Pickles & Lollipops

Winners!!

2012-01-27T20:05:00.000-05:00

This week's lucky winners are:

Sam's Club

Gina M Maddox said... 74

I am excited about nature valley granola bars!

2

January 9, 2012 8:04 PM

What to Expect (2 winners!)

June L said... 4

I follow this blog with GFC (June L)

junerlisle at gmail dot com

January 12, 2012 1:49 AM

Vicki said... 7

Cool! I "liked" you on Facebook.

vicki at webcatalyst dot net

January 18, 2012 10:07 AM

I'll be emailing soon!

Progresso Souper You Contest & A Giveaway!

2012-01-22T18:02:00.002-05:00

Did you make a goal to lose weight this year? To become a healthier you? A tasty option is to include Progresso Soups into your diet.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.

In addition to their great tasting soups, Progresso wants to help you become a "Souper You!" See the details below on how to enter the contest, print a Progresso Soup coupon and enter the giveaway I'm hosting :)

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

GIVEAWAY

One of my readers will win two VIP coupons for Progresso Soup and (1) copy of "The Biggest Loser" Workout DVD!

ENTRIES

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 1 entry
Follow this blog - 1 entry

Like my Facebook fan page (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Follow me on Twitter - 1 entry
Tweet about this giveaway - 1 entry each up to 3x a day
Enter any other giveaway - 1 entry for each giveaway entered

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on February 5th and is open to U.S. residents.

Disclosure - The Progresso^® Souper You^® prize pack, information, coupon, and giveaway have been provided by Progresso through MyBlogSpark.

Swagbucks Spirit Week!

2012-01-21T22:45:00.000-05:00

Get your pom-poms ready, folks, because starting on Monday Swagbucks is holding Spirit Week! Every day next week they will be celebrating a different holiday. Each day will be filled with fun, activities, and surprises. They'll be announcing every holiday the evening before in our Swagbucks blog. Make sure you keep track of each day's Swag Codes, as you will need them at the end of the week in order to earn a big, juicy reward. It's the most fun you can have getting your reward points for free stuff!

Potty Training Help & a Giveaway

2012-01-19T19:12:00.002-05:00

A big rite of passage for toddlers is the day they no longer need diapers and no matter how much we as parents want to keep them little, we don't like having to keep them in diapers any longer then we have to!!! Potty training can be quite the ordeal. How do you know if your child is ready? Is she too young? How long does it take? These questions are basic and there many more that parents grapple with. For a variety of articles , tips and advice from other parents going through the potty training adventure, visit Earth's Best Potty Training Tips and BabyCenter's Potty Training Basics. Through my own experiences with potty training here are few tips I can offer:

Don't compare - every child is unique. Your little one is different from your neighbor's or sister's little one. Even their own siblings!
Don't get discouraged! Every child potty trains on their timetable. There may well be setbacks.
Before actually beginning, talk it up with your little one. Get a child's book about potty training, have them shop for their little potty with you and have them start wearing training pants to get comfortable beforehand. It's also a great way to help gauge if they're ready or not.
Be patient and plan for mistakes. Take heart that potty training will be successful, sooner or later:)

GIVEAWAY

One of my readers will win one (1) package of Earth's Best Chlorine-Free Flushable Wipes and one (1) package of Potty Training Pants (winner's choice of size)

ENTRIES

Share a potty training tip or story - 1 entry

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 1 entry
Follow this blog - 1 entry

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on January 29th and is open to U.S. residents.

Disclosure - This post is in conjunction with my participation as an Earth's Best blogger. I have received product. My opinions are my own.

Cinnabon Random Acts of Kindness

2012-01-13T12:41:00.000-05:00

Cinnabon was able to warm the hearts of others this holiday season through its Random `Packs´ of Kindness contest and it´s your turn to do the same!

Throughout the holiday season, Cinnabon asked consumers to share stories of random acts of kindness stories online and now it´s time to vote for your favorite good deed! Between now and January 28th, vote for the most heartwarming act of kindness on the Cinnabon Facebook page and help those who did a good service win a cash prize of $2,500 as well as a $2,500 donation to the charity of their choice.

Be sure to vote and encourage friends and family to do the same on the Cinnabon Facebook page and continue to spread the warmth throughout the New Year.

Disclosure - This information was provided to me through MyBlogSpark by Cinnabon & General Mills.

What to Expect When You're Expecting - Review & Giveaway

2012-01-08T22:43:00.002-05:00

If you're expecting, are trying to get pregnant or recently had a baby (and wish they came with instructions) then the What to Expect... line of books by Heidi Murkoff are worth their weight in gold. I have used these books with my own children and they are truly indispensable. This is a set of books you will want your own daughters to have. From the moment you find out you are pregnant you will want to start reading What to Expect When You're Expecting. Tons of questions and answers, whats is normal and when you need to contact your doctor, dedicated chapters to each month of your pregnancy plus the postpartum period. There are also sections about dads, pregnancy loss, pre-conception and eating well during your pregnancy. There is really no other book you need to answer your questions about pregnancy. Once your bundle of joy arrives, you can take heart in knowing there is an instruction manual available, Heidi's What to Expect the First Year is 784 pages of everything you need to know about your little one. Like the pregnancy book, it has dedicated chapters to each month of your baby's first year plus additional sections on topics such as special needs, first aid, when baby is sick and so much more. Also available is What to Expect the Second Year. From that first year birthday milestone and through out the second year Heidi provides you with all you need to know as your child learns to walk, run and become increasingly more curious about their surroundings. Chapters include feeding, sleeping, behavior, talking, learning, injuries, making friends and much more.

Check out What to Expect on Facebook
Follow What to Expect on Twitter

GIVEAWAY

Two of my readers will win the set of books described above by Heidi Murkoff, What to Expect When You're Expecting, What to Expect the First Year and What to Expect the Second Year.

ENTRIES

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries
Follow this blog - 1 entry

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on January 22nd and is open to U.S. residents.

Disclosure - I received a set of books to facilitate my review. No other compensation was involved. My opinions are my own.

Sam's Club Returns to School - Giveaway

2012-01-07T19:00:00.000-05:00

With the holidays now behind us, school bells are ringing once again. Lunches, after school snacks and replenishing supplies will all be on mom's shopping list.

Sam´s Club is here to help and to remind you to continue collecting Box Tops to help your school of choice. Sam´s Club and Box Tops for Education want to make your life as easy as possible heading into the New Year with return-to-school deals and promotions!
While purchasing some of your favorite General Mills brands you can also earn more cash for your local school with the Sam´s Club "6 Box Tops on a Pack" promotion At least 6 Bonus Box Tops will be located on your favorite return-to-school brands such as Nature Valley Oats 'N Honey Crunchy Granola Bars, Yoplait and Progress From groceries to computers to notebooks, Sam's Club makes shopping for all of your return-to-school needs simple Visit Box Tops 4 Education for more info on the program

GIVEAWAY
One of my readers will win a $25 Sam's Club gift card!

ENTRIES

share the General Mills product you're most excited featured in the bonus Box Tops offer at Sam´s Club -2 entries

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries
Follow this blog - 1 entry

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on January 22nd and is open to U.S. residents.

Disclosure- The Sam´s Club gift card, information, and giveaway have been provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark."

E-Mealz

2012-01-04T21:46:00.001-05:00

Want a great way to get organized, save money and make meal planning easy? Utilizing E-Mealz will help you accomplish all of that and more.In 2003 sisters Jane DeLaney and Jenny Cochran launched E-Mealz through their frustration over finding healthy, budget conscious meals for their own families. So how does it work? For five dollars a month, subscribers can download a recipe plan with a matching aisle by aisle grocery list. However, this is much more than just a bunch meals with a list of what you need. When you subscribe, you choose whether you want your plan for family (3-6 people) or just for one or two. Additionally you can choose between regular meals and specialty such as gluten free, low carb, low fat, portion control, vegetarian or natural and organic. Next you can select the store - Publix, Wal-Mart, Whole Foods and more! Once your choices are made, you can print out a weeks worth of menus that include recipes and the grocery list that are estimated at a $75 a week family grocery budget and a $35 budget for couples. You have the option to change your choices, so you are never locked into any store or meal plan type. I loved trying out E-Mealz! I actually enjoy meal planning, but it takes time and it is not always easy coming up with ideas AND staying on budget. The E-Mealz team does all of the work for you!

What I like best about E-Mealz

Customizable
Budget friendly
Easy prep recipes (less than 30 minutes!)
Family friendly
Ingredients bought on special and/or at best price available
Recommended by Dave Ramsey

Be sure to visit the E-Mealz Blog (Make Time for Family) for recipes, tips on how to simplify your life, organize your days and plan family fun!

GIVEAWAY

One of my readers will win a three month subscription to E-Mealz!

ENTRIES

Visit the E-Mealz blog, Make Time for Family and "like" your favorite blog post - 2 entries

Follow E-Mealz on Twitter & tweet "I would love to have the ___meal plan from @E-Mealz:" - 2 entries

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries
Follow this blog - 1 entry

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on January 15th and is open to U.S. residents.

Disclosure - I received a subscription to facilitate my review. Subscribing to E-Mealz through my banner will help me pay for my groceries. My opinions are all my own!

Crispbreads Winner!

2012-01-03T21:45:00.002-05:00

Congratulations to Maryann! I'll be emailing you shortly.

Maryann said...
I entered: Crunchmaster

twinkle at optonline dot net
December 20, 2011 6:37 PM

Happy New Year & A Progress Report

2011-12-30T22:33:00.000-05:00

Hope everyone is getting some rest and relaxation after the craziness of the holidays! The redesign is not finished but it's coming along. I have a few more changes and some tweaking to do and I'm hoping to be completely done by next week some time. In the mean time, I should be able to start posting and it will be readable :)

MAY EVERYONE HAVE A SAFE AND HAPPY NEW YEARS!!!

Merry Christmas & A Change

2011-12-23T17:26:00.000-05:00

First I want to wish every one that visits my blog a very merry weekend no matter what holiday you recognize or don't for that matter :) I will be spending Christmas Eve and Christmas Day at my mom's. She's hosting both days and she has told me to be sure she doesn't host both days next year. It's actually something I've been looking forward to doing, so I'm excited about that.
I will be taking next week to concentrate on sprucing up both of my blogs. If you visit Pickles & Lollipops and it looks funny you'll know why. I've been planning on some changes for a long time and I'm hoping I finally accomplish them. It will be a great way to start off the new year!

Have a safe, happy and blessed holiday!
34 Degrees Crispbreads giveaway going on until December 28th

This Week's Winners!

2011-12-22T15:26:00.000-05:00

SHABBY APPLE (12/20)

amramazon280 said...15

SHI gfc follower

DECEMBER 15, 2011 3:33 PM

MARY'S SON A TALE OF CHRISTMAS(12/20)

amweeks said...7

I follow this blog on GFC! (amweeks)

DECEMBER 18, 2011 7:36 AM

EATGREENTEA(12/20)

Maryann said...41

Tweet: https://twitter.com/#!/macdrap50/status/149278115359752194

DECEMBER 20, 2011 7:01 PM

CHEX PARTY MIX EXCHANGE (12/22)

sohamolina said...106

https://twitter.com/#!/sohamolina/status/149511620824023042

DECEMBER 21, 2011 10:28 AM

CRUNCHMASTER (12/22)

sohamolina said...106

https://twitter.com/#!/sohamolina/status/149511620824023042

DECEMBER 21, 2011 10:28 AM

Congratulations to the winners! I'll be emailing shortly, if you see your name here, no need to wait for my email. I'd love an email with your name and address! A big thanks to everyone who has entered my giveaways. Hoping for Anew year with many more :)

ICaughtSanta.com

2011-12-21T13:51:00.000-05:00

Imagine the look of wonder and surprise when a child receives a photo of Santa caught in the act in his or her very own home. iCaughtSanta.com is a unique website that helps visitors create those memorable keepsake photos.

In three simple steps anyone can upload a holiday photo, add Santa Claus and print it as proof… or share it via Facebook and Twitter. Last-minute shoppers can purchase Gift Cards and eGift Certificates for loved ones with children, making iCaughtSanta.com a great gift idea even if you don't have kids yourself.

Merry Christmas!

Disclosure, sharing this with my readers because 1) I think it's a cute idea and 2) by doing so i have the chance to win and ipad2!

34 Degrees Crispbread Crackers Review & Giveaway

2011-12-19T23:06:00.001-05:00

I have been on a cracker kick and I have another great one to share with all of you! These are made by 34 Degrees, and are a super thin, large round cracker. They come in six flavors - Rosemary, Lemon Zest, Whole Grain, Cracked Pepper, Sesame and Natural. Although these crackers are great right out of the box, they are perfect for piling on some favorite toppings to make delicious appetizers. last week I had my annual ladies night party and served the following Herbed Chicken Salad. It calls for using Rosemary Crispbreads, but I put out all the flavors and they were all delicious! This recipe is crunchy, very tasty and yet light and refreshing also. I set out a bowl of baby spinach leaves for my guests to put on the cracker of choice with a spoonful of the salad on top. YUM!

Herbed Chicken Salad
24 pieces 34° Rosemary Crispbread

8 oz. homemade or purchased chicken salad

Fresh spinach or other greens
2-3 grilled or roasted chicken breasts
(about 1 lb. total), roughly cubed 1/3 cup
3 tbsp. mayonnaise
1 tbsp. lemon juice
1 tbsp. Dijon or horseradish mustard
1/3 cup diced red onion
1/3 cup diced celery
1/3 cup chopped toasted pecans or walnuts
1/3 cup dried cranberries (such as Craisins)
1/3 cup diced green apple
Fresh chopped parsley and/or scallions
Kosher salt and freshly ground pepper
2 tsp. chopped fresh rosemary or thyme
Hot sauce (optional)
Directions:
• Combine the mayonnaise, mustard, herbs
and lemon juice.
• Gently fold this dressing into the cooked and
cubed chicken.
• Add remaining salad items to taste – the salad
should be a good mixture of sweet, crunchy and
savory with an interesting textural balance. The
salad should only be lightly dressed, not soaking,
but of course add more mayo if you prefer.
• Taste for seasoning, and add salt, pepper and
more lemon or hot sauce as desired.
• Layer each rosemary crispbread with
a thin covering of baby spinach or other greens.
• Gently top with a generous spoonful of chicken
salad. Enjoy immediately!

Visit 34 degrees.com for more info

GIVEAWAY
One of my readers will win a prize pack that contains one of each crispbread flavor and a pack of recipe cards!

ENTRIES
Like 34 degrees Crispbread on Facebook - 1 entry
Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 am est on December 28th and is open to U.S. residents.

Disclosure - I received product to facilitate my review. No other compensation was involved. Opinions are my own.

This Week's Winners!

2011-12-19T10:36:00.001-05:00

Well, this Christmas season is not turning out at all like I thought. Some good, some bad, but I'm definitely going to plan differently for next year. I LOVE Christmas so I have some ideas that I'll be sharing with everyone. More on that later :) The winners:

THAI BRACELET

Kristy said...14

I'm a Facebook fan
Kristy Hostetler

DECEMBER 8, 2011 2:46 AM

ORNAMENTS WITH LOVE

Rebecca O said...31

If I won, I would choose the
Personalized Family Christmas Ornament - 1 Child and Baby. Thanks for the chance

SAM'S CLUB & CHEX CEREAL

barbara.montyj said...87

Daily tweet #3
https://twitter.com/#!/JalapenoMama/status/146790838490501120

DECEMBER 13, 2011 10:17 PM

Congratulations to the winners I'll be emailing shortly!

One last thing, I've been having trouble adding my new giveaways to the sidebar. I have no idea why but the Blogger screen that allows me to do it is missing info. I'm hoping it's resolved itself today. You can always use the search function or click on the Reviews & Giveaways tab at the top!

Swagbucks Extravaganza

2011-12-16T11:30:00.000-05:00

"Swagbucks is going crazy on Monday, with more ways for you to earn reward points towards free stuff. First, they're having a Swag Code Extravaganza, which means a fun day where you can earn up to 70 Swag Bucks from 8 different codes throughout the day!

Second, there's a new set of Holiday Collector's Bills which you can only earn through search - get all five and you'll receive an instant 12 Swag Bucks bonus! The set starts at noon on Monday

Finally, for any referral you bring in today through the 19th, you'll not only get up to 1000 matching Swag Bucks from Search, but 1000 Matching Swag Bucks from everything they earn (not including codes) all day Monday - they're calling it Mega Match Monday!

Three big reasons to visit Swagbucks this Monday!"

Also live now through December 31st is a code worth 100 additional Swag Bucks for new users when applied during registration only. It'll be active starting today Friday, December 16th and the code is HOLIDAYSWAG

Crunchmaster Multi-Grain Crackers Review & Giveaway

2011-12-15T14:45:00.004-05:00

*CLOSED*

I'm sure I've said it before, my family loves to snack. Doesn't matter if it's morning or night, we snack all the time. I try to keep the healthiest snacks in the house. High on the list of must haves are crackers and we like a variety of types and flavors. What I don't like with most crackers is how quickly the fat and calorie grams add up. I think most will agree, when you snack you don't want to feel guilty if you eat more than four or five. Crunchmaster Multi-Grain Crackers are not only very tasty, but a serving is sixteen crackers! At approximately and inch and half square, they are not tiny crackers either. The varieties are sea salt, white cheddar and vegetable. All three are very delicious whether you eat them plain or dress them up with your favorite toppings. I was able to share these with my mom's meet group and everyone, moms and kids alike, loved the crackers. The favorite points were that they taste great right out of the bag and are lower in fat, salt and calories than other crackers. Some other great points:

Gluten free
Cholesterol free
No trans fat

For more information check out the Crunchmaster Website and Crunchmaster on Facebook

GIVEAWAY

One of my readers will win a case (12 bags) of Crunchmaster White Cheddar Multi-Grain crackers!

ENTRIES

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 am est on December 22nd and is open to U.S. residents.

Disclosure - I received this product for free from the sponsor of the Moms Meet program, May Media LLC, who received it directly from the manufacturer. As a Moms Meet blogger, I agreed to use this product and post my opinion on my blog. My opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of May Media Group LLC or the manufacturer of the product.

Chex Party Mix Change Giveaway

2011-12-14T22:40:00.002-05:00

As promised, here is the second giveaway. I did not host a Chex Mix swap party but I did have my annual ladies get together tonight. I had my sister and my niece, my mom, grandma and daughter. Some simple snacks and a container of sweet and salty Christmas chex mix for each of them to take home. It's delicious!

Sweet & Salty Christmas Chex Mix
3 cups corn chex
3 cups rice chex
2 120z packages of white chocolate chips
1 cup small pretzels
1 cup peanuts
1 cup green and red m&ms
In a large bowl mix all ingredients except m&ms. Melt chocolate and toss gently with mixture. Spread onto parchment line baking sheet(s) and sprinkle with m&ms.

You could also start a new tradition. Change up the annual cookie swap for a Chex Mix swap instead. Invite some friends over for a party and ask everyone to make enough of their favorite Chex Party Mix recipe to exchange with party guests. Taste, mix, swap, and share the recipes, putting the treats in easy DIY packages for everyone to take home.

From decadent to savory your guests are sure to love with these delicious favorites that can be made in the microwave in 15 minutes or less. These are five more Chex Party Mix recipes that are just some of the fabulous 15 minute recipes that can be found at ChexPartyMix.com.

Original Chex Party Mix - A tried and true classic of many holiday gatherings.
Chex PB & Chocolate Blast - Is there really a better combination than peanut butter and chocolate? Yes, when Chex cereal is added!
Chex Pumpkin Pie Crunch - Mix things up and try this mouthwatering alternative to the beloved holiday pie.
Hot Buttered Yum Chex Mix - A combination of cinnamon, brown sugar, honey and marshmallows blend effortlessly together in a crazy-delicious, gluten free crunchy mix.
Chex Caramel Chocolate Drizzles - Melted chocolate, chewy caramel and a delightful crunch carry this gluten-free party mix recipe from microwave to table in 15 minutes.

GIVEAWAY

One of my readers will win

2 boxes of Chex cereal to create Chex Party Mix recipes
5 featured Chex Party Mix recipes
10 takeout containers so your guests can take their Chex Party Mix to-go
$20 gift card to purchase recipe ingredients and decorating supplies

ENTRIES

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 am est on December 22nd and is open to U.S. residents.

Disclosure - The Chex Party Mix-Change product, information, and giveaway have been provided by Chex through MyBlogSpark.

Swagbucks Snowball Fight!

2011-12-12T18:50:00.001-05:00

"Swagbucks is having a good ol' fashioned Snowball Fight, and you can participate for a chance to win more reward points for free stuff! Go to the Snowball Fight homepage, click the button to join, and start earning points for your team just by earning Swag Bucks! Every participating member of the winning team will get 25 a Swag Buck bonus after it ends on the 21st, and participating members of the runners up get 10 Swag Bucks each. Which team are YOU on?"

Christmas Central - Eat Green Tea Review & Giveaway

2011-12-11T22:08:00.001-05:00

Eating right and taking steps to get healthier are usually reserved for New Year's Resolutions but I recently discovered a great way to start sneaking in a step right now. Edible green tea leaves from EatGreenTea.com. EatGreenTea is 100% USDA organic and has been lab tested to ensure it has the very lowest levels of toxicity and the highest levels of antioxidants available in a green tea. One teaspoon of edible green tea leaves is equivalent to drinking 30 cups of brewed tea! When I first heard about EatGreen Tea, I thought the benefits were great but how would it taste? Out of the bag they have a very light, fresh tea flavor. In the couple recipes I have tried I would not say there is a different flavor or one of tea. However, the recipes have been delicious and I know there have been some great benefits added from the addition of the green tea leaves. One of the recipes I have tried is below. For more information, recipes and to order visit EatGreenTea.com

Deviled Eggs with Green Tea

Ease of Preparation: Easy
Preparation Time: 10 minutes
Cook Time: 8 minutes
Yield: 8

Ingredients:

4 large eggs
3 tsps low fat sour cream
1 tsp mustard
1 tsp edible organic green tea leaves (finely chopped)
¼ tsp turmeric
Pinch of sea salt
Pinch of black pepper
1 tsp finely chopped dill
Paprika
*Optional – chopped bacon
Directions:
Place eggs in sauce pan with enough water to cover them about 1 inch above.
Bring to a boil about 10 minutes. Remove and let stand about 7 minutes. Run cold water over eggs to stop the cooking process. Peel eggs and halve.
Remove the yolks and place in a bowl, combine with the sour cream, mustard, edible organic green tea leaves, turmeric, salt, pepper and dill. Smash all ingredients together with a fork.
With a teaspoon fill the egg whites and sprinkle with pinch of paprika and refrigerate for 30 minutes to an hour.
Or to make them decorative, fill a plastic piping bag with a star tip attachment and squeeze into egg whites.

Recipe republished with permission from EatGreenTea.com, the original edible green tea.

GIVEAWAY
One of my readers will win
1 bag of edible, organic, whole leaf green tea - about a 2 month's supply and

1 bag of edible, organic green tea powder - suitable for baking, and making mixed drinks!

ENTRIES

Visit EatGreenTea.com & share what recipe you would like to try first - 2 entries

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on December 20th and is open to U.S. residents.

Disclosure - I received product to facilitate my review. No other compensation was involved. Opinions are my own.

Christmas Central -Hallmark Recordable Story Books Review

2011-12-10T21:40:00.001-05:00

Hallmark has an excellent way to not only allow a gift to bridge distance between you and a young loved one but to also make a truly personalized experience though their recordable storybooks. They have many titles to choose from. Holiday classics such as Santa Claus is Coming to Town, A Charlie Brown Christmas and Frosty the Snowman along with literary classics such as Goodnight Moon, Twinkle, Twinkle Little Star and Hey Diddle Diddle and many more, including Disney favorites! Recording the stories is easy, fun and foolproof. Each book comes with instructions and tips to make recording the books easy as pie. Their Voice Save technology allows you to safely record, save and playback each page. if you're not happy with a page, it's simple to just record the page again until you get it the way you want it. Once you're done, your recording will stay safe even during battery changes. No matter how far away or close you are, a child can hear a story told by you, anytime, any place. I recorded Santa Claus is Coming to Town and Goodnight Moon for the little guy I babysit for and I'm very happy with the quality of the books and how easy the process was. Many of the books also feature music!

For more info visit Hallmark's Recordable Storybooks and Hallmark's Interactive Storybooks and Story Buddies

Disclosure- I received product to facilitate my review. No other compensation was involved. Opinions are my own.

Christmas Central - Mary's Son, A Tale of Christmas - Review & Giveaway

2011-12-10T20:42:00.001-05:00

Mary's Son, A Tale of Christmas by Darryl Nyznyk is a wonderful story of hope, belief, poverty, wealth and faith. it proves that no matter you are or what you were born into, we are all much more alike than different. It will make you smile and cry. It is a beautiful story to share with the entire family. It has won three well deserved mom's choice awards. You can purchase the e-book on Amazon during the month of December for only .99 cents :)

More on the book & author

Vintage Values for a 21^st Century Christmas

Storyteller connects with young readers using an award-winning message

Parents have a lot to compete with when it comes to teaching their children the true meaning of Christmas. There are parties, visits with Santa, and, of course, Christmas wish lists filled with requests for the latest tech gadgets.

Darryl Nyznyk can relate. Like many parents, Nyznyk was concerned about teaching the reason for the season to his four (now grown) daughters. Realizing that no modern stories portrayed Christmas like the classics of yesterday (think Dickens A Christmas Carol), Nyznyk set about putting his storytelling prowess to use – holiday use. And when he recited a short story for his then eight-year old daughter at her birthday party as a way of imparting the true message of Christmas, he never realized that it would one day be an inspirational novel.

Mary’s Son: A Tale of Christmas (Cross Dove Publishing), is a modern-day story in which a mysterious old man named Nicholas shares the true meaning of Christmas with two young people. Sarah Stone is an 11-year-old rich girl who lives “on the hill” amid butlers, nannies, housekeepers, and a father who is too busy for her. Jared Roberts is a 13-year-old tough kid from the “sink” on the other side of town where he and his gang barely survive broken families.

Both Jared and Sarah struggle with holes in their family lives: Jared’s father left his family in poverty, while Sarah lost her mother as an infant. On the night that Jared plans to burglarize Sarah’s home, the two are whisked back in time by Nicholas, to witness a Christmas from long ago where they learn the meaning of life in a way they never imagined. Together, their personal anger and hurt dissolves, inspiring them to convey the true Christmas message to a cynical world.

Mary’s Son is a story of youthful fears, passion, and tears that gives readers of all ages hope for a better world. Like the iconic Christmas image of Santa Claus kneeling before the manger, the story moves readers of multiple generations, as it allows parents to demonstrate the true meaning of Christmas, while still allowing young people to identify with the more secularized traditions of the season.

“In a time of social divisiveness in our country, this story brings to the forefront the unifying values of honor, integrity and love on which America was built,” says Nyznyk. “This story will resonate with all who are tired of ‘political correctness’ and long for the unifying joy of the real Christmas.

DARRYL NYZNYK lives in Manhattan Beach , CA with his wife, Loretta. After practicing law for 20 years, Nyznyk became a full-time writer and teacher. He is also the author of the political thriller The Third Term, and a legal thriller, The Condor’s Song, due out in 2012. For more information, please visit www.marysson.com.

GIVEAWAY

One of my readers will a copy of Mary's Son, A Tale of Christmas, by Darryl Nyznyk

ENTRIES

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on December 20th and is open to U.S. residents.

Disclosure - I received the book to facilitate my review. No other compensation was involved. Opinions are my own.

Shabby Apple Giveaway

2011-12-08T20:16:00.001-05:00

This time of year we can often get so wrapped up in entertaining, gift buying and other obligations that we tend to forget about ourselves. Well, I have a giveaway that will put the spotlight back on you...especially when you're wearing the gorgeous dress that I'll introduce in just a moment. It's from Shabby Apple, the online boutique of beautiful women's dresses, skirts, accessories and more. The Tiber dress is made from Cotton Poplin, 97% Cotton and 3% Spandex. It is "Bedecked with a tailored bodice, boat neck and elbow-length sleeves, the empire waisted frock hugs close to the body for a figure conscious shape. The knee-length skirt has just a bit of flare which is accentuated by the variegated bands of the Sarah Hansen-designed fabric." The fabric is made from a delicate summer type, is unlined and FITS GENEROUSLY on the Shabby Apple fit guide. For more info and to see the their complete line, visit the Shabby Apple Website.

GIVEAWAY
One of my readers will win the Tiber Style dress shown above in their choice of size (xxs -xl)

ENTRIES
MANDATORY - To be eligible to win, you must "like" Shabby Apple on Facebook. Enter by commenting below - 1 entry

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on December 20th and is open to U.S. residents. GOOD LUCK!

Disclosure - I did not receive compensation, product or otherwise to share this giveaway with my readers. Opinions are my own.

And Now A few Words From...Me

2011-12-08T14:31:00.001-05:00

This has been quite the holiday season so far...good and not so good. There are many things I had wanted to have done already but...I guess the saying goes life is what happens when your busy making plans...lol. My Christmas Central Event is still in progress. I know, it says it ended December 4th, but aren't more giveaways better than sticking to a date? I think so!!! It will be complete by the end of this weekend, be sure to check out the side bar for all the current giveaways.

Sam's Club & A Chex Party Mix -Change Giveaway (and a giveaway teaser..)

2011-12-08T10:42:00.001-05:00

I think Chex Party Mixes could also be called a party in a box. What other way is there to get a tasty, crowd loving snack that is easy to make? Chex party mixes are great for unexpected company, office parties, holiday get togethers...even movie night! Or how about starting a new tradition and making a Chex Party Mix Exchange instead of the usual cookie swap? With several Chex Party Mix recipes that can be made in just 15 minutes and Sam´s Club stores providing you with everything needed to host a fabulous party, there´s no excuse to not call on family and friends for a celebration! To change things up we recently made the The Chex Muddy Buddies Mix to share with friends and family. It only took minutes to make and was great sweet treat that everyone loved.

Tips to throw an ultimate Sam´s Club Chex Party Mix-Change:

Set the date and spread the word. Announce your Chex Party Mix-Change using some of these festive invites
Mix it up. Use these mouth-watering Chex recipe cards including Chex Pumpkin Pie Crunch and Hot Buttered Yum Chex Mix and this shopping list to make party prep a snap
Share the fun. Use some of these easy tips & tricks to add some extra flare to your party and check out some of the packaging ideas so your guests don´t go home empty handed

Visit ChexPartyMixChange.com for even more party-planning tips and be sure to also check out Sam´s Club, your one stop Chex spot that has everything you need to throw a Chex Party Mix-Change!

GIVEAWAY
One of my readers will win a $25 Sam's Gift card and a box of Chex Cereal to jumpstart their own party!

ENTRIES

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on December 14th and is open to U.S. residents. Happy Holidays!!!

Disclosure- The Sam´s Club gift card, information, and giveaway have been provided by Sam´s Club, Chex Party Mix and General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

Giveaway teaser...be sure to check back next Wednesday for a look at my party and another chance at a Chex Party Mix prize pack!!!

Winners!

2011-12-07T22:21:00.001-05:00

This weeks winners:
Perfect Present E-book

Linda Kish said...2

I follow Sweet Home Inspirations
1

Cheerios Prize Pack

karenmed409 said...11

Like you on facebook-Gumma Medlin

NOVEMBER 27, 2011 8:34 PM

Gorton's Seafood (3 winners)

amramazon280 said...9

gorton's twitter folloer

NOVEMBER 27, 2011 2:14 AM

Kristy said...52

Following you on Twitter
Jellibeenz1978

NOVEMBER 29, 2011 11:44 AM

Frugal Mom from California said...

http://twitter.com/#!/ElenaIstomina/status/142658185076019200

DECEMBER 2, 2011 12:36 PM

Earth's Best

Maryann said...2

I follow your new blog Sweet Home Inspirations #2

Maryann D.

DECEMBER 1, 2011 4:30 PM

Renuzit Fresh Accents

Linda Kish said...17

Entered PRESENT PERFECT

DECEMBER 1, 2011 5:04 PM

The Night After Christmas

Print Copy

Kristy said...5

Following on Twitter
Jellibeenz1978

NOVEMBER 29, 2011 11:40 AM

Digital Copy

Linda Kish said...1

I am a GFC follower

NOVEMBER 24, 2011 5:13 PM

Love Better Homes & Gardens?

2011-12-07T21:17:00.001-05:00

If you love Better Homes & Gardens, here is a chance to win 1 of 20,000 subscriptions!

Enter to win a 1 year subscription to Better Homes and Gardens magazine. You could be one of 20,000 winners! You could have a whole year free of smart, approachable articles on design and individual style, decorating and gardening, food and entertaining, and personal and family well-being from your friends at Purex. Enter before December 20th for a chance to win.

Purex Better Homes & Gardens Subscription Sweepstakes

Good Luck!!!

Cuties & Donors Choose - Money for Schools & A Chance to Win For You To!

2011-12-07T15:04:00.001-05:00

The kid-friendly California citrus that West Coast shoppers have grown to love is bringing a bit of sunshine to the East Coast. Beginning this month, Cuties^® California Clementines and Mandarins are available coast-to-coast for the first time ever!

In conjunction with the national launch, Cuties^®has also introduced a new, interactive website created especially for kids and proud parents to celebrate the cute things kids do. The site (www.CutiesKids.com) will showcase parent-uploaded videos and pictures, featuring kids doing what they do best: having fun, acting silly and of course, being oh-so adorably cute.

Bragging rights aren’t the only prizes parents can win by uploading images of their kids: Cuties^® is giving away a college scholarship worth $150,000 to the star of the cutest kid video.Cuties^®is teaming up with DonorsChoose.org, a not-for-profit organization that lets contributors across the country fund classroom projects posted by public school teachers on the DonorsChoose.org website. For every video uploaded, users will receive a $10 DonorsChoose.org gift card to use towards any classroom project of their choice. Weekly winners will receive a $500 DonorsChoose.org gift card and the winner of the grand prize will receive a $5,000 card. Cuties^® is committed to kids and educationand will continue the charity gift card giveaway up to $100,000 in addition to the individual college scholarship prize.

In addition to school contributions, Cuties^® will award daily and weekly prizes for the first 18 weeks, leading up to one grand prize winner. Participants will be able to share their videos using their social network platforms, and the winners will be determined by the number of online votes.

• Daily Prizing: Forty-one video contestants per day will each have a chance to win a Cuties^® T-shirt, beanie, lunch box, tumbler or plush toy.

• Weekly Prizing: One video contestant per week will win a $500 DonorsChoose.org gift card to use to fund a project of their choice in addition to an active game console.

• Grand Prize: One grand prize winner will be awarded a college scholarship worth $150,000, a $5,000 DonorsChoose.org gift card to use to fund a project of their choice and aseason’s supply of Cuties^®.

To submit a video of your kid, or to watch some seriously cute videos, log on to CutiesKids.com.

About Cuties^® Brand

Thanks to their small size, sweet flavor and easy peelability, Cuties^® are naturally kid-friendly. And with their high nutritional content, they’re a big hit with parents, too. Available from November through May, Cuties^® offer a variety of nutrients per serving including: fiber, potassium, protein, calcium, vitamin C and folate. Cuties^®is a joint venture between Paramount Citrus, Sun Pacific and Fowler Packing. For more information, visit www.Cutieskids.com.

About DonorsChoose.org

Founded in 2000, DonorsChoose.org (www.donorschoose.org) is an online charity that makes it easy for anyone to help students in need. Public school teachers post requests, and then individuals can browse and fund projects that speak to them. After completing a project, the donor hears back from the classroom they supported in the form of photographs and teacher thank-you letters. To date, 184,000 public and charter school teachers have used the site to secure funding for $85 million in books, art supplies, technology, and other resources that their students need to learn. Through DonorsChoose.org, individuals from all walks of life have helped 5.1 million students.

Disclosure - The above information was provided to me in full to share with my readers. No compensation was provided to me to do so.

Christmas Central - Ornaments With Love - Review & Giveaway

2011-12-06T12:24:00.001-05:00

Ornaments With Love have the most adorable Christmas ornaments. I try to add a new Christmas ornament or two every year and Ornaments With Love will always be one of my go to places. It's a great way to give a special someone (or yourself!) a super cute personalized ornament. They have many styles in twenty six categories including, couples, families, hobbies, professions, kids, tweens and teens and many more. Choose your style and have it personalized. Their service is quick and helpful and orders ship within one or two days!

GIVEAWAY
One of my readers will win an ornament of their choice.

ENTRIES
Share what Ornament With Love you would pick - 2 entries

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on December 14th and is open to U.S. residents. Happy Holidays!!!

Disclosure- I received product to facilitate my review. No other compensation was involved. Opinions are my own.

2011-12-05T19:49:00.001-05:00

Do you have a foodie on your gift list? Whether it's someone who loves to cook or just someone who loves to eat, The Olive Tap has delicious olive oils specialty oils, vinegars, spices, herbs, seasonings and more to add gourmet flavor to anything the recipient can think of. Unlike mass-produced oils and vinegars, The Olive Tap® offers pure and fresh artisan products from around the world. The Olive Tap®’s proprietary procurement storage and packaging processes ensure its customers are offered the freshest, highest quality olive oils and authentic balsamic vinegars. I received the Tuscan Herb Olive Oil and Aceto Balsamico di Modena. Both were truly delicious. The vinegar was excellent on a salad and great as a marinade for pork chops. The Tuscan Herb Olive Oil I used on fresh steamed string beans and I also used it to pop popcorn. The beans and popcorn were both scrumptious with the added flavor of the herbs.

More info & gift ideas:

The olive oils and vinegars can be tailored to everyone on holiday gift list including hostesses, businesses, teachers and foodies. Because each 375 ml bottle includes an average of 35 servings, the gift recipient will remember the thought behind the oil or vinegar each time they use it. The Olive Tap® offers a variety of affordable gift options including:

-

For the holiday party host/hostess: The Mini Dipper ($19.95) is a “bring along” appetizer for hosts/hostesses. It includes Arbequina 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil, dipping seasonings and a decorative dipping bowl.

-   For teachers: A bottle of the Apple Balsamic Vinegar ($15.75) is the perfect holiday thank you for children’s teachers. It has a delicious flavor of red apples and a thick, rich blend of 3 and 4 Leaf Quality Aceto Balsamico di Modena.

-   For foodies: The Gourmet Sampler ($89.95) is the complete assortment of Olive Tap products. It’s sure to please any chef and includes Italiano 100% Extra Virgin Olive Oil, the finest Aceto Balsamico di Modena, Sun-Dried Tomato Bruschetta Topping, Black and Green Olive Tapenade, Mad Mango Salsa, Sorrento Lemon Olive Oil, Pomegranate Balsamic Vinegar and Roasted Garlic Champagne Mustard.

-   For yourself: Holiday shoppers can treat themselves with a single bottle of olive oil or vinegar. One of the most popular flavors is the Tuscan Herb Olive Oil ($15.95) which has a proprietary blend of several herbs including Oregano, Basil, Garlic, and Rosemary.

-   For the whole gift list: Any bottle can be personalized to fit a family, company or special holiday occasion. Dates, names, photos, logos or even a special quote or saying can be printed on either standard or custom labels (minimum required).

-   For corporate gifts: The You Pick Three Gift Box ($59.95) has a professional look great for those in the business world. These bottles can even be etched with the company name and logo (minimum required). It includes three 375 ml bottles of any olive oil, balsamic vinegar or specialty oil/vinegar.

Whether they are included in the feast or wrapped as a gift, olive oils and vinegars with their unique tastes are sure to become a memorable part of every holiday celebration. Gift givers can even pair the olive oil infused Chocolate Chipotle Cake recipe below with the gourmet gifts above.

Chocolate Chipotle Cake

1 cup plus ½ tsp unsweetened cocoa
2 ¾ cups flour
1/4 cup granulated sugar
1 cup packed light brown sugar
1 tablespoon The Olive Tap® Cinnamon
2 teaspoon baking soda
½ teaspoon The Olive Tap® Cayenne Pepper
½ teaspoon salt
2 cups lowfat milk
½ cup mild olive oil such as The Olive Tap®’s Arbequina or Mission
½ cup The Olive Tap® Chipotle Olive Oil
2 large eggs
3 tablespoon The Olive Tap® Dark Chocolate Balsamic Vinegar
Powdered sugar

1. Preheat oven to 350◦. Butter two 8-in cake pans and dust with ¼ tbsp. cocoa in each. Discard excess cocoa.
2. Whisk remaining 1 cup cocoa, flour, sugars, cinnamon, soda, cayenne and salt in bowl to blend. Add milk, oils, eggs and vinegar. Whisk until smooth. Pour into pans, dividing batter evenly.
3. Bake until a toothpick inserted in each cake comes out clean, about 40-45 minutes.
4. Cool cakes in pans for 10 minutes. Loosen the cakes from pans with a metal spatula. Turn each cake out onto a plate and cool completely. Sift powdered sugar onto cakes.

Additional Options: Mix 2 tbsp Dark Chocolate Balsamic Vinegar with cocoa and spread glaze over cakes. Or mix Balsamic Vinegar with 2 tbsp raspberry preserves and spread over cakes.

VISIT THE OLIVE TAP FOR MORE INFO & TO PURCHASE!

Disclosure- I received product to facilitate my review. No other compensation was involved. Opinions are my own.

Christmas Central - World Vision Gift Catalog & A Giveaway

2011-12-04T15:40:00.001-05:00

World Vision is a fantastic way to give a gift and change a life at the same time. By choosing a gift from the World Vision Catalog, you will provide a two-for-one benefit that includes 1) a meaningful and affordable gift for a loved one; 2) proceeds that make a difference in the lives of children and families living in poverty in the U.S. and around the world. With a financial contribution, the gift giver selects one of 36 items that can be given to someone on a holiday gift list and at the same time help a person in need. Your gifts provide much needed supplies such as:

Mosquito nets
Medicine
Clean water
Food
Clothing
And much more!!!

To learn more about World Vision and to request a catalog, visit the World Vision Website

GIVEAWAY

One of my readers will win the beautiful Thai bracelet featured below!

ENTRIES

Order from the catalog and share what you ordered in a comment - 5 entries
Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

Follow this blog - 1 entry
Like my Facebook fan page (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Follow me on Twitter (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Tweet about this giveaway - 1 entry each up to 3x a day
Enter any other giveaway - 1 entry for each giveaway entered

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on December 11th and is open to U.S. residents.

Disclosure - I received a bracelet in exchange for sharing this information with you. No other compensation was involved. Opinions are my own.

Christmas Central

2011-12-01T21:23:00.001-05:00

Unfortunately there is going to be a couple day delay in Christmas Central posts, actually, all posts. I do have several more reviews and giveaways for the Christmas Central event as well as some regular ones. Please believe I am not flaking out on all of you , lol, but sometimes one's personal life comes first and this is one of those times. I really do wish I could elaborate and maybe one day I will write a book all about it. Until then, I will be back in a couple days with some great reviews and giveaways. Thanks to all of my faithful readers!!!!

Renuzit Fresh Accents Holiday Air Freshener - Review & Giveaway

2011-11-30T16:03:00.001-05:00

I love having the scents of the holiday season fill my home. I usually customize the scent for the room and although I usually cannot get a real tree, I love having the living room filled with the scent of pine. I am always looking for new ways to scent my home so I was thrilled to be able to to try out the Renuzit Fresh Accent Holiday Air Fresheners. They come in Winter Berry and Festive Snow. To me, the Winter berry can be described as a sugary, rich cherry scent. I have that one in the bathrooms. The festive snow is true pine, but not too strong. many times pine can be over powering or too perfumey, Festive Snow is not. What I like about these is that the scent stays consistent. They are a bit stronger fresh out of the package, but after just a few hours the scent levels off and stays consistent. They should provide continuous fragrance for thirty days but I've had mine out for about that long already and they still smell pretty good!

GIVEAWAY
One of my readers will win a coupon good for one Renuzit Fresh Accent Holiday Air Freshener!

ENTRIES

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

Follow this blog - 1 entry
Like my Facebook fan page (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Follow me on Twitter (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Tweet about this giveaway - 1 entry each up to 3x a day
Enter any other giveaway - 1 entry for each giveaway entered

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on December 4th and is open to U.S. residents.

Disclosure - I received product and information as part of my participation in the Purex Insiders blogging program. No other compensation was involved. My opinions are my own.

Keeping the Little One's Happy During Holiday Parties & An Earth's Best Giveaway

2011-11-29T19:37:00.001-05:00

Whether you're a parent of young children or not, it's a pretty good possibility that if you're hosting a holiday party, there will be little ones on the list. Keeping them happy can ensure everyone has a great time. One of my most cherished memories of childhood was the kid's table at holiday celebrations. All of us kids had our own special spot to sit and eat. Today it's still a great way to not only save room at the main table but with a little forethought and planning it can be a great place for the little tikes to stay occupied and happy! The main things to remember? Toddlers love to do things for themselves and they want to be like the older kids and adults but they still need structure and naturally, food and activities have to be age appropriate. Make their table special by having holiday coloring pages, or small crafts available (especially if there are older kids to help). Inexpensive favors will make them feel special and grown up. These could be a short story book or a cute little bag packed with an Earth's Best Pop Snax snack pack and juice box. Make snacking fun, easy and tasty (and healthy!) by setting out bowls of Pop Snax at the kid's table. They are certified organic, come in Veggie and Sweet Potato Cinnamon flavors and are fortified specially for toddlers with iron, zinc and six B vitamins. The Sweet Potato Cinnamon variety is perfect for the season! These snacks have not only been little tike approved at my house, but also big kid approved to :)

Visit the Earth's Best website to learn more about available products, the organic and natural difference, nutrition and feeding information and much more!

GIVEAWAY

One of my readers will receive (2) two Veggie Pop Snax and (2) Sweet Potato Cinnamon Pop Snax.

ENTRIES

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on December 11th and is open to U.S. residents. Good Luck!

Disclosure - I am currently a member of the "Earth's Best Bloggers" program and this is part of my involvement in the group. I have received information and product to facilitate my review however no other compensation was involved. My opinions are my own.

Christmas Central - AppleCore Review

2011-11-29T16:42:00.001-05:00

With all the computers, phones, game systems, music players and so forth comes the cords that power them and that can mean a mess. Whether it's trying to keep the excess cord from your ear buds from getting in your way or just trying to tame the mess of cords behind the computer, AppleCore can help. These super light weight, colorful apple core shaped wonders hold the excess cord and are easily adjustable. They come in multiple colors and sizes to solve whatever cord management needs you may have. Just slip the top of the cord into one slot, twist the excess cord around the "apple core" and slip the other end of the cord in the opposite slot.

Some additional places I've used these

Christmas light cords
counter top appliance cords
cell phone chargers (especially useful when I want to charge the phone on the kitchen counter, eliminates all the extra cord laying around, frees up counter space!)

These would make a great additional gift if you're giving any type of "corded" gift or electronics. Also great for the organizer or the person that needs to be :) They can be found on Amazon.

Disclosure - I received product to facilitate my review. No other compensation was involved. My opinions are my own.

Winners! 11/21-11/27

2011-11-28T20:38:00.001-05:00

And the winners are:

Carmex

Tamara B. said...18

GFC follower
(tamaraben)

Tropical Traditions

Sue D said...28

I follow your blog Sweet Home Inspirations.

Silk Soymilk

Maryann said...1

I follow
your new blog Sweet Home Inspirations #1

Maryann D.

Mari said...14

I’m a FB fan (Mari Doug)

NOVEMBER 24, 2011 11:48 PM

Kroger $25 Gift Card

Tina said...47

Follow you on twitter

NOVEMBER 19, 2011 12:50 PM

Congratulations to the winners. I'll be emailing shortly! Don't forget Christmas Central is in progress great gift ideas and giveaways!

Gorton's Seafood Any You Want It Review & Giveaway

2011-11-26T17:48:00.001-05:00

Seafood is something I consider a bit harder than most main dishes to prepare and it can be expensive. That's why I love purchasing Gorton's Seafood. With many varieties to choose from, there is no lengthy prep and they are ready in minutes. I also take full advantage of the delicious recipes that Gorton's has to offer. One night we may have Baked Tilapia

and another we'll have Fish Fillet Parmesano

Yummy!! Check out all of Gorton' Recipes to please the pickiest!

Gorton's is now holding a giveaway on their website - In time for the holidays! A chance to win a $5000 Visa Gift Card & two runner-up winners will win a $500 VISA gift card each! In addition, Gorton’s will randomly select 800 lucky winners to win a custom Gorton’s dinner plate that will help you and your family remember to eat seafood twice a week! HURRY - ENDS DECEMBER 2ND!

GIVEAWAY
3 of my readers will win a coupon good for any Gorton's Seafood product and a Gorton's dinner plate!

ENTRIES
Follow this blog - 1 entry

Like my Facebook fan page (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Follow me on Twitter (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Tweet about this giveaway - 1 entry each up to 3x a day

Sign up for the Gorton's Seafood Newsletter - 1 entry

"Like" Gorton's on Facebook! 1 entry

Follow Gorton's Seafood on Twitter - 1 entry

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on December 5th and is open to U.S. residents. GOOD LUCK!

Disclosure - I received product to facilitate my review. No other compensation was involved. My opinions are my own.

Christmas Central - Lilla Rose Hair Accessories Review

2011-11-25T21:45:00.001-05:00

Do you have someone on your gift list that loves hair accessories? Lilla Rose has a very fashionable line of hair accessories, badge clips, eyeglass lanyards and now necklaces that match the designs of their very popular Flexi Clips. All of the accessories come in multiple styles and sizes. I am sure there is something for every girl on your Christmas list. They would make great stocking stuffers and don't forget something for yourself :) I tried a couple of the Flexi Clips and a headband. I love headbands but was leary...it's hard for me to find one that fits right and is comfortable. These fit the bill. The Flexi Clips are easy to use (even if you're all thumbs like me). Another great benefit of Lilla Rose is that not only can order online, but you can also host an in home party, visit with a consultant that lives near you or you can become a consultant yourself. A very fun way to make extra money!

Visit Lilla Rose for more information, to order products, connect with or become a consultant.

Disclosure - I received product to facilitate my review. No other compensation was received. My opinions are my own.

Christmas Central - Oxygenetix Breathable Foundation Review

2011-11-25T17:51:00.001-05:00

Did you know that make up artists and doctors agree that wearing make up is one of the worst things you can do to your skin? With all the holiday parties and gatherings, we all want to look our best. However, most makeup clogs your pores suffocating your skin of essential oxygen, and if not removed carefully, most makeup will irritate acne, rosacea, scars, and other skin conditions, leaving your skin worse for the wear. Also, if you're planning aesthetic procedures like chemical peels, laser resurfacing, face lifts or dermabrasion, you can forget it! You’re going to have to hide your bruised and reddened face with bandages, and large sunglasses or just temporarily eliminate your social life all together.

Picture courtesy of Lucid Public Relations

Make up will irritate or just not cover up the redness and irritation associated with them. Now there is a make up that will cover up all you want to hide without looking cakey or made up and it will not clog or pores or dry out your skin. I have been using Oxygenetix for several weeks now and I love it. It goes on easily and really evens out my skin tone beautifully yet I don't feel like I'm wearing foundation and that to me is the biggest plus. Despite my age (ssshh, don't tell...46), I still get an occasional breakout. and I'm prone to reddened skin at times. Plus I don't want my skin to lose its natural moisture. That would age me instantly lol! Oxygenetix has not increased my breakouts or dried my skin. My face actually feels better after wearing it! Some additional benefits:

· Works with most skin types

· Hypoallergenic

· Non-Comedogenic (it won't clog pores)

· Oil-Free

· Fragrance Free

· Does not dry out the skin - allows retention of natural fluids

· Organically certified ingredients

· SPF 25 for UVA/UVB sun protection

Perfect for

· ALL Skin Types

· Post cosmetic surgery

· On 1^st, 2^nd and 3^rd degree burns

· Blending and camouflaging different skin conditions

Oxygenetix retails for about $70 and is available at Doctor's offices nationwide. You can also visit Oxygenetix.com for more information.

Disclosure - I received product to facilitate my review. No other compensation was involved. My opinions are my own.

Christmas Central - The Night After Christmas - Book Review & Giveaway

2011-11-24T09:57:00.001-05:00

I am a true kid at heart when it comes to Christmas stories. I have a growing collection that as soon as Halloween as ended, the stack is carefully placed on the coffee table for all to enjoy. Age has no bearing when it comes to Christmas stories and The Night After Christmas by Michael Hebler is no exception. The story is a fun and delightful twist on the classic It Twas the Night Before Christmas. Michael tells the tale of what happens on Christmas night and how Santa gets back safely to the North Pole. It is a fun story (with colorful illustrations by Anita Driessen) the whole family will enjoy, but easy enough to read for most young readers to enjoy by themselves or to show off their reading skills :)

The 28 page picture book is available in both print and eBook formats ($8.99 for 8.5 x 8.5” print / $0.99 for full color eBook) and is available at www.thenightafterchristmas.net, as well as most online retailers, including Amazon.com and Barnesandnoble.com

GIVEAWAY
Two winners - One reader will win a print copy and one reader will win a digital copy that is also available as a PDF

ENTRIES
Follow 'The Night After Christmas' on Facebook -1 entry

Follow Michael on Twitter: @mhebler -1entry

"Like" the video audiobook on YouTube and leave a comment. - 1 entry

Visit www.thenightafterchristmas.net and find the links to send Santa a letter (they are not well hidden) - 1 entry

Follow this blog - 1 entry

Like my Facebook fan page (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Follow me on Twitter (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Tweet about this giveaway - 1 entry each up to 3x a day

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on December 3rd and is open to U.S. residents. HAPPY HOLIDAYS!

Disclosure - I received product to facilitate my review. No other compensation was involved. My opinions are my own.

Zhip Review (A Great Stocking Stuffer!)

2011-11-22T19:18:00.001-05:00

Have you ever noticed it's harder to use your smart phone with it laying flat? Maybe it's just me, but I run into issues every time I attempt it. Do you amuse the kids with apps, games and movies while on the road but don't really want them holding the phone, or maybe they are a little too young? The Zhip solves these problems and much more. Organized as I am, as I'm working the paper piles can become a bit unruly and more often then not my phone gets buried. The Zhip solves the problem by keeping it propped up and visible, easy to locate and it stays safe! Here are a few other uses

For Moms Looking to Simplify Healthy Meal Preparation: The Zhip easily mounts your device on an upper kitchen cabinet for easy reading of recipes or watching recipe videos while cooking. Moms receiving “e-recipes” with the current meal idea sharing craze can easily follow them at a glance.

Entertain Kids in the Car: The Zhip quickly mounts your device to the back of a car seat to entertain the kids with movies, shows, music videos, and games while on the road, or in the stroller.

Entertain Kids in the Stroller: The Zhip also easily mounts to the stroller tray so toddlers can be entertained without the fear of them dropping or losing your valuable phone or mobile player

The Zhip carries an affordable $14.95 MSRP price point and is available through Amazon.com and at www.theZhip.com - and also online at BestBuy.com and Newegg.com

To see the Zhip in action and find out more, visit Zhip.com

Disclosure - I received product to facilitate my review. No other compensation was involved. My opinions are my own.

Christmas Central - Simply Celebrate Review & Giveaway

2011-11-21T11:23:00.001-05:00

Remember the saying " It's the thought that counts"...? It seems most people have lost the meaning of that saying. With tight budgets and even tighter schedules for most people, Christmas gift giving can be somewhat of a nightmare but it doesn't have to be. Sherry Richert Belul, founder of Simply Celebrate, a company that offers tips and products to help people practice turning ordinary days into an extraordinary life has a great e-book titled Present Perfect: 127 creative, one-of-a-kind, no-to-low cost, wow-‘em gifts they’ll never forget. Sherry has taken the hustle and bustle out of gift giving and replaced it with pure joy for the recipient and the gift giver. Thinking you need to be super crafty or handy to pull off any of these gift ideas? Wrong!! Sherry's unique and creative ideas are not difficult and every one of them will not only wow the person you give it to, but you will have fun putting chosen idea together. Reading her e-book not only gave me ideas, but sparked some others that I know will be cherished by people on my Christmas list. I want to share one of my favorite ideas - The Love List. This a gift that you know everyone will use and cherish time and time again, no gift receipt needed and is absolutely free. Check out Sherry's video to learn more...P.S. there are so many ways you could take The Love List even further, but it is still so perfect on it's own :) Here are few sample pages from her book -

For inspiration that feeds the soul, check out Sherry's beautiful blog - Cherry Blossom Soup

GIVEAWAY
One of my readers will win their own copy of Sherry's e-book Present Perfect: 127 creative, one-of-a-kind, no-to-low cost, wow-‘em gifts they’ll never forget.

ENTRIES
Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

Follow this blog - 1 entry

Like Simply Celebrate on Facebook - 1 entry
Like my Facebook fan page (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Follow me on Twitter (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Tweet about this giveaway - 1 entry each up to 3x a day

Follow Simply Celebrate on Twitter -1 entryEnter any other giveaway - 1 entry for each giveaway entered

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on December 1st and is open to EVERYONE! Happy Holidays!

Disclosure - I received a copy of the e-book to facilitate my review. No other compensation was involved. My opinions are my own.

Christmas Central - Woozies Review

2011-11-20T19:31:00.001-05:00

Are you a wine drinker who finds the last sip of wine is never quite the same temperature as the first? Woozies to the rescue! These adorable insulated wine sleeves fit over wine glasses and bottles to keep your wine at the perfect temperature from first sip to last. I received the Words of Woozie Holiday Set to review and not only do they help keep your glass of wine at an optimal temperature but they do so with style and whimsy. You simply put the Woozie on the glass from the bottom up and then tighten. Printed with eight playful expressions like “Don’t Get Your Tinsel in a Tangle,” “Dear Santa, Define Naughty” and “Forget the Milk and Cookies… Pour Me Wine!” They also have The Neon Collection and The Zebra Collection

These make great hostess gifts and stocking stuffers. Pair with a set of wine glasses or their favorite bottle of wine for an extra special gift!

Visit Woozies.com for more info on all of their products and to purchase Woozies and visit their Facebook Page to stay up to date with Woozie happenings!

Disclosure - I received product to facilitate my review. No other compensation was involved. My opinions are own.

Cheerio's Cheer Campaign & Giveaway

2011-11-20T13:17:00.001-05:00

Is one of your family members in the military? Do a know a family who does? Whether you do or not, you can imagine how anyone must feel being away from a loved that's serving in the military, especially during the holidays.

When our troops are called to serve, their families must rise to meet the challenges of service as well. To thank them, Cheerios and the USO have partnered in a postcard campaign that spreads Cheer directly to these honorable military families and supports USO programs. Here´s how it works:

During the months of October and November, 2011, specially-marked boxes of Cheerios cereal will feature Cheer postcards on the front of the box. Consumers can simply cut out the postcard from the Cheerios logo, write a message of thanks on the back, add a stamp and mail the pre-addressed card to the USO. The USO will deliver the Cheer card to military families across the country.

For each postcard received through November 2012, Cheerios will make a $1 donation to the USO to help fund programs that support military families.

To kick off the campaign, Cheerios has already donated $150,000 to the USO and will donate up to an additional $100,000 based upon the number of postcards received from specially marked boxes now through November 30^th, 2012.

Sending a "Cheer" postcard is a simple way to say thanks and lift the spirits of our country´s military families. So, take a moment out of your day to spread some Cheer and send a message of thanks!

GIVEAWAY

One of my readers will receive a prize pack containing:

1 Cheerios cereal bowl

1 Cheerios cereal spoon

1 cereal dispenser

1 "Cheer" box of Cheerios

ENTRIES

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on December 4th and is open to U.S. residents.

Disclosure: Cheerios cereal, information, and giveaway have been provided by General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

Christmas Central 2011

2011-11-19T19:48:00.001-05:00

Christmas Central 2011 starts tomorrow! Christmas Central is full of reviews and giveaways for this holiday season, sprinkled with tips and ideas to make your holiday easier and more enjoyable. This blog event starts tomorrow and will end on November 4th. Happy Holidays!!!!

Kroger & General Mills Promotion & Giveaway

2011-11-15T19:13:00.001-05:00

I can't think of anything better than realizing some great savings on great products at the grocery store and at this time of year, that feeling is triple good!!! Now through November 26th when you purchase any four participating General Mills products* at the Kroger family of stores, you will either receive free milk (up to $3; limit of 2) or $3 off your shopping order** Cha-ching!!!

Look for some of your favorite participating General Mills products like Cheerios, Pillsbury Ready to Bake Cookies, Nature Valley Bars and Fiber One Bars

Promotion varies in different locations. Please be sure to check your local Kroger Co. Family of Stores for specific deals and offers which include Kroger, Ralphs, King Scoopers, City Market, Dillons, Smith’s, Fry’s, QFC, Baker’s, Owen’s, Jay C Food Stores, Hilander, Gerbes, Food4Less, Fred Meyer, Pay Less Supermarkets and Scott’s Food & Pharmacy

Be sure to visit Kroger.com for more info and the Kroger Facebook page to join the conversation and share which General Mills products you’d like to stock up on during the promotion.

GIVEAWAY
One of my readers will a $25 gift card to the Kroger family of stores!

ENTRIES

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

Follow this blog - 1 entry
Like my Facebook fan page (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Follow me on Twitter (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Tweet about this giveaway - 1 entry each up to 3x a day

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on November 27th and is open to U.S. residents. GOOD LUCK!!!

Disclosure- The Kroger gift card, information, and giveaway have been provided by Kroger and General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

*Excludes General Mills meal and baking products including; Betty Crocker, Old El Paso, Progresso, Hamburger Helper, Macaroni Grill, Wanchai Ferry, Yoplait
**Promotion varies based on store location; check your local Kroger store for details (Cash Offer: Mid South, Delta, Mid Atlantic, SW Louisiana stores, Central Missouri stores and Dillons Missouri stores)

GlassesUSA

2011-11-14T19:24:00.001-05:00

Do you wear eyeglasses? If you do you'll agree it's one of those necessary evils, something you hate having to spend money on but that greatly affects your quality of life and safety! Have you done research to see if you're getting the best price on your eyeglasses? It's definitely worth the time to do so. A great option to look into is GlassesUSA.com. They have an extensive website where you can browse and choose the glasses you want that fit your budget in the convenience of your own home. Couldn't be easier! Their complete line covers single vision, bifocals, multifocals along with reading glasses and prescription sunglasses. They have all the latest styles in glasses and you can shop by shape, material, style, size or whether you want glasses for men or women.
Some other benefits include:

Free shipping
Lowest price guarantee
Satisfaction guaranteed
UVA/UVB protection included

Cheap glasses, great styles and convenience - what more could you ask for? How about a fall sale? By using the code "Fall50" you can score 50% off any pair of prescription eyeglass frames (standard lenses included - additional charges may apply if optical lens upgrades are used) OR 10% off any order with the code "Blog10".

All you need is your eyeglasses prescription to shop for your next pair of eyeglasses in the convenience of your own home!

Be sure to check out GlassesUSA.com on Facebook and on Twitter

Disclosure- I was compensated for providing this information to my readers. However, I would never share something I wouldn't try or recommend.

The Silk Milk Cereal Challenge

2011-11-10T10:49:00.000-05:00

Tired of boring old milk in your cereal? A great way to add some flavor and plenty of other benefits is to make the switch to Silk Soymilk. I love the Vanilla and Very Vanilla flavors in mine. But with three varieties and seventeen choices, you can a enjoy a different one every day of the week! Whether it's Cheerios, Cinnamon Harvest or Frosted Flakes, switching to Silk will add a punch of flavor and give you 50% more calcium.

YUM!! One of my favorite combos...Vanilla Silk and Kashi's Cinnamon Harvest

Still not convinced? Want to know more? Visit the sites below for more information!!!

Link to website: http://switchtosilk.com/
Silk Twitter Link: http://www.twitter.com/LoveMySilk
Silk Product Locator: http://silksoymilk.com/content/product-locator
Silk Pure Almond: http://www.silkpurealmond.com/
  Simply Silk: http://silksoymilk.com/products/simply-silk
  Silk Pure Coconut: http://www.silkpurecoconut.com/
Wellness: http://silksoymilk.com/products/wellness
  Organics: http://silksoymilk.com/products/organics
Lights: http://silksoymilk.com/products/lights
Silk Facebook Link http://www.facebook.com/SilkUS-
GIVEAWAY
Two of my readers will win a prize pack that includes two(2) silk coupons, one Silk cereal bowl and a Silk Chico bag!

ENTRIES

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

Follow this blog - 1 entry
Like my Facebook fan page (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Follow me on Twitter (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Tweet about this giveaway - 1 entry each up to 3x a day

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on November 24th and is open to U.S. residents. GOOD LUCK!!

Disclosure - I was contacted by Silk and was given product and information to facilitate my review. My opinions are my own.

Cinnabon's Random Acts of Kindness & Chance at Cash

2011-11-08T18:29:00.001-05:00

Cinnabon is looking for ways to warm the hearts of others this holiday season and needs your help to Spread the Warmth through its Random `Packs´ of Kindness contest.

Cinnabon wants you to share its ooey-gooey awesomeness with friends, family, co-workers, and even strangers, and then share your story online! From November 6th through January 7th, share any act of kindness to qualify for a chance to win prizes! Simply photograph or video the reaction to a random act of kindness and submit it to the Cinnabon Facebook page for a chance to win free weekly Cinnapacks or a cash prize of $2,500 and a $2,500 donation to the charity of your choice.

For more contest rules and information on how you can help Spread the Warmth visit the Cinnabon Facebook page.

Disclosure - This information was provided to me by Cinnabon & General Mills through MyBlogSpark.

Topical traditions Citrus Mint Skin Exfoliator - Review & Giveaway

2011-11-07T20:42:00.001-05:00

My latest review in the family of Tropical Tradition products was the Citrus Mint Skin Exfoliator. What is an exfoliator? An exfoliator polishes and smooths the skin while reducing the appearance of wrinkles by unclogging pores and sloughing off dead skin. Available in citrus mint, lavender and unscented, they are made with only the best organic ingredients. An extra benefit - I tried the citrus mint and my entire bathroom smelled like a spa! I especially like using it on my legs, butt and upper arms. It leaves my skin smooth and healthy looking. See the Tropical Traditions website for more information on the skin exfoliators.

GIVEAWAY
One of my readers will win a jar of skin exfoliator in their chocie of scent (Citrus Mint, Lavender or Unscented)

ENTRIES

One of the following three is mandatory(you can do them all ), then you may do as many of the others listed below these three entries for additional chances!

Sign up for the Tropical traditions Newsletter -1 entry

Follow Tropical traditions on Twitter - 1 entry

Like Tropical Traditions on Facebook - 1 entry

OTHER ENTRIES

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

Follow this blog - 1 entry
Like my Facebook fan page (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Follow me on Twitter (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Tweet about this giveaway - 1 entry each up to 3x a day

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on November 21st and is open to U.S. residents. GOOD LUCK!!!

Disclosure- I received product to facilitate my review. No other compensation was received. My opinions are my own.

Carmex Healing Lotion & Cream Review & Giveaway

2011-11-05T16:10:00.003-04:00

Is your skin ready for winter? Whether your skin tends to be dry or not, the colder weather definitely calls for a moisturizer to keep skin soft, supple and healthy. I recently had the opportunity to try the Carmex Healing Lotion and Carmex Healing Cream. The healing lotion is geared to all over moisturizing while the cream is for your really dry spots. Both have great benefits such as:

non greasy
fast absorbing
light, fresh scent
super moisturizing - your skin instantly feels soothed, refreshed and soft.

My favorite things about the Carmex moisturizers are the scent and how instantly they work. I love a lotion that smells great, but if I choose to wear a cologne, I don't want it overpowered by the moisturizer. I use moisturizer after everyday in the winter whether I've showered or not. Carmex absorbs quickly and instantly makes my skin feel baby soft. I have a stubborn patch of dry skin on my elbow and the Carmex cream did wonders with just one use. These are perfect for the entire family!

Follow Carmex on Twitter
Like Carmex on Facebook

GIVEAWAY

One of my readers will receive

1 Carmex Healing Lotion
1 Carmex Healing Cream
1 Travel size Carmex Healing Lotion
1 Travel size Carmex Healing Cream

ENTRIES

Follow Pickles & Lollipops - 1 entry

Follow my new blog Sweet Home Inspirations - 2 entries

Like my Facebook fan page (link in sidebar) - 1 entry
Follow me on Twitter (link in sidebar) - 1 entry Tweet about this giveaway - 1 entry each up to 3x a day

This giveaway will end at 11:59:59 pm est on November 21st and is open to U.S. residents. GOOD LUCK!!

Disclosure - I received product to facilitate my review as part of the Carmex Bloggers Squad program. No other compensation was involved. My opinions are my own.

Kashi TLC Granola Bar Review

2011-11-04T00:10:00.001-04:00

My family loves to snack. We also like having things in the house that are easy to grab and eat for a quick pick me up or light meal. One of the things that works for us is snack bars. You name them, we buy them...cereal, granola, protein, if it comes in a bar we have probably tried it! We have never really been brand loyal, at least not to any one brand. Recently I had a fantastic opportunity to try Kashi TLC Granola Bars not only with my family, but also with my Mom's Meet group. Everyone that sampled these (ages 5 through adult) really enjoyed them. They are not super sweet or gooey, but have a delicious layer of dark chocolate sprinkled with peanuts and chocolate chunks that covers a tasty granola bar filled with peanut butter and peanut chunks with a layer of real soft fruit. They are not big bars as some others are, but are still satisfying as a quick snack between meals or anytime you want a snack. These bars have what you want - whole grains, fiber and protein and leave out what you don't - high fructose corn syrup, artificial flavorings and unnatural preservatives. Price wise they fall in about the average to mid range at a retail of $3.89 for a box of six. Kashi's TLC Granola bars is high on the list of favorites for us!

For more info and to connect with Kashi visit the Kashi Website and visit their Facebook Page

Disclosure- I received this product for free from the sponsor of the Moms Meet program, May Media Group LLC, who received it directly from the manufacturer. As a Moms Meet blogger, I agreed to use this product and post my opinion on my blog. My opinions do not necessarily reflect the opinions of May Media

Swag Bucks Extravaganza - This Week!!!

2011-10-31T16:04:00.000-04:00

This week will be a can't miss at Swagbucks, as they run not one but TWO big days of codes! It all starts on Halloween Monday, with a series of Trick-or-Treat code hunts throughout the day. Then, on Thursday, it's another Swag Code Extravaganza - 60 Swag Bucks worth of codes being released throughout the day, plus special promotions, announcements and more! Be sure to go to the Swagbucks Blog at 7am Pacific Time Monday to join in the fun!"

Winners!!

2011-10-30T13:13:00.004-04:00

Freschetta

Maryann said...4

Tweeted: https://twitter.com/#!/macdrap50/status/130044192540995586

Maryann D.

Yoplait Smoothie Prize Pack

♡♥♬ Raven In A Blue Room ♬♥♡ said...11

2
Google Friends Connect - following Sweet Home Inspirations publicly as (Louis)

OCTOBER 13, 2011 1:52 PM

Yoplait Light Swap Prize Pack

♡♥♬ Raven In A Blue Room ♬♥♡ said...5

following you on twitter @left_the_stars

OCTOBER 13, 2011 1:45 PM

Congratulations and a big thanks to everyone for participating in my giveaways!

The Comforts Of Home by Jodi Thomas - Guest Post

2011-10-27T23:13:00.001-04:00

Do you remember me raving about Welcome to Harmony and Somewhere Along the Way? Both were excellent books by Jodi Thomas and now the newest book in the series is about to be released and it does not disappoint :) I have just a bit to go and I love this one just as much as the others! The new addition to the series, The Comforts of Home is due out on Tuesday, November 1st. Be sure to get your copy...you can pre - order on Jodi's website! (see link below).

About Jodi

Jodi Thomas is the NY Times and USA Today best-selling author of 34 novels and 11 short story
collections. In June 2011, WELCOME TO HARMONY won a RITA, the highest award for contemporary

fiction. Jodi currently serves as the Writer in Resi-dence at West Texas A&M University in Canyon, Texas.

www.jodithomas.com

Without further ado, here is Jodi and her guest post on her latest book The Comforts of Home...

I’m getting excited. THE COMFORTS OF HOME is on its way and due to hit the stands on Nov. 1. Whenever I write any of the Harmony Series, I always feel like I’m stepping into another world and for me it is a real world. The town is as real to me as any place I’ve ever lived. I’ve lived in little towns from Freehold, NJ. to Sierra Vista, AZ but now spend most of my days in the little town of Canyon, Texas. For me, I feel at home writing about a small town and the warm, caring people who live there.

Once in a while a characters plays at the corner of a writer’s mind for a long time before their story begins to grow. Ronelle Logan was like that with me. She was in WELCOME TO HARMONY as a girl who worked in the post office and eats alone every day in the diner. I knew she’d have her own story one day even from the beginning. As she wakes up to the world around her she sees what her life is really like and wants more.

I love writing and plan to do it as long as stories come. Writing is hard work and I often think the story will never be as bright at it is in my mind. Then I remember that someone asked Mark Twain about his wonderful stories and he said, “You should have seen it in my head.”

So, order, or borrow, or download my story, cuddle up in your favorite chair and come along with me on a journey that will make you feel at home in Harmony.

Jodi Thomas

www.jodithomas.com

www.facebook.com/JodiThomasAuthor

Help Support Breast Cancer & 2 Day Giveaway - Freschetta Pizza

2011-10-27T22:14:00.000-04:00

Have you tried Freschetta pizza? If you have, I know you love it and if you have not tried it yet, you owe it to yourself to try it now. We recently tried the Simply Inspired Harvest Supreme and it was delicious! They have many varieties to please every pizza palate in your family. If you want help deciding, take the quiz and find out which one is for you. Then be sure to pick up your favorite by October 31st to help Freschetta in reaching their goal of raising $50.000 for the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Specially marked packages have codes you can enter at www.ProudtoSupportPink.com. For each code entered the makers of Freschetta pizza will donate $1, up to $50, 000. Visit Proud to Support Pink and the Freschetta Facebook page for more information.

You can also visit Proud to Support Pink and enter the code FRESCH11 to donate a $1 - no purchase necessary!

GIVEAWAY

One of my readers will win a coupon good for one Freschetta pizza and two pairs of Freschetta Proud to Support Pink earphones.

ENTRIES

Share your favorite pizza toppings - 2 entries

Tweet about this giveaway - 1 entry for every tweet (4x day max)

That is it! THIS GIVEAWAY ENDS AT 11:00 PM EST TIME ON SATURDAY OCTOBER 29TH!

GOOD LUCK!

Disclosure - I was contacted by the makers of Freschetta to participate in the blogger's program and received products to review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.