Embracing a Healthy Family

Smallville: What Would You Do If You Were the Show's Writer

Smallville fan?  What would you do if you were a write for the show?  Would you let Lois and Clark marry?  Would you break them up and bring in someone else?  How about a twist of having Lois die by Lex Luther only to have something unexpected pop up that would allow Superman to bring her back and only end up finding out it was just a dream?  So many twists and turns to change the show's outcome but what would be the most profound change you might make?  Lots of questions for a show that already has a tremendous following and fan base.


I'm not sure that I would be able to change it for the better or not.  I think the show is perfect as it is. If you rushed Clark and Lois then you would change the dynamics but then again, it would introduce new plots.  I'd probably add a love scorned villain to the mix to stir up trouble for them.  I think we'll just have to wait and see what will happen next but I'm certain it will include more drama, more bad guys and more complexities in the love affair between Lois and Clark.

Now you can get the 10 Season DVD on Smallville here http://bit.ly/sB4sYu and the Complete Series here http://bit.ly/tGOjMX.



Smallville The Complete Series

 





*Disclosure:  I have been hired by Warner Bros WBWord division to raise awareness for 'Smallville.'

Great Christmas Idea: The Bandee (headbands)

The BandeeLooking for that little extra special gift for the woman or girl in your life?  I love headbands but despise how they slip down.  I never wear them for that reason and putting them on my girls is about as senseless as having a box of chocolates around when you want to lose weight.  If you are like me, you would love to wear them but hadn't found the perfect one until now!  I "met" this wonderful woman on Twitter and want to share with you The Bandee.  The Bandee isn't your normal headband as it's made with soft fabric with a slight curve to fit your head and fits comfortably behind your ears.  The Bandee has small velcro strips that allow you to make it as tight or loose as you want so no more headaches!  I know my girls would love that!


What also makes The Bandee extra nice is they are reversible with a solid color so you are getting two bands for one!  They even have fleece Bandees to keep your ears warm and for those of us that live in cold states, that's a bonus!


The Bandee is also big in to promoting good causes and was instrumental in helping my eight year old's non-profit Angels4Epilepsy win a Pepsi Grant thanks to her Tweets.  She is truly inspirational and is dedicated to helping others.


You can follow The Bandee on Facebook and Twitter.


Here are some of my favorites:


  






 

Great Gift Idea: Sharon Barber Dress Your Purse


Who says purses are just for women?  Purses are functional, fun, sophisticated, stylish and so much more. Whether you are a girl or a woman, purses bring out your personality.  They are iconic.  I wanted to share a little about these innovative purses made for both women and girls from Sharon Barber.  When Sharon was tired of changing her purses and the contents inside, she came up with this clever patented idea of a having changeable covers that switch out in a flash.  Sharon hand makes the purses and they are one of a kind.


Each purse also has an impact resistant mirror so there is no need to carry a mirror and what a convenience it is to not have to fumble around to open that compact and drop it.  I love the idea of having something that I can take a quick peek without worry.  All the accessories you purchase can fit into a convenient box so no more storage needs for the numerous purses you collect through the seasons or years.  The outer parts wrap up like an envelope thus making traveling easier.


As you can see, they are stylish and are of perfect size to easily find what you might need without having to waste time looking through a pile of cosmetics, notes, etc.  






Here are some of my favorites:



You can stay up to date with Sharon Barber on Facebook, Twitter, her blog and YouTube.


*Disclaimer:  I did not receive compensation for this post.






UPrinting Die-Cut Business Card Giveaway 12/31

Business cards can be used for so many different things that having a business does not limit your need for them.  They can be used as thank you cards if you send a lot out or save the date cards for an event you have coming up.  If you are a blogger or busy in the outside world, they are perfect calling cards too.  We use business cards for my daughter's non-profit for our gift delivery bags for children hospitalized.  They are ideal for so many things and the die-cut business cards from UPrinting are of great quality and look beautiful as I have had the opportunity to review them in the past.  




With this giveaway, one person will win 250 die-cut business cards!  

Prize Details:
- 250pcs Die-cut Business Cards for one winner
- 2x3.5" Rounded Corners, 2x2" Rounded Corners, 1.75x3.5" Rounded Corners,
- 2x3.5" Leaf, 2x3.5 Rounded one corner, 2x3.5" Half Circle Side, 2x3.5" Oval, 2.5" Circle
- 14pt Cardstock Gloss / Matte / High Gloss (UV), or 13pt Cardstock Uncoated
- 6 Business Days Turnaround time
- Free US shipping only


Mandatory Entry Requirements:
  1. Like UPrinting Business Card Page and share how you would use the business cards if you win the giveaway.
  2. Tweet how you will use the business card if you win the giveaway and at the end of the message include the UPrinting Business Card URL (http://www.uprinting.com/business-cards.htmlNOTE: Make sure to use the FULL URL (http://www.uprinting.com/business-cards.html) and not use any URL shortening tool for the tweet. Twitter will automatically shorten the URL for you.
  3. Follow my blog and leave a comment that you follow.
  4. Subscribe to my blog (two entries) - optional entry

Restrictions: 

Open to US residents only, must be 18 and above to enter.

*Disclaimer:  This giveaway is sponsored by UPrinting, no monetary compensation was given and I will receive die-cut business cards for hosting.

Pepto Party Pack Giveaway: iPod Shuffle, GC, Pocket Camcorder & More 12/31 ($250~ Value)

Pepto-Bismol


Are you ready for the holiday season?  From family get togethers to office parties to neighbors and friends getting together for the yule tide celebrations, there will be a lot of eating and drinking.  This is where Pepto-Bismol comes in to play.  Turducken and shrimp and chocolate, oh my!  With more than 46 million holiday parties planned this season, discomfort related to overindulgence of food and drink can become the unwanted gift that just keeps on giving.  Pepto-Bismol is teaming up with a holiday Elf to encourage people to enjoy their favorite holiday treats knowing that Pepto has them covered. 


I have been fortunate and not had to endure any over indulgence or stomach issues in some time but I do vividly remember Pepto-Bismol coming to the rescue.  Pepto-Bismol, in addition to national TV commercials, will have the Elf featured in a series of funny web videos being released throughout the holiday season.  The first of the web videos, can be seen here: http://bit.ly/ytpb.   


As you will see, the straight talking Elf is not shy about sharing his wisdom on all your favorite holiday indulgences!  



As part of the celebrations, Pepto-Bismol is going to give one of my readers this really nice Pepto Party Pack that I have to admit, I'm slightly jealous ...okay, I'm very jealous!  It's a great party pack and I cannot wait to be able to award this to one of you!  Here is what you will get to not only help you through the holidays but all year round.


·        Preparing for the Celebration: Crate and Barrel Tripoli Server (value $49.95)
·        Enjoying the Celebration: iPod shuffle with iTunes gift card (value $75.00)
·        
Recording the Celebration: Toshibo Pocket camcorder (value $119.99)
·        
Saving the Celebration (if needed!): Pepto-Bismol*use as directed




5 Chick-fil-A Cow Watches & 2 Plush Cows Giveaway 12/29

It's holiday time or better yet Christmas is coming!  I love Christmas ...did I say love?  I cannot wait each year to put up the decorations, put on the music and start planning all the best gifts.  I cannot get enough of it and this year, I put up all my decorations a week before Thanksgiving.  I have an army of Santas of various sizes that I like to torment my family with.  Chick-Fil-A is a favorite of my family and I will admit since moving away from Georgia, we have not had it enough.  The kids would love the new cow watches that are in the kid's meals right now and of course would love some of that tasty chicken!  


With the widget below, you can take the Holiday Quiz and see how you fair.  I'm a Friend of the Frost.  It was spot on because I am sad when it's over and I enjoy spending time with my family.  It's a joyous occasion that makes for fond memories.  You are in luck as you have a chance to win this fabulous prize pack of 5 Chick-fil-A cow watches AND two plush cows!  It's easy to enter, just use the Rafflecopter form below and don't forget to have some fun with the activities!







a Rafflecopter giveaway
*Disclaimer: I received no compensation for this post or giveaway.

Coupon Diva Queen 10,000 Giveaway Bash



Welcome to the 10,000 Coupon Diva Queen Giveaway Bash! We have  joined together with some AMAZING BLOGGERS to bring you a Giveaway to remember!  To enter simply follow the rules on the Rafflecopter, you must LIKE each Blogger to be entered. Make sure to stop by their site I am certain you will find some interesting information, great savings and tons of deals. The contest runs from December 12th thorough the 19th the winner will be chosen via the Rafflecopter Widget on the 20th. The winner will have 48 hours to respond to the email or another winner will be chosen.


Here is the list of Bloggers in Our Giveaway!!




Good Luck Everyone!!!

Encouraging Reading Through Christmas



I saw a blog post from another blogger and I wished I could remember as I do like to give credit where credit is due.  I loved the idea she had in encouraging her children to read by providing books to unwrap each day through December.  I thought I would take it a step further and actually throw in some educational books much to the learned demise of my children.  They didn't take to them and showed their obvious disdain towards non-Christmas stories quite clearly.  Nonetheless, they are having fun opening the books and we're enjoying our reading time.  It's a lesson learned in that I'll make sure next sure that I scout out some Christmas books as well as wrap what we have on hand.


Do you have any holiday traditions you use as a way of teaching?

Smallville's Story Ending: Perfect?


Are you a Smallville fan?  Did you watch the last episode in Season 10?  At long last, Clark realizes what his true calling and powers are and takes hold after a series of events that is what we have come to expect and love.  Tess plays a huge role in this episode from foiling and uncover diabolical plots to helping to curtail Lex a little longer.  It was great to finally see him understand his true powers and the ability to fly.  The episode is full of ups and downs and still chronicles the attempts of Lois and Clark to have a relationship that might lead to marriage.


One thing that can be counted on is Superman saves the day yet again and we just have to wait and see what happens next.  If I were to change anything, I would have kept Tess around longer but given the unexpected, you never know what might happen in the future.  Any guesses?  What did you think of watching Clark finally embrace his abilities?


If you are a big fan, you can purchase Smallville 10th Season DVD: http://bit.ly/sB4sYu and Smallville The Complete Series: http://bit.ly/tGOjMX.  What a great Christmas present this would make!



Smallville 10th Season DVD





Smallville The Complete Series



*Disclosure:  I have been hired by Warner Bros WBWord division to raise awareness for 'Smallville.'

Pillsbury Crescent-Wrapped Brie Recipe

Planning for your Christmas dinner, party or New Years?  Check out this from Pillsbury.  My oldest used Pillsbury to make some tasty snacks at her last party.  If you want to know how to make this or any other great sounding recipes, click here on Pillsbury.



Gift Card Gala 12/9 - 12/16

Welcome to the 3rd Gift Card Gala sponsored by Debbie Does Coupons and 27 other great bloggers, bringing you a chance to win an assortment of Gift Cards!
This event starts at Midnight EST on 12/9 and ends at Midnight EST 12/16
Each blogger is offering a Store or Restaurant Gift Card with a value of at least $10 ! Some may be more.
If you are a winner, you will be emailed by the owner of the blog that you won on and asked for your mailing address. You will have 48 hours to respond, so make sure to give an email address that you check daily.
Simply click to "like" each of the Facebook pages on the Rafflecopter and then click the green "I did this" button.
Extra Entries at the Bottom will have their point Value listed.
Don't forget to enter my other giveaways!

RULES:
There will be one winner per blog. All winners will be picked by December 18th. Winners will be contacted via email within 24 hours by the blog owners where they won. The winner has 48 hours to contact the blogger back with your mailing address.
Good luck to everyone!!



PMD: Personal Microderm System Review & Giveaway 12/27




PersonalMicroderm.comAre you in the market for microdermabrasion to keep your complexion smooth, soft and to have that reduction in lines and wrinkles?  I had a friend who spent a lot of money visiting her dermatologist for the latest in microdermabrasion.  Now with the advancement of technology, the PMD is available for home use.  PMD is the Personal Microderm System that you can use at home and have great results.  It's a hand held, easy to use tool with attachments to ensure you have the right level of abrasion for your skin type.   The tips are made of aluminum oxide crystals which are the same used by professionals.  PMD helps to diminish age spots and other imperfections in just weeks.  




For our review, we tried the PMD for four weeks and upon the first use, saw and felt immediate benefits with a softer, smoother complexion.  PMD is so easy to use that it takes no time getting used to the hand held device.  With a quick switch of the tips, you can be assured you don't irritate or harm your skin.  The process is easy as you help your skin take on a tight appearance with one hand and with the other hand, run the PMD across the area you want treated.  It doesn't hurt and it only leaves a red appearance for a short amount of time.  You can check out a video here to see how easy using the personal microderm system is to use.


Although this isn't a big area to show, there was some improvement in the fine lines and you have to be careful getting close to the eye as it's not recommended due to damage.  Skin complexion is definitely softer and has more of a glow.   I think it's a great product especially since you can do it at home and it's cheaper.  




You can stay up to date with PMD on Facebook, YouTube and Twitter and sign up for their newsletter.  Also, check out PMD in our Christmas Guide here.


When you purchase the system, you receive:

  • 1 personal microderm
  • 3 exfoliating discs (2 green and 3 blue)
  • 1 electric cord (Standard U.S. Outlet)
  • 1 facial cap
  • 1 body cap
  • 1 reusable filter
  • Instructional DVD and Pamphlet



Overall, we recommend the PMD: Personal Microderm System.


The Giveaway:


One lucky reader will win their very own PMD System (over $170 value)!


To Enter:


Please complete the Rafflecopter form.


*Disclosure:  A complimentary product was received for the purposes of this review.  The opinions are honest and were not influenced by the sponsor.

Ficklets' Show Us Your Twinkle Eyes Contest Voting Begins!

A fun, fashionable, fresh twist to eyeglasses!


Did you enter the Ficklets' Show Us Your Twinkle Eyes contest?  If not, you can still vote and help one of these beauties and cuties win!


Just click here to vote:  
http://apps.facebook.com/contestshq/contests/177819/voteable_entries?view_entries=1


Diamond Candles Campaign Announcement ~ Call For Bloggers To Review & Giveaway Unique Soy Candles With Ring Surprises




Have you experienced a soy candle with amazing aroma that inspires and makes your holidays go smooth and relaxed? Have you seen anything like waiting with anticipation what's going to be peaking out of the hot soy liquid while the candle is still burning?

If not, then Diamond Candles Company would like to invite you to Review and Giveaway their Precious soy candles. Why "precious" you'll ask? Well, each candle harbors a ring valued anywhere from $10-$100-$500-$5000 each. It's anticipation that really gets you going! What kind of a ring am I going to unveil from the glittery pouch hidden inside the soy wax?

The Criteria for Your Participation Are Simple. 

  • This event is Free to you. Open to US only.
  • If you are to review and giveaway a product sponsored by Diamond Candles Company, you'll need to include in your giveaway the sponsor's Facebook and Twitter mentions, and a couple of keywords within your review.
  • If you are to participate in this campaign, Blog about this event on your blog, linking it to my post here.
  • Then, fill out this Form with information about your blog.
  • Once you're approved by the Diamond Candles Company, I'll ask you to confirm your mailing address for mailing products to you for review and giveaway on your blog (FYI: Diamond Candles does all mailing to the winners for giveaway.)
Click here for more information.

Win a $50 Amazon Card and Ficklets' Prize Pack 12/5



Do your children wear glasses or know of one who does?  Why not enter to win this great prize pack of Ficklets, cleaning cloth, carrying purse and a kid's frame all in this ready to go adorable sleigh?  All you have to do is submit a photo and have your friends and family vote.




Details here:  http://www.facebook.com/pages/Ficklets/158788254141786


Hurry as tomorrow is the deadline for submitting photos!


Not convinced yet?  Check out how cute Ficklets are:


 



 

Loopeez Shoe Tying Aid Review

Teaching children to tie shoes can be so complicated especially when you have a headstrong child.  It took awhile for my now eight year old to learn and for those of us older parents, they no longer teach this in kindergarten as it's a skillset that is expected to have been mastered before school.  The Loopeez Shoe Tying way is made to easily teach kids how to tie without the frustrations typically involved.  Loopeez is a mom-made invention so that means she really understands the plight of us parents.  It's a hands on approach using the child's shoe, their two hands and it teaches both methods.


It's an easy five step system as shown below:


teach Show Tying 1 teach Kids Shoe Tying 2 
learn To Tie Shoes


how to tie a shoe for kidsshoe Tying Aids


My four year old still required assistance to get her set up and used to the process.  She's so headstrong and easily frustrated that we weren't able to master the lesson yet.  I hope in a couple of months with maturity as they do mature fast with emotions at times, she will be ready to try again.  Overall, I think it's a great way to teach as it takes the struggle out of trying to hold both laces with their little fingers and limited dexterity.  I think it's a must have for any parent who is ready to teach how to tie.


Skull & Crossbones Pink Butterfly Pink Heart


They have a variety which might entice the child more to learn. To purchase, Loopeez, check them out here.


Free shipping until December 24th!




    Follow Loopeez on Facebook 

 I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Beer Lovers Review & Giveaway 12/19

Sponsored by Tomoson.com
Great gift ideas at UncommonGoods


Have a beer lover in your house?   I do and if you are stuck on the perfect gift, you don't want to miss out beer gifts.  The Beer Making Kit is the one gift you can give that can keep giving.  Thanks to the products available at Uncommon Goods, you can purchase the Beer Making Kits, accessories and refills to keep that beer lover happy.  For this review, I received the complimentary Beer Making Kit shown below and one reader will win one too!  Isn't that exciting?  I've never made beer before so this was an experience.   This do-it-yourself kit has everything you need to make some amazing brew.  This is really one of those Best Gifts for Men or Best Gift for Dad.  Started by two people who quit their jobs to expand on their new found interest in brew making, they succeeded by offering this inexpensive kit to others.




The back of the box does contain the instructions but you can also visit the Brooklyn Brew Shop for videos and instructions.  The video and the instructions might confuse you as they show the beer making with different ingredients but the pack supplied includes all you need.  You will need a strainer but everything else is included in your kit.  It was as easy as making oatmeal as stated on the box with additional steps.  Mine is still fermenting so I can't tell you how it tastes yet but I will provide an update.


The Giveaway:


One reader will win their own Beer Making Kit and Refill - just in time for Christmas!


To Enter:


Please use the Rafflecopter form to enter.
I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Funbites: Bite-Sized Mealtime Magic Review

Buy Any Two!Picky eaters?  I have them and it's so hard to get my youngest to eat.  I tried the Sneaky Chef, tricking, leading by example and nothing works or at least is sustainable for the long term.  So my journey included buying endless amounts of Pediasure to at least make up for her poor eating habits along with a daily vitamin.  Something has worked as my two younger ones haven't been sick in a very long time (knock on wood or at least particle board).  When I heard about Funbites, I wanted to see if that would do the trick.  Tiny little bite sized pieces of fun was what I thought.  I agreed to review as it looked fun and appealing to my children.  

I received two fun shaped what I call molds in the mail.  As you can see, they make different shapes out of whatever you want to try them out with.  For this review, I made a grilled cheese sandwich as that's one of my girl's favorites.  As you can also see, I went all out with the fine china (smirk).  Hey, I'm a busy mom or am I just lazy?  Either way, look at how cute it turned out?  All those itty bitty bite sized parts was perfect for the grab and go child.  My grandbaby is here for a visit and I didn't purchase a high chair for her so she literally grabs and goes but she loved these perfect sized bits of food.  My four year old never sits still so this was ideal for her.  What surprised me more was my eight year old woofed them down. 
  
Another great aspect of these Funbites is the children will absolutely have fun making them.  I did have to provide the extra pressure to ensure they cut through the food but once they did, they loved the outcome.  What was also nice is for our sandwich we made, we were able to go back and add a few more bites minimizing the waste.  You can use these on anything that can take a cut such as hamburgers, pancakes, pizza, fruit and more.  It's really a great way to get the children involved in preparing food and loving food!   You can check out a how it works video here.
They would make a great stocking stuffer too!

A portion of proceeds from Funbites goes to Make-a-Wish so you can't go wrong with supporting such a wonderful cause.



  • FREE SHIPPING ON ALL ORDERS this weekend only. Enter promotion code FreeShipDec2011 at checkout.
  • Perfect Stocking Stuffer... Buy 2 now for only $19.99.
  • Works great on grilled cheese, pancakes, banana bread, brownies and more!
  • 3 easy steps. Step 1: Place on food. Step 2: Rock firmly back & forth. Step 3: Pop out bite-sized pieces!
  • Strong quality kitchen tool made in the USA.



Stay up to date on Facebook and Twitter.




*Disclosure:  I received free sample of product from the sponsor.  The opinions are of my own.

Skinn Cosmetics by Dimitri James' Holiday Scavenger Hunt - Win a $50 GC to Skinn 12/7



Want to have fun AND win a $50 gift card to Skinn Cosmetics by Dimitri James?  I have tried various products from Dimitri James and to date, love each one of the ones I have been given to review and have bought.  Get ready to join the fun as you just might score a free product or two if you find all the ornaments and win the $50 gift card!


Follow Skinn Cosmetics on Facebook and Twitter.










Kelo-cote Spray and Gel Reviews

 


If you are like most, you have a scar somewhere on your body.  If you are like many of us, you don't like this scar and would like to get rid of it.  Although removing or erasing a scar might be next to impossible if not impossible, there are products available that actually do lessen the appearance of an unsightly scar.  Kelo-cote Spray and Kelo-cote Gel are two products that reduce scars and smooths skin with easy application.  I tried both and can say they have their pros.


Kelo-cote SprayThe Spray is nice for a larger area and I actually tried it on some acne scars on my jaw line.  I liked the spray also on an area along my scalp from an old childhood injury.  There are some areas that the spray wouldn't be good for like around the eye so the Gel is nice.  Both go on with ease and they do not have an unpleasant odor.  I really expected at least the spray to but it didn't.  It also went on without any stinging, burning or redness issues.


Kelo-cote GelThe key ingredient is silicone which hydrates the scar as well as modulating the growth of cells that create scarring.  You only have to apply once a day on clean and dry skin.  It's also perfect for all skin types including sensitive skin.


I received these products in mid October and tried them for a full four weeks and did see a noticeable different by the end of November.  It was smoother, less rigid along the scar and was less visible.  I'm still trying it on the acne scars and am hoping for a smoother appearance especially when my skin is tan.  I should have tried it on my c-section which I just might do now!


About Kelo-cote:


Kelo-cote was created by Advanced Bio-Technologies, Inc. which is a privately held biopharmaceutical out of the great state of Georgia (where I just moved from).  They specialize in creating patent protected formulas.


Overall, I can say it does work.  It did lighten the appearance of my scar on my forehead.  I had a before picture but cannot locate it.  I'm still working on the acne scars and will update this post once I am able to get a tan to see how well it did as a tan always brought them out.






*Disclosure:  I was provided complimentary products in exchange for this review.  The opinions are of my own.
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