iPhone, iPod Touch & Smartphone Must Have: The Zhip w/ Special Discount Code 11/20

Just about everyone seems to have an iPhone, an iPod or a smart phone and many use these devices on trips, at home and work.  These devices are great for information, fun things to do, music and more but sometimes, it's not always suitable for on the go ease or even for reference purposes such as following a recipe or reading how to unclog a blocked drain.  I use the net for so much and if I don't print, I'm constantly walking back and forth to get the instructions or if I use my iPod Touch, I have to keep picking it up to continue.  I was introduced to this little ingenious device called the Zhip (pronounced zip).  


As the information states, it's perfect for the airplane, gym, car, office and more.  It's a small device that expands to fit any mobile device, has scratch-free padding, 100% bullet-proof polycarbonate so it won't break if dropped and expandable desktop stand.  The 3' retractable "no drop" zip cord allows you to slip it over things like the back of a car seat head rest to let your little ones watch a show on that long trip.  It's so versatile and easy to use.  I'm always amazed when I see such simple inventions and marvel at how easy the concept is as well as the practicality of the device itself.

I tried it out with my iPod Touch and it worked great with the stand when I was following a recipe and will use it next weekend in my car on a very long trip.  My girls will really love having it to watch in front of them versus having to hold it.  It held the iPod snug and it didn't drop.  The cord is sturdy and the decision is really nice.


The other part that is nice about the Zhip, it's inexpensive at only $14.95 MSRP and is available through a variety of retailers.  Get the ZHIP Stand with 3 Feet of Retractable Zip Cord for iPhone, iPod and All Other Smartphones at Amazon and at www.theZhip.com - and also online at BestBuy.com and Newegg.com. It also has a 100% money back guarantee.

You can see the Zhip in action by watching a quick two minute video at www.TheZhip.com to see how people are finding tons of cool new uses for their smartphone.

For readers of Health, Beauty, Children and Family, you can now get the Zhip for only $9.95 by using code zhipmom at www.thezhip.com.  The code expires November 20, 2011.

Enter the discount code in the "Gift Certificate" box on the third page of the "Shopping Cart" and you will need to hit the "ADD" button to activate the discount.

For more information and to stay up to date, check out the Zhip here:

Facebook and Twitter

 

Disclosure:  I received a complimentary sample in exchange for my post.  The opinions are of my own.

Real Steel Opens Today!

Today is the day that Real Steel opens and if you are a Hugh Jackman fan, you want to miss it! Also, don't forget to enter my giveaway for the Real Steel Prize Pack!









“Like” REAL STEEL on Facebook at http://www.facebook.com/realsteelmovie.

$100 Shopbop GC Giveaway: Paige Jeans & More - International 10/24

Brrrr.....fall is coming and we know winter is next.  Although some of us live in climates that still allow us to wear those fashionably True Religion Shorts, others have to pull out the Paige Jeans to stay warm yet fashionable.  I don't like the cold weather but I do like to have a change such as my favorite pair of jeans along with some boots and a coat.  I was looking at the Free People for a new coat and found one I really like.  The thing about Shopbop is they have so many choices from so many designers that it really makes it hard to make a choice!

  

What is your favorite season?  Do you enjoy shopping for the latest fashions and saving money?  Follow Shopbop on Twitter to stay up to date on the latest and greatest.  If you are new to Shopbop, they have some great features to their sites like saving your favorites so you can come back with ease to find them, you can search by your favorite designer and you can save and share your wish list because Christmas is coming!   Shopbop also offers free worldwide shipping on orders of $100 or more in three days or less and free return shipping (USA only - restrictions apply).  The Lookbooks are also something I like to have some help in staying fashionable.

Click here for all my other giveaways.

Cleaning with Green Works® & Loving It!

Cleaning is something that concerns me and although I may not clean enough, I want to use a cleaning product that is safe for my kids and not contaminating the water system as much.  Clorox's Green Works® products have no harsh chemical fumes or residue.  It's the same cleaning powerhouse you expect from Clorox but without those eye watering, skin burning chemicals that you get from some products.  I have two children with chronic medical conditions and keeping them healthy is imperative to me and that starts with eliminating germs.  I am a staunch handwasher advocate and believe a clean house is a healthy house.

I'm also trying my hand at homeschooler so I also get to control what my kids learn.  On the particular day I received my complimentary package of Green Works® products, they had an impromptu lesson on the importance of cleanliness and how Green Works® differs from some of the other products I have hidden in the cabinet.  Of course, they weren't all that impressed with my information I was sharing with them but I'm hoping they picked up a thing or two and I don't feel so bad when one of them asks to help and I don't have to worry about chemical absorption or burns to their skin.  

Some facts about Green Works® products:

• Are made with plant- and mineral-based cleaning ingredients.
• Come from biodegradable ingredients that are naturally derived
• Are not tested on animals.
• Use environmentally sustainable packaging whenever possible.
• Are acknowledged by the Natural Products Association, the Sierra Club and the EPA’sDesign for the Environment program.

 

Here are the products I was lucky to try and review:

• Green Works® Naturally Derived Cleaning Wipes really pack some serious cleaning power and are made with naturally derived ingredients, such as citric acid and wood fibers. That means they won’t give off harsh chemical fumes or leave behind harsh chemical residue.  What I like the most about these wipes are they are 100% biodegradable.  When there are flu or cold germs floating around, I prefer to wipe and trash versus having remnants of cleaning cloths lay behind.  I like that they can be tossed quickly and are safe for use on most non-wood surfaces, including acrylic, fiberglass and vinyl.  These are winners in my book!
• The Green Works® Naturally Derived All-Purpose Cleaner can be used throughout the kitchen or bath and on my surfaces.  It punches through the grease and dirt and doesn't leave a harsh smell or residue.   This product is nice because it's so versatile.  I can use it to clean the counters, the refrigerator, the garbage cans, the kitchen table, the bathroom counters, the washing machine and did you know that it does a great job on the wheels of vehicles?  I was curious so I tried it out and it did a great job!  
• The Green Works® Laundry Detergent is amazingly tough on dirt and stains.  Since I've been using it, I haven't had to use a pre-treater which I love because I have so many other things to do, I don't have time to pay attention to every detail.  My youngest is also ultra sensitive and she had no reacation as it's been dermatologist-tested for sensitive skin.  Made from naturally derived cleaning ingredients it really leaves the laundry smelling good and clean and I don't have to worry about polluting the water with phosphates, optical brighteners or harsh chemical residue.  Since I have a high-efficiency washer, it's also formulated for both standard and high-efficiency (HE) washers so another win-win!
• Green Works^® Naturally Derived Bathroom Cleaner is also made with plant- and mineral-based cleaning ingredients that power through soap scum, rust and hard water stains without harsh chemical fumes and residue. It works powerfully on bathroom counters, sinks, bathtubs, tile and shower doors, removing tough soap scum.  Even though I could use the All-Purpose Cleaner in the bathroom, I prefer to use this cleaner in the bathroom as the tough to clean areas have a different root cause and removing the soap scum and hard water stains can be difficult.  It did a great job and again, no fumes or bad residues.

Overall, I love the Green Works® products and will purchase again.  I enjoy a piece of mind knowing that I'm cleaning, protecting my children and protecting the public water source by not introducing more contaminants into an already over-contaminated system.  I am a Clorox fan and feel they have provided the same level of cleaning power I expect from them but with a twist of protection from fumes and harsh chemicals. 

To stay up to date and get more information, don't forget to check out:

Web site: http://www.greenworkscleaners.com

Facebook: http://www.facebook.com/greenworks

Disclosure:  As a member of Mom Bloggers Club, I participated in this campaign where I received information and product from the sponsor.  The opinions are of my own however.

Blogmania 2011 Getting Beautiful Giveaway - $20 PayPal Cash & $255~ Prize Pack 10/10 US

Blogmania 2011 is here and it's been quite the blogger event for over two years now.  It's a way for bloggers to connect while giving our readers some amazing prizes.  There are over 80 blogs participating with a huge dollar amount of prizes to be awarded after it completes on October 10th.  This is my second year participating and I'm happy to provide one lucky entrant the following:

 

 

1. $20 PayPal Cash Giveaway - to buy that little extra you need
2. Avon's Fergie Outspoken Parfum Spray (full size) - $30 Value
3. Frownies Face Lift in a Bag - $117 Value
4. Your Health in Your Hands - Living and  Aging Well and DVD Set - $24.95 Value
5. Pish Posh Mommy Pacifica Pull String Carryall - $44.99 Value
6. Lash 28 Eyelash Conditioner w/ Bonus Brush Kit - $38 Value

The getting beautiful prize pack is over $275 in value and will come in the Pish Posh Mommy Carryall with the exception of the $20 PayPal cash which will be delivered via e-mail.  Due to shipping costs, US only please.

Check out my other giveaways:

• YouthfulTips Angelina Ballerina The Shining Star Trophy and Angelina Ballerina Dancing on Ice 2 DVD Giveaway 10/10
• YouthfulTips Awarding Winning Families of Philippines and Families of Germany DVD Giveaway 10/10
• YouthfulTips OXY Clinical Acne Solutions Kit Review and Giveaway 10/16
• YouthfulTips Yoplait Smoothie Pamper Yourself Gift Pack 10/16
• YouthfulTips Freschetta: How You Can Make a Difference and Win Breast Cancer Pack 10/22
• YouthfulTips Mindbloom Interactive Life Improvement Fun - 5 Winners - 10/22
• YouthfulTips DreamWorks Pictures Real Steel Prize Pack Giveaway 10/22 US & Canada
• YouthfulTips $100 Shopbop GC Giveaway:  Paige Jeans & More - International 10/24

NOTE:  If Rafflecopter is acting up and not properly counting or allowing your entries, please leave a comment instead and I apologize!  Also, if you are from Canada, you can enter for the PayPal part if you are okay with foregoing the beauty products due to the shipping costs.

Disclaimer:Prizes will be selected via Random.org,winners from my blog will be announced within 72 hours, the winner will also have 72 hours to accept their prize. We have represented each sponsor with the expectation they will fulfill their prize and in a timely manner we will contact the sponsor regarding your prize(s). The sponsors, in most cases, are shipping their items to you directly. We will make every effort to assist you obtaining your prize. If there is an issue with a sponsor please notify the blog you won a prize from within 30 days for assistance, after that we may be unable to assist you

Keeping Your Family Healthy: Cold-Free and Flu-Free with Lysol

The cold season is quickly chasing us down and those pesky germs and viruses are itching to get a hold on us and our children.  I am very serious about warding off colds mostly because my youngest has a pulmonary condition that doctors don't understand but can kill her.  I'm not over reacting as when she has a cold, she crashes within an hour and needs oxygen and a shot of steroid and lots of prayers.  The cold season leaves me fearing every cough and sneeze since I never know what will hit and those viruses are tough to beat.  I have a way of behaving whether it's cold and flu season or not but I do step up a bit during the vulnerable months.  My tips and tricks in staying healthier include:

1. Constantly reminding everyone to wash those hands!  It's the easiest and most crucial step in stopping the spreading of germs.  Washing your hands properly with soap is essential.  When my youngest was hospitalized one time, the doctors preached and preached how important it is to wash hands.  I can't tell you how many bottles of soap we go through.
2. Have hand sanitizer readily available for those times where you can't wash your hands.  A little bottle is perfect for the car and your purse.  They even make them to fit on key chains so there are no excuses.  Even the stores are starting to carry the wipes to wipe off the carts before you take one.
3. I always have sanitizing wipes on hand.  I prefer them and I know it's not so green but I like the idea of wipe and trash.  I don't want those germs lurking around so Lysol wipes are perfect to clean, eliminate germs and then toss in the trash.
4. I am always telling my girls to keep their noses clean.  A clean nose prevents germs from harboring and growing.  My middle one kept getting sick two year's ago and I attributed it to school but when I finally realized that she never cleaned out her nose (thank goodness she's not a nose picker!), I found the problem.  She now goes to the bathroom and cleans her nose once a day and she hasn't been sick since.
5. Eating healthy is another great way to stay healthy and keep a good immune system to block those pesky germs.  Eating fruits and vegetables are essential to our well beings.
6. I also give my children vitamin supplements to make up where they don't eat properly which also includes a Vit D supplement as sunshine is lacking in the average person's life and that does help the immune system.
7. Exercise is also vital to keeping the immune system up.  Since I homeschool, they don't have gym class so we supplement it with playing fitness games on the wii and Xbox.  You would be surprised at how that can elevate your heart rate!
8. Getting plenty of sleep also helps to hinder infections from setting in.  When a body is worn out, it's more vulnerable to sickness so I make sure myself and kids are in bed a reasonable time.
9. I also use Lysol products to mop and clean other areas of my house to help eliminate germs.
10. Stay happy!  Being happy has proven to boost your immune system so I make sure we have fun times full of laughter!

There are many ways to prevent colds and viruses and although not all are full proof, at least you give it your best to protect your family.  I know I don't do everything 100% but I give it my all.  I use practical ways to eliminate our chances of getting sick while promoting good life habits for them to grow with and pass down to their own families in the future. What do you do to help prevent colds and flues? 

About Lysol

We do more not just because we can, but because we must. Health matters. To all of us. That's why we've started the Lysol Mission for Health. With new mom programs, healthy habits initiatives in schools and disaster relief efforts, we are dedicated to doing more for health. Our mission is fueled by passion and backed by our expertise in killing germs. So when you use Lysol at home, you'll know you're a part of something bigger.

More info on Lysol: http://www.lysol.com/mission-for-health

Lysol on Facebook

I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Lysol blogging program, for a gift card worth $40. For more information on how you can participate, click here.


I am also a Lysol customer and the opinions reflected in this post are my own.

Green Halloween is More than Being "In Style"

Halloween is a magical time of the year for my children.  Not as cool as Christmas but I think it's their second favorite holiday.  Every year, I actually do worry about all the candy they are receiving in their trick or treat bags.  I want them to have fun but I also want it to be something of a healthier and safer event for them to participate in.  Candy is fun and a wonderful treat for kids but when you have a bag over flowing with enough candy to last months, it's perhaps too much.  Thanks to Corey Colwell-Lipson in 2006, she realized how kids needed an alternative to all the sugary foods and that there was a better way to provide treats to kids in the form of items that were non-candy and earth friendly.  


This is where Green Halloween came about.  Since then, it has formed many alliances to get the word out and to inspire other parents and cities to jump on board to make Halloween healthier.  There are many ways you can join the movement:

• Bring Green Halloween to your city by being a volunteer coordinator
• Host a costume exchange - what better way recycling those costumes without the exchange of money?
• Talk to your children's school about Green Halloween
• Purchase Green Halloween products

There are many other ways to join and you can click on Green Halloween to find out more.

Some other easy ways to make Halloween healthier:

• Reuse decorations - I always put mine away for the following year and what I don't want, I give away.
• Walk from house to house - in our old neighborhood, I couldn't tell you how many parents were actually driving their kids around the neighborhood.  
• Give healthier snacks like Stretch Island Fruit Co. Fruit Strips.  Real fruit snacks beats snacks high in high fructose corn syrup and refined sugar.
• Compost pumpkins to save landfill space
• Instead of sweets, try stickers and other small treasures.

Those are just a few ideas and there are many more.  Just check out Green Halloween for more information and Stretch Island Fruit Co. for great alternatives to candy this year.

Follow Stretch Island on Facebook and Twitter to stay up to date.

  

*Disclosure:  I participated in a conference call about Green Halloween and received a Halloween bag of Stretch Island Fruit Co. samples.  I was not financially compensated for this post.

DreamWorks Pictures Real Steel Prize Pack Giveaway 10/22 US & Canada

Real Steel is DreamWorks Pictures' latest movie getting ready to punch its way to the box office as being a win!  The boys and men will love the competition and boxing component not to forget there are robots involved and the ladies ... well, we get Hugh Jackman so enough said!  Real Steel will be released October 7 so get ready for some serious robotic matches as its set in the future where robots replace man.  Directed by Shawn Levy who also directed Night at the Museum and Date Night.  The story of Charlie Kenton, played by Hugh Jackman, is financially strapped and looking for a way out of his situation.

Each robot has their own look, personality and color scheme and range in size from 7'6" to 8'5" in height.  One of my favorite boxers, Sugar Ray Leonard, was brought in to serve as the boxing consultant so the boxing should be fantastic!

You can get a jump on the movie and enter to win a great Real Steel prize pack too!

After you enter, check out the new Charlie & Max trailer:



The Giveaway:

- REAL STEEL t-shirt in adult  sizes of S, M, L, XL

- REAL STEEL bottle opener

- REAL STEEL stickers

- REAL STEEL temporary tattoos

 

 

Click here for all my other giveaways.

*Disclosure: I was provided the information and gift pack from DreamWorks - I was not compensated.

The Middle Season 2 on DVD/Blu-Ray: The Axl Factor

How many times do you have to pick up after your husband and children?  It's one thing when they are little but when they start getting some independence, it's time to learn on their own?  I can't even imagine having to pick up after my older kids especially if they had bad habits that infringed on the smell factor.  I can totally understand how Mike, of The Middle, banned his son, Axl, from playing on his basketball team's final game as punishment.  Sometimes you just have to hit them hard to bring the point home.  


In spite of basketball being a big thing in the Heck family, sometimes priorities do mean a little more and I agree with what Mike did.  My oldest lied to me and I mean a blatant lie.  It was one of those ones where she knew better so I grounded her for a month.  She might have thought it was extreme but I felt it was warranted.  Of course, she was able to weasel out of it by playing on my sympathy as she was so good at.  She ended up serving a few days and I let her off the hook with a stern warning.


Buy The Middle Season Two on DVD/Blu-ray now!


Also, check out The Middle on Facebook.












*Disclosure:  I have been hired by Warner Bros. WBWord division to promote The Middle Season Two on DVD.

Children with Balding Conditions

Hair loss can be just as traumatic for children as it is for adults. However, balding in children is typically a temporary condition if treated properly. Our Bosley doctors who specialize in hair loss helped put together this short guide on balding to help educate parents.

Balding in children is usually caused by one of these five conditions: Alopecia Areata, Tinea Capitis, Traction Alopecia, Trichotillomania, or Telogen Effluvium.

Alopecia Areata is a common form hair loss in children. The causes of this patchy hair loss are a mystery, but it is not life threatening. Most children will regrow their hair in this area.

Tinea Capitis is a disease that is caused by a fungal infection. It usually attacks the scalp, eyebrows, and eyelashes and is commonly known as “ringworm of the scalp”. The exposed scalp is often a round shape and may have a stubbled appearance. This condition is transmitted through infected children, but is not dangerous and is treatable by a general physician.

Traction Alopecia is physical damage to the hair and is usually seen in adults who commonly style their hair with curling irons, blow dryers, straighteners and other products. Children using these products for styling can experience damage even more serious than seen in adults, since children’s hair is more fine and delicate. Tight braids and hairstyles can also cause damage to children’s hair, if overdone.

Trichotillomania can be experienced by children and adults. It is the compulsion to pull out one’s hair. Usually it results in irregular patches of hair loss and may include eyebrows and eyelashes. Some cases may resolve spontaneously, when the children outgrow the hair-pulling habits, but always talk to your doctor about any concerns with your child’s health.

Telogen Effluvium is a temporary hair loss in the wake of emotional stress or a severe fever or flu. Unless there is another factor of stress or illness, the hair will slowly replace itself.

The first key in finding a solution for hair loss or balding is consulting with your physician or pediatrician. Most causes of hair loss in children are temporary, if treated promptly by a medical professional. Children can experience permanent hair loss if conditions like Traction Alopecia or Trichotillomania are left untreated. For more information about Bosley Medical, you can go to www.Bosley.com or call 1-888-820-4247.

*Disclosure:  I received no compensation for this post nor am I endorsing the treatment option contained in the post.

Join the Book Lovers Blog Hop: October 2011 & Win

Hop Rules:

1. Follow the Top link of the hop! Hop Host: Families Matter
2. Grab the button for the hop and place it in a post, sidebar, or on a blog hop page and let us know where it is in the comments section below. 
3. This will help the hop grow and gain us all new followers. It's a Win-Win for everyone!
4. Grab the button for the World of Ink Tours and place it in a post or side bar. 
5. Make sure you let us know where it is in the comments section below

Book Giveaway Rules:

1. Join the Book Lovers Blog Hop. (One entry)
2. Follow the World of Ink Tour and leave a comment per tour blog stop. Make sure to include your safe email so we can contact you if you are the winner. Example: vsgrenier AT storiesforchildrenpublishing DOT com. (One bonus entry per blog stop)
3. Ask a question per World of Ink Tour blog stop. (One bonus entry per tour blog stop)

Mindbloom: Interactive Life Improvement Service Review & 5 Winner Giveaway 10/22

 

If you are a regular to my blog, you know that I've been trying to make the baby steps to get healthier for about a year or so.  I'm part of a women's group called Mamavation to keep the motivation going and still always like to find something that will inspire me.  Now, I have found or it has found me in the form of an online interactive service called Mindbloom.  I was able to try a complimentary test run of it.  It's really a nice feature to help a person gain in many areas by using behavioral science, personalized media and fun social gaming.  It's simple to use and really gets you thinking.  It's like the Farmville of health where you actually are doing good things to feel better in many areas.


Some Quick Details:

• Discover and add inspiration
• Connect socially (i.e. Facebook, Twitter, etc)
• Add friends 
• Send snail mail
• Market place to buy features
• Works on iPhone and Android phones 
• Free to use but an optional upgrade is available

You choose different areas you want to work on such as your lifestyle, career, creativity, spirituality, health, relationships and finances.  You decide what is important and grow your tree.  When you accomplish your tasks, you get to water your tree and watch it grow.  It really is full of endless possibilities of what you can do and one of the biggest features that appeals to me is you can set your tasks to the timing you want so you won't forget them such as drink more water, exercise, read something career related, take a course and so forth.  It's a great goal setting tool to manage so many aspects of your life.

I'm still learning about Mindbloom but so far, I'm sold.  I love the constant reminders to complete my tasks along with all the great recommendations to help me meet my goals and to introduce some goals I didn't know I wanted!  The online features are superb in that if you need to learn something, you can click and it takes you to a site that has more information.  So far, it seems endless!

I will be posting a later update as to what else I've learned as well as what it has helped me to accomplish.

Check it out here at Mindbloom.


The Giveaway:


Five readers will win a lifetime membership which is a $34 value until November 1st and then it will be $89 so jump on board now, what do you have to lose?  It's fun and motivating!