2011 Holiday Gift Guide: BeautyMint Review

My birthday was this past Monday (“Happy Birthday” to me!). As I turned another year older, I feel as though I have aged five years since last November. I have become more concerned with my appearance lately and I want to dig my fingernails into my youthful appearance and never let go! I will not grow old gracefully! I would like to fight wrinkles and improve the tone of my skin overall.

I was introduced to BeautyMint recently, which is a company created through the collaborative efforts of Jessica Simpson and Nerida Joy, a renowned skin care expert. BeautyMint provides skin care products that are tailored to your needs. Once you visit the website, you are asked to complete a free skin care consultation. Based upon your results, you are provided with a customized skin care regimen. In addition, your profile provides links to suggested articles to read based upon your consultation results.

I have been using BeautyMint’s Essential Cleanser with Aloe and the Ultra Replenishing Serum with Marine Collagen. The Essential Cleanser is oil-free and fragrance-free. It contains aloe, cucumber, and chamomile, which are ingredients that are soothing to the skin. The Ultra Replenishing Serum fights the natural sagging that occurs over time in skin. Made with 50% marine collagen, it “targets signs of anging from every angle”.





I utilize the Essential Cleanser at night in preparing for bed. I love the way my skin feels afterwards. It is soft and does not feel dried out. Also, I like the fact that there is no odor. I have become a huge fan of the Ultra Replenishing Serum! I have noticed that my skin is no longer where it used to be due to age. Although it’s only slight, it still bothers me a little. I believe the Ultra Replenishing Serum does make my skin appear more youthful and it definitely gives it glow. I like the fact that it is not greasy. It is light and makes my face feel smooth.

I am very impressed with the BeautyMint website and the Essential Cleaners and Ultra Replenishing Serum. I am highly interested in also trying the Renewing Moisturizer, Sculpting Treatment, and Resurfacing Treatment, which were recommended to me based upon my consultation results. 
*Disclaimer: I did not receive monetary compensation for this post.  I received the above products free for the purpose of this review.  The opinions expressed here are my own.

2011 Holiday Gift Guide: Oransi Fridge Air Purifier Review & Giveaway

Cleaning out the fridge is one of my many weekly chores. By the time Saturday rolls around, our fridge can be pretty sketchy. The food builds up a bit and leftovers certainly do not smell appetizing! I was introduced and able to review the Oransi Ionic Fridge Air Purifier this past week. The Oransi Ionic Fridge Air Purifier (MSRP $29) purifies the air within your fridge to help remove the smells that build from your various meals and snacks.


Here is some technical information about the purifier:
•Patented Piezo-electric ionizer (ozone safe - 0.011 ppm, that’s more than 78% below the FDA limit)
•Micro CPU controls the operation of the air purifier to cycle between on/off mode
•LED display indicates mode of operation
•Noise Level: Silent
•Dimensions: 4” x 2.8” x 2.5”
•Weight: 0.2 lbs
•Power: 0.1 watts, 2 AA batteries
•Warranty: 1 year
•Certifications: CE, GS, RoHS

When I unwrapped the purifier, I was immediately struck by how small and cute it was. It is small enough to place in the fridge and not occupy too much space to become a nuisance.   Once I placed the batteries in and turned the power on, I could hear the faint sound that it was working.  I was pleased that there was no loud hum - it really is silent.  I placed it on the top shelf and let the little machine get to work! 

The Oransi Fridge Air Purifier is easy to use and certainly cost effective.  For $29, you can help keep your fridge smelling clean and you can actually keep your produce fresher!  This is a HUGE bonus for us because my husband and I toss out so many fruits and vegetables that do not maintain their freshness and therefore, we are uncomfortable eating.  Also, replacing two AA batteries every month is well worth fighting the evil smells that can emenate from one's refrigerator!

The final benefit I want to mention is the fact that this little machine is "green", in that there is no filter.  So, no worry about negatively affecting the environment! 

Oransi has generously offered to sponsor a giveaway for one Tidbits From A Mom reader to receive an Oransi Fridge Air Purifier!  Please complete the Rafflecopter entry form below:

The Progressive International Motorcycle Shows & Beauty Basket Giveaway!

Looking for something exciting and entertaining to do with the family? Do you or a family member like motorcycles?? Why not go to the Progressive International Motorcycle Show? This show features a variety of exhibits, even those that allow you to be interactive! For example, you could have the opportunity to become an artist for a day by using a digital paint can to design your own bike! Also, you can watch a stunt show featuring the Smage Brothers who were made famous but their top 10 finish in a nationwide television competition. Sundays are a great day to attend because they are designated as “Family Day”, in that kids under 12 get a free admission with a paid family member.

If you would like to purchase tickets and/or would like to read more about the event, please visit http://www.motorcycleshows.com. If you plan on attending the event, you may use the promo code MOTOINFO to receive $2.00 off your ticket.

IMS has kindly offered to sponsor a Beauty Basket Giveaway featuring  products that are valued at over $50.00! Included in the gift basket are the Defiant Body Spray, Defiant Body Lotion, and the Rebelicious Lip Stain seen in the photos below.



Here are the details of the giveaway:
Win It: One winner will receive a Beauty Basket with the products featured above.

Mandatory Entry: Please leave a comment letting me know whether or not you have ever ridden on a motorcycle.  If not, would you like to?  Please leave your email address so that I may be able to contact you if you win.

Bonus Entries:
1. Follow Tidbits From A Mom publicly on Google Friend Connect. (1 entry)
2. Leave a comment on any of my non-giveaway reviews on my blog and leave a comment and let me know which review you commented on. (2 entries)
3. Follow me on Facebook or Twitter. (1 entry each)
4. Enter any of my other giveaways (1 entry each)
5. The following may be tweeted daily: (1 entry each day)

#Win a Beauty Basket worth over $50!  Ends 12/12! @tidbitsfromamom #giveaway http://tinyurl.com/c6tfamz

6. Grab my button and let me know where you placed it (3 entries)
7. Subscribe to Tidbits From A Mom through RSS feed or email (3 entries for each)

This giveaway ends on December 12, 2011 at 12:00am EST. *Giveaway is open to U.S. residents. The winner will be chosen through Random.org. The winner will be notified through email and will have 48 hours to respond.
*Disclaimer: I did not receive monetary compensation for this post. The opinions expressed here are my own.

2011 Holiday Gift Guide - Book Review & Giveaway: See Mix Drink

I fully admit that I am no bartender.  I know very little about alcohol, with the exception of what I like and do not like.  However, there are drinks that I really enjoy and yet - I don't know how to make them!  I rely on others to make them for me.  I have discovered a book entitled "See Mix Drink", written by Brian D. Murphy, that has become the ULTIMATE drink reference for me!  I have been raving about this book to family and friends since I received for numerous reasons. 

First off, I was impressed with the quality of the book.  See Mix Drink is a hardcover book comprised of quality paper and bright colors.  The beginning of the book contains educational content regarding important "Bar Essentials", or tools of the bar (i.e., shaker, muddler, different types of glasses, strainer, etc.), as well as the different kinds of alcohol.

There are eight chapters of drink recipes:

• Brandy
• Champagne
• Gin
• Rum
• Tequila
• Vodka
• Whiskey
• Liqueurs

Each drink recipe has two full pages of information.  Included are the correct pronounciation of the drink, a "snapshot" of the drink which colorfully labels each ingredient and how much is used, a description of the drink, suggestions for the occasions when the drinks are best served, estimated preparation time, proportions and calories, and text and visual instructions.
I am a visual learner.  My favorite cookbooks are those that include photos.  I feel they are easier to follow and it helps remove the stress when I am attempting to prepare something new.  See Mix Drink is a visual reference guide that lays everything out for you and instructs you in the process.  I love the fact that so much practical information about the drink is provided, but I am absolutely thrilled with the color coded visual representation of the drink.  This makes it so much easier for me!

I have included See Mix Drink in my 2011 Holiday Gift Guide because I believe it is a great gift for those non-bartenders out there (like me)!  Many people host holiday parties at this time and wouldn't it be nice to be able to impress your family and friends with your drink-making abilities?

More about the author:
Brian D. Murphy is a cocktail enthusiast, designer, and recovering investment banker who lives in Minneapolis, where he can frequently be found mixing drinks for friends and family. His favorite cocktail is the Old Fashioned.

I am so happy to tell you that the The Hachette Book Group has offered to sponsor a giveaway of TWO copies of See Mix Drink! Please see the details of the giveaway below:

Buy It: See Mix Drink can be purchased on Amazon.

Win It: Two winners will each receive a copy of See Mix Drink.

Mandatory Entry: Please leave a comment letting me know your favorite alcoholic beverage and leave your email address so that I may be able to contact you if you win.

Bonus Entries:
1. Follow Tidbits From A Mom publicly on Google Friend Connect. (1 entry)
2. Leave a comment on any of my non-giveaway reviews on my blog and leave a comment and let me know which review you commented on. (2 entries)
3. Follow me on Facebook or Twitter. (1 entry each)
4. Enter any of my other giveaways (1 entry each)
5. The following may be tweeted daily: (1 entry each day)

#Win a copy of See Mix Drink!  Ends 12/11! @tidbitsfromamom #giveaway http://tinyurl.com/clqxb37

6. Grab my button and let me know where you placed it (3 entries)
7. Subscribe to Tidbits From A Mom through RSS feed or email (3 entries for each)

This giveaway ends on December 11, 2011 at 12:00am EST. *Giveaway is open to U.S. residents. The winner will be chosen through Random.org. The winner will be notified through email and will have 48 hours to respond.

*Disclaimer: I did not receive monetary compensation for this post.  I received a free copy of this book for the purpose of this review.  The opinions expressed here are my own.

Book Review: Healthy Eating for Kids

My husband and I attempt to plan and prepare healthy meals and snacks as often as possible for our kids.  My daughter has a hollow stomach and can honestly eat “until the cows come home”; therefore, it is crucial we make sure she eats healthy balanced meals.   My son wishes he could live on Goldfish crackers.  Fortunately, I am blessed to have two children who love fruits for snacks; however, vegetables are a different story.  My children are also huge carbohydrate fans, so they prefer spaghetti and meatballs, macaroni and cheese, and bread, bread, and more bread. 
I recently reviewed an ebook entitled, “Healthy Eating for Kids” that provides easy to prepare healthy recipes for foods kids love.  Included in the book are 60 recipes for Snacks, Drinks, Lunches at Home, Packed School Lunches, Evening Meals at Home, and Desserts.  The recipes have creative names that peak children’s interest and make snack and mealtime fun!  For example, wouldn’t your child like to have Ants on a Log and some Berry Blaster for snack?  This is more fun than simply crackers and cheese! 

“Your child will look forward to healthy eating instead of rebelling against it. We've included recipes that are bright and flavorful, while including a wide variety of ingredients that are packed full of essential vitamins and minerals”.

My family’s favorite recipe was the Sneaky Spaghetti Sauce!  It is just what its name implies - sneaky!  Included in the recipe are zucchini, bell pepper, broccoli, and eggplant!  This is a delicious recipe and my son had no idea that he was eating all his veggies while eating his pasta.  In addition to loving the variety of the recipe choices, I think it is wonderful that the recipes are provided in kid-size portions.  There have been SO many times when my son has refused to eat what I have prepared for the family.  I end up heating something fast and easy like chicken nuggets as an alternative, which is ridiculously unhealthy.  I like the fact that if this happens again, I can simply prepare one of the recipes in this book as a fast, easy, and HEALTHY alternative. 

I'm looking forward to the opportunity to prepare more fun and delicious snacks and meals for my kids!  Healthy Eating for Kids is available on their website and the Kindle version is available on Amazon.

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

My Guest Post for Allstate: Volunteer Opportunities for Kids: Teaching Your Children Empathy Through Social Service

I recently wrote a guest post for Allstate that I want to share with you.  I love doing social service projects with both my daughter and my students.  I think it's such a wonderful way to foster empathy and character development.  Within this article, I list a variety of ways in which you and your children can be involved in various social service projects.  Please read my full article here. 

Book Review & Giveaway: Froggy Boots Go With Everything

My son has recently discovered his love of books.  He is proud of himself that he can say enough words to communicate to us what he sees.  "Froggy Boots Go With Everything: is a board book that instantly grasped my son's attention.  Written by Jill Zabkar Martin and illustrated by Kristen Gaede Van Mourick, "Froggy Boots Go With Everything" is about a boy, his love for his froggy boots, and how he wears them during every part of his day.  A small frog accompanies the boy throughout his day and can be found on each and every page.  My son laughed continuously while we read the book!  He thought it was so funny that the boy wears his froggy boots in every picture.  He repeated over and over, "Shoes! Shoes!" because he doesn't yet say "Boots". 

Personally, I adore the illustrations.  The pictures are sweet, colorful, and funny. I think it is so clever of the author to include the frog throughout the course of the boy's day and include him in every illustration.  I also loved the fact that the last page of the book includes a list of objects that the children are asked to go back and find.  This is a nice touch to have the child interact more with the book.  This book has now been included in my son's book basket of favorite books!

Thank you to The Cadence Group for allowing me the opportunity to review this book and for sponsoring a giveaway!  One winner will receive a copy of Froggy Boots Go With Everything!  Please read the details of the giveaway below:

Win It: One winner will receive a copy of the Froggy Boots Go With Everything.

Mandatory Entry: Please leave a comment letting me know you wish to win and leave your email address so that I may be able to contact you if you win.

Bonus Entries:
1. Follow Tidbits From A Mom publicly on Google Friend Connect. (1 entry)
2. Leave a comment on any of my non-giveaway reviews on my blog and leave a comment and let me know which review you commented on. (2 entries)
3. Follow me on Facebook or Twitter. (1 entry each)
4. Enter any of my other giveaways (1 entry each)
5. The following may be tweeted daily: (1 entry each day)

#Win a copy of Froggy Boots Go With Everything! Ends 12/6! @tidbitsfromamom #giveaway http://tinyurl.com/6t9tw7g

6. Grab my button and let me know where you placed it (3 entries)
7. Subscribe to Tidbits From A Mom through RSS feed or email (3 entries for each)

This giveaway ends on December 6, 2011 at 12:00am EST. *Giveaway is open to U.S. residents. The winner will be chosen through Random.org. The winner will be notified through email and will have 48 hours to respond.

*Disclaimer: I did not receive monetary compensation for this post.  I received a free copy of this book for the purpose of this review.  The opinions expressed here are my own.

The Ultimate Recipes ebook - 5000 Recipes - Giveaway!

Sponsored by Tomoson.com




In recent years, I have viewed cooking as a chore. It was a chore I took no pleasure in, most likely due to the fact that I had no confidence in my abilities. I am happy to say that my feelings about cooking have completely changed this year. My daughter and I began cooking together and cooking no longer seemed like a chore. My time with my daughter is a blessing! I began looking forward to our meal planning and the time we were spending together in the kitchen. This new interest in cooking influenced a new addition for me – cookbooks! Yes, I now have a very full baker’s one! It had a great deal of empty space in the past!

We had the opportunity to review the Ultimate Recipes ebook 5000 recipes last week. This ebook is just what its name implies – it’s the ULTIMATE recipe ebook! When I originally opened the ebook, the first words that came to mind were, “Oh my goodness!” There are so many mouth-watering recipes which I knew instantly that my family would love. I began making a brief list of the recipes that I want to prepare in the upcoming weeks, including Apple Pie Coffee Cake, Chicken Divan, and Apple Glazed Pork Roast. With my husband traveling so often now, I have a real interest in using my crock pot on a regular basis. 470 crock pot recipes! Let the meal planning begin!

The Ultimate Recipes ebook 5000 recipes contains recipes from the following categories:
1000 Atkins Diet Recipes
101 Camping & Outdoor Recipes
101 Recipes For The Deep Fryer
111 Egg Recipes
120 Lip-Smacking Good Jam Recipes
300 Chicken Recipes
470 Crock Pot Recipes
65 Tried And True Traditional Amish Recipes
Cat Head Biscuits And Garlic Fried Chicken
Cheesecake Recipes
Chocolate Recipes For Chocolate Lovers
And Many More .....

There are so many recipes that I do wish that a Table of Contents was included in each of the recipe files. There are several that have a Table Contents and some that do not. It would be a huge time saver for me to know exactly what page I need to go to.

Included within the ebook is The Complete Library of Cooking: A 5 Volume Set Covering Everything You Need To Know About Cooking. This is an enormous reference guide to cooking. I needed this! This volume set provides an immense amount of information about food and preparation. My goal is to not only learn to cook a variety of foods, which this ebook is certainly going to help me do, but I really want to learn about cooking as well.

I laughed to myself when I thought about what this ebook would look like if it were printed. It would take up my entire baker’s rack! Personally, I love the fact that recipes are contained in an ebook and therefore, take up less space. However, I do like to print out the recipes I use most often so I can easily pull them out when I am ready to cook. I do not like to keep my computer near the kitchen – God forbid something gets on the keyboard!

Now, I have great news!  You can win your own copy of the Ultimate Recipes ebook!  Please read the details of the giveaway below:

Win It: One winner will receive a copy of the Ultimate Recipes ebook - 5000 Recipes!

Mandatory Entry: Please leave a comment letting me know what category of recipes from above interests you the most and leave your email address so that I may be able to contact you if you win.

Bonus Entries:
1. Follow Tidbits From A Mom publicly on Google Friend Connect. (1 entry)
2. Leave a comment on any of my non-giveaway reviews on my blog and leave a comment and let me know which review you commented on. (2 entries)
3. Follow me on Facebook or Twitter. (1 entry each)
4. Enter any of my other giveaways (1 entry each)
5. The following may be tweeted daily: (1 entry each day)

#Win the Ultimate Recipes ebook - 5000 Recipes!  Ends 12/4 ! @tidbitsfromamom #giveaway http://tinyurl.com/72rgyoj

6. Grab my button and let me know where you placed it (3 entries)
7. Subscribe to Tidbits From A Mom through RSS feed or email (3 entries for each)

This giveaway ends on December 4, 2011 at 12:00am EST. *Giveaway is open to U.S. residents. The winner will be chosen through Random.org. The winner will be notified through email and will have 48 hours to respond.


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

Cow Watches in Chick-fil-A Kid's Meals & Giveaway

The Cow Watches are coming to Chick-fil-A Kid’s Meals! During the holidays Chick-fil-A Kid’s Meals are featuring the never before seen Cow Watches to reach families with a simple and fun message: In your busy holiday season make sure to stop and take a few moments together as a family to spend quality “time” with one another.

How do you and your family spend your time together? My family and I decorate the tree, make cookies, create Christmas crafts, and wrap presents. This time together gets us in the holiday spirit and we revel in the time we’re allowed together to celebrate this time of year.

Check out the Chick-fil-A Cow Watch widget below! If you click on the widget, you will find fun activities for your family, worksheets and a Holiday Quiz!

Friends of PartnersHub are sponsoring a giveaway for one Tidbits From A Mom reader to win a Free Chick-fil-A Calendar($30.00 Value) that contains coupons so you can enjoy Chick-fil-A throughout the year! Please read the details of the giveaway below:

Win It: One winner will receive a free Chick-fil-A Calendar ($30.00 value).

Mandatory Entry: Please take the Holiday Quiz and leave a comment telling me your results.  Please leave your email address so that I may be able to contact you if you win.

Bonus Entries:
1. Follow Tidbits From A Mom publicly on Google Friend Connect. (1 entry)
2. Leave a comment on any of my non-giveaway reviews on my blog and leave a comment and let me know which review you commented on. (2 entries)
3. Follow me on Facebook or Twitter. (1 entry each)
4. Enter any of my other giveaways (1 entry each)
5. The following may be tweeted daily: (1 entry each day)

#Win a Chick-fil-A Calendar full of coupons!  Ends 12/2! @tidbitsfromamom #giveaway
http://tinyurl.com/72yretg

6. Grab my button and let me know where you placed it (3 entries)
7. Subscribe to Tidbits From A Mom through RSS feed or email (3 entries for each)

This giveaway ends on December 2, 2011 at 12:00am EST. *Giveaway is open to U.S. residents. The winner will be chosen through Random.org. The winner will be notified through email and will have 48 hours to respond.

*Disclaimer: I did not receive monetary compensation for this post.  I have written this post in collaboration with PartnersHub.  The opinions expressed here are my own.

Enter the Tiny Prints Talent Search Contest!

Enter the Tiny Prints Talent Search Contest today for your chance to win the grand prize of $1,000 cash and a $500 Tiny Prints gift certificate! This is a great prize for the holiday season!

Tiny Prints is looking for the cutest photos in the following categories:
• Cutest Baby (From ages of 0-24 months)
• Cutest Kid (From ages of 25 months - 10 years old)
• Cutest Family
• Cutest Couple
• Cutest Pet & Owner

The entry period has been extended to November 21st. Once the entry period is over, Tiny Prints will open up the contest to the entire Community to vote for their favorites and determine the winners.

You can enter the Tiny Print Talent Search Contest via Facebook or on their website. For Official Rules, click here.

AllFreeChristmasCrafts - 7 Thrifty Christmas Craft Ideas!

This Free eBook called the "7 Easy Christmas Crafts" features 21 pages of family-friendly Christmas craft ideas, easy-to-follow tutorials and color photos.  Just click the link above!

Mommy Talk Surveys - Sign up today and receive $5.00 instant credit!

Earn cash rewards for sharing your opinion about baby products
and services.  Join now for free and get $5.00 cash in your account!       

 

My Salon Doll Campaign Tour & Giveaway!

My daughter adores her dolls. She will play with them for hours, pretending to be their mother, their teacher, their babysitter – it changes every day. She enjoys dressing them and styling their hair. I recently heard about a new doll called the My Salon Doll. What is unique about these dolls is that they have real hair! The My Salon Doll can have a bath with your child, have their hair washed, and styled with a blow dryer, curling iron, or a straightener. That’s so different from other dolls! These dolls retail for approximately $100.00, which is comparable to the American Girl Dolls.


My Salon Doll is having a contest that I want to share with you. Tidbits From A Mom, along with 19 other blogs, are serving as blog stops for the My Salon Doll Campaign tour. My Salon Doll is giving away a doll to one reader! For a chance to win you must complete the following 3 steps between November 17, 2011 and December 15, 2011.

Step 1: Visit http://www.mysalondoll.com and get to know the three different dolls: Brynn, Malaree, and Kendrey. Then decide which doll you’d like to win, if chosen.
Step 2: Send an email to contest@mysalondoll.com with your first name, last name, email address, doll of your choice, and share where you heard about the contest.
Step 3: “Like” the My Salon Doll Facebook page.

There are only 20 blogs participating in this tour, so it's a great chance for you to win!  Enter today!

*Disclaimer: I did not receive monetary compensation for this post.  I did not receive a free product.  The opinions expressed here are my own.

Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 DVD Giveaway

The final face-off between good and evil is finally upon us as the Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 DVD is released on November 11, 2011, just in time for the holidays! Join Harry, Ron and Hermione as they do battle against Voldemort in the epic conclusion to the film series everyone is talking about!  
The Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 Widget above has some cool features. Take The Harry Potter Trivia Quiz! Are you an expert in all things Potter? Test your knowledge in our trivia quiz! Discover if you are an expert or a novice by challenging your skills! The results might surprise you! You can also read about how to have the ultimate Harry Potter party.

Thanks to PartnersHub, I have a free copy of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2 to give away to one Tidbits From A Mom reader! Here are the details of the giveaway:
Win It: One winner will receive a copy of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2.

Mandatory Entry: Please take the Harry Potter triva quiz and tell me your score in a comment blow.  Please leave your email address so that I may be able to contact you if you win.

Bonus Entries:
1. Follow Tidbits From A Mom publicly on Google Friend Connect. (1 entry)
2. Leave a comment on any of my non-giveaway reviews on my blog and leave a comment and let me know which review you commented on. (2 entries)
3. Follow me on Facebook or Twitter. (1 entry each)
4. Enter any of my other giveaways (1 entry each)
5. The following may be tweeted daily: (1 entry each day)

#Win a copy of Harry Potter and the Deathly Hallows Part 2!  Ends 11/28! @tidbitsfromamom #giveaway http://tinyurl.com/cgf6ct6

6. Grab my button and let me know where you placed it (3 entries)
7. Subscribe to Tidbits From A Mom through RSS feed or email (3 entries for each)

This giveaway ends on November 28, 2011 at 12:00am EST. *Giveaway is open to U.S. residents. The winner will be chosen through Random.org. The winner will be notified through email and will have 48 hours to respond.

*Disclaimer: I did not receive monetary compensation for this post.  I have written this post in collaboration with PartnersHub.  The opinions expressed here are my own.

Amazon Rain Lluvia Refreshing Mist Review & Giveaway

Dry skin is a chronic problem for me. I know it’s my own fault. I do not drink enough water and I am always dehydrated. Thankfully, my face is not that dry, but it certainly could use some moisture. I recently had the opportunity to review the Amazon Rain Lluvia Refreshing Mist for normal skin. This spray mist is exactly what its name implies – it’s refreshing. Although it can be used in the morning and at night, I have been using it at night only. At the end of a long day of work, I change out of my work clothes, put on my sweats, pull my hair up, wash my face, and spray a little of the mist on my face. So nice! The tightness I was feeling in my face disappears instantly. There is the lightest scent, which is nice. It’s sweet, not overwhelming at all.

I obtained a list of the ingredients from their website:
• Suma helps reinvigorate your skin’s defenses. In South America, the Rainforest herb Suma is known as a 'para todo' (meaning "for everything"). Native tribes have long used it to treat wounds and skin rashes.
• Uña de Gato is a powerful weapon against the visible signs of aging. It also fights free radicals and helps to soothe and refresh the skin.
• Essential oils like Melissa and Sandalwood help purify the skin. They also provide the soothing aroma that makes this formula so unique.

The Amazon Rain products, created by the Amazon Herb Company, intrigued me for a couple of reasons. First of all, the ingredients used are harvested from plants in the Amazon Rainforest by the Indigenous communities there. I was not aware of the antioxidant compounds, taspines and other naturally occurring phyto-elements that are in these plants. Also, a portion of the proceeds of each product sold is donated to the Olivia Newton-John Cancer and Wellness Center (http://www.oliviaappeal.com). I learned that Olivia Newton-John herself currently uses Amazon Rain products as part of her daily routine. She has also announced that the first 50 people who purchase an Amazon Rain product will receive a free gift – a personally signed LIV aid to assist in supporting breast self-examinations! 
A portion of the proceeds of each sale is also donated to the ACEER (Amazon Center for Environmental Education & Research), which supports the opportunity for teachers and environmental education programs to visit the children of the villages in the Rainforest.

You can read more about Amazon Rain products HERE!

I am so proud to support companies such as The Amazon Herb Company and their Amazon Rain skincare products. Not only do customers benefit by caring for their skin with natural ingredients, but their money is used in such inspirational and meaningful ways!
One Tidbits From A Mom reader will win a free Amazon Rain Lluvia Refreshing Mist! Here are the details of the giveaway!

Win It: One winner will receive a bottle of Amazon Rain Lluvia Refreshing Mist.

Mandatory Entry: Please visit the Amazon Rain and tell me another product that you would like to own.  Please leave your email address so that I may be able to contact you if you win.

Bonus Entries:
1. Follow Tidbits From A Mom publicly on Google Friend Connect. (1 entry)
2. Subscribe to Amazon Rain's Email Newsletter. (1 entry)
3. Leave a comment on any of my non-giveaway reviews on my blog and leave a comment and let me know which review you commented on. (2 entries)
4. Follow Amazon Rain on Facebook or Twitter. (1 entry each)
3. Follow me on Facebook or Twitter. (1 entry each)
4. Enter any of my other giveaways (1 entry each)
5. The following may be tweeted daily: (1 entry each day)

#Win an Amazon Rain  Lluvia Refreshing Mist!  Ends 11/28! @tidbitsfromamom #giveaway http://tinyurl.com/6vb84w4

6. Grab my button and let me know where you placed it (3 entries)
7. Subscribe to Tidbits From A Mom through RSS feed or email (3 entries for each)

This giveaway ends on November 28, 2011 at 12:00am EST. *Giveaway is open to U.S. residents. The winner will be chosen through Random.org. The winner will be notified through email and will have 48 hours to respond.

*Disclaimer: I did not receive monetary compensation for this post.  I received a free product for the purpose of this review.  The opinions expressed here are my own.

Book Review & Giveaway: Daria Rose and The Day She Chose

I love finding stories for children that emphasize making good choices, being confident, and overall, encouraging positive character development. I wish I had had books such as these as a child – I could have really used them! I feel as though one of the best things I can do as a mom and counselor is to find books that children will connect to, find meaningful, and hopefully keep in mind for when they are in a similar situation.

Daria Rose and The Day She Chose, written by Yvonne Capitelli, is the story of Daria Rose. Daria Rose is experiencing many different feelings as a result of schoolwork and her interactions with peers. After a conversation with her mother and receiving wonderful advice, Daria Rose approaches each day with courage, determination, and confidence. As a result of Daria’s commitment to making smart choices and making up her mind for herself, she is able to change her outlook on life and benefit academically and socially. 

This is a fantastic book that captures the insecurities that children, whether boy or girl, experience every day. I am constantly saying to my daughter and students, “Make good choices”. This book, although fiction, is a great depiction of the benefits that a child can reap from focusing on making good choices as well as keeping a positive frame of mind. The illustrations are beautiful and the book overall is extremely high quality. This book is filled with meaningful advice for not only children, but for adults as well. I love the fact that towards the end of the book, Daria Rose proposes five questions that she can ask herself, including:

• What do I want to happen?
• What do I need to do to make it happen?
• What am I afraid of and what is the worst thing that can happen?
• Whom could I ask to help me?
• Will my decision make things better? 

These are seriously questions that I can ask myself on a daily basis! I am looking forward to sharing this book with my students. There are so many important ideas, concepts, and feelings that can be discussed. 

I was so impressed to learn that a portion of the proceeds of each sale of Daria Rose will be donated to the Children's Cancer Society and the CFIDS Association of America.

More about the author:
It has been a dream of Yvonne Capitelli's to write children's books that build character. Her passion is to inspire young children to make good choices and realize the power they have within. She wants all children to know that they must take control and create their own happiness through how they act and react to different situations. Daria Rose books will inspire then to make good choices, have strong self-esteem, build confidence, courage, strength, determination, friendship and good values. They will be inspired to be thoughtful and thankful.
Thank you very much to Yvonne Capitelli for providing me the opportunity to review Daria Rose and for also agreeing to sponsor a giveaway! One Tidbits From A Mom reader will receive a copy of Daria Rose and The Day She Chose. Here are the details of the giveaway:

Win It: One winner will receive a free copy of Daria Rose and The Day She Chose.

Mandatory Entry: Please leave a comment below and let me know who this book is for.  Please leave your email address so that I may be able to contact you if you win.

Bonus Entries:
1. Follow Tidbits From A Mom publicly on Google Friend Connect. (1 entry)
2. Leave a comment on any of my non-giveaway reviews on my blog and leave a comment and let me know which review you commented on. (2 entries)
3. Visit Daria Rose Books and come back here and leave a comment about something you learned or read. (1 entry each)
4. Follow Daria Rose Books on Twitter
5. Follow me on Facebook or Twitter. (1 entry each)
6. Enter any of my other giveaways (1 entry each)
7. Share this giveaway on your facebook page and leave me the link. (2 entries)
8. The following may be tweeted daily: (1 entry each day)

#Win a copy of Daria Rose and The Day She Chose!  Ends 11/28! @tidbitsfromamom #giveaway http://tinyurl.com/c4nguet

9. Grab my button and let me know where you placed it (3 entries)
10. Subscribe to Tidbits From A Mom through RSS feed or email (3 entries for each)

This giveaway ends on November 28, 2011 at 12:00am EST. *Giveaway is open to U.S. residents. The winner will be chosen through Random.org. The winner will be notified through email and will have 48 hours to respond.

*Disclaimer: I did not receive monetary compensation for this post.  I received a free book for the purpose of this review.  The opinions expressed here are my own.

Swarovski Crystal Holiday Earrings - Snowmen, Trees, Angels, and even The Grinch!

My Etsy shop, Dearheart Designs, is officially open!  I am very pleased to have it up and running.  People have been asking me why I decided to close my main website after five years.  Why did I do this?  First of all, I love Etsy and I think it's a fabulous place to purchase handcrafted items.  Secondly, I am going to be selling a limited number of designs for the time being.  My hands are currently "in many pots" and I need to focus my attention on certain pieces of jewelry. 

Sooooo....I am very excited to have listed my gorgeous Swarovski Crystal Holiday Earrings collection!  Included in the collection are Angels, Christmas Trees, Winter Trees, Snowmen, and even The Grinch!  These earrings are made with only the finest components. 

These earrings make wonderful gifts for the holidays!  They are unique and eye-catching!  Personally, I make them for my daughter's teachers every year. 

I am offering all Tidbits From A Mom readers with a 15% off coupon code!  Use "TidbitsReader" during checkout to receive your discount! 

JewelMint Deal - Buy 1, Get 1 Free!

JewelMint has a deal right now for new members - Buy 1 piece of jewelry and get 1 piece FREE!  This is an awesome deal!

Winners!

Everyone has confirmed their win!  Thank you so much to everyone for entering my giveaways!

Real Steel Prize Pack – #40 Sharon Ruggieri

I Pray Hardest When I’m Being Shot At - #10 Dianna

Monte Carlo DVD - #89 Brooke Anna Roberts

Winnie the Pooh Combo Pack - #16 Dianna

Marzetti Produce Dip - #65 Amy W. & #25 Brenda

The Secret of the Sacred Scarab - #9 Deb K.

EyeBuyDirect.com $30 Gift Certificate – #30 Deb K.

JewelMint – #46 Courtney Pies

FRESCHETTA - #34 The McKennas

Friday Hops!

Get a Melissa & Doug 25% Off Coupon When You Take the North "Poll"

Melissa & Doug want you to tell them which of their educational toys you think is the best! Just click on the image below to place your vote in the North "Poll!" You'll Get a Melissa & Doug 25% Off Coupon** to use at MelissaAndDoug.com just for voting!

*Disclaimer: I did not receive monetary compensation for this post.  Thank you so much to Melissa and Doug for providing me with a coupon for this post. 

Troopons: Coupons for Troops - Send you active & expired coupons to military families!

CouponCabin.com is partnering with SupportOurTroops.org in its Troopons program.  The Troopons program provides military families with coupons to use on the military bases where they live and work. So save your expired and active coupons! 

Here are some of the details:

• Only manufacturer’s coupons can be used.
• They can be from the newspaper, dispensers in grocery stores, tear-pads, and elsewhere, as long as they state "Manufacturer's Coupon" on them.
• The most important coupons our troops need are for food supplies.
• Baby supplies are 2nd priority, though common household goods help troops, too.

Coupons they unfortunately can't use:

• No assistance vouchers.
• No food stamps or the like.
• No store coupons. For example, we can’t use store coupons like Walmart, Kroger, Safeway, Walgreens, etc.
• No restaurant coupons.
• No coupons that have been printed from the Internet.

Send active coupons to:
CouponCabin.com
attn: Active Troopons
PO BOX 231
Whiting, IN 46394-0231

Send expired coupons with expiration dates within the past 90 days to:
CouponCabin.com
attn: Expired Troopons
PO BOX 430
Whiting, IN 46394-0430

For more information, please visit Troopons.org

 

Tasty Top Cake Pops - Buy 1 Get 1 Free!

Buy One Get One Free! Tasty Top Cake Pop - Bite-Size Cake on a Stick. Just Pour 'Em, Pop 'Em, Poke 'Em, and Party! Now You Can Bake and Decorate Like a Professional Pastry Chef. 

1 Year Subscription to Bon Appetit Magazine for as low as $5

You can get a 1-Year Subscription to Bon Appetit for just $8 from Eversave today! Plus, if you're a new member, you'll get a $3 credit when you sign up, making this deal just $5 for you!