in a single instant my whole life has changed and one small possibility has morphed into a lifetime of endless possibilities. 

I have learned that you are only limited by the chances that you choose not to take and that risk is an inherent part of reward.

Oprah understands these types of possibilities; it is literally the story of her life.  As you might have heard, she is launching "OWN" ( Oprah Winfrey Network)  in January 2011, with a focus on inspiring people to live their own best lives, much as I have recently begun to realize through my own, very personal experience.

No doubt she will focus on the positive sides of life and the host of possibilities that is available for each and every one of us, including you, my dear readers. 

I have wonderful dreams for not only this New Years, but for many New Years to come; my own possibilities are now seemingly endless and without restraint.  I know that if I project positive that positive will naturally come my way.  This experience has shown me how powerful possibilities really can be.

I have hopes of a life shared with love, respect, and laughter; I know my possibilities are rapidly becoming my realities.

Take a chance once in awhile; never be afraid to dream and when you dream, dream big! 

Watch with me in January to see how Oprah can inspire you to live your best life and let me know what possibilities are within your grasp as the year 2011 begins.



Disclosure: I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and OWN: Oprah Winfrey Network blogging program, for a $50 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here

Heart Of Haiti: Using Commerce and Culture To Effect Change

Everyone remembers the devastating images from earlier this year of the earthquake in Haiti.  We wept, we gave, we sent our help so that they could rebuild.

 The Heart of Haiti initiative is part of that rebuilding.  By partnering with Macys.com this holiday season, it is allowing employment of 350 artists in Haiti and has provided some financial benefits for an estimated 4,000 to 5,000 people in the country

Instead of providing one-time funding through charity, Heart of Haiti is creating opportunities for Haitian artisans to earn income with dignity by creating jobs and income for the people of Haiti.

Through the sale of Heart of Haiti products, artisans are able to earn life-changing income for themselves, their families, and their communities. The initiative is enabling artisans to repair homes, pay school fees, and feed and clothe their families. The income also allows them to have access to better nutrition, improved education and healthcare.




Each item is designed by a master Haitian artist and made by hand in Haiti
Each product is made from recycled materials and the collection includes 40 different home decor items and accessories

Products include vases, candleholders, serving trays, picture frames, mirrors, coasters, necklaces, clutch purses and more and mst items fall in the $25-$60 range

You can see the collection at Macys.com here. Take a minute and buy something beautiful and at the same time bring change to the lives of the people of Haiti.


Disclosure: I am writing this post to spread the word about Heart of Haiti through a Mom Bloggers Club member program and that you will receive a Heart of Haiti pendant as a thank you

GMC WORLD PREMIERE MOVIE CHRISTMAS WITH A CAPITAL C STARRING DANIEL BALDWIN AND TED MCGINLEY

From time to time I come across notices that I think might be of interest to my readers and I enjoy keeping you guys interested!

Thought this movie might be a welcome change from all the other holiday movies you and your family have seen a million times!

Enjoy!




AIRS SUNDAY, DECEMBER 5 AT 7 P.M. ET

Atlanta, GA (November 22, 2010)- GMC, America’s favorite channel for uplifting music and family entertainment, will premiere Christmas with a Capital C, their first GMC World Premiere Christmas movie, on Sunday, December 5 at 7 p.m. ET. The movie will encore at 9 p.m . ET and 11 p.m. ET.

‘Tis the season to be jolly, but holiday traditions are under attack when lawyer Mitch Bright returns to his hometown of Trapper Falls, Alaska. Residents of the small town who once looked forward to each year with enthusiasm and taking great care to drape the town with Christmas cheer every season, find themselves in the heat of a legal battle with a former member of their community. Christmas with a Capital C stars Daniel Baldwin (Cold Case) as Mitch Bright and Ted McGinley (Married with Children) as Mayor Dan Reed. High School rivalry between the two re-ignite over a Nativity scene in the town square. Nancy Stafford plays Reed’s wife. Brad Stine plays Reed’s brother. The movie is based on the song “Christmas with a Capital C” by the Contemporary Christian band Go Fish. The Go Fish video for this song has received over 15 million views online.

“Christmas with a Capital C is based on what has been referred to as ‘the war on Christmas,’” said Leslie Chesloff, executive vice president, programming, GMC. “The movie delivers provocative subject matter and rich performances by an ensemble cast of talented actors. The quaint community and picturesque landscape of Seward, Alaska lent itself beautifully to the storyline of this movie,” she continued.


Christmas with a Capital C is written by Andrea Gyertson Nasfell and directed by Helmut Schleppi. James Chankin, Michael Scott and David Cuddy are producers. Visit http://www.watchgmctv.com/.

Wishing All My Readers A Happy Thanksgiving! 

Pier 1 Imports: Making Your Holiday Sparkle And Glow!

This post brought to you by Pier 1 Imports. All opinions are 100% mine.

I am all about bling.  I love things that sparkle and shimmer.  And I found plenty of beautiful bling to use for my holiday entertaining at Pier 1!

It is very important when I throw a party to dazzle my guests right away with unique and beautiful serving pieces.  It makes the food that they hold look elegant and inviting, which is exactly what I want my guests to feel when they first walk in the door.

I fell in love with this piece while looking at all the items for holiday entertaining at the Pier 1 website.

A great gift for your favorite chef, this shimmering bowl with a graceful vine motif is perfect for someone who loves unusually beautiful things in their kitchen.

 

Colors: Gold/Green

Handcrafted of glass

Size: 14.75"W x 11.25"D x 5"H

Machine-molded

Safe for food

Safe for hot and cold liquids

Hand wash only  

 

It goes really nicely with this piece as well!

Wow, this is a really pretty platter. Look, the vines are hand-painted and it's handcrafted of golden glass. Hey, don't come in and buy this one. We want to keep it for ourselves. What? We're not allowed to say stuff like that. Okay, come in and buy one. But don't tell your friends. We'll sell out before you know it.

 

Size: 14"W x 14"D x 1.5"H

Lead free

Not dishwasher safe

Not microwavable safe

Safe for food, hot and cold liquids  

 

 

 

I see it on a shimmery gold tablecloth with gold candlesticks. Imagine walking in and seeing at table set with these items on it and you begin to see the possibilities for your holiday entertaining with Pier 1!

 

Even better to know is that during the months of November and December, you can support Toys for Tots by dropping off an unwrapped toy and/or making a cash donation at the register. 

And if you “Like” Pier 1 Imports on Facebook during the month of November, Pier 1 will donate $1 to Toys for Tots  too     

 

So what are you planning to buy this season for your holiday entertaining at Pier 1?  Let me know!

Saving For Your Children’s Education


Brace yourself for a shock. The average public college education for a child born in 2003 is $95,000. Private college? Up to $240,000. You’d better get ready, or your child will be stacking up a mountain of student loans.



Start saving for your child’s education soon after they’re born. Even if the fund starts small, the longer the account exists, the more time it has to grow. Increase your contributions as your salary increases. Allocate a part of your annual bonus to go toward their fund. Grandparents who like to give your children savings bonds or cash at birthdays can instead make a deposit into your child’s mutual fund where it will make an impact on their future.



A Couple Suggested Funds



A 529 is great option, because anyone can open one, and the money deposited grows tax-free. The money can then be withdrawn to cover college costs without being taxed. You are able to start saving before your child is born. You start by selecting the state plan that best fits your needs based on how much you can invest, how the funds are invested, and the tax ramifications, such as being able to avoid state taxes in addition to federal taxes. Second, sign up using a simple form. After that, you begin to deposit as much each year as you can under the plan's guidelines. Your money is invested and grows completely tax-free, and each plan is professionally managed.


Coverdell Education Savings Account (CESA), formerly known as an Education IRA, will allow you save up to $2,000 a year tax-deferred. The biggest advantage is that funds can be used for elementary and secondary school education, in addition to college. A word of caution: the funds are considered student assets when financial aid is calculated, potentially reducing the amount of financial aid your child will be eligible to receive by falsely increasing their anticipated earnings. The maximum contributions are limited as well, so watch out for administrative fees. They could turn out to be larger in proportion to the dollars saved.


The Rule of 72



This rule is simple, yet all too often overlooked. Take the interest rate you’re receiving on your investments and divide it by 72. This will tell you how many years it will take the money to double. Try it out and you’ll see why the interest rate you get on your money is so important.



As you can see, the rule is remarkably accurate, as long as the interest rate is less than about twenty percent; at higher rates the error starts to become significant.



You can also run it backwards: if you want to double your money in six years, just divide 6 into 72 to find that it will require an interest rate of about 12 percent. Below is a table showing how the rule works.

Rate of Return      Rule of 72      Actual # of Years       Difference (#) of Years


  2%                          36.0                      35                                     1.0

  3%                          24.0                      23.45                                0.6

  5%                          14.4                      14.21                                0.2

  7%                          10.3                      10.24                                0.0

  9%                            8.0                        8.04                                0.0

  12%                          6.0                        6.12                                0.1

  25%                          2.9                        3.11                                0.2

  50%                         1.4                         1.71                                0.3

  72%                         1.0                         1.28                                0.3

 100%                        0.7                         1                                     0.3





Author: John-Michael Haines




Source: http://www.moneychimp.com/features/rule72.htm ,
Table came from: http://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/04/040104.asp , http://www.ehow.com/how_109539_save-childs-college.html#ixzz14QZRty9g

Carmex Healing Lotion and Cream: Just What You Need As The Winter Rolls In

This post brought to you by Carmex®. All opinions are 100% mine.

 

Just wanted to give you, my dear readers, the heads up on Carmex® Healing Lotion and Carmex® Healing Cream!  You already know that Carmex is known for their expertise in protecting your luscious lips from wind, sun, and cold weather.

Carmex has now applied that same wisdom to Carmex® Healing Lotion and Carmex® Healing Cream, which is only available at Walgreens, Walgreens.com, and Drugstore.com. 

Here's what you need to know about Carmex Healing Cream:

• Use on your driest skin— especially hands, feet, elbows and knees
• 9 healing ingredients penetrate and help repair your very dry, rough or cracked skin
• Concentrated—use a small amount
• Absorbs fast for a non-greasy feel; has a light, pleasant scent  

Here's what you need to know about Carmex Healing Lotion:

• Use anywhere skin feels dry
• Daily use will help protect skin and keep dryness away
• Rich healing ingredients, including Aloe and Vitamin E, nourish and moisturize skin
•  Absorbs fast for a non-greasy feel; has a light, pleasant scent

My experience with both these products is very positive.  They both perform exactly as expected and described and my skin feel wonderful after I apply the lotion and cream.  Especially for the driest of skin areas like the soles of my feet!  And I love that Carmex has stayed true to their look, which makes this product easy to find amongst the countless other creams and lotions that may promise the same thing, but deliver a lot less for a lot more money.  Did I tell you they both retail for only $5.99?

Right now, Carmex has a cool contest going on their Facebook page if you "like" them so take a moment and enter to win some great winter products!  Believe me, your skin will thank you!

Lucky 7-7-7!  Yes, I Now Have 777 Google Friend Connect Followers!

I am somewhat of a slot machine admirer. Which means I deposit far more then I withdraw when I go to a casino. 

So it struck me as significant that today I reached 777 Google Friend Connect followers.  Does it mean anything significant in this great cosmic universe of ours?  Probably not.  Maybe it is time to play the lottery, huh?

Thanks, my dear readers, for getting me here!  Thanks for sticking with me.

Take Time To Pause And Say "Thank You" To The Brave Men And Women Of Our Military!

I know..it's a day off of work, a time to take advantage of some wicked pre-holiday sales, etc.  In the midst of it all I urge you to take one moment and say a tiny prayer for those who serve.  And if you see someone in uniform not only today but any day say a quick" Thank You" to let them know they are appreciated.  Their smile and pride at your recognition will be the greatest reward!

Baby Formula: It's Not About The Name, It Is About The Savings!

This post brought to you by PBM Products. All opinions are 100% mine.

It's been a long time since Sarah was an infant but I remember quite clearly how much of a struggle it was to pay for the formula that she needed to drink.  As it always was an item that had the topmost priority on my shopping list, there were times I had to put other items on hold in order to pay for the weeks needs. 

In those days there were not as many choices as there are today.  No longer it is necessary to buy name brand formula's at outrageous prices; these days store brand formula is just as good and so much more affordable!

All infant formulas are subject to the same exacting standards of the FDA pursuant to the Infant Formula Act. This legislation vested FDA with the authority to ensure that all infant formulas sold in the United States provide the necessary levels of identified nutrients required for the growth of healthy babies. Store-brand formulas are nutritionally equivalent to Enfamil® and Similac® brand-name formulas but cost up to 50% less for a savings of $600 a year per baby !!. . 

Parent's Choice Formula happens to be a great alternative to high cost, name brands and it is available at a variety of stores like CVS and Walmart.  They have a really cool savings calculator that shows you how much you can save by a switch to generic formula.

CBS's Moneywatch.com actually published an article recently that recommends generic formulas as an easy way to save money in a tight economy.  They talk about the fact that new parents are bombarded in the hospital with free, name brand formula samples and come to believe that in order to be good parents, they have to spend the higher price on their baby's formula needs.  This article makes mention of the Infant Formula Act of 1980 that requires ALL formulas to adhere to strict FDA guidelines, regardless of the brand name.

Isn't it time it stops being about the name?

 

 

Carmex: Be Good To Your Skin This Winter: A Review And Giveaway!

Yeah for me!  I was chosen to be a member of the Carmex Blog Squad!  So that means that I get to tell you, my dear readers, all about what is new and cool about a product we all know and love - Carmex!

I was sent a beautiful set to review ( Guess who is also going to have a chance to win the exact same set?).  It contained a variety of Carmex products in a really nice case that will be really handy when I travel.

Here's what I got:

Carmex Healing Lotion



Carmex Healing Cream


Original Formula Carmex Lip Balm in the jar


Carmex Cherry Flavored Lip Balm in the jar


Carmex Strawberry Flavored Lip Balm in the jar


Original Formula Carmex Lip Balm in a tube

Carmex Cherry Flavored Lip Balm in a tube


Carmex Strawberry Flavored Lip Balm in a tube


Original Formula Carmex Lip Balm in a stick


Carmex Cherry Flavored Lip Balm in a stick


Carmex Strawberry Flavored Lip Balm in a stick


Carmex Moisture Plus Ultra Hydrating Lip Balm in Clear


Carmex Moisture Plus Ultra Hydrating Lip Balm in Peach


Carmex Moisture Plus Ultra Hydrating Lip Balm in Pink

I want to focus on just a few of these products in this review:
 

Carmex Healing Lotion is amazing!  It is made using a patent pending process that delivers healing and moisturizing without a greasy feel. 
 
•Use anywhere skin feels dry


•Daily use will help protect skin and keep dryness away

•Rich healing ingredients, including Aloe and Vitamin E, nourish and moisturize skin

•Absorbs fast for a non-greasy feel; has a light, pleasant scent

I loved this stuff!  My feet become so dry during the fall and winter months and I have used this lotion liberally on my feet, covering with cotton socks before I go to bed.  In the morning my feet are soft and smooth!

Carmex Cherry Tube -  A new take on a classic product with the addition of the cherry flavor! 

Keeps lips soft

Alleviates the roughness of dry lips.
Protects from wind and sun
Replaces moisture and protects from sunburn.
Helps heal chapped lips

Contains germ-killing menthol and phenol, speeding the healing process.

This is the perfect answer to dry and chapped lips from winter dryness.  It is the perfect size for my pocket and immediately makes my lips feel smooth and hydrated.

Carmex Moisture Plus Tints  - This is Carmex newest product and the tint makes me feel elegant and moisturized at the same time!

With a little help from vitamin E and aloe, Carmex Moisture Plus lip balm helps nourish and moisturize lips leaving them so kissably soft they will be hard to resist.

With SPF 15, Carmex Moisture Plus protects your lips from the sun so you can play all day and know you’re covered.

Take it out for a night on the town. A sheer pink, sheer peach or clear satin gloss finish add a hint of shine, while the sleek, slant-tip applicator looks almost as stylish as you.

Yes, you have made it to the end where you find out how you can win what I received, a $50 Carmex value!

(1) You MUST be a Google Friend Connect follower of my blog ( this will be verified)


AND

(2) You MUST tell me which of the Carmex products found here sounds the most interesting to you!

That's it! Too easy!!

BOTH (1) and (2) MUST be done for your initial entry! Leave me ONE comment stating that both items were completed. If you already follow me just let me know.

If you want additional entries:

(3) Follow me on Twitter

(4) Like me on Facebook

(5) Tweet about this giveaway - you can do this daily - leave a separate comment for each tweet

(6) Blog about this giveaway and leave me a comment with a link to your post and link back to this give-a-way post as well!

(7) Subscribe to my blog via email ( see email sign-up on sidebar)

(8) Enter any of my other current giveaways and let me know which one you entered
Give-a-way to run until 11:59 pm EST on November 17, 2010. Winner will be chosen via Random.org. Email will be sent to winner with a response needed within 72 hours of winning email with shipping information. If winner does not respond to email, an alternate winner will be chosen. Good only within the continental USA. Make sure you leave a contact email within your post or check to make sure that I can email you via your blogger profile.



Disclaimer: I was provided with the items in this giveaway, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or conduct a product giveaway

Wholesale Furniture Brokers: A Furniture Store And So Much More!

Check out this armoire above,  Nice, huh? It's got an " art deco" sort of feel to it and I think it fits into just about any type of decor.  I love the fact that it is round and that it looks so sleek and elegant.

Now I bet you are wondering where you can get one, huh?  Wonder no more...this Jewelry Armoire

and thousands of other furniture and home accessory items, are available at Wholesale Furniture Brokers.

What a thought to finally have all my jewelry organized!  As opposed to the way it is now, which is a tangled, jumbled mess!  How many earrings lost, how many chains knotted beyond repair...the more I think about it, the more vital this item becomes. 

Check out Wholesale Furniture Brokers and let me know what you think!

Time To Tenga!  A Review!

This will be a PG review of an Adult Toy called collectively "Tenga".  It is so hard to explain but so very cool for him!

From the Good Vibration Website:

"They’re not just for breakfast anymore! Enjoy self-pleasure anytime with Tenga Eggs. Peel the outer layer like you would a hard-boiled egg, then crack open the shell to reveal an “ona-cup.” These egg-shaped masturbation sleeves offer several unique internal textures. Get different stokes from different yolks! Wavy has horizontal ripples and Twister has vertical ones. Silky features a thread-spun surface while Spider is lined with a web pattern. Clicker has protruding spheres; Stepper has notched out semi-circles.  Although intended for a single session, the cup could be used a couple of times if handled and cleaned carefully. Indulge in a diet of delicious sensation with these incredible, pleasurable eggs!"

2 1/2” long x 1 3/4” wide (6.4 cm long x 4.4 cm wide)

Elastomer
White

I wish I could tell you what it feels like to use the Tenga Eggs, but I can't!  My boyfriend, however, adores these little babies and has had alot of success with using them when we are unable to be together ( although we have used them as an adjunct to our own time together when he is looking to experience something a little bit "different"). 

I can tell you that they are an affordable way to put some fun into the time you spend together and with seven different varieties each under ten dollars it is easy enough to try them all!

Time to Tenga, baby!

Disclosure: I was provided with a sample of this item in order to write this review but it in no way obligated or influenced what was posted.

Arbonne: What You Need To Look Your Best For The Holidays: A Review and Giveaway!

Can you believe it is almost that time of year again?  Time for parties and dinners with relatives you only see once a year?  Time to think about how you can look your best?

Then it is time to look in Arbonne!  If you haven't heard yet, Arbonne is the premier company of skincare and wellness products to help you look fantastic.

“Since 1975, Arbonne is the name that has come to define quality products and an unwavering commitment to both the environment and their customers. Arbonne is a highly regarded, premium brand with a Swiss heritage. The products are healthy, botanically based and inspired by nature. Arbonne offers over 400 products ranging from skin care to cosmetics, nutrition and wellness products.


Arbonne personal care and nutrition products are Vegan-certified and many items are also gluten-free. Their formulas are never tested on animals and do not contain animal-derived ingredients or animal by-products. The products are pH correct, hypoallergenic, and are dermatologist tested. They do not contain any mineral oil, chemicals, fragrances, dyes, formaldehyde-donating preservatives, or PABA.”
 
I was recently sent a whole box full of amazing skincare products to try out and review for you.
 

One of the lines I was sent to try is the RE9 Advanced. 

“Arbonne is best known for their anti-aging skin care line, RE9 Advanced. Re9 Advanced synergizes not one, but 9 major age-defying elements and botanicals in a powerful system of products clinically proven to start working within 24 hours.”

This product just feels amazing on my skin. Not greasy but silky smooth it glides on effortlessly and smells amazingly pleasant! It includes a Smoothing Facial Cleanser, Regenerating Toner, Intensive renewal Serum, Corrective Eye Cream, Restorative Day Creme, and Night Repair Creme. The fact that it starts to produce results within 24 hours means you can start your road to looking your best quicker then you will with just about any other skin care line out there!

The SeaSource Detox Spa line of products was pretty amazing too!

“Arbonne leads the way to health and well-being with SeaSource Detox Spa—a superior, unparalleled product line created for detoxification, restoration and total renewal. While it’s important to detoxify in today’s environment, it’s also just as important to give yourself a “time-out” on a regular basis. This comprehensive line of products stimulates, strengthens and supports the body’s natural ability to cleanse and restore itself, helping to purify the body inside and out and return it to a state of healthy bliss.”

More gel-like in texture, it made my skin feel clean and pure.  It has an almost fruity aroma, and includes products like Foaming Sea Salt Scrub, 5-in-1 Essential Massage Oil, Detoxifying Rescue Wash, Sea Mud Face & Body Mask, Purifying Sea Soak, Fortifying Hair Mask, Re-Mineralizing Body Lotion 24H and Renewing Body Gelée.

Arbonne also has cosmetics, sun care products, and even baby skin care items as well.  What's even more interesting is that being an Arbonne consultant is a great way to promote some great skincare products and make some extra money at the same time. 

Arbonne International just celebrated 30 years of providing men and women with botanically-based, pure, safe and beneficial Swiss formulated products. Their premium personal care and nutritional products are only sold through Independent Consultants, providing you with a more customized shopping experience. If you’d like to sign up as a client for free to shop online, ask questions and request your own samples from Independent Consultant Lisa Edwards please click here.

What could you do with an extra $400 a month? The Arbonne experience starts with changing your skin, then it’s about changing your life. Arbonne provides a generous compensation plan, an exceptionally nurturing support system, and caring committed leadership. Sign up today with the Girl meets Green team and start your Arbonne business by clicking here. Or contact Independent Consultant Lisa Edwards to learn more about the Arbonne business model at LisaEdwards@MyArbonne.com . “Knowing and loving our products are the only prerequisites for success as an Arbonne Independent Consultant. Create success on your terms!”



Use this link to sign up for free as a client to purchase products, request samples or ask questions.  It in no way obligates you in any way and you can get some samples to see if Arbonne will work as well for you as it did for me.
 
Even better, Lisa Edwards, who is sponsoring this review and giveaway and is my Arbonne consultant has a great website that not only promotes healthy and green living, but also has a monthly contest where you can win a $100 Gift Certificate! Check it out at Girl Meets Green!

I want to share with you some of the people at the helm of this amazing company. 


~ Arbonne’s new CEO, Kay Napier is an amazing woman who was  previously the VP of Proctor & Gamble and the Sr. VP of McDonald’s

~ Arbonne’s Sr. VP of Product Development is Peter Matravers. He was previously with Aveda and Neutrogena and holds over 20 U.S. and International patents.

You can read about it here.

So now that your interest in piqued you are wondering what you can win and how you can win it.  Have I got a giveaway for you!

Lisa sent me an amazing boxed set with products to try from both the RE9 and SeaSource line.  And that is exactly what you will get to win, my dear readers!  It has seven different products with enough of each to get a good idea of what Arbonne is all about.  And the ONLY place you can get it is through this giveaway!

Here we go!  If you want to win, here's what you have to do:

(1) Be a Google Friend Connect Follower of this blog

AND

(2) Sign up at the Girl Meets Green website so that you can be entered into their monthly contest here.
PLEASE NOTE: In order for this entry to count as the mandatory entry for this giveaway you MUST put "Wendy" in the referral entry line. 

Completing this mandatory entry really counts as an entry into both contests at the same time.  How cool is that?  Leave me one comment stating that you fulfilled both requirements.  If you already have done either or both, tell me that too!

If you want more entries ( as I know you will) you can also:

(3) "Like" Girl Meets Green on Facebook here and leave this comment on their wall:

“Purple meets green! Enter for another chance to win an Arbonne sampler box here: http://www.madamerkf.blogspot.com/”

Feel free to copy and paste that to the wall to make it easier to get this extra entry!  Tell me in a separate comment here.

(4) Follow Girl Meets Green on Twitter here and let me know that in a separate comment

(5) Follow me on Twitter here and let me know that in a separate comment

(6) Tweet about this giveaway ( can be done daily) ( leave a comment for each tweet)

(7) Go to the Arbonne website and tell me another product you would like to try

(8) Sign up for my email newsletter so you never miss another review or giveaway!  Use link on sidebar and leave a comment that you did or already do!

(9) Blog about this giveaway and leave me the link in a comment and let me know that in a separate comment.

There you go!  What are you waiting for?  Start entering!

Give-a-way to run until 11:59 pm EST on November 16, 2010. Winner will be chosen via Random.org. Email will be sent to winner with a response needed within 72 hours of winning email with shipping information. If winner does not respond to email, an alternate winner will be chosen. Good only within the continental USA. Make sure you leave a contact email within your post or check to make sure that I can email you via your blogger profile.




Disclaimer: I was provided with the item I reviewed as well as the items in this giveaway, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or conduct a product giveaway.

Bringing Home Baby: Lysol's "Mission For Health" Making It A Little Bit Easier!

Wow.  I remember the day that I brought home Sarah from the hospital.  Almost 17 years ago!  I was scared.  I had no idea what to do.  I worried about how I was going to keep this precious little gift safe from all the things that could harm her.    Especially germs.  Oh I remember that feeling so well!  Not wanting anyone to touch her; worrying about every cough, every sneeze, every dirty hand.  Lysol became a good friend in those early days of motherhood.  Spraying every surface with which Sarah came in contact with.

These days new moms have it so much easier.  The amount of options available to keep your home and baby's environment are staggering!  And Lysol is leading the way with a new website called " Mission For Health", not only for new moms but for everyone.

I was challenged to think of ten ways to help new moms bringing home baby to keep that baby safe and healthy.  These are my thoughts:

(1) Pocket size hand sanitizers are a great way to quickly make sure that the hands that are holding baby are as clean as they could possibly be.  Carry one or two in your diaper bag at all times and insist that people disinfect their hands before handling the baby.

(2) Keep surfaces your baby will be placed on as clean as possible.  I think the Lysol Disinfectant Spray To Go is perfect for a quick way to sanitize non-porous surfaces.

(3) Insist that no one smoke around your baby.  When Sarah was born this was very hard to enforce as it was before the strict smoking bans many places have today.  As a new mother, I was afraid at times to speak up when someone smoked around Sarah.  Don't ever be scared to ask someone to smoke somewhere else and if you are in a place that allows smoking, leave!

(4) Wash your hands!  Especially before and after diaper changes.  The Lysol Healthy Touch No Hand Soap System is a perfect answer to keeping your hands as germ free and clean as possible.

(5)  Got tons of those small receiving blankets as shower gifts and have no idea what to do with them?  Keep a few in your diaper bag and use them as a barrier between germy surfaces and your child.  When they get to grimy to use anymore, toss them!

(6) Public areas are the scariest as far as keeping baby safe from germs.  Lysol Disinfecting Wipes are an easy way to disinfect a public surface easily ( such as high chairs) and quickly.

(7) If you are not feeling well or sick yourself, you still have to take care of your baby.  Use a disposable face mask and disposable gloves to keep baby from catching what you have.

(8) Although babies smell wonderful, it can be hard to keep their bedroom smelling as wonderful as they do.  It is important to keep the air in their bedroom germ free too.  Lysol Neutra Air Sanitizing Spray is perfect to accomplish both of those objectives.

(9) Be very careful with the toys that you buy.  Recently there have been news reports about toys that are manufactured overseas that use harmful chemicals on their toys.  Since babies put everything in their mouths, only buy toys that are made in countries that adhere to the same product standards that we do.

(10) Finally, keep kitchen surfaces where you prepare your bottles as clean as possible.  In my day we never realized that surfaces could have so many contaminants.  Lysol's Anti-Bacterial Cleaner takes care of this easily.

The healthier you make your home and the environment around your baby, the healthier your baby will be.

I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Lysol® Wee Wisdom blogging program, making me eligible to get a $50 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here

Supercuts: Ever Wondered What It Would Be Like To Own The #1 Hair Care Franchise In The United States?

One of the coolest things about being part of the blogging world is that I often get the inside scoop on some really interesting opportunities like the Supercuts franchise information I am sharing with you today.

I am sure you have seen Supercuts stores; they are anywhere and everywhere!  The have that distinctive red sign that is easy to spot, even from a distance.  Supercuts is part of the Regis Franchise family of brands. With over 2,100 locations across North America, Supercuts provides hair-care services to men, women and children at convenient locations with reasonable prices and no appointments necessary. Supercuts offers a broad selection of professional hair care products including Paul Mitchell, American Crew, Nioxin, Tigi, Redken, Biolage and more.

I bet you never knew that Supercuts has been ranked the number one hair-care franchise in the U.S. and the fifth best franchise opportunity overall in Entrepreneur magazine's annual "Franchise 500" issue.  I bet you also never knew that  no prior business or hair-care experience is necessary. Supercuts will train you to run the business, and how to hire the right professional stylists to perform the actual services.  Got your attention, didn't I?

I thought that the logic behind choosing a SuperCuts franchise was very intriguing:

Why Choose the Hair Care Industry?


The success of any franchise is dependent on the nature of the business. Unlike food service franchises with perishable inventory, round the clock hours, and unskilled labor, hair care is an industry worthy of consideration because it:

-Is fundamental service in any community and any economic climate.
-Most people choose not to ‘do it themselves’
-Resists technological obsolescence
-Is staffed by professionals – employees are educated, certified and trained
-Has low, non-perishable inventory requirements.
-Cannot be outsourced
-Is about making people look and feel good about themselves.


Hair care is a high-demand, high-repeat cash business that serves a fragmented and local market. Supercuts can take the guess work out of setting up a successful operation of your own; one where successful national advertising creates brand recognition and value for each salon.

Why Choose Supercuts?

Supercuts is owned by Regis Corporation. Regis is the global leader in hair care service. They are a Fortune 1000 company with almost 13,000 salon locations among 60 brands in hair care services, products, and education. Supercuts is Regis Corporation’s flagship franchise brand. Since 1922, Regis’s success has stemmed from their continued ability to innovate according to demand. Even in 2009’s economic uncertainty, Supercuts provided franchisees with the knowledge and confidence to open eighty new Supercuts across the country, bringing the franchise to over 2,100 locations throughout North America.


To foster a symbiotic relationship with franchisees, Regis uses total transparency to provide learning opportunities and offer access to the latest information and best practices on financial performance, incremental revenue opportunities, operational improvements, marketing, hiring, retention and business growth strategies. Regis is equally as invested in the success of franchised salons as their franchisees are.

So now you are thinking to yourself, " I wish I could find a way to get some more information about being a SuperCuts owner!".

Stop thinking!  I know exactly what to do next and where to go to get your questions answered!  Lucky you for reading this blog, huh?

Have questions about opening a Supercuts franchise or want to learn tips from current business owners? Visit http://www.regisfranchise.com/ or contact Melissa Aquino at melissa@stjacques.com for more info about becoming a franchisee

Follow on Twitter here and Like them on Facebook here!

Let me know what you think!


Disclosure: I received no compensation for this post, although I was sent a giftbag with various hair care items in appreciation for posting about this opportunity.  It is no way obligated me or influenced what I wrote.

Protect Your Kids From MRSA: Time To Teach Your Children!

"With fall sports in full swing, equipment cleanliness and item-sharing on and off the field may get overlooked between carpools, homework and bedtime. But, skin infections like MRSA, a potentially life threatening antibiotic resistant Staph infection, are the cause of 56 percent of all infectious disease outbreaks in competitive sports in the U.S.

 

It’s important that as parents and coaches we do our part to help prevent the spread of MRSA. You can begin by getting involved in the Equip them Well program through three simple steps – collect, disinfect, donate."

MRSA stands for Methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus.  And it can kill.  Really. 

Watch this video to learn more about this program:




Help stop the spread of MRSA now!


Disclosure:  I received no compensation for this post but am entered into a contest from the One2One Network for posting about this issue.

Entenmann's Pancake Pockets: It's What New For Breakfast! A Review and Giveaway!!

I don't know about you guys, but breakfast is getting boring!  How many times can you eat cereal or breakfast bars without getting tired of the same old thing!

Too cool that I was introduced to this really interesting Entenmann's product!  They are called
" Pancake Pockets" and I really, really liked them!

Here is the nutritional information:

Pancake Pockets-Chocolate


Nutrition Facts

Serving Size 1 piece

Servings Per Container 6

Amount Per Serving

Calories 170

Calories from Fat 30

                                       % Daily Value


Total Fat 3.5g                 5%%

Saturated Fat 1g             5%%

Trans Fat 0g

Cholesterol 40mg           13%%

Sodium 220mg                 9%%

Total Carbohydrate 33g 11%%

Dietary Fiber 1g               4%%

Sugars 19g g

Protein 3g g

Vitamin A                         0%
Vitamin C                         0%
Calcium                            4%
Iron                                   4%

They also come in Maple and Strawberry and I bet they are as yummy as the chocolate ones that I got to try!  These are shelf stable but have a quick expiration date so watch out and don't let them sit for too long.   I microwaved them for a few seconds and liked them all hot and gooey!  It was quick, easy, and actually quite nutritious.

Right now they are only available in the New York/New Jersey area but keep your eyes peeled for when they come to your town!  Check here to find stores that are currently selling them.

I did say there was a giveaway, didn't I?

Yes indeed...and not only am I giving away a coupon for Pocket Pancakes I am also giving away a $50 SpaFinder Gift Certificate!  Oh yeah!  It can be used across the country at all your favorite spas!

And if you want to win, here is what you have to do:


(1) You MUST be a Google Friend Connect follower of my blog ( this will be verified)

AND

(2) You MUST tell me which of the three flavors sounds the most interesting to you!


That's it! Too easy!!

BOTH (1) and (2) MUST be done for your initial entry! Leave me ONE comment stating that both items were completed. If you already follow me just let me know.

If you want additional entries:

(3) Follow me on Twitter

(4) Like me on Facebook

(5) Tweet about this giveaway - you can do this daily - leave a separate comment for each tweet

(6) Blog about this giveaway and leave me a comment with a link to your post and link back to this give-a-way post as well!

(7) Subscribe to my blog via email ( see email sign-up on sidebar)

(8) Leave a comment on any post and let me know which one.


Give-a-way to run until 11:59 pm EST on November 4, 2010. Winner will be chosen via Random.org. Email will be sent to winner with a response needed within 72 hours of winning email with shipping information. If winner does not respond to email, an alternate winner will be chosen. Good only within the continental USA. Make sure you leave a contact email within your post or check to make sure that I can email you via your blogger profile.



Disclaimer: I was provided with the item I reviewed as well as the items in this giveaway, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or conduct a product giveaway.

Carribean Mist Products: Time To Bring Home The Tropics!

I want to give you, my dear readers, the heads up on a very interesting company I recently came across in my travels.

Check out a little bit of the company history and philosophy from their website:

"Carribean Mist is a high-quality product that is natural, safe and effective. It is more affordable than other name-brand, non-toxic products allowing all households to clean with products that are safer for their family and the environment.


In 1988, B&B Products, the inventor of Carribean Mist, began as a small, minority-owned manufacturing company specializing in industrial and household cleaning products. After 17 years, B&B Products continues to be the only African-American owned company to manufacture cleaning products for store shelves. Eventually, B&B Products expanded its line of products with the invention of a 3 in 1 air and fabric freshener and odor eliminator.

In addition, because there is so much pollution that destroys our world everyday, we felt the need to help protect the earth for our children and families like us by manufacturing all natural, non-toxic detergents and household cleaning products. When creating these environmentally safe products, we ensured that we created highly concentrated, safe products that were affordable to every family who is interested in a healthy living environment and a cleaner earth."

Pretty cool, huh?


They have everything from products for the bathroom, kitchen, and laundry to all purpose cleaning products and products to refresh your fabrics.

The website has a great feature where you can enter your address and find stores in your area that carry Carribean Mist products.  Go here to try it out for yourself!  You can also access some really great articles about other eco-friendly companies and initiatives there as well.

Tell me - Have you ever used any Carribean Mist products?  What did you think?


Disclosure: I received no compensation for this post but I was entered into a contest for writing it.

Seeing Pink: GlassesUSA.com Has A New Program To Support Breast Cancer Research And Needs Your Help!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness Month.  Just about everyone I know has been affected by this horrible disease.  I have talked before about my friend Lisa, who battled it and survived thanks to early detection and good medical care.

EyeGlassesUSA is helping support Breast Cancer Awareness Month with a great program to donate $1 from every sale of eyeglasses on their site. 

They are also offering my readers a special discount code to get 15% off of any pair of prescription glasses as well.  Make sure to use " CancerAwareness" when ordering to obtain the discount.

"Like" their Facebook page to keep up with the latest deals and promotions here.

I spent some time on the site looking at frames to get an idea of what they offer.  Since we are talking about Breast Cancer Awareness what do you think of these glasses?

You can find them and tons of other styles as well!

Check it out!  Purple - my favorite color!

Stop paying outrageous prices for glasses and buy your glasses online instead!  Shop through GlassesUSA.com and help support the fight against Breast Cancer and save a ton of money at the sme time!


Disclosure: I was compensated for this post but all opinions expressed are my own and were not influenced by that compensation.

Final Wishes Service from Otrib.com - What Happens To Your Facebook Account When You Die!

What are your Final Wishes?


Sure, it’s a morbid question, but it’s definitely one worth asking: what happens to your Facebook account after you die? Can people still post to your Wall? Do you continue to receive friend requests? Will you still get “poked”? With an estimated 5.7 million deceased Facebook users since 2003, it happens. That’s why Otrib.com created their free new Final Wishes Facebook application, so you can name an heir for your digital assets and confirm how your account should be managed upon your death and:

- Add a Life Status Indicator to your Facebook profile

- Send out a real-time death notification to all connections

- Help your next of kin save time and money by automatically creating a tribute page or interactive online obituary and transferring administration of your Facebook account to your heir


Otrib is the premier online funeral planning/memorial site, dedicated to helping consumers manage end of life events.


Fast, Easy and FREE!

Name an heir for your digital assets

Describe how your Facebook account should be managed upon your death

Yeah, I know- kinda gross!  But if it is something you never, ever considered or even thought about it is certainly worth your time to see if it is for you!

Sign Up Here!






Disclosure: I did not receive any compensation for this post however it assists me in improving my status for Bzzagent.

Treasure Your Chest: Breast Cancer Awareness Month Promotion!

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, E! News host Giuliana Rancic and Lindsay Avner, founder of the national breast and ovarian cancer non-profit Bright Pink, "felt themselves up" during 'Treasure Your Chest' a live webcast to fight breast cancer hosted by Orbit White Bubblemint gum.



The 'Treasure Your Chest' video is available online through October at www.Livestream.com/TreasureYourChest, where women can watch as Giuliana and Lindsay share (and show) tips for how young women can be proactive about their breast health, including bonding with their breasts regularly.

Watch live streaming video from treasureyourchest at livestream.com

As a proud sponsor of this campaign, Orbit White is donating 10 percent of every pack of Orbit White Bubblemint gum sold in September and October, up to $75,000, to Bright Pink.

Take a minute to watch and listen and share with the women in your life!


Disclosure:  I was not compensated for this post but am entered into a contest for posting.  It in no way obligated or influenced me in my opinion.