Del Monte Fruit Teacher Monday: Cash for Classrooms & Giveaway 11/25 - WINNERS CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...

Aileen said...

Entered the Fiber 1 giveaway - 1 arobimom at gmail dot com

&

ellie said...

I follow Del Monte on FB (Ellie Wright)
eswright18 at gmail dot com

e-mails have been sent and each winner has 48 hours to respond.

Thanks to all those who entered!

Del Monte, in the spirit of giving back, has this great online contest right now: Teacher Monday Cash for Classrooms.  Cash and fruit will be awarded to K-12 public school teachers across the US, Canada and Central America this fall.  This post is after the start date of October 18th, but you still have time to help award 10 teachers in the US and Canada $1000 ($750 cash and $250 fresh fruit gift certificates) to win over the next two weeks.  Many teachers, if not all, are using their own resources in purchasing supplies for their classrooms more than ever now.  With the help of great projects like this, your favorite teacher could win by letting them know about this contest.

To enter, the teacher must register online and submit a short essay on how the funds will be spent.  The winning teachers will be decided by the number of votes received so this is a community project to get hyped about.

Keep up to date on the latest contest information by fanning on Facebook and following on Twitter.

"In an effort to support schools in less developed countries where many Del Monte products are grown, and where classrooms are also experiencing economic disadvantages, the “Teacher Monday: Cash for Classrooms” program will link winning U.S. classrooms with a school in Guatemala or Costa Rica. The 50 selected Central American schools will also receive $1,000 each for school supplies."

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The Giveaway:

Two winners in the US will receive a $25 Del Monte fresh fruit gift certificate

To Enter:

Follow my blog and tell me if you are going to encourage a teacher you to know to enter (your entry won't be disqualified if you answer no).

Extra Entries:

• Subscribe to my blog.
• Follow Del Monte on Twitter (link above)
• Fan Del Monte on Facebook (link above)
• Tweet about this giveaway (two entries per day)
• Blog about this giveaway (five entries)
• Post on YOUR Facebook page about the contest (two entries)
• Follow me on Twitter

Giveaway ends 11/25 at midnight (EST) - winners chosen via random.org - US only pleased


Disclaimer:  I'm receiving two vouchers to giveaway in exchange for this post.

Click here for more great giveaways to include ANOTHER Starbucks GC!

Cards Direct 25 Card Giveaway (up to $50 value) Giveaway 11/24 WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ....


giamunoz@7hotmail.com

An e-mail has been sent and she has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected via random.org

Thanks to all those who entered!

Christmas is quickly approaching and with these wonderful holidays, the need for Christmas cards is essential to keep the holiday mood going.  I used to spend countless hours trying to find the perfect holiday cards each year while trying to be the first one to ensure I had an assortment to choose from.   It had to reflect the person I am while exhibiting a touch of elegance.  This was all fine until I discovered the use of photo cards which now, I'm addicted to them.

 

I take so many pictures and love to give them out at Christmas and find holiday photo cards that allow multiple photos are my best options since some of my recipients only see my children once a year.  As part of my participation in a Global Influence campaign for Cards Direct, I'm sharing some of my favorite cards along with some tips on adding some extra "you" with each one.  The only problem I have with Cards Direct is they have so many great choices that it makes it hard to decide.  They are also a one stop shop for all your paper card needs such as business greeting cards, which I use) to birth announcements to birthday invitations and more.


I narrowed my favorites down to these three:

   

Some of my tips for adding that extra "you" into each card:

• Have the children sign their names versus having them imprinted
• Stick crystal diamond type stickers on the envelope
• Purchase customized photo stamps to match the card
• Purchase a personalized stamp with a Ho Ho Ho or other greeting 

Don't forget the New Year's Eves cards too!

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The Giveaway:  

One reader will receive 25 cards up to a $50 value from Cards Direct

To Enter: 

Follow my blog and leave a comment on what you like about Christmas cards.

Extra Entries (optional):

• Subscribe to my blog
• Follow Cards Direct on Twitter
• Follow me on Twitter
• Like Cards Direct on Facebook
• Like me on Facebook
• Tweet about this giveaway (two entries per day)
• Blog about this giveaway (five entries)
• Enter any of my on-going giveaways (five entries)

Giveaway ends 11/24 at midnight (EST) - US only please

Disclaimer:  I will receive a complimentary product from Cards Direct for this post.

Click here for more great giveaways to include ANOTHER Starbucks GC!

Top 10 Tips for New Moms Who are Bringing Baby Home

My oldest daughter only three week's ago brought home her first child.  It was such a memorable moment watching my baby bring home her baby.  It's also a little strange since I'm 42 and have a three and a seven year old at home as well.  The joy of baby is always a great experience but also preparing for their arrival is paramount for not just the safety of the newborn but also to help mom in easing in after what could have been a rough delivery.  Lysol with TwitterMoms has put out another great blogging contest challenging bloggers to list their top 10 tips for bringing home baby.

There are so many different things that have to be done or should be done pending your priorities.  

1. Have all the baby's clothing and bedding washed and ready to wear.  One of the concerns I had with washing too soon was dust accumulation.  We have a very dusty house so the use of Space Bags helped to keep them clean and dust free.
2. Disinfecting the various surfaces is always a good idea.  The most important areas to disinfect are the counter surfaces especially where the bottles or where the breast pump will be.  Germs hide out everywhere and in the kitchen, they are plentiful in my house.
3. Getting rest while in the hospital is also a good idea considering the lack of rest that the new mom will get at home.  I know for myself it was hard to allow the baby to go back to the nursery as I wanted to keep her with me the whole time.  My daughter had more sense than I and did allow this on the first second night.
4. If you live with others or not, having a disinfectant hand sanitizer is always a good idea for those quick fixes against germs.  Of course hand washing is ideal but when it's impossible, a bottle on hand is ideal.  Given the various sizes of the bottles, it makes it convenient to carry in anything like a diaper bag or even on a key ring.
5. Make sure mom and dad both understand how the car seat works.  Those things can be tricky but learning how to use it ahead of time will save on aggravation and will ensure you buckle the newborn bundle up appropriately.
6. After an exhausting labor, let others help the new mom.  It's easy to be the one who keeps wanting to everything but after leaving the hospital, arrange to have mom or a sibling there to help out.  The extra help will also help with the healing process.
7. We also have tubs of Lysol Disinfectant Wipes all over our house.  These handy tubs can be placed in many places and are great for quick clean ups like baby spitting up and it hits the floor.  Having sanitary conditions is important and this is another way of ensuring good health.
8. If bringing the new baby home and there are siblings, allow time for each sibling to enjoy the new addition.  If the other siblings are young, explain to them about how fragile they are and help them understand how to handle the baby.  Nothing is more scarier than seeing a three year old holding a newborn.  Taking this extra time will help them to understand.
9. Baby's sometimes get cranky and don't want to sleep.  A nice soothing bath with a lavender fragrant wash can sometimes help.  Baby's like to feel that warmth and while a snuggle is good, don't warm them up too much.  I like the swaddle blankets since I know they are getting the right amount of coverage without worrying about them having warm, fluffy blankets to be smothered.
10. My final tip for the new mom, take time to pamper yourself.  It's easy to get caught up with all the things we have to do but you cannot let yourself go.  Try to get rest, eat healthy and accept help.  Go get your hair done or your nails polished as we still need to be us in spite of our new responsibilities.  A happy mom makes everyone happy.

There is just so much that needs to be done before a baby arrives home.  The key to easing the newness is preparation.  If you have what you can in order and clean, it will take loads off your mind.  I have three children and two have chronic medical conditions so having cleaning products that are convenient on hand helps me tremendously. 

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.

Gentle Daily Foam Cleanser Review and Giveaway & Special Discount Code 11/23 - WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ....


atlmuzikfanzinc@gmail.com

An e-mail has been sent and he/she has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected via random.org.

Thanks to all those who entered!

Healthy skin requires attention and some pampering doesn't hurt.  I have a daily regiment that I follow and I'm trying to teach my girls how to care of their skin to help ensure they have healthy, youthful appearances for years to come.  My oldest, 22, has realized the importance of this and is using moisturizers and cleansing her face daily.  She had the opportunity to review the Underology Gentle Daily Foam Cleanser.


She has sensitive skin and cannot use all products on the market.  She has had to switch around a few times due to outbreaks, redness or other irritations.  She tried the Underology Gentle Daily Foam Cleanser for 30 days in order to provide a thorough review.


Pros:

• Gentle, non-irritating
• Easy to use pump applicator
• Mildly foams and did not dry out her face or make it peel
• Not tested on animals
• Made of pure ingredients:  Purified Water, Olive Oil Castile, Vegetable Glycerine, Rose Hip Seed Oil, Essential Oils, Seaweed Extracts.
• Reasonable priced at $24 for a four ounce bottle and it lasts a long time
• Fragrance is mild and not overpowering

Cons:

• None found

In summary, she recommends the Underology Gentle Daily Foam Cleanser.

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Why UNDEROLOGY?

Results Oriented Skincare 

What makes us different? Our ingredients list is short... we use high levels of active ingredients that are not diluted with fillers and preservatives. Outcome... vibrant skin fast. 

"UNDEROLOGY SMART Skincare" is a SMARTalternative to cosmetic surgery or the PERFECTcompliment!  Connie’s mission with the new UNDEROLOGYSMART Skincare line is to provide products with the highest quality ingredients which women deserve, for a price equivalent to what women spend for department store brands. Result-oriented active ingredients are used from the lasted technology and research available.  Quality is the key ingredient (literally)! You will find our quality ingredients are not diluted with lots of fillers... just active ingredients, providing a vibrant and noticeable difference in your skin. The Giveaway: One bottle of Underology Gentle Daily Foam Cleanser. To Enter: Follow my blog and leave a comment. Extra Entries: Subscribe to my blog. Follow Underology on Twitter Fan Underology on Facebook Follow me on Twitter Fan me on Facebook Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily for two entries) Blog about this giveaway (five entries) Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries) Giveaway ends 11/23 at midnight (EST) - US only please BONUS SPECIAL CODE:  Use Discount Code: LIPOBLOG 15% off anything (expires 11/23) Click here for more great giveaways to include ANOTHER Starbucks GC!

The Phd Pocket Disc Review

Live, Love, Catch ... everywhere you go is a saying by The Phd Pocket Disc and when you actually get to play with one, you'll see.  These easy to tuck away, soft disc create fun for the whole family.  There are two types to choose from:  Sports Pocket Disc or The Classic Pocket Disc.  The main difference is the weight as the sports version is intended for outdoor play to go the distance whereas The Classic is lightweight and can be played indoors.

  

Available in three categories, there should be a pattern that everyone will like:

1. Swirls
2. Sunbursts
3. Assortment

About Pocket Disc:

The Pocket Disc formed by accident by a third grader, Savanna Groft, who had a school project to make a placemat.  Savanna crocheted the placement but missed some stitches on the edge which caused it to fold under.   It sat on Savanna's table until one day two of her friends came over.  One of the friends and a dad picked it up and started throwing it and noticed how it sailed across the room .. thus the Pocket Disc was born.

Additional Information:

• Games and Uses links are available on the Phd Pocket Disc website.
• Check out videos and photos here.
• To purchase, click here.

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The Review:

My girls LOVED the Phd Pocket Disc especially since they were able to play inside with it.  I loved it because I didn't have to worry about injuries or something breaking.  It's lightweight, good quality and doesn't take up a lot of room.  Getting them to move around a little bit is nice too.  The designs are really nice as well and are appealing to kids.

Overall, my two girls definitely recommend the Phd Pocket Disc!

*Disclaimer:  I received a complimentary Phd Pocket Disc for purposes of this review.

Boiron Homeopathic Medicines Review

As a mother, I'm concerned with what I give my children and with all the growing bad press and recalls, I'm quite frankly more and more nervous about administering over the counter drugs to my children for their colds.  There are so many warnings and contraindications that it is a concern especially when two of my children have chronic medical conditions.  I turned to homeopathic medications about the same time I became interested in organic food.  Although I have not made the transition over completely, I am taking steps in the right direction.  As part of my participation in Moms Meet, I was able to receive a complimentary party pack to share with my friends from Boiron which markets over 800 homeopathic medications for a variety of conditions.

My pack included products geared towards children and it couldn't come at a better time as immediately upon receipt, my children and three other mom's who participated were able to use the products.  Our first product we tried was Oscillococcinum.  Oscillococcinum is for use in those over the age of two and over.  It is to be used to temporarily relieve flu-like symptoms such as feeling run down, headache, body aches, chills and fever.  The directions state dissolve the entire contents of one tube in the mouth every six hours up to three times a day.  There is also a children's version of Oscillococcinum.


The ingredients are meant to reduce the duration and severity of flu-like symptoms.  There are warnings before taking and should not be given to children under two unless a doctor approves.


The Review:

• Great tasting that doesn't detract picky children from digesting the tiny pellets.  This was a bonus for me as my three year old is very picky and won't eat anything that tastes bad and vomits with liquid medicine.
• The three of us that used Oscillococcinum at the first sign of illness, felt that the duration of the cold was actually reduced.

Overall, I would recommend Oscillococcinum.  Click here for special offers.  You can also read about clinical trials and the results here.

http://www.facebook.com/BoironUSA?ref=ts

http://twitter.com/boironusa

http://blog.boironusa.com/

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The next product was Children's Chestal.  This product is for adults and children over the age of two.  Children's Chestal helps to loosen thick mucus, relieves dry and painful coughs, relieves cough associated with tickling in throat, relieves barking cough worse at night, relieves cough associated with nausea, relieves wet cough during the day becoming dry at night, relieves dry cough triggered by cold air, relieves dry, croupy and barking cough and relieves night time hacking cough.


The Review: 

• Unfortunately, I could not get my seven year to take a second dose because she dislikes honey.  Two mothers were able to administer it to their children and they thought the product helped in the croupy cough.
• Easy to use.

The two other mothers would recommend Children's Chestal.

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The final product we received was Children's Coldcalm Pellets.  For children ages three and older, these are given at the first onset of cold symptoms.  Take five pellets every two hours until symptoms are relieved. 

The Review:

• The pellets taste good which encourages digestion.
• The containers are tiny enough to take anywhere which makes it convenient.
• The twist/pop off top makes it easy to access as well adding to the convenience.
• The only con is the pellets are small so my three year old kept dropping them but due to the size, she thought they were candy and it made it easier for her to take.  It's something I could live with.

Four of us mother's recommended the Children's Coldcalm Pellets.

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Boiron has a hosts of great resources on their websites which encourages me in that I feel they are proactive in trying to give me the best resources to care for my family.

Disclaimer:  The opinions expressed in this review were not influenced by the complimentary product pack we received for this post by Boiron via my participation in Green Moms Meet.

10 great uses for Vaseline Petroleum Jelly

I bet you grew up with a jar of Vaseline Petroleum Jelly in your house if you are 30 something or above.  I don't know about the younger generations but I do remember always having a jar around our house.  The handy little jar can do some amazing things and is so versatile not to mention inexpensive and it lasts a long time.  Vaseline Petroleum Jelly reminds me of my grandmother as it's timely, tough and gets the job done.  Here are some great uses for it:

1. Winter is coming and along with the cold outside weather, the inside dry weather causes lips to crack. Vaseline is a life saver and does such a great job protecting lips.
2. Along with the blustery winter weather comes cracked hands and sore feet when they get cold and wet.  Vaseline can be applied to both your hands and feet for a short amount of time covered up in socks and mittens to help soothe those beaten up areas.
3. Vaseline is also a great mascara and make up remover.  Just a little bit takes off a lot and it leaves your eye area feeling soft.
4. My elbows get dry and cracked all the time.  I have found the Vaseline is good at protecting and provides a soothing feel.  
5. Tired of buying lip stick or gloss that doesn't really fit the bill?  Just a dab of Vaseline over your favorite lipstick provides that glossy look you love without sacrificing the color you want.
6. This is something I picked up from a friend who colors hair.  If you put some Vaseline along your hairline on the skin side, color from hair dye won't be absorbed.  Isn't that a great trick?
7. If you have old lipstick containers that you can't get anymore out, try this handy little trick.  Scoop out the leftover lipstick and place in a small container.  Add some Vaseline and now you have some great looking cream blush.
8. One thing I cannot stand is to groom my eyebrows only later to have a few strands out of place.  Vaseline is a great product to keep them in place while still making them look natural.
9. Vaseline is also a great product for your cuticles.  They provide that extra moisture to make them look healthier.
10. This is one of my favorites.  Add some sea salt to some Vaseline and any fragrance you like to make your own bath scrub.  Any craft store should have different fragrances to choose from that will make your scrub uniquely yours.

What have you used Vaseline for or heard of someone else using that is unique or different?

Disclosure:  I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Vaseline blogging program, making me eligible to get a $25 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, click here.

About Vaseline:

Vaseline products are manufactured by Unilever [NYSE: UL, UN], one of the world’s largest consumer products companies. With a 140-year heritage as America’s most trusted healthy skin expert and more than 30 years as a leading hand and body lotion, the Vaseline brand delivers products that meet the specific needs of consumers, no matter their life stage or lifestyle. The Vaseline Aloe Fresh line includes Vaseline Aloe Fresh Hydrating Lotion, Vaseline Aloe Fresh Protecting Lotion with SPF, and Vaseline Aloe Fresh Moisturizing Gel. All products in the line are designed to be light and leave skin feeling hydrated and refreshed. In addition to the Vaseline Lotions, the Vaseline family of products also features a complete line of Vaseline Petroleum Jelly and lip balm products. All Vaseline products can be purchased at drug stores nationwide. For more information, visit www.vaseline.com.

More info: www.vaseline.com
Twitter: http://twitter.com/vaselinebrand
Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/vaseline

My Favorite Christmas Card Design via Shutterfly

As a regular reader to my blog, you know that I'm very much into party and especially Christmas.  I love every aspect of Christmas and spend a considerable amount of time working on perfecting my Christmas photo cards.  The card itself is a reflection of myself and family so it has to be just right.  Being an Army family, we move often and are usually apart from our family.  The Christmas card provides a unique opportunity to provide good cheer as well as an annual pictorial of the children.  I usually shop at Shutterfly annually to purchase at least one personalize present such as a wall calender or other type of gifts.

My favorite holiday card design are the photo cards that allow for multiple photos, are timeless and elegant.  The design above, Family Wall Red Christmas card holds six photos.  I really like the traditional red background and the elegant text on the front adds to the old charm appeal.  Of course color photos could be used but I really like the look of the black and white photos for that timeless look.  Having three children and a new grandchild at home affords me the opportunity to capture so many priceless looks that one photo won't suffice.

Shutterfly's 2010 Holiday Collection is plentiful.  Here are three more examples of beautiful cards:

  

Since I've purchased cards from Shutterfly in the past, I know they are printed on quality cardstock paper and the images are beautiful.   I also like the feature that they will mail them for me if I choose for additional fees.  This card is easy to create and takes no time other than picking the photos you want to include.  One thing I also do to complete my perfect Christmas card and to add some bling is to affix a rhinestone (diamond color) sticker where it would look the best.  For me, I love the added touch.  I'll also utilize the backside to have my girls write their names to have that extra personalization step to it.

As you shop for your Shutterfly cards, also check out the potential gift ideas from photo books, framed prints, stationery, calendars, puzzles, mugs, gift tags (above), storybooks, ornaments, aprons, home decor and so much more!  If you are a shutterbug like me, you will love all the possible ways that you can turn a photo into something even more meaningful and lasting while making your Christmas shopping easier!

Disclosure:  I am participating in a Shutterfly blogger program to receive free product in exchange for this post.  The opinions noted were not influenced by this opportunity however.

eShakti Special 15% Off Code: Customized Clothing to Fit You

Have you heard or experienced eShakti?   This sums it up:

AND GOD CREATED WOMAN beautiful in every shape and size

We create clothes to match. In every design: your style, your size, your shape. Your choice.

eShakti is a unique way to shop for women's clothing in that you can alter certain aspects of the clothing available.  No longer do you have to compromise on one portion of an article of clothing because you don't fit the designer's mode.  eShakti is truly a "we design. you customize" clothing store.

  

Here are some of the key features:

• Free first time customize
• Customize style and size for just $7.50
• Ships in three business days
• Variety of designs available in sizes 0-26W
• $12 referral reward (through 11/15)
• New customers can register and save $15 on first order
• Overstock garments are usually available at a fraction of the costs
• Not only clothing but accessories too

  

You can click here to read my past review of a beautiful dress I received complimentary from eShakti and see how pleasantly pleased I was with the beautiful dress that fit my body perfectly!

Health, Beauty, Children and Family readers can use code JuV8DP to get 15% off at eShakti - valid till the end of November.

Blogmania's Dream Team on Nov 1st Marks the Day for Over $2000 in Prizes Up for Grabs

If you are a regular to my blog, you heard of Blogmania this past fall.  Well, the fun hasn't stopped as starting November 1st, all the members of the Blogmania Dream Team are hosting a Holiday Open House.  Each member's blog will post on holiday entertaining as it relates to our blog themes.  You will get an array of tips, menu ideas, party ideas, crafts, decorating ideas and so much more!  We have so many great bloggers in this group that you won't want to miss out on that coupled with the great prizes coming!

Don't forget to save the date since there will be over $2000 in prizes!

Want to enter?  Here is what you need to do:

• Write a holiday entertaining post on anything you want as long as it relates to Holiday Entertaining.
• Include the Holiday Open House button (below).
• Return to the Health, Beauty, Children and Family Guide for a Frugal Christmas from November 1st to the 10th to link up your post.

You can enter as many times as you want during the eligible time period but each entry will require a new post.

Stay tuned!

<a border="0" href="www.healthbeautychildrenandfamily.com" target="_blank"><img src="http://i845.photobucket.com/albums/ab13/jacquiblogger/ginaparkerblinky.gif" /> </a>

Fiber One Cereal: Help Take the Hunger out of Dieting Prize Pack Giveaway 11/17 WINNER CLOSED

CONGRATULATIONS TO ...


mogrill@comcast.net


An e-mail has been sent and she has 48 hours to respond before a new winner is selected.


Thanks to all those who entered!

If you are like me, you are dieting or if you aren't like me, you are lucky and not putting yourself through this constant behavior.  I know what my problem is and I know what I need to do but will power gets the best of me especially during stressful events.  Having two children with chronic medical conditions, a husband deployed to Kuwait, a new grandbaby and more certainly keeps me on my toes.  One thing I have found is that if I skip a meal, it makes my day rougher.  This is where my participation in MyBlogSpark has perfect timing.  I am participating in a Fiber One campaign where I am going to share my worst over-indulgence moments and how those boxes of Fiber One could help.

I usually indulge after I can't take dieting any longer.  I think the last time I indulged, I ate three cupcakes, two packages of cookies and some other things.  The hunger I had was a result of days of a low carb diet.  I know that food high in fiber is what I need to indulge in since it helps to curb hunger.  I have noticed when I eat Fiber One Original, it does fill me up and keeps the hunger away longer.  

Here are some facts I found interesting:

• One serving of Fiber One Original cereal provides more than half (57%) of the Daily Value of fiber.
• Fiber One Original cereal is a tasty way to start your morning on the right track with 0 grams of sugar, 14 grams of fiber, 60 calories and 1 gram of fat per serving.

To learn more, just click here.

As part of my participation, I will be receiving a special Fiber One "Help Take the Hunger out of Dieting" prize pack that includes Fiber One Original cereal, a cereal-on-the-go container, food scale, water bottle and notepad for tracking what you eat.

For more information or additional tips, please visit http://www.fiberone.com/. The good news is, one of my readers will win the same prize pack!  Are you ready to join in stopping the hunger and getting healthier because I know I am! Below is a Fiber One Original cereal "Help Take the Hunger out of Dieting" mini microsite that has product information, a high-value coupon and tips.  The first 15 readers will be able to sign up to receive a FREE box of cereal through this microsite so don't way and tell your friends.

The Giveaway:


Prize pack of Fiber One Original cereal, a cereal-on-the-go container, food scale, water bottle and notepad for tracking what you eat.


To Enter:


Follow my blog and tell me how you fight your indulgences when trying to not overeat.


Optional Extra Entries:

• Subscribe to my blog.
• Follow me on Twitter.
• Tweet about this giveaway (can be done daily).
• Blog about this giveaway (five entries).
• Enter any of my other giveaways (five entries)

Giveaway ends 11/17 at midnight (EST) - US only please

Winner chosen by random.org

Disclosure:  the products, prize pack, information and additional prize pack to give away were all given to me from Fiber One through MyBlogSpark.

Click here for more great giveaways to include ANOTHER Starbucks GC!

Luminess Air Make Up System Review

If you are like me, you get occasional insomnia and maybe indulge in a guilty pleasure every now and then in the form of an infomercial.  I can't help myself as sometimes I just want to see the latest and greatest product.  Sometimes they work, sometimes they don't.  One of the products that perked my interest was the Luminess Air Systems.  If you have seen the systems, you probably wanted one or at least wanted to try one.  


The models they use look amazing after they had their make up air brushed on and it looks so easy and flawless.  One thing that is nice with Luminess Air Systems as you can try one out for 30 days as little as $29.95 (plus shipping and handling).  The price of the systems are not cheap so trying one out might give you the peace of mind you need before making the leap.

    

About Luminess Air Systems - There are four systems plus a tan system:

1. Kelly System - $169.95 + s/h
2. iLuminess System - $229.90 + s/h
3. Professional System - $309.95 + s/h
4. Platinum System - $369.00 + s/h
5. Luminess Tan System - $149.95 + s/h

Each system has it's perks as you increase in prize.  You can see the comparison in this nice chart here.  

Pros with the System:

• Flexible terms pending the system you choose - try before you buy and multi-payments
• One year warranty
• Systems are geared towards individual needs and preferences
• Gifts with certain models
• Compact and larger models
• Accessories

iLuminess Review

I received a complimentary iLuminess System for review.  I was skeptical at first when I received it thinking I could not achieve the same results but I was wrong.  If you think that you can just turn it on and start using it, it's unlikely you will achieve the results you desire.  This is most likely a new way of applying make up which requires a short amount of time getting used to the air application.

The entire package is just perfect.  The system arrives with a nice fashionable silver bag to take it with you as well as to store it.  It has a great DVD on how to use the system along with tips, a bottle to use for cleaning, four shades of foundation, blush, bronzer and glow.  I also received a complimentary pack of shadows.  

Holding the stylus was easy and now awkward at all.  The system is a little noisy but tolerable.  I find I only need one shade of foundation so after I apply my moisturizer, I drop in four drops of foundation, spray on careful not to push the button too hard otherwise you will have an overload of foundation in one spot thus streaks will form.  After I apply my foundation, I spray on the blush followed by the bronzer.  I have no luck with traditional bronzer as it always goes on too dark or fake but this bronzer is PERFECT!  I am able to control just the right amount I want.

I'm still learning the finesse behind the shadows but love how it stays and doesn't wear off.  This holds true of the foundation.

Pros:

1. Easy to use and the how to DVDs really help
2. Convenient pouch to travel or store
3. Plugs in and no batteries which is a big plus to me
4. You control the amount you want on your face and the shade. 
5. Doesn't wear off and lasts a long time
6. Flawless and looks more natural than other make up I've tried
7. Bronzer is perfectly shaded to look natural but provides a hint of a bronzed glow
8. Comes off easily with water if you make a mistake which is very nice
9. Foundation and other products are competitively priced right
10. A little goes a long way
11. More hygienic since your hands and brushes aren't touching your face
12. It appears to minimize some of my fine lines
13. No more make up lines
14. Dermatology tested

Cons:

• As mentioned, it's a little loud but very tolerable. Besides, it feels really cool air brushing the make up that you don't really notice
• I have sensitive eyes so the air does bother them but again, very tolerable.

In summary, I cannot say enough about the Luminess Air Systems as I LOVE mine!  I'm even considering joining the team to sell the systems because I believe in them.


Stay tuned for actual before and after pictures.