Thursday, June 30, 2011

Wisharoo Park Giveaway!!

Did you check out my review of Wisharoo Park yesterday? I told you there would be an AWESOME giveaway and here it is! 


Three Grand Prize winners will receive packages each consisting of one Wisharoo Park DVD and six WishStars.
PLUS Three Runner-up winners will receive packages each consisting of three sets of six Wish Star finger puppets. Awesome, right? Here's how to enter:

1. Follow this blog via GFC and the newsletter.
4. Tweet or FB post about this giveaway.


Giveaway ends July 7th. Open to US only, sorry. Good luck!

WOW Toys


WOW Toys are the coolest toys I've discovered recently! My boys love love love them. We got Lunar Lenny and Police Plane Pete. But there are a ton of other toys. Most come with a person and a pal....like Lenny and his space monster, or the policeman and his police dog. These toys are so fun to play with, they keep my kids entertained for hours. The best thing about these toys though, is that they do not require batteries! Love that! Plus they are super duper durable, even for my rough and tumble boys! They also have toys for girls.

"The WOW family was founded by Nadim Ednan-Laperouse in 1997 and continues to grow year after year. We're pretty much obsessed with creating super cute, super tough toys for your little ones to love ...and all with no batteries required!"

Check them out online at WOW Toys, and on Facebook too!



 
 
 
I received products from WOW Toys in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Briefly Underwear Review & *Giveaway* 3 Winners!



"Briefly Underwear makes the most convenient, comfortable, single wrapped, affordable, compact, breathable, lightweight 100% cotton underwear on the market. With every pack we sell we give a pair to local shelters and disaster victims."

Who would of ever thought to make "on-the-go" underwear? I think this is the coolest idea, that I would have never thought of myself! There have been times when I could have used a clean pair of underwear when I was not at home. Think about the many reasons, for you, and your kids. Got your period, the kids had an accident, or hundreds of other reasons. Also, the convenience - throw a package in your gym bag, your swim bag, when you are traveling, etc. You can get a single pack, or a 3-pack. And look from the pic above how compact they are. Fits right in your purse, and no one would really know what they were if your purse spilled. I think this is a fantastic idea! I just love it. You never know when you will need a clean pair of underwear, really. And really, the underwear is comfy. I've tried them for women, and Jason tried a pair of the boxers for men. We both agree that they are quality comfy undies! Very cool.

3 winners will receive a pack of underwear! Here's how to enter:

1. Follow this blog via GFC and the newsletter.
3. "Like" this blog on Facebook.
4. Tweet or FB post about this giveaway.

Giveaway ends July 7th. Good luck!


I received products from Briefly underwear in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Wednesday, June 29, 2011

Wisharoo Park DVD & Finger Puppets & Website


Wisharoo Park is a fun website geared towards children ages 3 to 6. The site has games to play online, as well as printable activities, videos, and stories, with new content added weekly. These games and activities are fun for kids to do on their own as well as with a parent and the site is super easy to navigate. I just like the general layout of the site, as it is eye-catching, easy to use, and really fun for kids. Wisharoo Park is also a series, and we got to check out the DVD of Season One. This is the coolest show. It is really entertaining, and Callan watched it over and over, never getting bored. The package we got was the DVD, and a set of finger puppets you can use along with the show, or just to play with, plus it all came in a yummy edible chocolate bowl!

"Wisharoo Park is a multimedia edutainment series designed to help children ages 3-6 recognize and appreciate their own individuality. With its technology-based curriculum, Wisharoo Park helps children discover and understand their own personal strengths and in doing so, develop greater self-esteem and a positive self-image. Unique among hundreds of preschool programs, Wisharoo Park is specifically focused on teaching social skills and building self-esteem. Wisharoo Park is a puppet, animation and live-action series that is delivered via multi-platform mobile apps, DVD and the web."

This is a very cool whole experience for your kids - DVD, on the web, and mobile apps, plus the puppets. The total package. Check them out online at Wisharoo Park! And stay tuned for an AWESOME giveaway from Wisharoo Park!

I received products from Wisharoo Park and The Steven Style Group. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Journal Buddies Review & *Giveaway*

"Simple but powerful, Journal Buddies is no ordinary journal. It's an invitation to experience a journaling adventure and to expand your creativity and express your feelings. Most of all, it's an invitation to strengthen your self-esteem, build healthy relationships and create a positive outlook on life. To add to the excitement, you complete this unique journal with the help of your buddies - your friends, Mom, Dad, teachers, grandparents, cousins, mentors, even your pet or your imaginary friend. You've never experienced a journal like this!"

I love this journal, and want one for adults! I am so excited for my boys to begin this journal. Basically, there are no rules, you can do anything you want with this journal. There are entries for your friends/family to share their thoughts with you, and entries for you to write things, and even creative space to draw, write, color, whatever. I love how this journal is laid out, and how the prompts and "instructions" are written. The author - Jill Schoenberg - writes like she is talking to you (or rather, to your child), and that is so cool. These journals, one for boys and one for girls, really help your child discover things about themselves, and learn how amazing they truly are! The journals are laid out for a month, but you can take as long as you want to finish it. I do wish they were a bit longer....but then again, a child's attention span is not that long. I think this is a great tool for your child to learn about himself/herself in a positive and fun way! Check out the website, and buy the book online at Amazon!

Want to win a signed copy of the boys journal for your son/nephew/etc? Here's how:

1. Follow this blog via GFC and the newsletter.
4. Tweet or FB post about this giveaway.

Giveaway ends July 6th. Good luck!

I received a product from the author in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Glitter Gal

Glitter Gal is an Australian company that designs and manufactures makeup. They have nail polish, makeup pallets, eye liner, eye brow pencils, lip liners, and lip gloss. I was sent their 3D nail polish in Fuchsia! What a great color for summer! I love nail polish. I am a nail polish whore, hee hee. I especially like to color my toesies for the summer. I am in love with this nail polish by Glitter Gal. It goes on so smooth and easy, and the color is amazing. I could not be more pleased with their products! The polish retails in Australia for $11.95, which is just under $13.00 in US dollars. They ship internationally and you can buy online via PayPal! Check out all the great cosmetics from Glitter Gal at their website. Also check them out online at Facebook and Twitter, and don't forget to subscribe to their Glitter Blog!

I received a product from Glitter Gal in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Tuesday, June 28, 2011

Microsoft Xbox Points - Free

This site lets you share your link with others, and when they click, you get points for Xbox. So check it out, and get your free points HERE!

Peeled Snacks Review & *Giveaway*

Peeled Snacks are organic gently dried fruit snacks that come in a variety of flavors. We have tried dried fruit snacks before and not really been a fan. But these are different! They are not the crusty crunchy kind. They are soft and chewy and full of flavor. We like the apple the best, but all the flavors are super yummy. My kids can't get enough of them! And they are now available at Starbucks! How cool is that? 

"Our goal at Peeled Snacks is simple: to make you feel good about snacking. By using the highest quality organic and natural ingredients, we bring you the freshest pieces of dried fruit with no added sugar. Our snacks provide a natural source of vitamins, minerals, and a full serving of fruit. So make snacking a satisfying part of life with a yummy treat that you know is good for you."

Check out Peeled Snacks online to learn all about them and their yummy fruit snacks!

Want to win an Organic Fruit Pouch Sampler from Peeled Snacks? Here's how:

1. Follow this blog via GFC and the newsletter.
4. Tweet or FB post about this giveaway.

Giveaway ends July 5th. Good luck!

I received a product from Peeled Snacks in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Sandblaster Hobby Process

Sandblaster Hobby Process
Written by Eric R. W.



A lot of people have been asking me on my sandblaster website about sandblasting and sandblasters how to engrave ceramic mugs so I thought this might be interesting to share it here as well. I think this is an amazing process and very fun to do so I hope you enjoy it. I’ll list the basic steps for using a sandblaster to engrave a personalized mug below. You can also see the finished product above. These make great gifts by the way.

To sandblast or engrave into the ceramic mug, you will first need to draw up a pattern and include any written words that you would like to give it a personalized touch.


Once you think of a creative pattern or draw the pattern out, you can start getting ready by sticking a sheet of vinyl stencil onto the area of the mug that needs to be engraved. You can use a sandblasting stencil or contact paper found at home goods type stores. Then you would trace the pattern into the stencil and cut out the remaining pieces that need to be engraved. Cover up surrounding areas with masking tape to prevent unintentional sandblasting.



Third, use a sandblaster and spray over the stencil until the abrasive eats away the surface. The ceramic mug has a color layer with a white inside so when you sandblast the outer layer, the engraving will stick out in white. Its very cool appeal when finished.



For the final step, all you have to do is clean off any debris and peel off the stencil. I typically dip the stencil in warm water and use a razor blade as shown above because it comes off easier. That’s all there is too it. If you have more questions about this process, you can visit my other site about this practice as well called sandcarving.

Monday, June 27, 2011

Bad Idea T-Shirts

Bad Idea T-Shirts is a tee shop online that has hundreds of tees to choose from. From vintage shirts to funny shirts to obscene shirts. I find them all great! I have that kind of sense of humor. *Smiles* I am certain you can find a shirt on Bad Idea's website to suit your every mood and taste! The graphics on the shirts are great, and the t-shirts themselves are of great quality! Here are a few of my fave shirts:


"Say What You Mean With Bad Idea T-Shirts. Whether you’re looking for a great gift for a friend or you just want to make sure the world really knows which side of the political fence you stand on, Bad Idea T-Shirts has you covered – literally. Our 100 percent cotton, heavy duty novelty t-shirts say it all. No matter what kind of message you’d like to send, we’ve got the t-shirt to fit."

Check them out online at Bad Idea T-Shirts. I guarantee you will find a shirt you love. Don't forget to check out their $5 tees too! Also, fan them on Facebook for awesome giveaways!



I received a product from Bad Idea T-Shirts in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

ChristmasOrnaments.com

I know what you are thinking. Why the heck am I talking about Christmas ornaments in JUNE? Because every year we get personalized ornaments for family and friends as gifts, as well as add to our own collection. Most of the time I have to find the ornaments for personalization at our State Fair, or in the malls closer to Christmastime. But when I discovered ChristmasOrnaments.com I was so excited because I like to get my gifts early, and get everything squared away so I am not scrambling in November and December to make sure I check everyone off my list.

ChristmasOrnaments.com sent me this American Hero ornament, and it is only fitting for our family, and for Jason. We love it. The website has over 1,500 ornaments to choose from! Do you have a sports fanatic in your family? They have ornaments for that. Kids? Check! Military? Obviously. His & Hers and couples? Check. Mom-to-be? Check. So many to choose from, it will be easy to choose one for every person or family on your list. And how great will a unique personalized ornament just for them be? That is how I began my love for personalized ornaments, when I was gifted one. Now I have a great collection - that with ChristmasOrnaments.com, it will be easy to keep adding to!

Check out all the amazing ornaments on ChristmasOrnaments.com!

I received a product from ChristmasOrnaments.com in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Sunday, June 26, 2011

Flip Flop Wines


Flip Flop Wines I think are my new favorite wines. They sent me two whites, and a red to try, and I enjoyed each one, but the Riesling was my favorite, as I tend to enjoy sweeter wines more.

"With Flip Flop Wines, we have embraced the movement toward individualistic expression, instead of manufacturing wines into some cookie-cutter style that’s all the rage. Our goal is to craft expressive, well-balanced wines that evoke just what the grapes inside intended, without being over-wrought or over-explained, and that can be enjoyed at any occasion."

They offer Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Grigio, Moscato, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Pinot Noir, so there is a wine for every taste. The wine sells for about $7, but the taste is anything but cheap. Look for the catchy labels next time you are shopping for some wine. You won't be disappointed! And one of the coolest things about this company, for every bottle of Flip Flop Wine purchased, Soles4Souls will distribute a pair of shoes to someone in need! How great is that? Love it!



I received products from Flip Flop Wines in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Luna Dreamwear

Luna Dreamwear is an online shop that custom makes dresses for you. They began making lingerie and sleepwear, but have expanded into everyday wear, and also make dresses for proms and weddings. The picture above is the dress I received, and it is not the best picture, my apologies. But I was trying to capture how flowy and comfy the dress is. It is gorgeous, and I love how it fits me. You can see tons more pics of their custom creations on their website. When I wore the dress, Callan asked me if I was a princess, *big smile*. Each garment is sewn individually, so you know you get a one of a kind dress. I am so pleased with my dress, it is fabulous!

"R.J. Luna is an innovative line of sleep gowns (and now daywear) that offer demure sophistication and unsurpassed wearability. Each gown marries the comfort of soft, cozy and luxurious fabrics with the allure and romance of classically sexy lingerie. Luna founders, Rebbekka and Jackie, believe that comfort and allure do not need to be mutually exclusive and have created the Collection to give you both!"


I received a product from Luna Dreamwear in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Saturday, June 25, 2011

Purse Brite Review & *Giveaway*

If you're anything like me, your purse is jumbled mess. Who knows what is in there half time? Well, with the Purse Brite, now I know! And I can easily find what I want instead of having to dump my purse out! "With the Purse Brite by As Seen On TV you will finally keep everything with you organized and findable. The Purse Brite is a lighted purse organizer that has 10 expandable pockets that you can use for your keys, glasses, checkbook, makeup, cell phone and much more. Plus, there is a hidden pocket that you can use for more important things such as credit cards, pills or other personal items. Keep everything in your sight and at your fingertips with the Purse Brite. Best of all the Purse Brite will fit inside any handbag leaving room in the center for larger items, such as your wallet. Purse Brite also features an ultra-bright light built in so that you can find things quickly in the dark! Since everything will be organized nicely, with Purse Brite you will be able to change purses in minutes without having to dump your things out. The Purse Brite is also great for gym bags, diaper bags, tote bags and beach bags. It is so light, portable and space conserving that you can use it anywhere and everywhere. The Purse Bright Comes in these 3 Colors: Pink, Coal or light black, and Beige. The Purse Bright Includes: *1 Purse Brite *1 Purse Brite Light *Free 5x Magnification Lighted Mirror! *Free Luma Tweeze!" I love my Purse Brite. Seriously. And since I still have to carry around a diaper bag, it sure makes things a ton easier!

Want to win your own Purse Brite? Here's how:

1. Follow this blog via GFC and the newsletter.
4. Tweet or FB post about this giveaway.

Giveaway ends July 2nd. Open to US only, sorry. Good luck!

I received a product from TV Top Ten in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Vacation Time


Ahhhh, we leave for vacation today. Well not really a vacation, but time away, and that is always good. We are going up to Jason's dad's place for ten days. A long 5 hour drive today with two toddlers, but we stop to eat, and hopefully this time we can stop at Unclaimed Freight! Yay! Time away, here we come!

Friday, June 24, 2011

InstaSlim Tees Review & *Giveaway*

The InstaSlim t-shirts are shape wear for men! Jason was a sport and tested it out. He said it was awkward, but he did look slimmer! "InstaSlim Shirts by As Seen On TV are a great way to hide lumps, bumps and bulges and give you a slim looking silhouette every time you get dressed. The InstaSlim Shirts from "I Am Slimmer" are lightweight garments that can be worn under any clothing to make men look slimmer and trimmer than ever before. Made specifically for men, these revolutionary body slimming shirts will help hide men's problems easily. The Crew Neck T-Shirt is perfect for wearing with your regular or long sleeved shirts and will help slim your waste and arms while giving your chest some more definition. InstaSlim Crew Shirt Features: *Made from special spandex fibers *Helps slim, support and reshape *Will help you look firmer and more toned *Un-noticeable under your regular clothing *Helps make you look 1-3 inches slimmer." I did think Jason looked slimmer, but I could tell he was uncomfortable. And as us ladies who have worn shape wear before know, it is not always comfortable. But if you wanna look better, then you suffer! Awww, poor Jason! Hee hee.

Want to win an InstaSlim for your man to test out? Here's how:

1. Follow this blog via GFC and the newsletter.
4. Tweet or FB post about this giveaway.

Giveaway ends July 1st. Open to US only, sorry. Good luck.

I received a product from TV Top Ten in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Luma Tweeze

The Luma Tweeze is my new beauty best friend. I truly am amazed at how awesome this is and how well it works for me! "The Luma Tweeze from As Seen On TV is a must product for any women. With a built-in light and flip-up magnifying glass the Luma Tweeze is a pair of tweezers that will help you get perfect eyebrows every time. Plus, they are made from high-quality steel tips that are angled so that they can grip more firmly. Luma Tweeze Features: *Built in Light and Magnifier - See what you are missing! *Great for tweezing, splinters, or even crafts. *Made of high Quality stainless steel, angled blade tips that are perfectly aligned for precision tweezing. The Luma Tweeze includes: *Tweezer with built in light and magnifier *Lighted 5x mirror - Free with purchase! *Purse Lights  - Free with purchase!" I love love love this bad boy! Poor Jason became victim when I decided to shape his eyebrows! Ha! But the Luma Tweeze worked perfect for that task! Just amazing!

~HAYLEY~

I received a product from TV Top Ten in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Thursday, June 23, 2011

This Business Of Children Book Review

This Business Of Children by Chloe JonPaul

About The Book:
Vera Harriss, Deidre Fletcher, Mark Pettingill, and Stu Martel are elementary school teachers in the fictional town of Blevins, Maine whose secret, private lives change dramatically as you read. Vera, who is about to retire, vents her anger during a Board of Education meeting with a speech that brings the audience to its feet. Why does Deidre, an exceptional teacher, leave the job she loves to become a corporate trainer down South? Then there is Mark, the perennial job hunter looking for a corporate position with more prestige and pay but then turns down the perfect offer when it finally comes through. Stu, one of the most popular teachers in the school, struggles with a deep, dark secret that he can only share with Deidre. What causes Stu's untimely death? Vera Harriss, Dee Fletcher, Mark Pettingill, and Stu Martel are eager to share their intriguing secrets and entangled lives with you. 

My Thoughts:
This is quite an interesting read. I was riveted from the beginning. I am obviously not a teacher, but this story brings you into the life of one, and helps you to understand what their jobs and lives are really like. I could not put this book down, as I was so invested in the characters and just had to know what happened to them and where their journeys take them! The story flows so well and the conversation is real. Though this book is fiction, I think that every teacher and school board member should be required to read this!

Buy this book on Amazon HERE.

Stay tuned for a guest blog by the author with the introduction to the book in August!

I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Cafe Press Review & *Giveaway*

I am sure most of you have heard of Cafe Press, and maybe even have shopped there, or own stores there! (If you do, I wanna know!) But if you haven't heard of them, Cafe Press is a online site where you can order just about anything and get it personalized. Or you can custom make something. And if you have ideas on products, you can even open your own virtual store! Very cool. I have ordered from Cafe Press numerous times. Mostly for Army Wife and Veteran themed items. I was able to review some items recently, and I chose a really cool vintage t-shirt, and this Iraq Veteran journal for Jason. All the products are made well and of good quality! I am always pleased with Cafe Press. And I know you will be too. Check out the millions of cool items on Cafe Press!

Want to win a $50 Gift Coupon to Cafe Press? The $50 CafePress Coupon Code can be used to customize a gift or vintage t-shirt! Here's how:

1. Follow this blog via GFC and the newsletter.
2. Visit Cafe Press and tell me what items you would like to buy.
3. Tweet or FB post about this giveaway.

Giveaway ends June 30th. Good luck!

I received products from Cafe Press in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Megan's Way Review & *Giveaway*

Megan's Way by Melissa Foster

About The Book:
What would you give up for the people you love? When Megan Taylor, a single mother and artist, receives the shocking news that her cancer has returned, she'll be faced with the most difficult decision she's ever had to make. She'll endure an emotional journey, questioning her own moral and ethical values, and the decisions she'd made long ago. The love she has for her daughter, Olivia, and her closest friends, will be stretched and frayed. Meanwhile, fourteen-year-old Olivia's world is falling apart right before her eyes, and there's nothing she can do about it. She finds herself acting in ways she cannot even begin to understand. When her internal struggles turn to dangerous behavior, her life will hang in the balance. Megan's closest friends are caught in a tangled web of deceit. Each must figure out how, and if, they can expose their secrets, or forever be haunted by their pasts.

My Thoughts:
You can tell instantly that this book was lovingly written and the author has known these characters for a long time. Every good book has secrets and anticipation, and this story is chock-full of them! You can not put the book down because you just have to know what happens next. If you get through this book without getting a bit misty-eyed I would be shocked. This story will get your mind thinking and provoke some interesting thoughts. This is not your typical mother/daughter bonding book, but it does show you how strong of a bond a mother and child can have. The book is riveting, and I can not wait to see the movie!

About The Author:
Melissa Foster is the author of two novels, Megan's Way and Chasing Amanda. She is the founder of the Women's Nest, a social and support community for women, and is currently collaborating with a director to create a script for Megan's Way. Melissa is working on her next book, and lives in Maryland with her family. Melissa is available to chat with book clubs and welcomes comments and emails from her readers. Visit Melissa on The Women's Nest or her personal website.

Want to win a copy of this book? Here's how:
1. Follow this blog.
2. Tweet or FB post about this book.
3. Tell me why you think you would be interested in this book?


Giveaway ends June 30th. Good luck!


I received a complimentary review copy of this book from the author. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Wednesday, June 22, 2011

Socks With Thoughts

I've discovered the coolest thing! Socks With Thoughts by K. Bell Socks! "Socks with Thoughts are brightly colored socks wrapped around a special "greeting card" with plenty of room to write your own personal message. Comes with a bright envelope, just add your postage and it is ready to send! A unique and fun way to send someone your thoughts!" You can send them for birthdays, holidays, graduation, just because! How cool is that? I love that they come in such a variety of colors, and that they are wrapped around a card so you can write a message. And they fit right in the mail envelope provided! Just address the envelope and pop a stamp on, and send it! How cool and fun would that be to get a card in the mail that is socks? I love this! And from a "receiver's" point of view, the socks are cute and comfy! I wear them around the house all the time. Such a cool, fun little gift!

I received products from K. Bell Socks in exchange for a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Awesome Hair Finds

Esha Natural line from Esha Girl - Unruly hair and frizz don’t stand a chance when indulging in this terrific collection. It’s a one-stop s...