Embracing a Healthy Family

Disney, Thomas Kinkade & More Christmas Ideas: CollectiblesToday

One of my favorite shops at Christmas time is Collectibles Today.  They have a great array of high quality yet personal products.  Famous names such as Thomas Kinkade and Disney are part of their wonderful product line.

Last year, as I like to purchase a special ornament a year for each of the kids was the Rudolph the Reindeer personalized ornament.  When the little one opened it, it wasn't as big of a deal as it will be this year as she's only one but wait until she starts realizing how special each ornament she will collect to take with her when she grows up will be.
Thomas Kinkade is one of my favorites and I usually pick a floral centerpiece that has one of his inspired pieces adorning the middle.  My table looks timely yet elegant. 

These are some of my favorites this year:


Thomas Kinkade Wondrous Winter Pullup Tree


Collectible Thomas Kinkade Animated Snowman Figuri


The Wonderful World Of Disney Christmas Tree: Coll


Diamond Embrace Personalized Engraved Couples Diam


Love Never Ends Personalized Engraved Diamond And


Collectibles is running some specials too:

Hidden Special Offers Page


Special Offers - FREE Gifts with Purchase

Great Stocking Stuffer Ideas & More

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Are you spending HOURS looking for the perfect stocking stuffers?

I found some great products!



This one I absolutely love the idea of making my two little one's think Santa was at our house.


A ton of presents under the tree and the fact that the cookies and milk have been consumed, both signify that Santa made a visit the night before. But here’s a way to prove -- to even the most skeptical of young children -- that Santa was really there. All the vestiges that one would imagine Santa would leave behind - glasses, a torn piece of red suit, a large coat button, a boot prints, a sleigh bell on a red ribbon, a toy list, reindeer hoof prints, Santa’s glove -- are included in this set. Place these items strategically near the tree and the kids will squeal with amazement as they discover the clues on Christmas morning. Magic snow is included with Santa Clues to use with the stencils to create the boot prints and reindeer hooves. Ages 4+

It's priced at $14.95 and I know I'm getting it!




Little kids LOVE bandaids so why not give a set of these really cool bandaids?


After the fingers, we’re sure the feet are the next biggest consumers of band aids. Whether it’s those new 4 inch heels you are trying to break in, or your Converse sneakers that you walked in 14 miles without socks….blisters abound on heels, toes and in-between. When they do take your pick, from this assortment geared to foot attire. Six designs in four different shapes. 24 assorted bandaids packaged in a metal tin. Latex free. Tin measures 2 5/8 inches W x 3 5/8 inches H.

Bandages - Art School

You’re creative, your band aids should be too. For all you budding Warhol’s and Vasarely’s, these are the go to way to accessorize, and protect, cuts and scrapes incurred from pallet knife or daily life. Six different designs – Rainbow, Stars, Waves, Ziz-Zag, Dots and Squares in three different shapes. Latex free. Come packaged in a metal tin that's 2 5/8 inches W x 3 5/8 inches H.

They come in a metal tin with six different designs for $5.95 and have other selections.



Constructive Eating Utensils Set

Your kids will be happy to hear it’s now okay to play with their food! Here is a set of eating utensils disguised as construction tools. Created by a husband and wife team with three kids, these utensils are scaled for little hands to hold. The set is composed of a "Fork Lift" Fork, "Bulldozer" Pusher and our personal favorite, the "Front Loader" Spoon. We all know little boys love trucks, but we’re sure as soon as "sis" sees these, she’s going to want a set too. Handles are textured to make for easy gripping. The PVC-free, phthalate-free plastic is rugged, lightweight and dishwasher safe. Fork and Spoon measure 5 3/4 inches L x 1 inches W; Pusher is 10 inches L x 6 inches W x approximately 2 inches thick at the widest part. Packing has changed slightly.

Price: $19.95

Maxell M&M Ear Buds - these are really cute!
 
Product Description

M&M'S® stereo ear buds by Maxell deliver sweet sounds to your ears. The M&M'S® ear buds combine Maxell's premium sound capabilities with M&M'S® world renowned 'M' design. The signature M and round shape of the ear buds emulate the candy everyone knows and loves. Available in five vibrant colors, they can match any MP3 player, outfit or even mood. They look great and sound even better. Using Maxell's background in high performance technology, the ear buds deliver premium sound from every music source. The M&M'S® Stereo Ear Buds include two sizes of soft silicone ear tips, ensuring that your ears will not only be fashionable but comfortable as well. The straight 3.5mm plug and matching colored soft touch cord gives you the freedom to dance and move freely. The M&M'S® Stereo Ear Buds bring fun, excitement and freshness to the ever expanding ear bud world.


          

Star Wars Galactic Heroes 3-Pack Stocking Stuffers Stormtrooper, Darth Vader, & Boba Fett

I have a house full of Star Wars fans so this is great!

 

More to come ....

Microsoft Office Standard 2007 Military Appreciation Edition $49.99!



Buy now for $49.99 and save up to 87%.*

Get Office Standard 2007—Military Appreciation Edition for just $49.99. That’s up to $349 off!

You’ve got projects. Lots of projects. Get them done better and easier with Microsoft® Office Standard 2007—Military Appreciation Edition. Office Standard 2007 has a redesigned interface, enhanced tools, and a help system that’s really helpful. So you can organize your household finances, help your kids make great school presentations, and keep everyone connected. It’s just one way we can say thanks.

The Military Appreciation Edition of Office 2007 includes Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and Outlook click HERE.

This offer valid for Active Duty Military, National Guard personnel, Reserves, US Civilian Department of Defense employees when stationed outside of the US, Department of State Officials serving in Foreign countries and dependents of the above. If you can shop for retail merchandise at your local exchange, you are authorized to order from the Catalog and Exchange online store.


*Savings calculated by comparing the limited time price of Office Standard 2007—Military Appreciation Edition to the estimated retail price of Office Standard 2007. Available Jan. 1, 2009 through Dec. 31, 2009 through participating Exchange stores.

**The Catalog and Exchange online store is for the exclusive use of authorized exchange customers.

Teleflora No Service Free Until October 31, 2009



Great news if you are needing or wanting to send flowers until October 31, 2009.  www.teleflora.com is waving the usual $14.99 service fee for sending an order.

Use code EMPFSD.

Youthful Tips

Adorable Baby Clothing Christmas Dresses



I just purchased my daughter's matching Christmas dresses at www.adorablebabyclothing.com along with gorgeous headbands to match!  I usually get the pictures taken in November to give me enough time to make my Christmas cards and calendars at Zazzle.com.

What I love most about Adorable Baby Clothing is the awesome customer service.  I was going to hold out for the sales at the local department stores but it's so difficult to get two matching dresses in size 3T and 8.  Luckily, with the dresses at Adorable Baby Clothing, the sizes are readily available when you select the dress so you just click the drop down box to see what is available. 

The selection is amazing and the dresses range from traditional to modern.  They even have great outfits for boys which to me, would seem hard to find something that is stylish yet great looking.

I'll post a picture of the Christmas pictures with the girls wearing them once I get them taken.

Don't forget they have a great Halloween selection as well as every day wear, special occasions, personalized and much, much more!

Added Bonus from Adorable Baby Clothing:

The Holidays are fast approaching! Choose now while the best selection is still available! Your little boy or girl can be the best dressed at all those special occasion events. Use the word "holiday" at checkout and save $7.50 on every $50.00 minimum purchase. (coupon expires 11/15/09)

The Organic Pharmacy: Carrot Butter Cleanser

The more I learn about the chemicals and preservatives in all products we consume, the more I worry.  These ingredients are in our food, our drinks, oven in our beauty products and I'm sure the list goes on.


With my continuous battle of the bulge, I started reading more and more about these products that are added into everything and became concerned.  I never really thought about them being added to our beauty products and baby products until recently. 


The Organic Pharmacy has interesting and informative content on this very issue.  It states that on average, we use between 5 to 15 products a day that are full of toxins.  If you think about it, at least from a woman's perspective, it's very true.  Shampoo, conditioner, body lotion, facial lotion/moisturizer, acne medication, deodorant, foundation, blush, powder and so forth.  By the time we get ready to eat more toxic products, we are already toxic.


I just recently switched and began using an organic detangler for my two younger daughters and perhaps it's a mind trick, but I definitely feel like a better mom by going the extra mile to ensure I'm taking care of them. 


Thanks to The Organic Pharmacy, I will explore many options to start detoxing mine and my children's lives from all these horrible chemicals, preservatives and flavorings and colors.




I received a full size jar of Carrot Butter Cleanser by The Organic Pharmacy for all skin types.  The 75 ml jar arrived in a small box with no extra packaging which is great when you are looking for truly organic products that take the environment into consideration.   The name "Carrot Butter" and "The Organic Pharmacy" were both in silver lettering which accentuated the large silver lid and the see-through jar provided a level of sophisication and elegance to the appearance.


I used the small spatula provided to remove a small amount (penny size) of the cleanser to massage on my dry face for about a minute.  My face had a warm sensation as I massed the Carrot Butter Cleanser all over.  It has a mixed fragrance with a menthol undertone.  After I soaked the muslim provided wash cloth in "hand-hot" water, I pressed it over my face and then wiped off the Carrot Butter.  I rinsed twice as the package directions stated.

My face had a cool sensation afterwards.  The Carrot Butter Cleanser itself is a silky smooth, non-abrasive cleanser and felt good as I massaged it all over my face.  My face felt invigorated and clean afterwards.  I waited several hours and avoided applying anything additional on my face to see how it would feel and it's smooth, non-greasy and soft.  I really like how it feels.


Carrots are a known antioxidant and great for the skin.  Shea butter, which you definitely feel, moisturizes the skin and the other ingredients offer an array of benefits  to cleanse and soothe. 


This is definitely an experience that produces spa quality feel without all the harmful chemicals, preservatives, colors and fragrances.  It will leave your face feeling soft, nurtured and glowing.  I highly recommend it.


Here is the official descriptions from The Organic Pharmacy:


For all skin types including oily.

Your skin is your canvas; a healthy glowing skin begins with a thorough but gentle cleanse. Carrot Butter Cleanser dissolves grime, dirt, pollution, make up (including eye makeup) in one easy step. Antioxidant Carrot is blended with skin softening Shea & Cocoa Butter to leave the skin incredibly soft and smooth. Chamomile, Rosemary and Lavender soothe and decongest the skin leaving it radiant.

Application:

Remove a small amount of cleanser with the spatula provided, rub the cleanser between clean hands and apply to dry skin, massaging it in well. Soak muslin or flannel in hand hot water and remove cleanser. Finish with a splash of cold water. (Do not use cotton wool as this will not remove cleanser)

The most essential cleanse should be carried out at night. If this is done properly, in the morning simply splash the face with water.

The Carrot Butter Cleanser sells for $59.90 but should last for months.

Interested in more organic, high quality products?  Check out their website.  They tout a message of only the purest and highest grade natural and organic ingredients are used.  Due to this, a little does go a long way and since they make small batches of their products, you get the best. 

The Organic Pharmacy's product line is vast:
  • Make Up
  • Books
  • Kits
  • Skin Care
  • Sun Care
  • Body Care
  • Hair Care
  • Bath
  • Gifts
  • Men (products for men ... you can't select men :))
  • Macerated Oils
  • Mother and Baby Care
  • Creams and Ointments
  • Homeopathic
  • Tinctures
  • Supplements
  • Detox at Home Program
  • Candles







NOTE:  I was not paid for this review.  I was provided a sample only to review.

Gluten Free Betty Crocker® Fruit-Flavored Snacks Gift Pack Review & Giveaway WINNER

CONGRATULATIONS!

Jinxy and Me!

An e-mail has been sent!  Please respond within 48 hours to close out this giveaway.

Thanks to all those that entered!



With more and more health concerns emerging about gluten-free products, Betty Crocker has answered the demand to offer great choices at affordable prices.  Not only are they answering the demand to add a variety of products to their line up of gluten-free, they have partnered with Celiac Disease Foundation (CDF) to further generate awareness for celiac disease.


Celiac disease, a chronic inherited digestive disorder, can cause damage to the small intestine. It is estimated that one in 133 Americans suffer from celiac disease – 3 million adults and children are living undiagnosed with this autoimmune disorder that is managed by following a gluten-free diet.

Gluten is the natural protein found in wheat, barley and rye.  It is harmful to persons with celiac disease because when they eat gluten, their immune system is triggered and it begins to attack the small intestine. This results in damage to the villi which make up the lining of the small intestine. Villi are necessary for the absorption of nutrients, and over time the damage to the villi can lead to malnutrition.

Celiac disease is a multi-system, multi-symptom autoimmune disorder that affects adults as well as children. Currently, there is no cure for celiac disease, only the lifelong adherence to a gluten-free diet.

To learn more about General Mill's support for celiac disease and all the gluten-free products available, go to GeneralMills.com.

I received from MyBlogSpark a great Simple Joys pack to enjoy with my children.  It included some of the great items I played as a child with my sisters.  The yo-yo lights up and my two year old grabbed it up and said "my yo-yo" and made every attempt to make it go up and down without luck. I was able to see that I still have it when it comes to yo-yo's!

My six year old loves the classsic frisbee so that was a hit but we'll have to wait until tomorrow to try it out in the yard.  It was a pretty color which she also liked.

My six year old never heard of Pick 'em Up Sticks so it was fun teaching her that game as you can see in the picture above, she enjoyed it. 


My 21 year old, yes, I said 21 and my two year old both loved the fruit snacks!  A special bonus was not only did we get Box Tops for Education but there were bonus Box Tops on one of the boxes!

Each snack is made with real fruit and is less than 100 calories.  What a great, healthy treat!  These make great lunch time snacks or before dinner snacks.  One of the snacks, Create a Bug introduces an interesting way to spark kid's attention.  They get to put together a bug out of the different parts.  I'm not how sure it will go over with the girly-girls (like myself) but I have to predict the boys will LOVE it!  They get to play with what looks like bugs, create the bugs using their imagination and finally, they get to eat them!  A boy's dream!

I absolutely love the items I receive from MyBlogSpark since I've been fortunate to try out two prize packs that include fun for my children and now it's your turn!

The Giveaway: 

Your own prize pack of Betty Crocker Variety Pack of Fruit Roll Ups, Betty Crocker Create a Bug Fruit Snacks, a frisbee, a yo-yo and pick up sticks in a handy, wooden carrying box.
  1. Leave a comment on one of your memories from playing any of these games and follow my blog.
Extra Entries (leave a comment for each activity completed):
  1. Subscribe to my blog.
  2. Follow me on Twitter.
  3. Blog about the giveaway.
  4. Tweet about the giveaway.
  5. Leave a comment on another blog and come back here to leave a comment that you did.
Giveaway ends October 25, 2009 at 10:00 pm.

Winner chose by random.org.

Thanks and good luck!





Youthful Tips

Robin Meade Morning Sunshine! Book Review & 5 Copies for Giveaway 10/25/09


CONGRATULATIONS!

Joannie, Roseann K, Stuff Smart, LilyK & Donna444444!

An e-mail will be sent and you will have 48 hours to respond in order to provide the names to the publisher in a timely manner.
RoseannK, I need your e-mail - profile is turned off for public view.  Thanks!

Thanks to all who entered!



Book Details:
  • Hardcover: 256 pages
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1599951649
  • ISBN-13: 978-1599951645   
I never heard of Robin Meade until I received an offer from Hachette Book Group to read about this popular TV woman, Robin Meade and her journy to conquor anxiety and self confidence issues. To see such a beautiful woman admit she suffers issues of confidence was amazing to me.  Reading her book left you with a sense of "wow, this is really one down to earth, funny person."   Robin provides a background of where she started, the values instilled in her and how she never forgot them.  She also enlightens you on where "Morning Sunshine!" came from.

Robin is the Headline News morning anchor who worked hard to be in the position she has.  She's a fighter and she's real.  She introduces her four step approach to building confidence and she is proof it works.  Robin has a natural warmth and an inviting personality.

Robin adds so much laughter in the book by being able to make fun of herself that you find her real and you catch yourself wanting to read more about her.  She tells of a time in the 8th grade where she was jump roping on stage with holiday garland.  Unknown to her, the hem of her skirt was lifting up and exposing her "bum" for all to see.  Even then, she handled it with grace and dignity and was able to laugh about it. 

I think the book is very appealing because others can easily relate to what Robin is stating and have also experienced a lot of what she has.  Being able to relate to your author, makes the reading experience more enjoyable and it has more of an impact.  Not to repeat, she's beautiful, witty and intelligent.

Great book that I would recommend naturally to Robin Meade fans as well as anyone suffering from confidence and anxiety issues.  This is a must for women as you will help see you are not alone and you can overcome these obstacles.

Morning Sunshine!: How to Radiate Confidence and Feel It Too

The giveaway is FIVE lucky readers will receive a copy of Robin Meade's Morning Sunshine! book courtesy of Hachette Book group.

To enter, leave a comment and follow my blog.

Extra Entries:
  • Follow me on Twitter (leave a comment)
  • Subscribe to my blog (leave a comment)
  • Leave a comment on another post and come back (leave a comment - five allowed per day)
  • Blog about this giveaway (leave a comment)
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  • Vote for me at DivineCaroline (widget top left) and get FIVE extra entries! Just vote, return back to the each giveaway and leave five entries with what number of voter you were. Easy!

    Giveaway ends October 25, 2009 at 10 PM EST

You will enjoy this book!

Botox and Hepatitis: Case for Lawsuits?



In a news story published yesterday out of http://www.lvrj.com/, doctors are pondering a potential class action lawsuit against Allergan over single use recommended vials of Botox.  Botox vials are too large to treat a patient cost effectively so doctors utilize it on numerous patients thus exposing them to the risk of contracting hepatitis.

I never thought about the risk of hepatitis and Botox.

Read more here.

Not afraid of Botox, sign up for their specials HERE.

Anyone been using Botox long term and care to share your story on long term effects?

Giveaway 2: Fall Into Good Healthy Series Review & Giveaways CLOSED WINNER

CONGRATULATIONS TO
CHARITY!

An e-mail has been sent!  Please respond within 48 hours!

Thanks to all who entered and to Laura at Robin Leedy & Associates, Inc.!

Good health is essential with all the various strains of the flu thriving.  Not only do you have to worry about the flu, but just trying to maintain good health should be the ultimate goal.    This post is based on a series of products for your health thanks to the opportunity I had as a member of the Product Review Place and Laura.




CERTAIN DRI® FOR UNDERARM PERSPIRATION

Certain Dri® Anti-Perspirant has been the leading, dermatologist-recommended product for controlling excessive underarm perspiration for more than three decades. While other products claim to be “clinical strength,” the Certain Dri formulations – 12% aluminum chloride in the roll-on and 25% aluminum sesquichlorohydrate in the new solid – are the strongest available over-the-counter formulas at stores nationwide for the control of excessive underarm sweating, providing up to 72 hours of protection with each application. While approximately seven million adults and teens are clinically diagnosed with axillary hyperhidrosis (excessive underarm perspiration), more than 40 million more believe their perspiration to be a problem.

I've been using the Certain Dri® Solid Anti-Perspirant for over a week now.  Even though I have not been diagnosed with axillary hyperhidrosis, I still need a tough anti-perspirant and this definitely did the trick.  I tried Dove's prior to Certain Dri® and it didn't work as well as Certain Dri®.

I would recommend Certain Dri® if you require a tougher than normal anti-perspirant.  I did not have any allergic reactions or sensivity issues either.

Certain Dri® is available at any mass market retail, supermarkets and drug stores or can be purchased online at http://www.certaindri.com/.

The complete line, very reasonably priced, includes:
  • Certain Dri® Anti-Perspirant Roll-on
  • NEW! Certain Dri® Solid Anti-Perspirant 
  • Certain Dri® A.M. Underarm RefresherTM
Join Certain Dri on Facebook!

Celebrity Stylist, Lauri Eisenberg, Offers Her No-Sweat Fashion Tips So Excessive Perspiration Doesn’t Control Your Wardrobe HERE.





FLORASTOR® FOR AND FLORASTOR® FOR KIDS

Did you know that there are billions of microbiota inside the intestines that keep the digestive system working properly? An upset in the balance of these microbiota, or flora, can cause intestinal problems, including diarrhea and abdominal discomfort, which can range from moderate to severe.

Florastor® is a clinically-tested, natural, yeast-based probiotic that aids in the growth of good microbiota in the intestines, while destroying and removing pathogenic (bad or disease-causing) microbiota to help maintain or restore optimal intestinal health.

Florastor has been named to the list of Approved Quality Products on ConsumerLab.com, the leading provider of independent test results and information to help consumers and healthcare professionals evaluate health, wellness and nutrition products. Previously available on a limited basis, Florastor is now available throughout the United States at many retail outlets.

The ingredients in Florastor are Saccharomyces boulardii lyo 250mg (yeast)(equivalent to 5 billion live cells).  These live cells are derived in a patented process from live, freeze-dried, yeast cells.

The ingredients used in Florastor have been involved in clinical testing for more than 50 years.  Children's Florastor states it can be given to children ages two months and up.   It's available in powder format to easily mix in other food, drinks and formula.

The information for Florastor for children include:

Florastor and Florastor Kids can be used to help prevent and manage:

  • Antibiotic-associated diarrhea (AAD)
  • Traveler’s diarrhea
  • Clostridium difficile (C. diff, which is a severe, possibly fatal infection of the colon that can occur after healthful intestinal flora are wiped out by the use of strong antibiotics, allowing a pathogenic bacteria to thrive; currently being seen more often, as C. diff is on the rise)
  • Chronic inflammatory intestinal conditions (such as Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis)
  • Acute diarrhea, such as that from Salmonella or E. coli (food poisoning)


I did not know that Florastor has been sold internationally for over 50 years and is touted as the #1 seller of probiotics worldwide.  Florastor for kids has been available since 2005 on a limited basis in the US and regular Florastor since 2003.  Both are now available at pharmacies and numerous retail outlets as well as online at http://www.florastor.com/.

To read about any of the 45 clinical studies on Florastor, click here.

I've been using Florastor for a week and have not had any adverse events or ill effects from it.  I plan on continuing to use it to promote good health.





SOFTLIPS® PURE LIP CONDITIONERS

If you never heard of SoftLips, you are missing out!  These are the best things next to chocolate.  Well, not quite but close!  I love these lip balms as they are packaged to look more sophisticated and come in so many great flavors.  When I received these in the mail to review, my oldest was beyond excited as these were her favorites I quickly learned as she grabbed nearly all of them for herself.  I did have to retrive some to her chagrin.

What you may not know about Softlips® PURE is they are organic lip conditioners designed with skin-conditioning ingredients to help keep lips soft, supple and healthy. Available in several flavors, Softlips® PURE is USDA-certified organic and 100% natural. The premium, organic ingredients provide a silky-smooth, eco-friendly lip conditioner for softer, healthier lips. The product line also contains no animal by-products and is not tested on animals.

For those that prefer organic products that are not tested on animals, you will want these!

Softlips® PURE launched pomegranate and honeydew flavors in 2008 and this year, they added peppermint, acai berry, papaya and chai tea. 





What I liked most about Softlips® PURE, is the feel.  It does not leave a heavy, waxy build up.  It feels very natural and it tastes great.  The small size allows you to easily place it in your pocket or purse. 

They are very reasonably priced and you can't just have one!  My personal favorite was Sugar and Spice.

Join Softlips® on Facebook for news, giveaways and tips!

Interested more in a sunblock? 

Softlips® SPF 20 Conditioning Lip Balm is also available in brand new flavors for 2009:  New Mint with a hint of Vanilla, Wildberry and Limited Edition Seasonal Flavors.


Softlips® has Year Round Flavors, Limited Edition Summer Flavors and Limited Edition Winter Flavors.  Go to http://www.softlips.com/ for the latest information and news!





LIPO-FLAVONOID® PLUS FOR TINNITUS/MENIER'S SYNDROME SUFFERERS


I have to admit that I've never heard of Tinnitus or Menier's Syndrome so when I received this information, I cannot provide a personal review but can relay the information in case there are some sufferers of this syndrome so they know of an available treatment option.

Meniere’s Syndrome is usually characterized by four symptoms:
  • Episodes of vertigo or dizziness 
  • Fluctuating, progressive, low-frequency hearing loss 
  • Tinnitus ("ringing" in the ears) 
  • A sensation of fullness or pressure in the ear
The inner ear is designed with a series of canals. “These canals separate important fluids, like endolymph and perilymph, and keep them from mixing,” explains Andrew Cheng, M.D., an ear, nose and throat physician in New York City and ear health advisor for Lipo-Flavonoid®, a clinically-proven, dietary supplement that has shown promising relief for tinnitus sufferers. “However, when these fluids do mix, as would occur if there is a rupture in these canals, the microscopic hair cells in the inner ear stiffen, or they can become bent or broken.”

These tiny hair cells play a major role in hearing and maintaining balance. “When they're healthy, these hair cells move in relation to the pressure of sound waves that come into the ear,” explains Dr. Cheng. “The movement triggers a message to the brain to interpret these signals as sound.”

Once the hair cell’s flexibility is reduced, an individual can hear ringing, lose hearing and experience loss of balance (vertigo). When these delicate hair cells are compromised, they move randomly in a constant state of irritation. “They will then send electrical impulses to the brain even if there is no actual sound wave present, which is interpreted as noise, even when there is no noise stimulus present externally,” Dr. Cheng adds. “This creates a ringing, whooshing or buzzing sound in the ear.”

Right now, no one is completely sure how a canal rupture occurs, however, damage to the hair cells and canals of the inner ear can be caused by:
  • Age-related hearing loss: This process, called presbycusis, usually begins around age 60. 
  • Trauma: Often a result of excessive exposure to loud noise over a long period of time or even one exposure. Occupational exposure, chain saws and other loud machinery, loud music and weapons (e.g., gun shots) are common sources of noise-related hearing loss. 
  • Wax build-up
  • Ear/sinus infections 
  • Cardiovascular disease
LIPO-FLAVONOID® is for adults and children 12 years or older.  Take one caplet three times a day, preferably with a meal, as a dietary supplement or as recommended by a healthcare professional.  Read the entire bottle instructions before taking.

LIPO-FLAVONOID® contains the B complex group of vitamins in a base of lipotropic agents choline, inositiol and pantothenic acid, plus vitamin C and bioflavonids.  It is available through mass market retail and drug stores as well as http://www.lipoflavonoid.com/.

For more information, click here to go to http://www.lipoflavonoid/.






Provides Pain Relief for Urinary Tract Infections Plus Antibacterial that Helps Prevent Progression of Infection While Waiting to See a Doctor;

Cystex® Survey Reports 20% of Women with UTIs Typically Wait Three Days or More to Seek Medical Attention

Did you know that a study conducted by the Mayo Clinic showed that half of all women will develop a urinary tract infection (UTI) during their lifetime?  That's a staggering number and a very painful infection to have to wait to see a doctor for.  Although I've been blessed with not having to endure an UTI, yet, my mother has and I've heard how painful these infections can be. 

The great news is that Cystex® is over the counter and is designed to help ease the pain and discomfort of UTIs.   It is the only OTC UTI medication available with an antibacterial agent that helps to contain the progression of the infection.

The easy to swallow tablets have a dual action formula.  One to help numb the pain and burning sensation with an analgesic and another that contains a urinary antiseptic methenamine that helps to control the infection until you can see a doctor.

Cystex® is for adults and children over the age of 12 years of age.  It is recommended to take with a full glass of water.  Read the package insert for all directions.

Cystex® is available at drug stores nationwide or online at http://www.cystex.com/.

* I did not personally try Cystex®

Visit Cystex® “Ladies Room” blog at http://blog.dsehealthcare.com/cystex/ for more information.






CHARCOCAPS® HOMEOPATHIC ANTIGAS FORMULA

I have not been able to try CHARCOCAPS® so I'm only providing information available to me.  I did find out that the average person passes gas about 14 times a day.  If you are one of those people, according to a recent study by Harris Interactive for CharcoCaps® Homeopathic AntiGas Formula, 72 percent of adults indicated that they’ve passed gas in public and/or in front of someone else. 

The active ingredients in CharcoCaps Homeopathic AntiGas Formula include carbo vegetablis for abdominal stress and intestinal gas; lycopodium clavatum for abdominal pain, bloated abdomen and trapped gas; cinchora officinalis for stomach cramps, bloated abdomen and flatulence; and sulphur for abdominal pains, bloating and flatulence.

If you are needing immediate relief, CgarcoCaps provides fast, natural relief of intestinal gas pain, pressure, cramping and bloating. This over-the-counter activated charcoal brand stimulates and supports the body’s own defenses against intestinal gas and comes in easy-to-swallow capsules. While most anti-gas products have simethicone, a surfactant, which breaks up bubbles, activated charcoal serves to adsorb the volume of gas.

CharcoCaps is made with pure activated charcoal (carbon) that has been treated with steam to open up millions of tiny pores between the carbon atoms. These tiny pores can then adsorb odorous substances from gases or liquids. When it adsorbs, it attaches to it by physical attraction. The huge surface area of activated charcoal gives it countless bonding sites. When certain chemicals pass next to the carbon surface, they attach to the surface and are trapped. Your body’s gas molecules are concentrated onto the surface of activated charcoal to reduce frequency and odor. It might sound bizarre, but it’s true that a spoonful of activated carbon has the same surface area as a football field.

You can purchase Charcocaps at any mass market retailer, drug store and supermarkets.

THE GIVEAWAY!


One winner will receive a pack of the products (Certain Dri, SoftLips Lip Conditioners, CharcoCaps, Florastor, Lipo-Flavonoid, Cystex) above!

To Enter:


Leave a comment and follow my blog.


Extra Entries:


  1. Follow me on Twitter
  2. Go to each of the links above to each product webpage and leave a comment on what you learned.  You can leave one comment per product on what you learn for each extra entry.
  3. Join Certain Dri on Facebook.
  4. Join SoftLips on Facebook.
Giveaway ends November 1, 2009 at midnight.

How to Roast a Lamb Book by Michael Psilakis Review



I recently received a copy of the cookbook titled How to Roast a Lamb - New Greek Classic Cooking by Michael Psilakis (Author) and Barbara Kafka (Forward) from Hachette Book Group and an opportunity from The Product Review Place.



If you don't know who Michael Psilakis is, you might have seen him on Food Network.  He also won the 2008 Food & Wine Best Chef award for redefining Greek cooking in America.

Go here to read more about this honor as well as 10 of his great recipes.

He continues to reap the rewards for top chef honors:
  • Esquire 2007 Chef of the Year
  • Bon Appetit 2008 Chef of the Year
  • Gourmet 2007: "New York City goes Greek...but no-one does it as luminously as Michael Psilakis."
  • Time Out New York:  "Michael Psilakis elevates Greek cuisine to Olympian heights."
  • New York Magazine 2008: "The cooking [at Anthos] establishes Michael Psilakis as the Mario Batali of nouvelle Aegean cuisine."

He was born the same year as me but started out in a career of accounting and then decided to pursue a law degree.  While financing that path, he waited tables and found he had a liking for the restaurant industry.

He has opened a few restaurants and is one of the more featured and sought after chef of modern times.

Product Details:

  • Hardcover: 304 pages
  • Publisher: Little, Brown and Company (October 28, 2009)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 0316041211
  • ISBN-13: 978-0316041218
Book Description:

A rising star in the food world, Michael Psilakis is co-owner of a growing empire of modern Mediterranean restaurants, and one of the most exciting young chefs in America today. In How to Roast a Lamb, the self-taught chef offers recipes from his restaurants and his home in this, his much-anticipated first cookbook.

To see the inside of the book, click here.

Ten chapters provide colorful and heartfelt personal essays that lead into thematically related recipes. Gorgeous color photography accompanies many of the recipes throughout.

Psilakis's cooking utilizes the fresh, naturally healthful ingredients of the Mediterranean augmented by techniques that define New American cuisine. Home cooks who have gravitated toward Italian cookbooks for the simple, user-friendly dishes, satisfying flavors, and comfortable, family-oriented meals, will welcome Psilakis's approach to Greek food, which is similarly healthful, affordable, and satisfying to share any night of the week.


My Review:

The initial look of the book is magnificent.  It's a large book (three pounds) with a rare cover to the book outside of the jacket.  I have noticed most books only contain the print on the jacket while the book is left bare.  The photography is very inviting and draws you in.  To me, it was not just a recipe book but a family journal of inspirational ideas with a feel for getting to know who Michael was and is.

This cookbook is more than a cookbook as it's a collection of recipes on memories, emotions and insights that transpired throughout Michael's childhood and early adolescence.  The forward section thoroughly explains the recipes and how to follow them which I found very helpful as I'm a novice Greek cook.  His offerings of short cuts and optional steps/ingredients is a nice touch as you elevate up the level of being a true Greek chef.

If you aren't too familiar with ingredients used in Greek recipes, he does a superb job with describing them and providing the substitutes.


For the recipe I chose, which was difficult as there were so many wonderful choices, I went with Souvlaki:  Chicken and Pork Shish Kebab.  It looked AMAZING and mouth watering good!

I will forwarn you that the recipes are not simple or at least the one's I looked at.  They take time to read and understand and to coordinate what you need to purchase.  I photocopies the pages I needed as there was the main recipe but I also needed items for the Greek Salad, Ladolemono and Tsatziki.  All in all, it was a labored event so ensure you have the time to put forward in creating this masterpiece.
This meal was FANTASTIC and definitely worth the time it took to make.  If you love or even like Greek food and have even a small desire to cook, this book is for you! 

To purchase his book, visit Amazon:

    

AdorableBabyClothing.Com Halloween Treat Contest Expired 10/28/09




1st Annual Halloween Treat Contest!



Who doesn't love the treats at Halloween!?


AdorableBabyClothing.com is giving away a $25.00 gift certificate to the person who sends in the best Halloween treat recipe!


All entry's must be received by October 28, 2009.

Send your entry to -- customercare@adorablebabyclothing.com

To get you started here's a recipe:

Libby's Old-Fashioned Soft Pumpkin Cookies

Ingredients
  • 2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
  • 1 teaspoon baking soda
  • 1 teaspoon baking powder
  • 1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
  • 1/2 teaspoon ground nutmeg
  • 1/2 teaspoon salt
  • 1 1/2 cups granulated sugar
  • 1/2 cup butter (1 stick), softened
  • 1 cup LIBBY'S® 100% Pure Pumpkin
  • 1 large egg
  • 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
  • Glaze (recipe follows)
Directions

PREHEAT oven to 350° F. Grease baking sheets.

COMBINE flour, baking soda, baking powder, cinnamon, nutmeg and salt in medium bowl. Beat sugar and butter in large mixer bowl until well blended. Beat in pumpkin, egg and vanilla extract until smooth. Gradually beat in flour mixture. Drop by rounded tablespoon onto prepared baking sheets.

BAKE for 15 to 18 minutes or until edges are firm. Cool on baking sheets for 2 minutes; remove to wire racks to cool completely. Drizzle Glaze over cookies.

FOR GLAZE:

COMBINE 2 cups sifted powdered sugar, 3 tablespoons milk, 1 tablespoon melted butter and 1 teaspoon vanilla extract in small bowl until smooth.


Rules: One entry per household. Entries must be received than no later 12:00PM October 28, 2009. Winner will be drawn at random. The $50.00 gift certificate may be used for merchandise only on http://www.adorablebabyclothing.com/. (Taxes, if applicable, and shipping are the responsibility of the winner.) To win, you must include your full name, address, phone, and email with your recipe. Winner will be notified October 30, 2009.

Somber Day Today: Fallen Soldier Tasks


My somber day begins today with the horrible reality of being in the military.  My husband is on his way to deliver the remains of one of his soldiers who took his life to the family waiting. 

I've never experienced this in spite of his repeat tours in Iraq, Kuwait and Afghanistan.  He was told he should watch the show titled Taking Chance which tells the story of the one, Kevin Bacon, who returns with the remains of a fallen soldier.

I'm organizing a fund raiser for the little two year old daughter he left behind.  This up and rising Warrant Officer was on his way to a bright military career protecting our country from harm's way.  At 29, he endured issues that he couldn't handle and tragically ended his life last Sunday.   I'm reaching out to fellow bloggers on any suggestions on raising money for this unfortunate situation.

I Can't Believe It's Not Butter Better Bake Sale Party Results



We finally had our bake sell or at least baked all the goodies with I Can't Believe It's Not Butter bake sale.  We made a lot of goodies and I read to protect the cupcakes icing, it's best to place them in small cups.  It worked great but were messy so if you copy this, provide forks!

I had a variety of cupcakes and used a Halloween theme since it was so close.  Each cupcake was wrapped in plastic and most were tied with ribbon.  I also read presentation is everything to encourage people to buy.



Above is an example of pumpkin chocolate suckers. I used a Halloween ribbon to seal the plastic bags.  I smeared a light orange gel frosting to give them a hint of color.  Next to them are the dirt worm cupcakes.  Those are easy to make and if you mess up your cupcakes or cake, not a problem as you make it appear like dirt so you don't want a perfect formed cake.


This is a close up shot of all the decorated cupcaked in the decorated display box.  I used my Zazzle account to create "Thanks for Your Support" with the school mascot cards.





Those were a couple of my little helpers!  The best helpers ever and they only ate one cookie each!  More pics of the actual sale to come!

The school made a little over $300 on their sale!

Looking for a Great Designer Coat at Low Prices?



Ruelala has a GREAT selection of designer coats, sunglasses and shoes by Betsey Johnson.



CellCeuticals Versus Oil of Olay Review


I had used CellCeuticals products for aging for several weeks and wrote about those results at two weeks and again at four weeks (click here to read about the four week results).  I put CellCeuticals aside to try Oil of Olay via my assignment over at Yahoo's Shine (click here for that post).  After reviewing and writing about Oil of Olay, I decided to return to CellCeuticals as so far, it's the best product I have found. 


My favorite is still the NeoCell Micro-Resurfacing Skin Treatment due to how it makes me skin feel clean and it's not too abrasive.

I have noticed a visible change in the lines on my forehead and some diminished areas around the crows feet. I feel my face is more vibrant and supple and I wake up with a glow.

I definitely like all the products in the regiment and would recommend them to anyone.

*NOTE:  I was not paid to endorse CellCeuticals nor compensated for this review.

Miss Amy Wide Wide World Children's CD Review & Giveaway WINNER

Congratulations

An e-mail will be sent and please respond within 48 hours




Miss Amy Wide Wide World
Review & Giveaway

"Miss Amy is a spirited and lively singer/songwriter who delights in performing for children. This CD is a collection of fun songs which includes Harry Belefonte's "Turn The World Around". Miss Amy is also a Music Educator and Fitness Instructor, and she puts her talents to work at her kids shows that she performs regularly through-out the Central New Jersey and Philadelphia area."

I just received Miss Amy's Wide Wide World CD for review and an extra copy for a giveaway courtesy of Miss Amy via aMomEntrepreneur.com.  As soon as I put the CD in, my two girls perked up and started to dance.  The two year old especially LOVES it!  I wanted to hear a snippit of each song so as I skipped to the next one, she would become upset with me as she didn't want to stop listening.  After listening to the entire CD once, I finally had to move it into another room because she wanted to hear it over and over.  Miss Amy's voice reminded me of Anne Murray at times.  She really has a smooth, beautiful voice and I would love to hear her sing some adult genre.

I particularly liked Old McDonald Had a Vowel Farm and the Penguin Dance as did the girls.  All the songs have a good upbeat tempo which is extremely appealing to children.  It's a CD to keep the kids entertained on a long trip but not one right before bed as it really gets them fired up!





All the words to the song are available missamykids.com and Miss Amy has three other CDs to choose from.

I Wanna Know How It Works
Underwater
My Precious One

Click here for Miss Amy's Other CDs and to listen to sample songs.

CDbaby.com has four reviews that are all excellent!



One Miss Amy Wide Wide World CD

Go to missamykids.com and leave a comment here on what you learned about Miss Amy and follow my blog.


Extra entries:
  • Subscribe and leave two comments that you subcribed for two entries.
  • Follow me on Twitterand and leave two comments that you followed for two entries.



Giveaway ends October 15, 2009 at 10:00 PM EST.


Winner chosen by random.org
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