Motherhood Moment

Fun Freetime: Celery Stamping

2012-01-28T10:45:00.000-08:00

Did you know you can stamp flowers using celery? Buy a stalk of celery, and cut off and eat the stalks. With the bottom part left over, use as a stamp in paint, and then stamp onto cardstock. It will look like a flower.

Parenting Pointers: Helping Kids Afraid of Storms

2012-01-28T05:00:00.000-08:00

Storms can be scary whether it is the lightening or the deep sounds of thunder. The unfamiliar noises, the constant weather alerts going off and dark skies are a dangerous combination for children. There are several ways to help your children through a storm:

Prepare before the storm: If you think a storm is brewing, check out your local weather news and pin point the details like what is expected, for how long and the severity of it. Getting all the details will prepare you for a possible kid meltdown when that first thunder rolls in. Have flashlights, candles, snacks, pillows and any other comfort items ready in case of an emergency. If you think your child can handle it, give them a heads up and keep it light, like it’s no big deal.

Your reaction: How Mom and Dad react will affect your child’s reaction to the storm. If there is dangerous weather approaching do not let the kids know you are worried or nervous yourself. Fearing possible flooding, loss of power or a tornado is a legitimate concern, but in order to keep the kids from worrying and panicking keep a straight face. So remember to keep cool and calm, no matter the situation.

Make it fun: If the power goes out, offer a game of flash light tag or shadow puppets. Safely light some candles and make it a ‘camp out’. Be sure you have pillows, blankets and snacks. If it is just loud thunder and lots of lightening, play a board game to keep their mind off things. Serving them a cup of hot coco or reading to them will help. Make it a rainy day tradition, great memories can be made during these stormy times.

Stick to schedule: If the kids have a certain time they eat or bathe, stick to your routines and schedules. Your children are used to things being a certain way and if you change it up too much it could cause them some nervousness. Going about your day to day life no matter what the situation will show the kids there is nothing to get worked up about.

So next time you see the weather report warning remember to prepare, keep calm, make it fun and stick to normalcy. These tips will save you from meltdowns and hysterics, good luck and happy storming!

Author Bio : Coleen Torres, blogger at Phone Internet, Save money on home phone, digital TV, and high-speed Internet by comparing prices from providers in your area for standalone service or phone TV Internet bundles.

Shopping Savings: Pet Coupons

2012-01-28T04:57:00.000-08:00

$1.00 off 18 3oz cans of Fancy Feast® Elegant Medleys®
$1.00 off 24 3oz cans of Fancy Feast® Gourmet Cat Food
$1.00 off one 3 lb or larger bag of Fancy Feast® Gourmet Dry Cat Food
$1.00 off four 2oz trays of Fancy Feast® Appetizers for Cats
$1.50 off ten cans of Purina® ALPO® Dog Food
$2.00 off twelve Purina® Mighty Dog® cans or 12ct variety pack

Parenting Pointers: Organizing Financial Documents

2012-01-28T04:54:00.000-08:00

Many people are confused about what records they need to keep and for how long. They hold onto tax returns, bank records, brokerage statements and other financial information simply because they don’t know if they’ll need it again. The documents often get packed in boxes that eventually take over valuable living or storage space.

Financial planner Rick Rodgers, author of The New Three-Legged Stool: A Tax Efficient Approach to Retirement Planning, says tax time is a great time to get organized.

“Most people are going through their records to get ready to file their return,” he says. “This is the time to get smart about what you need to keep and then set up a system to store it efficiently going forward.”

Rodgers suggests these five steps to help you effectively organize your finances for 2012 and beyond:

1. Out with the old – Discard the records you no longer need: Tax returns older than seven years; bank records and credit card statements that are not related to the tax returns you’re keeping; brokerage statements that aren’t related to purchases of current holdings. Be sure to shred all your old documents before throwing them out.

2. Go digital – Convert the documents you plan to save into digital images that are stored on your hard drive. Invest in a good scanner and scan as you go through your paperwork, shredding and tossing the hard copies as you go. On your computer, file by tax year, so your 2011 folder will contain your tax return for 2011 and all pertinent bank records and receipts. Organize the previous six years the same way. Next year you can delete the oldest folder when you add the 2012 folder.

3. Save a forest – All of the financial institutions you deal with would prefer to send your statements electronically. Stop receiving paper statements. Instead, download your statements electronically and store them in your new filing system. Most banks and credit card companies keep at least a year’s worth of statements available. You need to download these files only once a year to complete the year’s file.

4. Save backups in case of emergency – Make backup copies of your files on a CD. Choose a CD-R (recordable) as opposed to a CD-RW (rewriteable), because CD-R cannot accidentally be overwritten. Depending on your computer operating system, you may be able to continue adding data to a CD-R each year, until the CD is full. However, some operating systems won’t allow that, so you’ll need a new CD for each year.

5. Go paperless – Your new electronic filing system can be expanded to include all your financial records, from car maintenance receipts to pay stubs. Wills and insurance policies can also be scanned and stored but, of course, keep the originals of those in a safe deposit box or fireproof safe.

Gone are the days of saving your financial documents in box and shoving it into the attic. Technology advances have made organizing your personal finances easier with minimal cost. Make 2012 the year you get organized by moving your finances into a 21st century filing system.

Freebies!

2012-01-28T04:50:00.000-08:00

RecipeLion - Game Day Appetizers ebook
Weight Watchers Magazine (with purchase of Jolly Time popcorn)
Kerasal dry feet therapy socks (after rebate)
Right now you can get free-after-rebate Physician's Formula makeup if you buy the specially marked packages.
$10 gas card with 10 Kellogg's UPCs
Hugo Boss Bottled or Bottled Night fragrance

Freebies!

2012-01-27T19:55:00.000-08:00

Tena Twist sample

Find tons of healthy recipes for free! Click Here

Shopping Savings: Super Bowl Party Tips

2012-01-27T19:24:00.000-08:00

More than 1.25 billion chicken wings will be consumed during this upcoming Super Bowl, totaling more than 100 million pounds of wings, according to the National Chicken Council’s 2012 Wing Report. If the wings were laid end-to-end they would circle the circumference of the Earth – more than twice. 14,500 tons of chips as well as 4000 tons of popcorn will be eaten during the big game. 69.6 million pounds of avocados will be used for guacamole dips.

The average Super Bowl party host will spend between $50 and $100 on food for their party. 38% will spend under $50, 12% will spend over $100. With so much money and time spent on eating during the Superbowl, the folks at ZipList.com, recipe discovery and grocery shopping list app, have put together the Ultimate Superbowl Checklist for Giants and Patriots fans.

Here are helpful shopping hints from ZIpList as well as links to chicken wing recipes from healthy options, to pure gluttony.

1. Shop for non-perishables like soda, chips, and cheeses, this weekend, they are likely already on sale and you’ll avoid massive lines the Saturday before the Superbowl. And since it’s American Heart Month, keep an eye out for healthy snacks on sale.

2. Don’t buy premade food like dips or precut vegetables. You’ll save a few extra bucks by cutting up your own crudities and fruits, and mixing your own dips using low fat sour cream or yogurt as the base.

3. And what’s a Superbowl party without the booze? You may be tempted to stock up on everything during one trip to your local grocer, but you can save money on beer and liquor by heading to a state liquor store, where prices are usually cheaper.

Weight Watchers Buffalo Chicken Wings
Buffalo Chicken Dip
Buffalo Chicken Grilled Cheese Sandwich
Buffalo Chicken Puffs
Chicken Wings with Garlic & Paprika Pollo al Ajillo

ZipList makes recipe discovery and grocery shopping a breeze by letting users decide how they want to find recipes (by ingredient, by what you’ve already got in your pantry, by cooking and prep time, by social network popularity) and then with a click, you can easily add ingredients to your mobile shopping list which arranges items in by your local grocers aisles so you never have to forget an item or backtrack through the story.

Sweepstakes: One for the Money Girls Night Out

2012-01-27T18:51:00.001-08:00

Enter to win a Girls’ Night Out courtesy of Katherine Heigl’s new film "One for the Money" in theatres 1/27! One lucky winner and up to three guests will receive a night out on the town with a limo, dinner, and tickets to the movies. The lucky winner also receives a $500 Amazon Gift Card and a donation to their local library in their name!! Enter here.

Contest: Kohl's Cares Scholarship

2012-01-27T11:30:00.000-08:00

Kohl’s Department Stores will be accepting nominations for outstanding young volunteers beginning next week for the 2012 Kohl’s Cares® Scholarship Program. Nominations for kids ages six to 18 will be accepted February 1 – March 15 at kohlskids.com, and nominators must be 21 years or older. Through the program, Kohl’s will award more than 2,200 young volunteers more than $440,000 in scholarships and prizes honoring kids who have made a positive impact on their communities.

- Two nominees from each of the more than 1,100 Kohl’s stores nationwide will win a $50 Kohl’s gift card.
- More than 200 of the store winners will win regional scholarships worth $1,000 toward post-secondary education.
- Ten national winners will be awarded a total of $10,000 in scholarships for post-secondary education and Kohl’s will donate $1,000 to a nonprofit organization on each national winner’s behalf.

The Kohl’s Cares® Scholarship Program is part of Kohl’s Cares®, Kohl’s philanthropic program focused on improving the lives of children. Since the program began in 2001, Kohl’s has recognized more than 15,000 kids with more than $3 million in scholarships and prizes. To learn more about last year’s winners, visit kohlskids.com.

Shopping Savings: Healthy Choice Progressive Coupon

2012-01-27T11:28:00.000-08:00

For the second year in a row, Healthy Choice is pleased to announce they are launching a Progressive Coupon(SM) on their Facebook page today. The coupon increases in value as more people sign up to receive one.

1. The coupon will begin at a value of $0.75 off one frozen entrée.
2. The coupon will increase based on the number of people who "like" the Healthy Choice Facebook page and reserve a coupon.
3. Coupon reservations close on February 1, 2012 or while supplies last.

To “Like” Healthy Choice on Facebook, reserve a coupon and spread the word, make sure to visit Healthy Choice on Facebook.

Fun Freetime: Activity Jar

2012-01-27T10:46:00.000-08:00

If you have kids whine that they're bored when they're cooped up inside because it's too cold or wet to play outside, try filling a jar with activities. Then when they're bored, they can grab an idea out of the jar to do.

Shopping Savings: Rite Aid February Video Values

2012-01-26T19:03:00.000-08:00

February Video Values offers go live this weekend and will remain up through March 3 (coupons expire March 17). The full video offer list so far is below, although there may be a few more offers to come. In all, the February program has more than 65 videos worth more than $160 in savings. And don't forget, the window to print January's Video Values closes Saturday. For more on Video Values at Rite Aid or other ways to save, check out http://savenow.riteaid.com/.

February Video Values list
$10.00 off Accu-Chek Aviva Meter
$10.00 off Accu-Chek Compact Plus Meter
$10.00 off Extenze 16oz Liquid
$10.00 off QuickTrim Extreme Burn 60ct or Burn & Cleanse 14 day Kit
$5.00 Off ANY (1) TENA® SERENITY® PAD, UNDERWEAR OR GUARD
$5.00 off any L'Oreal Age Perfect HydraNutrition Balm or Serum
$5.00 off any L'Oreal Revitalift Clinical Repair item
$5.00 off GUM PerioBalance
$5.00 off Multiclix Lancets
$5.00 off Nature Made COQ10
$5.00 off Quick Trim Hot Sticks 20ct, Aquaslim 20ct, Sugar & Carb Cheater 60ct, or Fast Cleanse 48her Super Diet Detox 16oz
$5.00 off Vick's Vaporizers or Humidifiers
$4.00 off Prevacid 24hr
$3 Off Revlon Age Defying with DNA Advantage™ Cream Makeup
$3.00 off any EPT
$3.00 off any Monistat Item
$3.00 off Citrucel
$3.00 off Osteo Bi-Flex
$3.00 off when you by one L'Oreal Colour Riche Lip Item and one Colour Rich Nail item together
One FREE FlavoRX Flavoring for Children's Liquid Medication
$2 Off Revlon ColorStay Ultimate Liquid Lipstick
$2.00 off Abreva
$2.00 off Airborne
$2.00 off any Dr. Scholl's Items $9.99 and up
$2.00 off any L'Oreal True Match Item
$2.00 off Clearasil Perfecta Wash Kit
$2.00 off Dark & Lovely Relaxers or Dark & Lovely Healthy Gloss Hair Care Items
$2.00 off Gas-X
$2.00 off Lamisil
$2.00 off L'Oreal Magic Lumi Concealer or Primer
$2.00 off Neosporin Eczema Essentials
$2.00 off Poise Hourglass Shape Pads
$2.00 off Samy Fat Foam
$1.50 off any Two Edge, Skintimate, or Schick Hydro Shave Gel or Cream
$1.50 off Mucinex Fast Max Adult Liquids
$1.00 off Adult Listerine 500ml
$1.00 off Aleve
$1.00 off all South Beach Diet Items
$1.00 Off Almay Smart Shade Foundation
$1.00 off any Clean & Clear Item
$1.00 off any L'Oreal EverCrème Item
$1.00 off any L'Oreal EverStyle Item
$1.00 off any L'Oreal Studio Styling Item
$1.00 off any Nature's Bounty Fish Oil or COQ10 Item
$1.00 off any Three Kleenex Facial Tissue 75-200ct
$1.00 off Bayer Aspirin
$1.00 off Delsym
$1.00 off Ester-C
$1.00 off GUM Soft-Picks 40ct
$1.00 off L'Oreal False Fiber Mascara
$1.00 off L'Oreal Sublime Mousse Hair Color
$1.00 off Luster's Hot Oil Treatment
$1.00 off Lysol Spray or Wipes
$1.00 off Organic Root Stimulator Olive Oil Relaxer Kits
$1.00 off Rimmel Scandal Eyes Mascara
$1.00 off Rite Aid Maxi Pads 36-48ct or Pantyliners 92ct
$1.00 off Rite Aid Tampons 40-54ct
$1.00 off Two bags of Hershey's Kisses
$1.00 off Two Diet Coke or Coke Zero 2 liters
$1.00 off Two Oreos
$1.00 off Two Revlon ColorSilk Hair Color Items
$1.00 off Viactiv
$0.50 off any Two Payday or York Peppermint Pattie Candy Bars
$0.50 off Skittles Singles
$0.50 off Two Hershey's Candy Bars
$0.30 off Libby's Fruit
$0.10 off Welch's Grape Juice 14oz or 64oz

Freebies!

2012-01-26T12:23:00.000-08:00

Versace Yellow Diamond fragrance

Parenting Pointers: Color and Mood

2012-01-26T11:55:00.000-08:00

Want to provide a subtle mood adjustment to yourself or your family members? Try these color tricks:

Red - makes people pay more attention to details
Orange - makes people feel more stimulated (such as psyching yourself up to work out)
Yellow - makes people more active and energetic
Green - helps people relax
Blue - inspires creativity
Purple - helps people loosen up
Black - helps people feel more empowered and sophisticated
White - inspires optimism and hope
Brown - helps people feel cozy

Parenting Pointers: Breastfeeding Tips

2012-01-26T11:48:00.000-08:00

Here are some breastfeeding tips from Sara Chana, international board-certified lactation consultant, birthing instructor, classical homeopath and herbalist.

· Don’t believe that breastfeeding is supposed to hurt and that sore nipples are the norm, or perhaps even a badge of courage for toughing-it-out. If the baby is latched on properly and draining the breast, it shouldn't hurt!
· Do teach your baby to “breastfeed” and not “nipple feed: To do so, start by holding your breast steady and compress it into a pointy shape with your hand.
· Don’t stuff your breast into the baby’s mouth. Instead, bring your baby “to you”. To accomplish this, support the baby well, holding him along his spine and at the base of his head.
· Do use RAM (rapid arm movement), and bring your baby (or RAM him) onto the breast in a quick-swift motion, allowing the baby to take the breast as deeply into his throat as he can.
· Don’t get discouraged. With practice, a mom will be able to nurse pain free, when she and her baby share the experience of being on the breast deeply.

Working Moms Do’s and Don’ts:
· Do assure that the breastfeeding is well established before the introduction of the bottle, if that has become your choice for getting back to work.
· Don’t introduce a bottle before six weeks. If possible, wait until eight to ten weeks. Most babies take a minimum of six weeks to learn how to master and become a professional on the breast.
· Don’t worry that your baby will not be able to learn to take the bottle. A baby who is nursing well and truly being satisfied on the breast, will be able to figure out and learn how to take a bottle in the mothers absence.
· Do make someone else introduce the bottle to your baby. It is better for someone other than the mother to introduce the bottle so that the baby identifies the bottle only with another caregiver and not with the mother.

Introducing Solid Foods Do’ and Don’ts
· Don’t rush the introduction of solid foods. Babies don’t need to eat solids until they have from four to eight teeth, or until they can sit up and support themselves in a high chair, and manage to get more food into their mouths, by themselves, than they do in their hair or on the floor
· Don’t confuse the need for oral discovery, with hunger. Babies become very orally excited from between five to nine months.
· Do let your infant explore the world of taste and texture by letting her smell, play and mush all kinds of foods. Give her different colors and textures to play with. Rather than push quantities of food into their little tummies that most babies don’t require, allow their inquisitive scientific minds develop.
· Do be aware that breast milk changes as the child grows, keeping up with the nutritional needs of the baby, so why the rush into solid foods? Your breast milk is as nutritious for a ten month old as it was for a two week old.

Sara Chana is a mother of 7 and was introduced to homeopathy as a result of her 2nd son’s severe eczema, reflux and asthma. As she went from specialist to specialist seeking a cure, each one told her that her son would need to be on medication for the rest of his life, Sara decided to look into alternative medicine. By educating herself and using homeopathic remedies, she was able to cure her son and now specializes in helping moms all over the country with natural remedies for their children.

Healthy Habits: Ask the Kids

2012-01-26T07:05:00.000-08:00

Watch this video from Horizon Organic for kids' perspectives on healthy eating!
Click here to view

Disclosure: This is a sponsored post.

Thrifty Thinking: Last-MInute Tax Tips

2012-01-25T21:04:00.001-08:00

If you’re just beginning to think about your 2011 income tax return, you’ve got a late start – but it’s still not too late to cash in on some savings.

“A lot of the deductions associated with the economic stimulus package will disappear in 2012, so if you want to take advantage of them, you’ve got only until Dec. 31,” says Jessica James, CPA and author of Justice for None (www.AuthorJessicaJames.com), an insider look at IRS tactics in a tax fraud investigation and trial.

But, she says, there’s still plenty of time for some other measures to ease your share of the tax burden. Now is also a good time to resolve to start earlier in 2012 to minimize that year’s tax bill. Here are some tips for both 2011 and 2012 savings:

• Contribute to retirement accounts. If you haven’t already put money into your traditional or ROTH IRA account for 2011, you’ve got until April 17 to do it. If you have a Keogh or SEP (Simplified Employee Pension Individual Retirement Arrangement for businesses), and you get a filing extension to Oct. 15, you’ve got until then to make your 2011 deposits. The maximum IRA contribution for 2011 is $5,000, or $6,000 if you’re 50 or older by the end of the year. For self-employed people, the maximum for SEPs and Keoghs for 2011 is $49,000.

• Don't fear the home office deduction. In the past, many tax filers didn’t claim a home office deduction because it was seen as an IRS red flag. But the requirements and forms have been clarified so people can do that properly – and not make mistakes that can lead to an audit. Also, the rules have been expanded so more people can claim the deduction. If you use a home office exclusively for business, even if you don’t meet your clients there, you’re eligible. For instance, a handyman who does his work other people’s houses can claim the deduction if he does his paperwork at his home office. Another change is that, in the past, if you claimed 10 percent of your home as an office, that amount would not be included in the $250,000 tax-free profit from the home’s sale that’s allowed for an individual by the IRS. Be sure to make your claim reasonable, or it will get questioned; a $25,000 home office deduction for a business with $50,000 annual gross revenue is not reasonable.

• Maximize your Flexible Spending Account. The Health Care Act will limit the maximum you can put into these pre-tax medical expense accounts in 2013. So 2012 is the last year to use an FSA to pay for orthodontics and other large medical expenses using pre-tax earnings. A medical expense flexible spending account, or FSA, allows you to use before-tax earnings to pay for medical or health care expenses not covered by your health insurance. Assuming a 25 percent tax rate, you avoid $25 in taxes for every $100 you spend from your FSA.

• Need to sell an investment? Next year may be the time. The Tax Relief Act maintains the tax rate cap on capital gains and dividends at 15 percent through 2012. In 2013, the cap for capital gains will increase to 20 percent and for dividends, 39.6 percent. The Health Care Act also created a 3.8 percent Medicare tax on investment income, effective in 2013. Given those scheduled increases, plan to take advantage of the rates next year.

James is an author pseudonym used because she fears her novel may provoke IRS retaliation. It’s a fictionalized account of her experience as a minor player swept up in an IRS probe that included anyone associated with the primary target, a corporation. She says that, though she was innocent of any wrongdoing, she was coerced into accepting a plea deal by the IRS, which was bent on amassing adjudications of guilt to justify the investigation’s expense. She pled guilty to a count of falsifying a tax return and continues to work as a CPA.

About Jessica James

Jessica James is a CPA and the author of a novel, Justice for None, about her experiences as a minor target in a major federal tax fraud case. After her ordeal, she decided to write about it as a warning to others who think they can take on the government and win.

Consumer Critique: Cougar Cub Tales Sneezy Wheezy Day

2012-01-25T20:57:00.000-08:00

I recently had the opportunity to review Cougar Cub Tales:The Sneezy Wheezy Day (free ebook on Amazon until January 27th; you can also buy a hard copy from Amazon or other booksellers). This book joins other Cougar Cub Tales books as being a cute story for kids that teaches them a lesson at the same time.

The Sneezy Wheezy Day follows the cougar cubs as they try to seek a rememdy for brother cub's cold. They do a variety of crazy things suggested by other animals, while the cub keeps feeling worse and worse. All along, the sister accompanies him and supports him in his quest to feel better. It's a touching display of sibling love and companionship.

The author, Sharon Cramer, is a Certified Registered Nurse Anesthetist and avid competitive equestrian. She is also the author of, soon to be released, Marlo and the Monster, and is working on a new young adult series called The Cerulean Star. She lives in Spokane, Wash. She also illustrates her own books in watercolor, with each picture taking 18-24 hours. You can tell that she puts a lot of effort into the book - I like the illustrations even more than the story, and there's so much detail in them that adults will be captivated by the book as the kids listen to the rhythm of the rhyming story. Cramer chose cougar cubs for her series because she wanted to create characters that spoke strongly of the Pacific Northwest, where she lives.

Disclosure: I received a copy of this book to facilitate this review.

Healthy Habits: Winter Driving

2012-01-25T20:46:00.000-08:00

We've been lucky this winter in Minnesota - it hasn't been nearly as crazy as last year, as far as snow is concerned. So overall, the roads have been much better. However, we have had a few snowstorms, bringing with them slushy or icy roads that make driving a little slower and more difficult.

Safe driving is important - for you and your passengers, and for everyone on the road. A sudden break or swerve can be compounded in the winter to cause spin-outs for you, or for people behind you as they try to stop suddenly as well. And that can create traffic backups for everyone in the commute.

Esurance has some tips for winter driving and you can also visit the Esurance Facebook page for more information and tips. Here are the ones I find the most valuable, along with some of my own hints.

1) Tailor your driving to the road conditions. Different weather creates different issues, whether it's rain that freezes as it hits the road, freezing rain, blinding snow, light snow that becomes slushy, hail, or fog.
2) Have a winter car kit. This should include a blanket and some non-perishable food in case you're stranded, sand or kitty litter to provide traction if you end up in the ditch, a shovel, a flashlight, water (it takes more energy for your body to eat snow than drink water), and a first aid kit.
3) Drive more slowly than normal. This should be common sense, but it doesn't seem to stick with most people. Of course, you don't have to drive so slowly that you are only coasting. Not only does that infuriate other drivers, but it also can impede your own progress (for example, if you don't have any momentum going up a slick hill).
4) Take alternate routes. If your normal route has a stop sign on a downhill, avoid it, since it'll be harder to stop.
5) If your car has anti-lock brakes, let the car do the work if you start to slide. If not, release and then re-apply pressure until you start to skid again, then repeat.
6) If you find yourself skidding, turn into the direction of your skid to help pull out of it.
7) Avoid other distracting behaviors while driving. You shouldn't be doing things like talking on your cell phone or putting on makeup while driving anyway, but it's even more important to avoid these behaviors in the winter with bad weather.

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Esurance blogging program for 8,000 My SocialMoms Rewards Points. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

Contest: Nordic Naturals What's Essential

2012-01-25T12:27:00.000-08:00

Nordic Naturals has just launched a new campaign called What's Essential. Nordic Naturals is committed to being the best source for safe, pure omega oils and has a wide range of products to that cause. Now they want to hear what's essential in your life, as part of the contest. You can enter at What's Essential or at the Nordic Naturals Facebook page. If you enter, you can win a trip to California or a Canon® Vixia HF M400 camcorder! The contest ends April 30th, so you have plenty of time to write your story.

For me, there are two things essential in my life: faith and family. Faith sustains me in difficult times, provides me with a moral compass in my life, and helps me maintain a positive attitude day-to-day. Family - which includes extended family and friends - provides support when I need it, joy, and love, all of which sustain me and make life worth living.

What's essential in your life?

Website Spotlight: No Child Held Back

2012-01-25T12:22:00.000-08:00

Are you frustrated at the impact that No Child Left Behind has had on schools? As an educator, I fully support the premise, but I find the implementation incredibly flawed. There's a new site No Child Held Back, that seeks to transform education by looking at helping all kids reach their highest potential, not just helping kids avoid failing. It's an important distinction if you're kids are at any point on the spectrum other than failing. Feel free to visit the website to learn more.

Parenting Pointers: Back-to-School - for Parents

2012-01-24T19:31:00.000-08:00

Do You Want to Go Back to School, Even if You Have Kids? It’s Possible!
When you become a parent, no one can deny that your life is suddenly and completely turned upside down. To begin what is essentially the most difficult thing that you will ever do—raising a child—not one of us is completely prepared, and so we put every ounce of our energy and love into it. Still, most of us have children when we still endeavor to complete something else: to get a better job, to continue our life long hobbies. For many of us parents, a common dream is to go back to school. And far too many parents give up because they think it is impossible to be a good parent while being a student. With the rising popularity of online or distance education, however, what once seemed an impossibility is becoming a reality for many. Here are a few points about online degrees that enable an education to be perfectly conducive to parenting:
1. You can complete all your coursework from home.
This, of course, is the most obvious reason that parenting and online degrees go hand-in-hand. All you really need is any type of computer and a good Internet connection. The biggest issue that parents have about going to school is that it would take time away from interacting with their children. Since most work is assigned that you finish it on your own schedule, with long-term deadlines, you can take time out whenever possible to take the kids to soccer practice, or to make dinner for your family.
2. It’s more affordable.
Another concern that parents have about going back to school is that the cost will be prohibitive. We all know how expensive having children can be, and just the thought of sending kids to college one day may make you feel as though you going back to school is a waste of money. However, if you do your research, you’ll find that many online degree programs are a fraction of the cost of traditional institutions of higher education. What’s more, you won’t have to spend money on relocating or transportation, the way that you would have to if you had attended a traditional university.
3. Degree completion timelines are more flexible.
If you are the parent of a very young kid, you probably want to get finished with your schooling as quickly as possible so you can go back to giving your child the physical attention that it deserves. If your kids are older and spend most of their time in school, and you need something to do, then perhaps you want to take several years to complete your degree. Unlike traditional universities, in which it takes four or more years to complete most degrees, it is highly variable for online students since most courses are very self-paced.
4. There are many positives to studying while your child herself is a student.
What I found to be the most delightful thing about pursuing an online degree while my children were in grade and middle school was that we got to do homework together, and they became more receptive to school in general. As they say, children follow action and example, not just what you say. I think this perfectly applied-- I became a student, and they followed.
Of course, even though pursuing an online degree makes parenting simultaneously a bit easier, it’s still no walk in the park. Make sure that you research schools and programs thoroughly, and make sure also that the rest of your family is on board and supportive of your educational goals.
Byline:
This is a guest post from Jacelyn Thomas. Jacelyn writes about identity theft protection for IdentityTheft.net. She can be reached at: jacelyn.thomas @ gmail.com.

Shopping Savings: Redbox Trivia Points

2012-01-24T18:42:00.000-08:00

You can get a discount while testing your movie smarts! Redbox ha launched Redbox Trivia. Redbox Trivia is Redbox’s first movie trivia game. You will have 60 seconds to answer five questions based on popular movie trivia, and will be rewarded a $.10 discount for every correct answer. Simply go to redbox.com/trivia to begin playing! Feel free to play once a day through February 5 to test your movie trivia and be rewarded with discounts on rentals!

Below, please find the top rented family movies from 1/9-1/15. Find your nearest Redbox location by visiting redbox.com or via the Redbox iPhone® or Android mobile apps. We would love if you could share this with your readers!

Mr. Popper's Penguins - Fox
Kung Fu Panda 2 - Dreamworks
The Smurfs (2011) - Sony
Zookeeper - Sony
Spy Kids 4: All the Time in the World - Anchor Bay
Cars 2 - Disney
Judy Moody and the NOT Bummer Summer - Fox
Rio - Fox
Rango - Paramount
The Super Mario Bros. Super Show!: Mario's Adventure - NCircle Entertainment

Freebies!

2012-01-24T08:44:00.000-08:00

Personalized Kids' Valentines ($4.50 S&H)
Possible free Papa John's pizza

Healthy Habits: Sneaky Fitness during Errands

2012-01-24T04:08:00.000-08:00

Here are a lot of easy ways to sneak some extra activity while out and about around town.

- Go into banks instead of using the drive-through.
- Use a basket instead of a cart if possible.
- Tap your foot to the beat while at a stoplight.
- Bag your own groceries.
- Walk instead of drive between stores if they're close.

Freebies!

2012-01-23T12:58:00.000-08:00

Dove Nourishing Oil Care

Website Spotlight: Pick A Powder

2012-01-23T12:36:00.001-08:00

NASCAR legend Richard Petty and Country Music Star Trace Adkins have some nice videos to support their favorites charities. The “Like, Share, Change The World” campaign is giving fans a chance to raise more funds and awareness for Wounded Warrior Project and Victory Junction Camp for special kids. There are two final videos where Adkins and Petty explain why these special charities are special to them. In the final campaign, Petty and Adkins ask people to visit their Facebook pages and offer ways that people can “CHANGE THE WORLD.” For everyone who visits the Facebook pages www.pickapowder.com and “likes” the videos, a donation will be made to these special charities.

Healthy Habits: Commit a Minute Resolutions

2012-01-23T12:24:00.000-08:00

Underwriters' Laboratories wants you to make some safety resolutions that are easy to keep. Just Commit a Minute to Safety to follow these tips:
- Install UL certified carbon monoxide detectors on each floor of your home and make sure that your whole family knows what they sound like and what to do if they go off.
- Keep UL certified fire extinguishers strategically placed in rooms such as the kitchen, garage or workshop.
- To help prevent a fire, keep combustibles such as draperies, clothing and furniture at least three feet away from air heaters. Children should also be taught to keep three feet from the heat.
- Look for the UL Mark when you buy appliances.

Parenting Pointers: Campus Safety

2012-01-23T11:43:00.000-08:00

Marcia Peot, full time police officer and Chief Safety Officer at StreetSafe, wants to offer the following safety tips to keep your kids safe if they're at college this semester:

- Let friends or roommates know where you are going, who you are with and when to expect you home.
- Never leave outside doors propped open, and don’t let strangers into secured buildings or residence halls.
- Never accept a ride from someone you don’t know, even if they are or claim to be a fellow student.
- When approaching your car or residence, have your keys in your hand and check the area for suspicious individuals or activity.
- When walking by yourself, keep your expensive belongings such as laptops and cell phones hidden. You will be less of a target.
- When dressed for cold weather, make sure your vision and hearing are not obstructed by hats and scarves.
- Consider taking extra measures to protect yourself. StreetSafe is a new service that uses your smart phone’s GPS technology to instantly connect to help before a situation turns into an emergency. StreetSafe’s “Walk with Me” service offers a live connection to a professional Safety Advisor to keep you safe when walking in unfamiliar or threatening surroundings and instant access to 911 if needed.

Soul Sustenance: Rejection

2012-01-22T05:03:00.000-08:00

With rejection comes a decision: you can either turn back or find a new way forward. - Teri Trespicio, Whole Living magazine

Freebies!

2012-01-20T05:02:00.000-08:00

Delicious and Nutritious Gluten-Free Lunch Recipes: Affordable, Easy and Tasty Meals You Will Love (Bestselling Gluten-Free Recipes) (Kindle ebook - read for free using a Kindle app)
How to Cook Healthy & Natural Snacks (Cheap, Easy & Incredible Natural Recipes) (Kindle ebook)

Healthy Habits: Cold-EEZE The Doctor is In

2012-01-20T04:46:00.000-08:00

Cold-EEZE has a new Facebook page feature called “The Doctor Is In.” It allows patients to ask Dr. Yael Halaas, MD and resident Cold-EEZE physician, medical questions for her real-time response, completely free of charge. So if you or someone you love is suffering from annoying symptoms, it’s time to log on and start the curing process!

To have your questions answered, simply go the Cold-EEZE Facebook page, click on “The Doctor Is In” tab on the left-hand side and ask away!

Cold-EEZE wants you and your family to get better sooner in 2012 and hopes that you’ll spread the word, not your cold!

About Dr. Yael Halaas:

Dr. Yael Halaas received her undergraduate degree from Columbia College in New York and graduated in the top ten percent of her medical school class at Cornell University Medical College, with prestigious distinction of membership in the Alpha Omega Alpha Medical Honors Society. She also earned the American Medical Women's Association award as part of her membership in the top five percent of her graduating class. She spent her general surgery internship and otolaryngology residency at Albert Einstein College of Medicine in New York where she is currently an Assistant Clinical Professor in the Department of Otolaryngology. She is a member of numerous medical societies including the American Medical Association, American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery and the New York County Medical Society. She is also Board Certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology.

BREAK IN AROUND THE CORNER

2012-01-20T04:43:00.001-08:00

Thanks for the guest post by Donn Schroeder

I called home security San Antonio to look into getting a system put in our home after a few break-ins had occurred around our neighborhoods. News of the break-ins was terrible. The thieves struck with the families were out of town for Thanksgiving. The police said that holidays are times when thieves cruise the neighborhoods and look for people who look like they are out of town. They are also more likely to rob homes when people are away and when they see that they don’t have security systems. We are going to be away for a few weddings and visiting family in the spring and I want to make sure that our home isn’t one that looks inviting to thieves. I was surprised to see that the prices are a lot less than I thought that they would be or how much that it was just twenty years ago. If you had an alarm system twenty years ago, you definitely had something to protect in your house. I just would hate to be one of those families who went away for a nice weekend and returned to find that they had been violated.

Healthy Habits: Childhood Obesity

2012-01-20T04:37:00.000-08:00

Here's an interesting survey result: Poll Position found that, when asked, ‘Do you think childhood obesity is a disease, or is it caused by poor parenting, poor food choices, or both?’ 34% percent of respondents said both poor parenting and poor food choices cause childhood obesity, 29% said poor parenting, 24% said poor food choices, 4% thought childhood obesity was a disease, 9% did not offer an opinion.

What I think is particularly interesting is that I've also read studies that talked about the number of parents who don't recognize that their own children are overweight or obese. And since 20% of children in 2008 were obese, according to the CDC, it's likely that many of those who said it was poor parenting or both parenting and food choices may have obese kids.

If you're concerned about your child's weight, talk to your doctor. Children who are obese are more likely to have significant health problems down the road and to be obese as adults. The earlier you can get them going on positive healthy habits, the better. Make sure that healthy habits, such as daily exercise and balanced eating, are a family affair.

Thrifty Thinking: Cash Call with Jean Chatzky

2012-01-20T04:31:00.000-08:00

NBC News and RLTV, cable network that provides viewers with information and entertainment to help Redefine Life after 50, will co-produce a new television show hosted by award-winning journalist and best-selling author Jean Chatzky. Chatzky is the financial editor for NBC News’ Today Show and the author of seven books, including the recent New York Times best-seller Money 911: Your Most Pressing Money Questions Answered, Your Money Emergencies Solved. The new weekly show, Cash Call With Jean Chatzky, will premiere on Tuesday, February 28 at 8:00 pm exclusively on RLTV.

It's a 30-minute, live consumer finance show featuring practical advice on how to manage money in today's complex financial environment. Jean will be joined by financial specialists, industry analysts and other experts as she takes calls, emails, Skypes and Tweets from viewers around the country and answers questions on specific weekly themes. From insurance to investments, from being a savvy consumer to protecting your credit Cash Call with Jean Chatzky is smart, essential viewing for RLTV’s growing audience of Boomers and Seniors, that is guaranteed to provide actionable guidance on how to keep their money working well now and well into retirement. Sample topics include loans, real estate and mortgages, insurance, investment products, and improving and managing credit. The Executive Producers of Cash Call With Jean Chatzky are Beth O’Connell of NBC News and Elliot Jacobson of RLTV.

Cash Call With Jean Chatzky is part of RLTV’s multiplatform initiative, “Funding Your Future,” which focuses on the financial interests of adults, age 50+. In addition to Cash Call, “Funding Your Future” consists of two new RLTV original television series (Fraud Squad and The Advisors) and four quarterly television specials.

Healthy Habits: Healthy Heart Challenge

2012-01-20T04:20:00.000-08:00

Dr. Nieca Goldberg cracks down on cardiovascular disease this February through the launch of her first national Healthy Heart Challenge. To participate, Dr. Goldberg asks that American adults take the proper steps to improve their overall cardiovascular wellbeing. Causing about 2,200-deaths a day, cardiovascular disease continues to be a major killer in the United States, and Americans are more obese and spending more money on treatment of the disease than ever before, according to the AHA’s 2012 “Heart Disease and Stroke Statistical Survey.” This can stop now.

Improving your cardiovascular health can seem like a difficult goal, but by making simple lifestyle changes is the first step toward big change. To follow are the top five things you must do to improve your heart health:
1. Quit Smoking: Smoking triples the risk of heart disease.
2. Reduce your salt intake: Cutting salt intake in half would save more than a million people from hypertension
3. Exercise: Maintain three hours a week of aerobic exercise and aim to take 10,000 steps a day.
4. Heart Check-Up: The only way to know if you’re at risk is to have a good heart to hear you’re your doctor. Discuss your family history, your lifestyle and have your blood pressure taken. Lab tests for cholesterol and glucose are important as well; your doctor will determine if you need additional tests.
5. Aspirin: Discuss with your doctor if Aspirin will benefit you. Research shows that an aspirin a day doesn’t prevent a first heart attack in everyone.

Heart disease is still the number one killer in the United States, more than all cancers combined. These simple lifestyle changes can decrease your risk of heart disease by up to 80%. You’ll look better, feel better and live longer, who can argue with that!

Freebies!

2012-01-18T07:39:00.000-08:00

How to Unspoil Your Child Fast: A Speedy, Complete Guide to Contented Children and Happy Parents (Kindle ebook)
Stickers from WeKids (Bible-based radio program)
Fitmixer

Contest: Dryel Freshen Your Swag

2012-01-17T21:09:00.000-08:00

The oneCARE Company, a manufacturer of fabric care and household products, today announced the Dryel® “Freshens your Swag” Video Contest. Dryel is offering $3,000 to the entrant who submits the best video on how Dryel “Freshens your Swag” when laundering their favorite clothing. The top 3 finalists will be chosen by the public voting. Second and third place winners will win $2,000 and $1,000, respectively.

Video Submissions will be accepted starting Jan. 16 and end on Feb. 15. Voting will begin on Feb. 16 and end on May 31. Videos must be one-minute or less. For information regarding official rules and requirements, visit www.dryel.com/2012videocontest.

Already known for its impressive capability to launder dry clean-only clothes, Dryel re-launched in June of last year with a more powerful product. The new Dryel won’t fade, shrink or stretch any clothing and is especially good for sweaters, dark denim and other clothing favorites.Additionally, a significant change in packaging has allowed customers to find the product much easier on shelves.

Denise Edwards, the Dryel brand manager says, “Looking good instills confidence, gives a sense of attitude and swagger. We want to hear from our customers how they are using Dryel to freshen their swag.”

The Dryel Starter Kit (MSRP: $6.99) contains a Dryel bag, designed to protect garments from the excessive heat of the dryer, cleaning spray and two cleaning sheets. Refill kits are also available (MSRP $8.99) and contain the cleaning spray and six cleaning sheets.

About The oneCARE Company
The oneCARE Company was founded in 2007. Its stable of brands is more than 500 products strong and includes leading products in the laundry, pet and cleaning consumer product categories. Flagship products include Evercare and Dryel. oneCARE’s vision is to provide innovative solutions and superior service for healthy homes. The company is headquartered in Alpharetta, Ga.

Parenting Pointers: Resolutions and Eating Disorders in Kids

2012-01-17T21:05:00.000-08:00

Many people make weight- or nutrition-related resolutions each year. Unfortunately, parents’ new diet and fitness regimens may have an unintended, negative outcome—triggering disordered eating behaviors or body image issues in their children. Because children often will mirror what they observe in their adult counterparts, Eating Recovery Center, an international center for eating disorders recovery providing comprehensive treatment for anorexia, bulimia and binge eating disorder, urges parents to be mindful with their food- and body-focused words and behaviors while undertaking New Year’s resolutions.

“Children and teens are very susceptible to picking up value judgments about body shape and size,” said Elizabeth Easton, PsyD, clinical director of Child and Adolescent Services at Eating Recovery Center. “If we teach them – through dieting, over-exercise behaviors and critiques of our own bodies – that there is a ‘good’ body type, then that is exactly what children will strive for at all costs if they are susceptible to an eating disorder or poor body image.”

According to the National Eating Disorders Association, weight and body consciousness among children begins at very young ages, with research finding that 81 percent of 10-year-olds are afraid of being fat and 46 percent of 9- to 11-year-olds are “sometimes” or “very often” on diets.

More than one-third of “normal dieters,” many of whom begin dieting at young ages, progress to pathological dieting, a condition marked by continual dieting and from which 20 to 25 percent of individuals develop eating disorders. When considered alongside a recent Thomson Reuters and National Public Radio poll, which reveals that one-third of Americans have made a New Year’s resolution to lose weight in the last five years, this research illustrates the perfect storm parents can unknowingly initiate by adopting aggressive or unhealthy weight loss regimens.

Eating Recovery Center encourages parents to follow these four tips to model healthy behavior, help their children embrace healthy attitudes about their bodies and minimize the chances that children will adopt negative thoughts and behaviors related to food and body image.
- Do not diet. Instead, resolve to eat healthier, well-balanced meals. Through their own behaviors, parents can teach children how to focus on moderation without rigidly labeling foods as “good” or “bad.”
- Shift your perspective on exercise. Instead of looking at exercise as a dreaded weight loss tool, approach it as a fun activity for feeling good and improving overall health. Plan family outings and activities and children will follow their parents’ example.
- Be aware of comments you make about your body. Children are far more astute than parents may give them credit for, and they often mirror observed behaviors. Offhand comments about having a “fat day,” failing at your weight loss resolution or feeling too snug in an old pair of jeans can have a bigger effect on a developing child’s body image than many may think.
- Be aware of comments you make about others. Criticizing others for “gaining a few pounds” over the holidays or complimenting someone for resolution-driven weight loss can lead children to believe that there are “good” and “bad” body shapes and sizes.

“Because eating disorders have a genetic component, children with a family history of anorexia, bulimia or binge eating disorder are particularly susceptible to negative diet- and body-focused words and actions,” explains Dr. Easton. “In these children, seemingly innocent body image comments or dieting behaviors can quickly spiral out of control.”

Parents are encouraged to seek an eating disorders assessment if they notice troubling food- or body image-oriented behaviors in their children. Recovery is entirely possible with early intervention and proper eating disorder treatment from qualified professionals.

About Eating Recovery Center
Eating Recovery Center is an international center for eating disorders recovery providing comprehensive treatment for anorexia, bulimia, EDNOS and binge eating disorder. Denver-based facilities include the Behavioral Hospital for Adults, the Behavioral Hospital for Children and Adolescents, and the Partial Hospitalization Program and Outpatient Services. In addition, Eating Recovery Center, in partnership with Summit Eating Disorders and Outreach Program, offers Partial Hospitalization and Outpatient Services in Sacramento, California. Under the personal guidance and care of Drs. Kenneth Weiner, Craig Johnson, Emmett Bishop and Ovidio Bermudez, our collaborative programs provide a full spectrum of services for children, adolescents and adults. Our integrated programs offer patients a continuum of care that includes Inpatient, Residential, Partial Hospitalization, Intensive Outpatient and Outpatient services. Our compassionate team of professionals collaborates with treating professionals and loved ones to cultivate lasting behavioral change. For more information please contact us at 877-218-1344 or info@EatingRecoveryCenter.com or confidentially chat live on our website at www.EatingRecoveryCenter.com.

Freebies!

2012-01-17T21:00:00.000-08:00

Lovely Skin skin care sample (your choice)

Fun Freetime: Chuck E Cheese Birthday Magic Ticket

2012-01-17T20:20:00.000-08:00

Chuck E. Cheese has established a Birthday Star tradition of its own with the unique Ticket Blaster™ experience. As part of its ongoing effort to reinvent birthday parties by introducing new, exciting party perks, Chuck E. Cheese’s will add a Magic Ticket to the mix of rewards in its exclusive Ticket Blaster game included with reserved birthday party packages. In addition to catching as many tickets as they can, lucky children who grab the Magic Ticket while it swirls around them in the Ticket Blaster will win 1,000 additional tickets to redeem for prizes and presents at the end of their party.

Chuck E. Cheese’s birthday parties only take a few minutes to plan, with online reservations as well as printable or email invitations providing simple party-planning solutions. Party organizers can also call the nearest store as early as 90 days in advance to reserve a party package for their Birthday Star that includes the Ticket Blaster and Magic Ticket experience. All the details from the number of tokens to the pizza orders will be prepared by Chuck E. Cheese’s staff, so all families have to do is show up and have fun.

Cchildren can practice collecting tickets by playing the virtual version of Ticket Blaster at Chuck E-Games, the family fun leader’s online arcade. By playing the online game, they can win a voucher for up to 30 additional tickets to give them a head-start on prize-winning before their birthday party or next visit. Chuck E. Cheese’s encourages families to share their own birthday memories and Ticket Blaster experiences by emailing pictures to memories@cecentertainment.com where they may turn up on Chuck E.’s Facebook page.

Guests can also find great party ideas and special offers for celebrating on the Chuck E. Cheese's website, the facebook.com/officialchuckecheese and @ChuckECheese. For even more fun, check out the Chuck E. Cheese’s YouTube channel to watch fun and exciting videos featuring the famous Chuck E. having fun with the whole family.

Sweepstakes: HBO Luck

2012-01-17T19:58:00.000-08:00

To celebrate the premiere of the new original series, LUCK, HBO is launching the LUCK $50K CHALLENGE on Facebook. This innovative horseracing app offers Facebook users a chance to win $50,000 by submitting their picks for the winning horses in a series of six REAL thoroughbred horse races.

The Races

The six races – known collectively as THE HBO LUCK PICK SIX – will be run at Santa Anita Park (Los Angeles) and Gulfstream Park (Miami) on Saturday, January 28th. Post time for the first race of THE HBO LUCK PICK SIX is tentatively scheduled for 4pm EST.

The Challenge

The LUCK $50K CHALLENGE on Facebook was designed for everyone – from first-time betters to hard core handicappers – and is easy to enter. Go to facebook.com/LUCKHBO today, “like” the page, and reserve your “betting ticket.”

Visitors to the HBO LUCK Facebook page can try their LUCK on three practice races to familiarize themselves with the Challenge. Official entries can be made starting on Monday, January 23rd at 6pm EST until one hour before the start of THE HBO LUCK PICK SIX at 3pm on Saturday, January 28th.

To Enter:

- Visit the LUCK $50K CHALLENGE app on Facebook.com/LUCKHBO starting on Monday, January 23rd
- Select one horse per race in each race of THE HBO LUCK PICK SIX
- Horses who place in the top 3 spots (Win, Place and Show) will earn points based on their odds and actual payouts at the track
- The bigger the underdog, the more points you will earn if the horse finishes in the top 3

THE HBO LUCK PICK SIX races will be broadcast LIVE on the HBO LUCK Facebook page on Saturday, January 28th at 4PM EST. Be sure to tune-in to the premiere of LUCK on Sunday, January 29th at 9pm only on HBO.

About LUCK

From acclaimed director, Michael Mann and the creator of Deadwood®, David Milch, ‘Luck’ is a provocative behind-the-track look at the world of horse racing and gambling’s denizens – the owners, jockeys and gamblers – starring two-time Academy-Award winning actor, Dustin Hoffman. To build buzz for the series, HBO is developing an innovative branded racing and gaming-themed promotion designed to engage and excite horseracing enthusiasts, hardcore handicappers, casual gamblers and the broader consumer audience and give them an opportunity to experience a little bit of “Luck”.

Parenting Pointers: Post-Baby Sex

2012-01-17T11:33:00.000-08:00

7 Top Tips for Post Baby Sex (Guest Post)

Talk to your partner
It is good to discuss your feelings and concerns about having sex for the first time after having a baby. They will appreciate you helping them to understand what you do or do not want. Many men feel neglected or pushed out once the baby they helped create arrives and consumes their once attentive lovers every thought.
Take your time
There is no right time for you to reignite your love life, and you should not feel under any pressure to do so. You may have had a difficult labour and need to recover physically from the trauma of it before you can even consider sex. Most women prefer to wait at least until the normal bleeding has stopped before they feel like making love. It is all down to personal choice though, only you will be able to know when you are ready to jump back in the sack with your lover.
Try stimulating yourself alone
Your body will have changed a great deal during and after your pregnancy. Most women gain a few pounds and many will have had stitches of one type or another. If you are feeling less confident about your post baby body, it might be an idea to explore your new physique by yourself. Maybe even try using a non-penetrative, clitoral stimulating adult toy, like an egg vibrator to get you in the mood.
Use lots of lubricant
Whether you are on your own or with your partner, lubrication will help to make it a smoother ride. One of the main causes of vaginal dryness is hormonal changes, which can occur after childbirth, so it might be necessary to use it in order to prevent painful sex. However, even if this does not affect you, using a bit of lube can be quite sexy, driving your desire and heightening your sensuality.
Try something new
Sex during pregnancy can be an awkward affair, particularly in the latter stages, so you might have developed new techniques to get round the problem. It doesn’t have to stop there though. Why not use the break in your sex life to introduce more experimentation into your pre baby predictable ‘bed time’ routine. It will encourage you to explore new ways to enjoy one another and strengthen the bond you have as a couple.
Don’t have any expectations
There may be a few false starts in the beginning, if it is uncomfortable or you feel awkward. If you are used to reaching climax it might be frustrating if initially you are unable to orgasm. Don’t worry, it does not mean that you will never again experience the heady heights of sexual release. Practice makes perfect, and if you take your time, relax and don’t see sex without climax as a failure you will be able to enjoy the intimacy with you partner you once had.
Make sure the baby is settled
The biggest passion killer known to humanity is a crying baby. Ensuring that you are not interrupted will not be easy, especially if your baby is a light sleeper, but once you have established some form of routine with your baby’s sleeping you will know when a good time arises. Maybe you could even ask someone to watch the baby while you have some time alone with your partner. The only trick will be using the time to rekindle your old romance and not use the time to catch up on your sleep!

Healthy Habits: Sneaky Fitness on the Road

2012-01-17T04:06:00.000-08:00

Here are a lot of easy ways to sneak some extra activity into your travel excursions.

- Walk around the airport while waiting for your flight.
- Use stairs instead of escalators and regular walkways instead of moving ones.
- Stand while waiting for the bus or train.
- On car trips, get outside and walk for 15 minutes whenever you stop at a rest stop.

Parenting Pointers: Gender Selection with ECM

2012-01-16T20:59:00.000-08:00

I was intrigued when I heard about the Egg Cycle Method of natural selection. I had the opportunity to have some questions answered about this method.

1) I've never heard of the Egg Cycle Method. How widespread is it? There is a long history of ECM practitioners in the ancient Galilee, Israel region. In fact, this formula was passed along to me by my ancestors. My grandmother practiced ECM, alternating genders with each of her eight children. Today the method is widespread around the world with customers from North America, Australia, Norway, UK, and the Middle East region.

2) What makes someone a "qualifying candidate?" A candidate qualifies based on their menstrual cycle and any previous pregnancies. Approximately 75% of women ARE able to rely on ECM. Based on her data and any previous pregnancies, I map and read the woman's Egg Cycle and Body Cycle and can guide her individually based on this information. Only after I find and map the egg cycle can I assure the woman 90% certainty of having the gender she prefers.

3) Is ECM hard for people to use? No, it’s very easy with the correct information. I provide my clients with the exact dates they should try to conceive a baby of the desired gender. It is all natural with no medical interference.

4) What suggestions do you have for women who are hoping to be pregnant in the near future? Any tips on how they can better their chances of getting the gender of their choice?
Women who are hoping to be pregnant in the near future can find out their qualification for ECM if they fill out a short questionnaire on Michal's website at www.girlorboy4u.com.

DIY Guerilla Crafting Event

2012-01-16T20:55:00.000-08:00

Last year, Creative Kidstuff launched Booster which is an ever-evolving collection of tools and treasures to amp up everyday life. Booster is a selection of products in Creative Kidstuff stores that changes about every 90 days and is the place to find an awesome hostess gift, a little something for yourself, or something you never knew you needed. This month’s Booster set is DIY Guerilla Crafting, which launches January 17.

This year, Creative Kidstuff is hosting Booster launch parties just for grown-ups to celebrate the new selection, learn something new and have a lot of fun. These events will be at certain locations and are registration only.

The DIY Booster launch party is on Sunday, Jan. 22 at 6:30, at Creative Kidstuff Linden Hills where local crafting gurus will help hone your crafting skills during mini workshops featuring a variety of crafting techniques. Food and refreshments (including wine) will be provided and just wait, it gets better! Attendees will receive a 20% discount on any Booster purchase made during the event. We hope to see you there! Registration required, call 612-927-0653.

Freebies!

2012-01-16T20:45:00.000-08:00

Stayfree Ultra Thin with Wings
SMART SCHOOL TIME RECIPES: The Breakfast, Snack, and Lunchbox Cookbook for Healthy Kids and Adults (Kindle ebook)
Organized Simplicity (Kindle ebook)

Soul Sustenance: Gratitude

2012-01-15T05:02:00.000-08:00

gratitude cannot always change circumstances, but it can help you see beyond them. - Teri Trespicio, Whole Living magazine

Shopping Savings: Parents Magazine

2012-01-14T15:52:00.001-08:00

$5 for a two-year subscription to Parents magazine
Offer expires: 11:59 PM - Jan 23, 2012

Shopping Savings: Yoplait Chocolate Banana Smoothie

2012-01-14T15:24:00.000-08:00

$1 off one package of Yoplait® Frozen Smoothies.

*This coupon offer is not valid in the following states: California, Idaho, Louisiana, Minnesota, Nevada, New Jersey, North Dakota and Tennessee.

Information provided by MyBlogSpark

Fun Freetime: Family Game Night

2012-01-14T15:08:00.000-08:00

Do you enjoy family game night, but want a little bit of a creative twist? This episode of Martha & Friends can show you how to turn household objects into classic games, combining creativity and entertainment.

Code Purple: Covering. Protecting. Saving Lives.

2012-01-14T14:33:00.000-08:00

Did you know that in Africa, a child dies every 45 seconds from Malaria? Join the mission with ING Activewear, Touch the World, and top fashion designers, all collaborating on a project that will help millions live a fuller life without fear.

There are more than 225 million cases of Malaria reported each year worldwide. This life-threatening disease is caused by parasites that are transmitted to people through bites of infected mosquitoes, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. ING Activewear created MOSKEETO Armor, a fabric that is mosquito repellent and certified for up to 50 washes! ING Activewear and Touch the World have teamed up with fashion designers Guy Wood of 5001 FLAVORS, Lawrence Pizzi, and D. Barak Stribling to launch this product internationally through the Code Purple Event.

February 16th marks the launch of the Code Purple Event during Mercedes Benz Fashion Week in New York City. The event will spread awareness and raise funds to distribute this product to every soul living in an environment where Malaria is a risk factor. The fundraising event will feature unique collections from the aforementioned designers, as well as special musical guest performances, a live auction, raffles, and giveaways.

Watch special video to learn more.

Check out my interview with ING Activewear founder Robin R. Crespo about how Code Purple got started and the inspiration behind Moskeeto Armor.

1)What was the inspiration behind creating Moskeeto Armor?

Moskeeto Armor is a product that took a lot of time to develop and create. At the time I’m not sure I, or anyone on our team, truly understood where we were goING to end up.

There are three things that are important to the Code Purple Event project that I believe are essential to life as well. First havING the FAITH to start somethING that may seem unachievable at the time. HOPE is the second key factor to this overall project. I believe that our product gives people HOPE; the hope to live with mobility and without FEAR. Lastly, the underlyING message of this product and my true inspiration comes from the purest form of LOVE. Love is an action word. We can live it out by simply using the resources afforded to us to help others. It’s hard to ignore the testimonies of the people who shared with me how deadly the malaria infection is. When you read the story of a woman named Innocent, and her two sisters, Aloyo, 10 and Ajok, 1, it’s hard not to become inspired to the call of “gettING ACTIVATED”.

Innocents’ story: “Uganda has a big percentage of wetland/swampy places, which gives the chance for mosquito breeding. Recently, I lost my baby sister due to malaria. Our family lives near the swamp and we are too far from the hospital. We couldn’t get there in time. After suffering an extreme fever one night, we found her dead the next day.”

2) How can a fabric be mosquito repellent?

Our Fabric is treated and certified for up to 50x washes , Fabric is now becomING a reflection of where we are as a society. As our command over technology increases, we are seeING a natural integration of it into the everyday products that we use. These advances in technology have allowed us to be able to take somethING OLD and make somethING NEW. All of our developed products (even from our first product, a 100% recycled bathING suit that we engineered back in 2006) reflect how technology and our own consciousness can align to create somethING new and innovative. When I approached my manufacturer about an idea to create a fully recycled bathING suit out of plastic bottles they thought I was crazy. That fabric that was created went on to be used in various shows around the world such as ‘The House of Dancing Water” at the City of Dreams in Macau, China, and the production of “Le Reve” at the Wynn Hotel in Las Vegas.

3) Besides the obvious application of helping prevent malaria, is this fabric available for general use, for example for hikers and other outdoor enthusiasts?

I believe that sometime in the near future this product will be carried by most of your house hold name brands, just as Gor-tex was integrated into some of the top brands we know today. However, our main focus is helpING people gain mobility without FEAR, while keepING our focus on fashion. We are raisING awareness by doing what we love to do, while remainING in the forefront of what makes things hot and trendy.

4) Why "Code Purple?"

Why NOT? Our creative team is amazING. When I asked them to come up with a tag line they came back in just 24 hours with “CODE PURPLE” and “GET ACTIVATED”. When I heard these tag lines I was immediately draw in because I felt that it called to somethING deep inside of me. I believe that when things happen like natural disasters people GET ACTIVATED. They don’t discriminate and say, “wait this guy is not like me”. No, we rise to the occasion, to the CALL TO ACTION. We cooperate, with all hands on deck (no pun intended), and put our differences aside. It’s the thought process in moments like those that struck a chord with me when the team presented CODE PURPLE EVENT and “GET ACTIVATED”. Right now is the time for the world to recognize that we can only truly move forward when we allow others to progress.

5) Can the products be purchased in stores, or only online? How about at Mood Fabrics?

We are currently workING on a beverage deal with Swatch, the most famous dog in the fashion community (he is even Googleable). Perhaps Swatch can make arrangements with Mood Fabrics on our behalf and we can see somethING happen in the near future, but for the moment our product is only available online at www.ingactivewear.com. For every Moskeeto Armor hood-e purchased, we’ll donate one to someone who faces the risk of malaria, and make you part of our movement to spread love to the world.

For more information on Code Purple please visit www.codepurpleevent.com, and check out the Code Purple social networks: Facebook.com/Codepurpleevent, @codepurpleevent, CodePurpleEvent on YouTube, CodePurpleEvent on Flickr, and the Code Purple Event blog.

Shopping Savings: Walgreens Prescription Savings Club

2012-01-14T14:00:00.001-08:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of Walgreens for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

I recently heard that Walgreens was no longer going to accept Express Scripts due to a contract issue between Walgreens and Express Script. So, this affects any customers that previous used Express Scripts and had prescriptions filled at Walgreens, whether they were Tricare members, Medicare Part C or D drug plan recipients, or some employer-sponsored plans. This means Walgreens may no longer be an in-network provider, and prescription costs may go up. Obviously, regular customers are going to be upset at having to spend more, particularly if they had developed a relationship with their Walgreens pharmacist.

Walgreens does have ways to save on prescription medications, though, through the Walgreens Prescription Savings Club. Ten dollars a year will buy a family membership that covers everyone, including spouse, dependents age 22 and younger, and pets (yes, pets get prescriptions too). Not part of a family? Individual price is $5.The Club offers savings on many brand-name drugs and all generic medications, as well as discounts on other health products, like flu shots, pet prescriptions, nebulizers, and supplies for diabetes. There are also bonuses for purchasing Walgreens brand products and photo services.

For more information on the Prescription Savings Club, visit Walgreens on Facebook or follow Walgreens on Twitter.

Fun Freetime: Marble Maze

2012-01-14T11:32:00.000-08:00

Have you kids make a maze for marbles using rolled-up newsprint. They can use furniture or books as props. Have them see how long they can make it.

Parenting Pointers: Dollar Date

2012-01-13T11:43:00.000-08:00

Need a date night but are strapped for cash? Consider a "dollar date." For this themed date, everything costs a buck. Start at a fast food place, and order off the dollar menu. Then, hit a dollar store, and set a low budget for thoughtful gifts. Finally, find a dollar theater near you and watch a show in the cheap seats.

Thrifty Thinking:6 Ways to Lower your Family's Prescription Costs

2012-01-12T11:46:00.001-08:00

A rundown of effective ways to save money on prescription medications for your entire brood

Month after month, your family, like many American families, are paying twice as much for your prescription drugs. How? Well, you could be buying the lower cost generic version of a prescription drug that has the same active ingredients. You could also chose to make your purchases via an online Canadian pharmacy, where prescription medications are commonly priced much lower than in U.S. pharmacies.

There are a number of effective ways to save money on prescription medications for your entire family, including:

1. Tell your doctor to prescribe cheaper medications

According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, doctors rarely consider cost when prescribing medications to individual patients. So you can imagine how the cost can add up for families? In fact, many doctors often have no idea how much the drugs they prescribe cost or ask if they can afford the medications they prescribed. Take this as a sign and tell your physician straight out that cost matters to your family.

2. Ask your physician to eliminate unnecessary meds

Not only will this tactic lower your monthly drug costs as a familyóit will also lessen the risk of side effects and drug interactions if you or your loved ones are taking too many different types of meds. Ask your doctor to review all of the medications your family is taking and eliminate any drugs that arenít necessary.

3. Buy in Canada or Mexico

Online pharmacy sites offer lower cost alternatives to brick and mortar pharmaciesóespecially if you buy in another country from a licensed pharmacy in Canada or Mexico, where pharmacies are governed by similar regulations as in the U.S. You can probably guess how much you'd save as a family. If youíre still unsure, check with the National Association of Boards of Pharmacy to ensure the pharmacy has a VIPPS or Verified Internet Pharmacy Practice Site certification or seal.

4. Switch brand names for generic meds

Generic drugs are not only available at a lower cost; theyíre typically just as safe and effective as their similar brand name medicationsówithout the fancy name and packaging. So ask your doctor to substitute cheaper generic drugs across the board for your family members, which are just as effective and will save you a lot of cash as a family.

5. Get a family health care plan

If your family isn't covered by a company drug plan or if you're retired, a family Medicare drug plan may save you money on high drug costs. Do some research by making a list of the prescription medications each individual loved one is taking, along with the dosages, and the monthly cost. Then check to see if Medicare offers a family plan that will cover the medications needed. Also, compare costs on Medicare vs. buying drugs without a plan.

6. Look into patient assistance programs

RxAssist is a website that offers a directory of Patient Assistance Programs. These programs offer free and discount prescriptions to family and patients who need financial assistance and are sponsored by pharmaceutical companies. Ask your health care professional to help you find a free or low-cost medication assistance program to help your family save money.

Bio: Bernice Spradlin is an avid hiker and runner. She works at a gym in Brooklyn, New York, where she gets great inspiration for her freelance health-related articles and blogs. In her off time, you can often find Bernice jogging the East River path along the waterfront and enjoying the cool breeze. Bernice is currently looking for freelance writing work, and can be contacted at BerniceG.Spradlin@gmail.com.

Fun Freetime: Cabin Fever

2012-01-12T11:31:00.000-08:00

Got cabin fever? Pretend you're at the beach. Set up a wading pool in the kitchen or basement if you have a non-carpeted basement.

Thrifty Thinking: Free Financial Webinars

2012-01-12T11:18:00.000-08:00

GreenPath Debt Solutions is launching “Webinar Wednesday,” starting January 18.Each Wednesday, GreenPath will host free educational webinars starting at noon EST. The webinars will be coordinated by GreenPath University, the company’s education group, and last 45 minutes with time available for questions and answers. GreenPath will feature a different topic each week.

The January 18 webinar will cover “Unlocking the Secret to Your Credit Score.” This course is designed to help gain a better understanding of what makes up a credit score and what individuals can do to improve it.

Other upcoming webinars include:

12 Money Mistakes You Can't Afford to Make
GreenPath has discovered the common mistakes that can cost people hundreds of thousands of dollars, and will teach participants how to avoid them.
Wednesday, January 25, 2012 and again on March 14, 2012

Protect Your Identity
From email scams and phishing to credit card skimming and fake pre-approval offers, identity theft is on the rise. This course will teach practical tips on ways to avoid becoming a victim, as well as what to do if you suspect your identity has been stolen.
Wednesday, February 1, 2012 and again on February 22, 2012

Keys to First Time Home Buying
Buying your first home can be an exciting and memorable experience. It can also be confusing and overwhelming. If you are considering buying your first home, you will want to attend this course. GreenPath will provide important tips to make the first-time home buying experience a successful one.
Wednesday, February 8, 2012 and February 29, 2012

What's On Your Credit Report?
Reviewing your credit report is an essential step to financial success. GreenPath will discuss ways to track your credit report for free, understanding what is on your report, as well as handling inaccuracies and ways to prevent fraud.
Wednesday, February 15, 2012 and March 7, 2012

Freebies!

2012-01-12T11:08:00.000-08:00

Textbook rental (just pay shipping)
Starbucks coffee tasting January 12-14
20 Retirement Decisions You Need to Make Right Now (Kindle ebook)

Thrifty Thinking: Three Way to Save with Spring Cleaning

2012-01-12T10:20:00.001-08:00

As winter nears its end and the holidays wrap up, spring-cleaning is the next order of business for many of us. It's time to clean things out, throw things away, scrub walls, and freshen up our lives. Spring-cleaning can help us reorganize our homes and heads to create a clean environment and attitude that can last the rest of the year. This year, make your spring cleaning even more rewarding by cleaning things that can help lower your energy bills and save you money.

Change Air Conditioner Filter

While this may not be something you immediately think of when you plan out your spring cleaning agenda, changing your air filter can make a huge difference in your energy bill and air quality. If your air conditioner filter is old and dirty, you may be wasting a significant amount of energy. With a fresh air filter your house will cool more quickly, your system will not have to work as hard, and the air in your home will be fresher. In general, you should change your air filter three or four times a year. You can get a new filter at most major grocery stores and any hardware store. Be sure that you purchase a new filter that is the right size and that you pay attention to how you take it out, so you can replace it correctly.

Clean Refrigerator Coils

Now, I'm willing to bet this is not at all what you think of doing when you think spring-cleaning. However, cleaning off your refrigerator coils each year can help your refrigerator run more efficiently and save you money in the long run. Move you fridge away from the wall and unplug it. On the back of the fridge you will find the coils (sometimes they are covered by a plate). If you've never cleaned the coils before and you live in a normal household, they will likely be caked in dust. Use a vacuum to remove the dust from the coils. If a vacuum doesn't quite cut it, use soap and water. Of course, be sure the fridge is unplugged before you do any of this. Before you replace the plate over the coils or plug the fridge back into the power source, make sure that everything is completely dry.

Clean the Dishwasher

Yes, I'm suggesting that you clean the inside of your dishwasher. Though it sounds a little wacky, cleaning out the inside of the machine can help keep it running normally and can help save on water and energy. To start, cut off the power or unplug your dishwasher. Use white vinegar and water to clean the racks and door of the dishwasher. Vinegar helps to deodorize and disinfect the parts without causing any damage to the materials. Next, clean out any debris or grim on the spinning arms and any vents in the machine. You can use an old toothbrush to help with the part for narrow, hard to reach areas. Lastly, check areas around the door to make sure that there is not any dirt or debris keeping the door from latching completely. All of these steps will ensure that your dishwasher is running to the best of its ability and isn't wasting any water or energy.

By-line:

This guest post is contributed by Lauren Bailey, who regularly writes for accredited online colleges. She welcomes your comments at her email Id: blauren99 @gmail.com.

Parenting Pointers: Pet Supplements

2012-01-11T19:41:00.000-08:00

Have you ever thought about supplements for pets? They have similar nutritional needs as humans, and often times can benefit from a supplement.

A study done last year by Packaged Foods forecasted that U.S. retail sales of pet supplements and nutraceutical treats would continue to pick-up steam, lifting sales to approx. $1.6 billion by 2015. Many pet owners are still uncertain about supplements for their pets and aren’t sure where to even begin.

Brad Kriser, healthy pet expert and owner of Kriser’s all-natural pet food stores, recommends the following five supplements that every pet parent should consider:

- Those that contain cranberry, for urinary tract health
- Glucosamine and Chondroitin, for joint and bone health
- Kelp, green source multivitamin and minerals for heart, thyroid, digestive and other benefits
- Organic Mushroom, for immune system support
- Oils, such as fish, sunflower and coconut, to help support joint, cardio, vision, skin and coat health

Freebies!

2012-01-11T10:26:00.000-08:00

VPlenish vitamin boost
Admission to National Parks January 14-16

Shopping Savings: New Cellfire Coupons

2012-01-11T10:04:00.001-08:00

Current coupons at Cellfire available 1/10-1/23 and expiring 2/6, valid at Kroger and Kroger subsidiaries, Safeway subsidiaries, Shop 'n Save, Lowe's Food, Foodtown, and D'Agostino.

Save $0.40 when you buy two packages any flavor/variety Totinos Rolls Snacks.
Save $0.40 when you buy any two Pillsbury Sweet Rolls OR Grands! Sweet Rolls.
Save $0.50 when you buy any two Pillsbury Crescent Dinner Rolls.
Save $0.40 when you buy any two Pillsbury Refrigerated Pizza Crust, Breadsticks, Loaves or Dinner Rolls.
Save $0.80 when you buy four any flavor Hamburger Helper, Tuna Helper OR Chicken Helper Home Cooked Skillet Meals.
Save $0.50 when you buy two boxes any flavor/variety Betty Crocker Fruit Shapes, Fruit by the Foot, Fruit Gushers or Fruit Roll-Ups fruit flavored snacks.
Save $0.75 when you buy any one Total cereal listed: Whole Grain Total, Total Raisin Bran, Total Cranberry Crunch, Total Cinnamon Crunch, Total Plus Omega-3s Honey Almond Flax.
Save $0.40 when you buy six cups any variety Yoplait Yogurt (Includes Original, Light, Thick & Creamy, or Whips!).
Save $0.75 when you buy any one Kix cereal listed: Kix, Berry Berry Kix, Honey Kix.
Save $0.50 when you buy one Original Cheerios cereal (the one in the yellow box).
Save $0.50 when you buy two any flavor 4.5 OZ. or larger Chex Mix or Chex 100 Calorie Snack.
Save $0.50 when you buy two any flavor/variety Pillsbury Toaster Strudel or Toaster Scrambles Pastries or Pillsbury Pancakes.
Save $1.00 when you buy two packages any variety Pillsbury Refrigerated Cookie Dough.
Save $0.75 when you buy two any flavor Yoplait products listed: Yoplait Go-GURT Yogurt, Yoplait Kids Cup Yogurt, Yoplait Trix Multipack Yogurt, Yoplait Splitz Yogurt.
Save $0.40 when you buy one box any flavor Fiber One 90 Calorie Chewy Bars or Fiber One 90 Calorie Brownies.
Save $0.75 when you buy one any flavor Yoplait Frozen Smoothie.
Save $0.50 when you buy two cups any flavor Yoplait Greek yogurt.
Save $0.50 when you buy one any flavor Lucky Charms Treats, Golden Grahams Treats, Chex Mix Treats, or Milk n Cereal Bars.
Save $0.50 when you buy one Fun da-middles Cupcake Mix.
Save $0.75 when you buy two boxes any Nature Valley Granola Bars (6 count or larger), Nature Valley Granola Nut Clusters OR Nature Valley Granola Thins.
Save $1.00 when you buy one any flavor/variety Totinos Pizza Stuffers.

Fun Freetime: Super WHY

2012-01-11T04:45:00.000-08:00

I love PBS. Their kids' shows are high-quality and you don't have to worry about commercials encouraging your kids to ask for stuff. January 16th-19th, PBS Kids will be broadcasting four new literacy-based episodes of Super WHY as Super Readers hop into their Why Flyers for exciting time travel adventures! They'll be visiting the Old West, the time of dinosaurs, the medieval time period, and also the future.

Contest: Redbox 2011 Movie Awards

2012-01-11T04:42:00.000-08:00

Redbox kicked off awards season with its first annual 2011 Movie Awards presented by Redbox and Redbox Movie Awards Game! Now’s your chance to get in on the action and vote for who will take home this year’s most coveted awards. Whether it’s the Golden Globes, SAG or Oscars, movie fans can now share their votes on www.facebook.com/redbox and celebrate the fun of movies biggest season! Sharing the fun challenge with your Facebook friends is easy with this interactive game AND those who predict accurately can win free Redbox rentals for 1 month, 2 years or 3 years!

Website Spotlight: Doheny

2012-01-11T04:35:00.000-08:00

It can get really hot in the summer, even in Minnesota, and nothing beats jumping into the water on a hot, muggy day. I remember when I was little, one of my parents' friend had a pool, and we went over there quite frequently. It wasn't even a very big pool, and it was above ground, but we still had tons of fun jumping in and splashing around. Friends of ours from church have a pool, and so does my uncle, and every chance we get to use them, my girls love it, I love it, my husband loves it - and it helps us keep our air conditioning turned up a few degrees, since we spend the hottest parts of the day in the cooler water.

Pools do require maintenance and supplies to keep them running smoothly. Doheny's pool warehouse is an online site that sells pool supplies. The site is clearly laid out and prices are easy to find. If you're looking for pool filters, chemicals for cleaning, or even toys and safety supplies, you can find it at Doheny's. Hundreds of items qualify for free next-day delivery, and they have a "best price guarantee" so you know you'll save money. It's easy to find the clearance section, plus right now they're running a New Year's Celebration Sale on many items in the store.

This post brought to you by Doheny's.

Freebies!

2012-01-10T20:01:00.001-08:00

Prilosec OTC

Freeflys freebies:
Free One-Day Pass to Sam's Club(r). Print out a free One-Day Pass to Sam's Club(r). This coupon is good until January 31, 2012.
Free sample of Benefiber(r)
Free bottle of Marietta(r) MAX Gellification.
Free sample of Rachael Ray(r) Nutrish.

Giveaway: New Year, Healthier Family

2012-01-10T08:18:00.000-08:00

What is your family’s Healthy New Year’s resolution? Maty’s would love to hear how you plan to make 2012 a healthier year for your family. The winner will receive both All Natural Cough Syrups listed below.

Maty’s All Natural Cough Syrup
- This syrup begins with real antioxidant rich buckwheat honey. Many of Mother Nature’s most powerful immune and support ingredients are then added.

Maty’s Kids All Natural Cough Syrup
- This doctor recommended syrup has a great caramel banana taste your child will look forward to taking. It includes real antioxidant rich buckwheat honey and nine of Mother Nature’s most powerful immune and support ingredients.

Unlike traditional over-the-counter cold medicines, these products are food based and there are no harmful side effects. You can have peace of mind as well as a peaceful night’s sleep for you and your little one!

To enter the giveaway, please leave your advice for a healthy family in the comments. The winner will be chosen at random on Tuesday, January 31st. Maty’s can be purchased at your local grocery store. A complete list of stores carrying Maty’s products can be found here. I also encourage you to “like” Maty’s Facebook page and follow @MatysHealth.

Disclosure: I will receive Maty's All Natural cough syrup as a thank-you for this post.

Healthy Habits: Sneaky Fitness at Work

2012-01-10T04:01:00.000-08:00

Here are a lot of easy ways to sneak some extra activity into your work schedule.

- Drink lots of water. You'll move more when you go to the bathroom, it's healthier to stay hydrated, and you'll be less tempted to snack.
- Set a regular timer on your computer (TimeOut or BreakPal) and stand up and stretch at regular intervals. Added benefit: it's better on your eyes too.
- Use a smaller water bottle that you have to get up and refill more often.
- Stand up when you're on the phone.
- Walk outside to eat lunch.
- Consider a standing desk, stability ball as a chair, or pedal machine to burn extra calories while you type.
- Stand while reading mail.
- Consider walking meetings for one-on-one conversations.
- Go to a co-worker's office or cubicle instead of sending an email.

Contest: Souper You

2012-01-09T12:32:00.000-08:00

Progresso® is excited to announce the return of their Souper You® Contest giving you the change to win an incredible makeover! By telling Progresso why you deserve a makeover and what you love about their soup, you could have the chance to win an ultimate makeover experience in Hollywood this Spring!

Now that the ball has dropped and the confetti has settled, it´s time to consider how you will stick to your resolution for the New Year and maintain your weight management plan, without sacrificing on variety or the taste of foods you love. Thanks to Progresso®, you can have your soup and eat it too!

With 40 delicious soups with 100 calories or less per serving, Progresso Soup has a variety of offerings that help you beat diet boredom and satisfy your taste cravings, while helping you stick to your weight management calorie goals. Progresso soups are packed with hearty ingredients like pasta, beans, rice, meat and vegetables that suit your taste buds and make you feel good about including it in your meal choices.

o This year, the Souper You® Contest will provide three lucky winners with an ultimate makeover experience in Hollywood; this includes a trip for 2 to Los Angeles, California where the winner will receive a head-to-toe makeover including hair and makeup, guided shopping spree with a $1,000 fashion retailer gift card, $1,000 spending money and 2 tickets to this season´s live finale of NBC´s The Biggest Loser

o Progresso is asking fans to visit www.SouperYou.com and submit their photo with a brief essay about why they love Progresso soups and why they deserve a makeover, by no later than February 22nd

o Fans can check back on March 12th for the announcement of the top ten finalists, and to vote for their favorite finalist until March 25th

o In addition, visit http://bit.ly/ProgressoCoup to download a printable coupon for $1.25 off the purchase of four (4) cans of Progresso Soup today, and feel free to share with your blog readers so they can take advantage of the savings as well

o Also, tune into The Biggest Loser on NBC Tuesdays at 8/7c

Information provided by MyBlogSpark.

Healthy Habits: Hepatitis C

2012-01-09T08:36:00.000-08:00

I had the opportunity to find out some information about Hepatitis C from Dr. Douglas Dieterich, Professor of Medicine Division of Liver Diseases at Mount Sinai Medical Center in NYC, and former Hepatitis C patient who has dedicated his career to researching new ways to treat the virus.

Hepatitis C is one of the most curable viruses if proper steps are taken. Unfortunately, it is also referred to as the “silent killer.” Did you know?
- Not all patients are IV drug or intranasal cocaine users. Other ways to contract the virus include: body piercings, tattoos, manicures, pedicures, or even while playing sports such as boxing, and rugby.
- The virus can creep along very silently, presenting no symptoms or abnormal liver test results for 30-40 years.
- Hepatitis C is spread by blood-to-blood contact.
- If left undetected, the virus can lead to advanced scarring of the liver, or a condition known as cirrhosis, and eventually cause liver failure or other major complications including liver cancer.
- About 4 times as many people will die in 2020 from Hepatitis C as in 2010.

1) What exactly is hepatitis C, and how is it related (or not) to hepatitis A or B?
a. Hepatitis C is an inflamed liver resulting from the Hepatitis C virus.
b. There is no relation at all to Hepatitis A or B; they are completely different viral families. The only similarity is that they all infect the liver.

2) How likely is it that someone could get hepatitis C and not realize it? How is it transmitted?
a. It is very likely that someone could get the virus and not know it, as the majority of cases don’t have any symptoms. In fact, we estimate that two million people in the US have the virus and don’t know it.
b. Hepatitis C can be transmitted through every day activities including manicures and pedicures, body/ear piercings, tattoos, and sharing a razor or toothbrush. If you had a blood transfusion before 1992, including at birth, if you were born in the former Soviet Union, Southeast Asia, Pakistan, or India, or in the developing world, you may be at heightened risk as well. In heterosexuals, Hepatitis C is not a sexually transmitted disease. However, if you have a sexually transmitted disease with open sores, that may increase your risk of contracting Hepatitis C.

3) How easy it is to get tested?
a. It’s very easy to get tested for Hepatitis C. It’s a simple blood test, with results back in a day or two.

4) What happens if someone tests positive? If someone tests negative, should they be tested again later?
a. If they test positive they should begin treatment right away. Newly FDA-approved treatments have brought the cure rate to 80 percent.
b. If someone tests negative but believe they have been exposed, such as a health care worker with a needle stick, they should be tested again in 3-6 months. If you test negative and have none of the risk factors, then there’s no need to be tested again.

Dr. Dieterich is currently Professor of Medicine in the Division of Hepatology and also Director of Continuing Medical Education in the Department of Medicine at Mount Sinai School of Medicine, New York, NY. He has a triple appointment in the divisions of Liver Disease, Gastroenterology, and Infectious Diseases. Dr. Dieterich is a member of many professional societies and is a fellow of both the American College of Physicians and the American College of Gastroenterology. He has served on several committees of the AIDS Clinical Trials Group at the National Institutes of Health (NIH), including the Steering Committee of the Opportunistic Infections Core Committee and the Cytomegalovirus (CMV) Committee. He was Chair and Co-Chair, respectively, of the Enteric Parasites Committee and the Protozoan Committee. He also served on the NIH Study Sections for CMV and cryptosporidiosis.

Freebies!

2012-01-09T08:32:00.000-08:00

Hill Bros. Cappuccino (Facebook)
Atkins bars
eBay 101: Selling on eBay For Part-time or Full-time Income, Beginner to PowerSeller in 90 Days
Shout Color Catcher
Absolutely Organize Your Family

Soul Sustenance: Meals

2012-01-08T05:01:00.000-08:00

A meal shared with family and friends sustains you in more ways than one. - Teri Trespicio, Whole Living magazine

Freebies!

2012-01-07T20:04:00.001-08:00

Crystal Light Energy

Contest: American Pundit

2012-01-07T13:29:00.000-08:00

the U.S. presidential elections are quickly approaching -- November is less than a year away!

We are extremely excited to launch a new contest that will last all year: Campaign 2012, the Search for the American Pundit.

In short, the American Pundit competition aims to find the smartest, most unique and most engaging voices who have something to say about U.S. politics. Share your thoughts, opinions and reporting between now and Election Day and vie for cash prizes!

Two American Pundit contest entrants will be awarded $250 every two weeks between January 15 and November 5, 2012. Once all the votes are counted in November, one finalist will earn the title of American Pundit and claim a Grand Prize of $5,000. One runner-up will also be selected and will win $1,000.

As part of this process, Allvoices will also post a writing assignment on the first business day of each month. We'll award at least two writers a month with $250 for the best responses to this assignment. The first topic is already posted: Which of the Republican presidential candidates has run the best (or worst) campaign and why? Write a post this month to respond and click the box for the American Pundit competition for your chance to win $250!

Full details are here. The contest is open to writers from all over the world, not just in the U.S., but please do not check the American Pundit checkbox when writing an article unless your article is about U.S. election politics.

A big thanks to user Punditty for helping us formulate a vision for this extraordinary contest. Be sure to follow the American Pundit contest on Twitter @AmericanPundits.

Parents and Cars Poll

2012-01-07T13:25:00.000-08:00

LeaseTrader.com, polled roughly 1,000 parents on a variety of auto issues that are important to every parent today, including features and safety, vehicle choices, functionality versus technology, and even what happens when parents get pulled over by the police. Here were the results.

- Must-Have Tech Gadget: Rear Back-up Camera. Combining technology and safety, the rear back-up camera scored the highest marks out of all parents polled because it gives them a great sense of security on anything or anyone who’s potentially behind the vehicle. 39.3% of parents said this would be their first choice in a tech gadget, followed by the ability to synch all electronics in the vehicle (21.7%).
- Most Overrated Car Feature: Cool box. Of all the features available in cars today that are important to parents, including safety, functionality and technology, 42.4% of parents said they felt the cool box was the most overrated feature in a car. The cool box allows parents to keep food, beverages and other child essentials chilled during trips. The overwhelming summary from parents is that they already bring other cooler options into the vehicle and find that they aren’t using built-in chill systems as much.
- Most Surprising Vehicle: Mazda 5 Crossover. Priced under $20,000 and available for lease as low as $250 per month, the Mazda 5 scored the highest overall points in terms of functionality, technology, overall features, roominess and price. Parents love its ability to seat up to six passengers comfortably, ease of getting car seats in and out, lots of storage space and a USB jack for technology favorites. On a scale of 1-10, with 10 being the best, the Mazda 5 Crossover received an average score of 8.3.
- Most Disappointing Vehicle: Toyota Rav4. When asked if they felt their vehicle was disappointing in terms of its effectiveness for parents, the Toyota Rav4 had the highest number of mentions. The majority of parents said they were overall disappointed with the vehicle’s handling and feel there just isn’t enough space that’s adequate for their needs. On a scale of 1-10, the Toyota Rav4 received an average score of 4.7.
- Best Sedan Choice: Ford Fusion Hybrid. Packed with features, this vehicle scored highest marks out of all sedans because of its full slate of creature comforts along with its ability to offer incredible fuel economy. The vehicle also comes with rear back-up camera and rear sensors, options high on everyone’s list this year, in addition to technology features that allows parents and kids to charge gadgets during the trip. On a scale of 1-10, the Ford Fusion Hybrid received a score of 7.9.
- Given the Choice Between Optional 3rd Row Seats or DVD Package: Optional 3rd Row Seats. Admittedly, this one surprised us a bit. Sure, parents are big on functionality. But DVDs in the car go a long way towards pacifying kids during long trips. Perhaps that there is the issue. 47.3% of parents chose optional 3rr row seats over the DVD package (38.6% with 14.1% saying neither), possibly because we’re taking shorter trips? Either way, if you’re a parent who’s big into space, it’s hard to pass up a solid extra row.
- Excuse most often given if pulled over by police: Child had a dirty diaper (success of getting out of ticket – less than 10%). This one we had to have a little fun with. We all try to sometimes make an attempt at getting out of a speeding ticket. Ever wonder what parents do in this situation? Why not blame it on the diaper. The majority of parents said they’d tried this once when stopped for a speeding ticket. Perhaps they tried it only once because it worked for just 8.3 percent of those who admitted trying it.

About LeaseTrader.com
LeaseTrader.com, the most recognized name in car leasing, easily and affordably matches car shoppers with individuals looking to escape their auto lease. Follow @Lease_Trader.

Healthy Habits: Scald Prevention

2012-01-07T13:21:00.000-08:00

The National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) and the Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors are urging the public to be cautious when handling hot liquids and soups. Scald burns are the second leading cause of all burn injuries and children, older adults and people with disabilities are especially at risk.

Scald burns are the second leading cause of all burn injuries. According to the study “Instant cup of soup: design flaws increase risk of burns” released by the Journal of Burn Care & Research, prepackaged microwavable soups, especially noodle soups, are a frequent cause of scald burn injuries because they can easily tip over, pouring hot liquid and noodles on the person.

“It is amazing that many people believe that hot water is not a common cause of severe burns. For a child, it is the most common burn injury. Scalds are almost always preventable. When they occur, a child may be scarred for life. Next time you are cooking or even holding a cup of coffee in your hand think about the small ones below you,” said Dr. David Greenhalgh, a co-author of the study and Chief of Burns at Shriners Hospitals for Children Northern California and UC Davis Medical Center.

“We see the devastating and sometimes lifelong consequences of scalds every day. It is important to remind the public to take precautions to avoid injury,” said Amy Acton, executive director of the Phoenix Society. A scald injury can happen at any age. To help prevent scald injuries, NFPA and the Phoenix Society offer some safety tips:

- Teach children that hot things can burn.
- Test the water at the faucet. It should be less than 100 degrees Fahrenheit (49 degrees Celsius).
- Always supervise a child in or near a bathtub. Before placing a child in the bath or getting in the bath yourself, test the water. Test the water by moving your hand, wrist and forearm through the water. The water should feel warm, not hot, to the touch.
- Place hot liquids and food in the center of a table or toward the back of a counter.
- Have a “kid-free zone” of at least 3 feet (1 meter) around the stove and areas where hot food or drink is prepared or carried. Never hold a child while you are cooking, drinking a hot liquid, or carrying hot foods or liquids.
- Allow microwaved food to cool before eating and open it slowly, away from the face.
- Choose prepackaged soups whose containers have a wide base or, to avoid the possibility of a spill, pour the soup into a traditional bowl after heating.
- Treat a burn right away. Cool the burn with cool water for 3-5 minutes. Cover with a clean, dry cloth. Get medical help if needed.

For more information on reducing the risk of these types of burns, view NFPA’s scald prevention tip sheet.

About the Phoenix Society
The Phoenix Society for Burn Survivors is the leading national nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering anyone affected by a burn injury through peer support, education, and advocacy. Visit the Phoenix Society’s website at www.phoenix-society.org.

About the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA)
NFPA is a worldwide leader in fire, electrical, building, and life safety. The mission of the international nonprofit organization founded in 1896 is to reduce the worldwide burden of fire and other hazards on the quality of life by providing and advocating consensus codes and standards, research, training, and education. Visit NFPA’s website at www.nfpa.org for more information.

Contest: Denny's Fit Fare

2012-01-07T13:14:00.000-08:00

Denny’s is trying to support healthy New Year's resolutions with an updated eleven item Fit Fare menu, which highlights four core nutritional elements: Fit Lean, Fit Light, Fit Protein, and Fit Fiber.

They’ve also launched a new Meal Calculator on Dennys.com, offering the nutritional value on all Denny’s dishes. It gives guests an interactive way to mix and match menu items customizing meals suitable for their diets.

To promote the new calculator, they’ll be running a Twitter contest from January 16th through the 20th. Daily, we’ll challenge fans to find a specific nutrition value of a Fit Fare meal using the Meal Calculator. The first person to correctly guess wins a $20 Denny’s Gift Card! Be sure to follow @DennysGrandSlam for all the details.

Website Spotlight: The Room Place

2012-01-07T13:11:00.000-08:00

Are you looking for furniture for the kids room?The company is based in the Chicago area and will deliver to their service area, but offers online shopping to provide convenience to their customers. One feature I really like with the site is the M&M test. You can use real M&M's to make sure that the colors you see on your monitor are the real colors that the products will be. That helps make sure there are no surprises, and I love that the site does that. It's especially important if you're matching different wood grains - what one site calls almond might not be the same as every other site.

The site offers a full range of kids' furniture: dressers and storage furniture, beds, chairs and desks, and more. You can search each type of furniture by price range, look at collections or individual pieces, and search by style (casual, country, modern, traditional).

If you need furniture in other rooms of the house, you can find that there too. They have furniture for adult bedrooms, dining rooms, living rooms, and more - they even have a lot of home accent pieces. You can also look at sale pieces, or just look for what's new.

When you're buying furniture, especially kids' furniture, always keep your eye out for any CPSC-issued recalls. Even quality furniture isn't always exempt from a few mistakes here and there, and responsible companies make sure to issue any recalls promptly so that consumers aren't needlessly injured.

Even if you aren't from the Chicago area, it's worth visiting the site to see some of the furniture they have available, just to get ideas for your own house - and a ballpark price range that you might expect your pieces to be, if you haven't shopped for new furniture in a while.

Sweepstakes: Vega Sport

2012-01-07T12:42:00.000-08:00

Brendan Brazier — pro-Ironman tri-athlete and best-selling author on plant-based foods — formulated Vega Sport using natural, clean and purposeful ingredients, which augment intense fitness routines without animal products, dairy, soy gluten, high-fructose corn syrup or chemicals. The products are designed to help athletes prepare, sustain and recover. Rolling out in January, Vega Sport will be available at health food stores across North America, in an assortment of flavors including Lemon Lime, Acai Berry, Pom-Berry, Orange Zest, Vanilla, Chocolate Coconut, Apple Berry and Raspberry.

To promote this new product, they're hosting a sweepstakes. One Grand Prize winner will receive a Vega Sport Adventure Trip for 2 to cycle, raft and explore through Nicaragua, Costa Rica and Panama for 15 days (including airfare) plus $5,000 in Vega Sport product.

Ten Runners-up will receive $1,000 in Vega Sport products, and twenty Finalists will win $200 in Vega Sport products.

Plus, Vega will award weekly prizes; winners will be announced on Twitter and Facebook and will receive 1 Vega Sport product.

Follow @VegaTeam on Twitter or like Vega on Facebook at www.facebook.com/vegafanpage to find out if you are a lucky winner of a weekly prize.

The sweepstakes will run from January 3 through March 31, 2012. To enter or find complete sweepstakes rules and regulations, visit vegasport.com/sweepstakes.

Healthy Habits: Better Sleep

2012-01-07T06:42:00.000-08:00

Do you struggle to fall asleep at night and wake up not very well rested? Consider drinking tart cherry juice, which contains melanonin, the hormone that regulates sleep.

Parenting Pointers: Internet Etiquette

2012-01-06T10:57:00.000-08:00

Real Simple is designating next week “Be Nice on the Internet” Week, where they'll explore why Web negativity exists and how we can combat it.

I've never actually had a major negative experience online. I get mildly annoyed by trolls who make stupid comments on web stories, but since I don't know them, it really doesn't bother me all that much. However, I know how easy it is to have words misunderstood online - I've had that happen - and I've seen first hand while moderating an online gaming clan how quickly tempers can flare and things can be blown out of proportion. I've also read stories about people who have been driven to suicide that is either caused by or significantly affected by online bullying and cruelty.

The most important thing to remember when you're communicating online is that there's no non-verbal body language to help soften the blow of things you might say. And there's no way to instantly correct someone who's misinterpreted a light joke to mean something worse. So be polite when you're emailing or chatting (or texting). Re-read everything you type to make sure it really means what you think it does.

For more information, you can visit Real Simple on Facebook or Twitter with hashtag #BeNiceWeek.

Healthy Habits: Thyroid Awareness

2012-01-06T10:49:00.000-08:00

January is Thyroid Awareness Month and the American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists (AACE) is raising awareness for thyroid disease by launching a new awareness ribbon. The blue paisley ribbon contains curved shapes that mimic thyroid follicles. Additionally, paisley is often used in ties and scarves, which are tied around the neck, where the thyroid is located.

Thyroid disease is a fact of life for as many as 30 million Americans, making it more common than diabetes or heart disease – and did you know that women are 5 more times likely than men to suffer from hypothyroidism? Untreated thyroid conditions can contribute to miscarriages or make it harder to become pregnant, and can also affect energy levels, along with other symptoms. I encourage you to visit the site and familiarize yourself with some conditions associated with this often-overlooked but very important gland.

For more information, follow @TheAACE or visit The AACE on Facebook.

Freebies!

2012-01-06T10:12:00.000-08:00

Saving for Retirement without Living Like a Pauper or Winning the Lottery (Kindle ebook)
Nutra-Apps performance pack
Cranimals pet supplements
The Cheapskate's Guide to Grocery Savings - How to Save a Bundle at Supermarkets (Kindle ebook)
Perfect 10 Diet: 10 Key Hormones That Hold the Secret to Losing Weight and Feeling Great-Fast! (Kindle ebook)
Lose Weight WITHOUT Dieting (Animal Kingdom Workouts) (Kindle ebook)
Eucerin calming itch relief (Facebook)
Customizable 100 Free Business Cards from Ink Garden. with code 100FREE for one sided cards and 100FREE2 for two sided cards

Mealtime Magic: Calming Foods

2012-01-06T06:38:00.000-08:00

Do you find yourself stressed out a lot? Garrison Keillor on Prairie Home Companion often has characters extol the virtues of ketchup with it's natural "calming agents" as a joke, but there are some foods that really can help you be more relaxed.

- Asparagus and other foods rich in folate
- Avocados
- Berries of all kinds
- Oranges and other foods rich in vitamin C
- Oysters (due to the high zinc content)
- Walnuts and foods rich in omega-3s

Parenting Pointers: Kids and Booster Seats

2012-01-05T14:45:00.000-08:00

Most parents and drivers know babies and young children need a car seat to ride safely, but what about older children? Do you know what age limit is required for booster seats? Or that different U.S. states may have different safety laws? Starting January 1, a new Child Passenger Safety law in California will require all children to remain in booster seats until they are eight years old or at least 4’9” tall. To know the laws in your state, visit Governors Highway Safety Association.

Regardless of your state’s laws, the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) actually recommends children remaining in booster seats up to age 12 (AAA and AAP have similar recommendations). Booster seats ensure that the belt fits properly and comfortably across a child's shoulder and breastbone, and correctly positions the lap portion of the belt across the top of a child’s legs.

This information provided by Evenflo, which makes a wide range of booster seats ranging from harnessed to belt-positioning in high back and no-back to meet the needs and personalities of pre-school and school-aged children who may be reluctant about sitting in a booster seat. The new SecureKid 300 and 400 models, Big Kid High Back and Amp High and No-back seats blend fashion and function by embodying a child's personal style and keeping them safe and secure in the vehicle.

Mealtime Magic: Hot Cocoa Ideas

2012-01-05T12:30:00.001-08:00

Want some ways to make your hot cocoa a little bit different? Try adding white chocolate chips, crushed candy canes, a dash of cayenne or chili powder, ginger, cinnamon, or nutmeg.

Consumer Critique: The Rancher

2012-01-05T05:57:00.000-08:00

I recently received the book The Rancher by Dawn Nelson, which is actually book 3 in "The Rancher Series." Even though it wasn't the first in the series, it worked fine as a standalone book - which I always enjoy, since when I'm reading series sometimes it's quite a while between books so I tend to forget details. It's a nice read, with a new love, revenge, long-distance separation, and more.

I liked it. It's been a while since I read a book for pleasure, so it was nice to read something that was an easy read, but not just fluff. If you've enjoyed her other books, I'm sure you'll enjoy this one, and if you have never heard of her, I encourage you to check her other books out.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of "The Rancher" to facilitate this review.

Healthy Habits: Family Fitness

2012-01-05T05:45:00.000-08:00

Kids learn by example - healthy parents tend to have healthier children. But it can be hard to change habits, especially if you haven't had a habit of physical activity and healthy eating yourself. It can be tempting to do a complete overhaul, but sometimes that can backfire and make it easier to slide back into old habits. It's better to educate yourself and make changes in one area at a time, gradually adding more.

But that doesn't mean you can't dream big or be inspired by the success of others. Amy and Phil Parham, former contestants on The Biggest Loser, encourage you to do just that in their book The Amazing Fitness Adventure for Your Kids: 90 Days to Raising Healthy Children. As you can see from the title, they aren't asking you to do things overnight, but over three months. And while some of the information in the book may seem obvious, if you don't currently have healthy habits, you need the reminder.

If you're trying to get your family to be healthier, make sure to make it a family affair. Lead by example, and find kid-friendly activities and meals that everyone enjoys. And be sure to hold each other accountable (without nagging) - reward systems are good for that, and they work for adults as well as kids!

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of "The Amazing Fitness Adventure for Your Kids" to facilitate this review.

Mealtime Magic: BLT salad

2012-01-05T05:40:00.000-08:00

Looking for a fun new dish to bring to parties and potlucks? The flavor of BLTs in a pasta salad is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. Mix pasta, crisp lettuce (like romaine), crumbled bacon, diced onions, and diced tomatoes with just a dash of mayo (or similar dressing). Sprinkle cheese over the top.

Thrifty Thinking: Estate Planning

2012-01-05T05:28:00.000-08:00

Do you have an estate plan in place? If not, you should. Without a will or estate plan, your assets may not be divided up the way you want them to be, and you may not be able to maximize how much value of your assets gets passed on.

In his book Your Living Trust and Estate Plan 2012-2013: How to Maximize Your Family's Assets and Protect Your Loved Ones, Harvey J. Platt details the best ways to maximize your family's assets. One feature I really like is that it also includes tips for fixing inadequate estate planning even after someone's death. The book is not designed to completely replace legal advice, but it is designed to inform you about your options so that you can make knowledgeable choices.

The biggest piece I want to share is the fact that estate planning is important, no matter what the size of your estate or how little you think you have. Houses, property, insurance policies - all of them need to be considered when creating the estate plan, and the more complicated your situation is, the more important it is to find someone knowledgeable about estate law to help you create a plan, so you know that the largest portion of your assets will go to the people you love the most.

Disclosure: I received a copy of Harvey J. Platt's book to facilitate this review.

Consumer Critique: Gracie's Gift

2012-01-05T05:20:00.000-08:00

Here's a cute book for girls - especially girls who are tomboys and resist getting dressed up. Gracie's Gift is a cute story about a girl who doesn't like to wear bows at all, but whose mother likes her to wear them, and explains why. The story is told in a nicely flowing rhyme, and the illustrations are beautiful. The book is written from a religious perspective, as the mom talks about Gracie being her gift from above. The author, Andrea Trosclair is inspiring too - when MS forced her to quit work as a nurse, she turned to creating children's books, of which Gracie's Gift is the first. A portion of the book's sales are donated to the MS Foundation of America, and if you order through her website, you can even get the book personalized (just be sure to follow the instructions on the site).

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book to facilitate this review.

Consumer Critique: Earn It, Learn It

2012-01-05T05:12:00.000-08:00

I recently had the opportunity to review Earn It, Learn It: Teach Your Child the Value of Money, Work, and Time Well Spent (Earn My Keep Allowance Program). I loved this book. This has to be one of the favorite book reviews I've done recently.

This book is more than just teaching your kids about saving money and spending wisely. While those are good lessons and important to instill from an early age, this book takes it even further. The first chapter serves as a great introduction for how to use the book, and details the "levels" and icons used. Activities in the book are things that can be completed quickly with things most people have on hand; things that are a little more complicated and require a little more time, family participation, or leaving the house; or things that are projects that would take place over several days, require involvement from others, and may be more complicated than young children can do. The icons detail the skills learned by each task, such as art, math, science, public speaking, culture, and much more. Many of the tasks combine several of these activities.

Now on to what makes the book really unique - the book takes real-life occupations, such as entomologist, judge, DJ, chef, toy designer, dozens more - and scales them down into tasks that kids can do, and learn about the real-life occupations while doing them. And that's the part I love. It's more than just thinking about the best ways to save and spend money, it's also about what it takes to actually earn money in the real world. For older kids, it can be part career exploration. It would also make an awesome addition to a homeschool library, in my opinion, because of how educational the tasks are.

Like I said, I loved this book. I highly recommend it for anyone who wants to teach their kids the value of earning money, especially if they're looking for a twist from the traditional.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the book to facilitate this review.

Freebies!

2012-01-05T05:03:00.000-08:00

100 Calorie Right Bites white fudge dipped pretzels from Keebler (mail-in rebate)
Henry Burp - Mind Your Manners (ebook)

Consumer Critique: The Voyages of Young Doctor Dolittle

2012-01-05T04:53:00.000-08:00

I recently had the opportunity to review The Voyages of Young Doctor Dolittle, a cute kids' movie about John Dolittle, nephew of Doctor Dolittle, who needs to save Dolittle Island from an army of gorillas headed by Ramsey the Ram.

This is a really cute movie. The characters are all cute, and the voices (done by Jane Seymour, Tim Curry, Jason Alexander, and more) are really good fits for the film. The bright colors and exaggerated features of the animals really drew my daughters' attention, and the story, while predictable, was engaging for kids, and cute enough to keep me watching too.

Disclosure: I received a complimentary copy of the DVD to facilitate this review.

Project You: Holidaze

2012-01-04T18:31:00.001-08:00

Open publication - Free publishing - More beth feldman

Parenting Pointers: Bullying Resources

2012-01-04T10:27:00.000-08:00

Bullying is a serious issue. People of all ages can be bullied, physically, verbally, and even over the Internet. And it can really take a toll on a person's self-esteem.

There's a new film, The Fat Boy Chronicles, that explores the issue of bullying. It is inspired by the true story of a boy who was bullied and found strength to focus on his goals. It also contains bullying prevention information from the International Bullying Prevention Association. It's Dove Family Approved, won a film festival award, and has also been endorsed as a teaching tool for the classroom.

I can see why. It's informative, emotive, and really well done in a family-friendly way. I can't say I enjoyed watching a lot of it - parts of it made me uncomfortable, especially since I experienced bullying when I was younger. I think it's actually well worth watching before your kids get to an age where bullying is a big problem, because it can help start a dialogue to give them tools to cope with bullying, and reasons why they shouldn't be a bully.

If you need resources, an excellent place to go is Stopbullying.gov. This site has a wealth of tips for kids, teens, young adults, parents, and educators. It looks at cyberbullying, LGBT bullying, and recognizing warning signs, plus it has a series of webisodes that can give your kids examples of how to stand up to bullying.

Disclosure: I received a copy of Fat Boy Chronicles to facilitate this review.

Shopping Savings: RiteAid Resolution Rewards

2012-01-04T06:48:00.000-08:00

Rite Aid is making it easy to resolve to save more in 2012 with Resolution Rewards in stores starting Sunday and running through Jan. 28. To participate, members of the free wellness+ loyalty program can look for the red "Buy & $ave" symbol on store shelves and in weekly circular advertisements, including an expanded 16-page circular ad in newspapers nationwide Jan. 1 and online. Once wellness+ members spend $100 on qualifying products, they will receive $20 +UP Reward on the bottom of the register receipt to be used like cash in Rite Aid stores. For full list of participating products and details on +UP Rewards, visit www.riteaid.com.

In addition to listing participating products, Rite Aid's sales circulars help customers spot additional savings such as Resolution Rewards products that also qualify for a buy one, get one sale, Single Check Rebate, or matching manufacturer coupons found separately in most newspapers.

Plus, January's Video Values offers will remain up through Jan. 28, 2012 (coupons expire Feb. 11, 2012). In all, the January program has more than 90 videos worth more than $168 in savings. This month's categories include "Beautiful New You," "Healthy Resolutions," "New Items," "Tailgate Snacking" and "Candy." The Single Check Rebate guide will be valid from Jan. 4, 2012, through Jan. 31, 2012. It includes more than $200 worth of rebates on items including skin care and beauty products, health and nutrition products, bathroom products and cleaning supplies, smoking cessation products, and household products. It also contains details on online-only offers and offers for members of the recently launched wellness+ for diabetes. See the full list of featured products by picking up the in-store guide.

For more information on how loyal customers can save money at Rite Aid, visit Savenow.riteaid.com.

Mealtime Magic: Mindful Choices at Culver's

2012-01-04T06:44:00.000-08:00

If you've eaten at Culver's recently, you may have noticed the Mindful Choices program. I had a chance to interview Culver's executive chef Jim Doak. Although the information he gives is specific to Culver's, the ideas can be applied to eating at any fast food restaurant (he uses the acronym QSR for quick-serve restaurant).

Can you tell me a little bit about the Mindful Choices program - why and how it started? We have always had menu items and options that could be part of a healthful approach to eating at Culver’s. Mindful choices is more a n approach or philosophy of unlocking the goodness in our menu. It is about calling out the ease with which you can combine a side, entrée( sandwich) and a beverage to deliver a complete meal around 600 calories. This continues to support our overall menu strategy of providing choice and variety – not just on price but on nutritional values. Culver’s has made it easy for our guest to determine the dietary impact of their meal for over ten years by using our nutrition calculator on our website. What we did with Mindful Choices was add the convenience of calculating and easily calling out meals that fit is this 600 calorie range – it is about empowering the guest to make choices – in this case Mindful choices – not about telling or mandating to them what they need to eat to have a healthy life style. For Culver’s menu it is about showing that Culver’s everyday menu and food that tastes great can be part of a healthful lifestyle not that we have “healthy” food.

What tips do you have for making healthy choices at fast food restaurants in general? At Culver’s we don’t cook it until you order it so you can customize your meal to meet any dietary needs. You should have this expectation in any QSR – simple things is leaving off the mayo, not butter, selecting portions sizes that fit what you want. At Culver’s we offer a range of sizes to fit each person need on any dining occasion. Sometimes what appears to be the most calorie friendly item may not be – take a turkey sandwich with lettuce , tomato, bacon and cheese – it is about 550 calories but on the other hand four fried chicken tenders is about 330 calories. The best thing a guest can do is know the menu before the arrive – know the calories of your favorites items so you can balance your calorie load throughout the day – and then sometimes the occasion is to indulge and treat oneself. That is a good approach for most folks instead of deprivation of their favorite things.

Can customers expect to see more options added to Mindful Choices? Yes, the combinations of current menu items and sides with a fresh brewed tea that deliver 600 calories is pretty unlimited. We will call out new combinations and add more new items as we grow our main menu. We still believe that the guest ultimately creates their Mindful Choice when they choose what is right for them today. At this meal. At this time.

One other thing I was happy about was that I made a suggestion at the end of the interview about the possibility of adding more fruit options, since right now the only thing is the applesauce in the kids' meal, and was told that they are currently exploring the idea of adding more fruit and veggie options.

Website Spotlight: Get Buttoned Up Challenge

2012-01-04T06:39:00.000-08:00

Do you need some extra incentive to get organized? Buttoned Up is hosting the #GetButtonedUp Challenge, which is part source for tips, part encouragement and accountability, and part chance to win great prizes like gift cards, Buttoned Up products, and other products that will help you organize your home. To participate, just leave a comment on the post linked above!