Frugal Family Fun: April 2010

Friday, April 30, 2010

Conair InfinitiPro Salon Performance Hair Dryer Review

Imagine getting that amazing salon blow out at home...beautiful hair for a fraction of the price!! Conair makes it affordable to own salon quality products for less! The InfinitiPro is a sleek hair dryer with 3 temperature settings, 2 speeds and a cold shot button!! Use the low speed with the cool temperature setting for delicate, thin, or easy to style hair. Use the low speed with the warm temperature for average to thick or treated hair. Use the high speed with the hot temperature for thick, coarse or hard to style hair. The cold shot button is great for curls or to set style in place for any hair type.

I loved using this dryer on my daughters' hair. The cool setting is the perfect temperature for their little heads and we used it right after bed time. I brushed their hair, then dried it, fluffing with my fingers. For a straight look, I used the brush while I dried the hair to make it sleek and straight. Their hair looked extra shiny and smooth! Plus they had a blast when I gave them the “wind in their hair” look by blowing the cold shot in their face. The little one got scared of the dryer at first, but after watching her two older sisters get their hair done, she wanted her turn too!!

Conair offers the following styling advice:

Your best looks begin with a good haircut that's well maintained. Always treat hair right with ssuperior quality shampoos, conditioners and finishing products.

Drying Basics:

1. Shampoo and condition your hair with products of your choice. Rinse thoroughly. Towel dry hair to remove excess moisture. Using the dryer along with your styling brush, start at a lower setting and direct hot air through a section of hair at a time. Move dryer steadily across each section so that the hot air passes through hair. Direct air flow at hair not scalp. Clouds of negatively charged ions will help to reduce static electricity, control frizzy flyaways and contribute to your hair's shine.

2. Keep dryer's intake vents unobstructed and free from hair while drying.

3. To avoid over drying, do not concentrate heat on any one section for any extended length of time. Keep dryer moving as you style.

4. For quick touch ups, between shampoos, damper hair with a mist of water before styling with the dryer.

5. When using your dryer to create curls and waves, dry hair almost completely on a warmer temperature setting, then finish styling with Cold Shot feature to quickly close hair shaft and lock in style.

This dryer is fabulous because its almost maintenance free!! No lubrication needed! For proper operating performance, the dryer must be kept clean. To clean, you simply wait until it's cool (and of course unplugged), and clean dust and lint from air intake openings with a small brush or the brush attachment from a vacuum cleaner. The outer surface should only be cleaned by wiping with a cloth.

The dryer also includes 2 concentrator attachments, perfect for drying the section of hair that you want!! They easily screw on and off, so you are ready to go in seconds! The dryer is lightweight yet a powerful and effective styling tool!!


More Product Details:
Ergonomically designed for ultimate comfort. High performance for salon-quality results. A quiet, but powerful AC motor ensures fast drying time, which means less heat exposure for hair. Well-balanced and lightweight, this Infiniti Pro by Conair™ dryer* delivers comfortably effortless styling and sensational results.




Ceramic Technology



Safely dries and promotes healthy hair

Ionic Technology



For less frizz and more manageability

AC Motor



Delivers more powerful, fast airflow for styling ease

Guarantees up to 3x longer life***

Additional Product Features



1875 watts

15% lighter with new AC motor design**

True cold shot button to lock in curls, waves & style

Rocker switches – 3 heat/2 speed switches for heat and airflow control

Removable filter prevents damaging lint buildup and extends motor life

2 concentrator attachments to achieve a variety of styles

Limited four-year warranty

Unit weight: 2.55 lbs.

Now available in Target and Ulta



*Model as compared to T3 Featherweight, Chi Pro GF1505, FHI Pro 1800

**As compared to Conair model 213AC

***Compared to DC motor hairdryer models

Suggested Retail: $38.99


Check out Conair on Facebook!
Conair would like hook one of you lucky readers up with your own InfinitiPro dryer!! Here's how to win!

Go to conair.com and tell me something you would like to try! Leave me a comment below telling me what it is! Be sure I have your email in case you win!!


How about some extra entries? Leave separate comments for all that you do!

Follow @conair_hair on Twitter. Leave me your twitter name.

Follow @frugalfamilyfun on Twitter. Leave me your twitter name.

Blog about this for 5 extra entries. Leave me the link to the post

Put our button on your blog for 1 extra entry. Leave me the link to your blog.

Sign up for Conair's email alerts. (bottom of the page click here)

Tweet daily about this giveaway-up to 5 entries per day!! (1 entry per tweet, must be at least 1 hour apart)

Tweets must state that this is a contest and must include @frugalfamilyfun @conair_hair and the link to this giveaway! Leave me the link to your tweet in the comment.

Contest begins now and ends June 1,2010. Winner will be chosen via random.org and will be notified via email. Winner has 48 hours to claim their prize or forfeits the prize. In this case we will redraw for a new winner.



I was not monetarily compensated for this review. I was given the products mentioned from Conair for review. These opinions are not affected by the products received. They are my honest opinions. The winner will also be receiving the dryer. Photos from Conair.

Eco Store Review

I have been trying the Green Movement lately like a lot of other people! Something that has been important to me has been having products that are healthy for my family and the environment for cleaning and maintaining my house. I found a great place to buy these kinds of products: Eco Store!

It's important to reduce our exposure to unhealthy chemicals. Many synthetic chemicals are known to be harmful to health and can cause skin irritation or eczema. Eco Store uses plant based surfacants, simple mineral salts and essential plant oils while still giving the same results of harsh chemical cleaners. What's good for our health is also good for the earth. Eco Store's products are highly biodegradable and contain earth safe ingredients from sustainable resources.


 I seriously already used almost the whole bottle of the Citrus Based Spray Cleaner!! I use it without worrying about it harming my family! This great spray is made from things like D-Limonene (zest of citrus peel), and palm and coconut based non-ionic and anionic surfacants. These are plant based ingredients!!! I use the citrus cleaner for cleaning the counters, the stove, the sink, the fridge, even the bathroom!! It cleans and kills the bacteria at the same time!! The spray in naturally antibacterial!


This spray contains: NO NASTY CHEMIALS,NO TOXIC PETROCHEMICALS,NO PHOSPHATES,

NO BENZENE, NO BLEACH, NO NITRATES, NO AMMONIA, NO CHLORINE, NO EDTA, NO SYNTHETIC DYES OR PERFUMES.


Eco Store doesn't test on animals and their products are made in New Zeland. Eco Store even won the 2002 Green Ribbon Award from the New Zeland Ministry for the Environment! The best part is that Eco friendly doesn't have to cost more!!! Eco Store's products are totally affordable and their prices are comparable to those of chemical cleaners.
I also got to try the Eco Pets Soothing Hypoallergenic Shampoo! This is gentle on itchy, sensitive skin!! I tried it on my dog, who has been itching since his fur is changing. He doesn't have fleas, so we tried the shampoo and he didn't itch afterwards!! The smell is refreshing but not unnatural! This leaves your dog (or cat) smelling nice! This can be used on dogs or cats over 6 weeks old. It is expertly designed to penetrate safely into the skin where it is most effective. And its gentle enough to use frequently!! Keep your dog smelling good and you can rest assured that its good for his skin!You're spoiling your pet with a nourishing, rich blend of ingredients and showing them how much you care by reducing their exposure to unhealthy chemicals.



This shampoo contains: NO NASTY CHEMICALS, NO TOXIC PETROCHEMICALS, NO LAURYL OR LAURETH SULFATES, NO PROPYLENE GLYCOL, NO DYES, NO ARTIFICIAL PERFUMES, NO PARABENS, NO COCAMIDE DEA, AND NO COCOMIDOPROPUL BETAINE.


I love the Eco Store's products and can't wait to try out some of their other great stuff!!

Check out Eco Store on Facebook
Also follow @ecostoreusa on twitter!
I was not monetarily compensated for this review. I was given the products mentioned from Eco Store for review. These opinions are not affected by the products received. They are my honest opinions. Photos from Eco Store.

Frizz Off Hair Products Review and Giveaway!!

Curly hairs means special treatment! Hopefully if you have really curly hair like mine, you have figured out how to keep it healthy and looking its best! It took me many years to find the best products and things to do to keep my hair beautiful and not dry and frizzy! The problem I had was that no one in my family had curly hair so nobody knew what to do to it. My hair was a big poofy frizzy mess until I figured out how to keep it tame!  Dryness causes frizziness and out of control .One great hair care line that has changed my hair completely has been the Frizz Off products from Curly Hair Solutions!! They sent me a great gift basket with the following products:

Curl Keeper- Total control for frizzy hair. Curl keeper enables you to become the master of gorgeous frizz free curls! Curl keeper is water based which mean you can use it daily without product buildup!! This was so great on my hair and also worked for fly a ways and touch ups!

ReMane Straight-Straightens and smooths hair. ReMane Straight will assist in straightening the hair safely during blow drying by sealing the hair cuticle while protecting hair against heat and stretching. You can use a generous amount against high heat appliances (both curling irons and blow dryers.) Styles last longer while still feeling clean! It is also humidity resistant. I liked to use this to make my hair more wavy than curly and also to help make my daughter's hair more perfectly straight and not dry!

Tweek-A hairspray in a cream form!! Tweek will refresh and support your style for several days if you need!! It will eliminate flat spots and flyaway hair, add volume, bounce and shine. Tweek never builds up!! I loved this product as a finishing touch especially when I wear my hair down. It adds sleekness and shine to my hair and the curls stay frizz free all day long!



Stretch-The ultimate non chemical curl styling relaxer!! This product actually prevents curls from shrinking up when they dry! Keeps hair beautiful and bouncy! I loved it and use it daily!



Gel-Outstanding all day hold. CHS Gel gives the ultimate in holding power without flakiness. Gel is excellent for blow drying, air drying, scrunching or styling with brushes. Provides style support for curly or straight hair without the look or feel of product in your hair! This product also helped contribute to my frizz less hair and kept curls in place!



Silk Leave In Conditioner treatment-Adds moisturizer and shine to your hair!! This goes in after you get out of the shower and helps create the sleek healthy look I love!! Great for any hair type that needs extra moisture!



Slip-Detangles Instantly, locks in hair color. Slip is a leave in conditioner that instantly smooths hair cuticles, loosens tangles and eliminates flyaway hair. CHS Slip helps to lock in hair color making it stay truer, longer. This unique non-silicone formula helps repair dry damaged hair without buildup Your hair will be left shiny, healthy, smooth and tangle free! I loved loved LOVED this for my daughter's hair!!! I have 3 little girls and all of them have hair that gets knots quickly! So I found this product to make hair brushing MUCH easier for all parties involved!!

Check out Curly Hair Solutions on Facebook!

Check out the Hairoscopes by clicking here

How would you like to try a bottle of the Curl Keeper?!?! Here is how to win!!
Go to frizzoff.com and find a product you would like to try. Come back here and tell me what that is in a comment below. Be sure I have your email in case you are the lucky winner!!

How about some extra entries? Leave separate comments for all that you do!

Follow @frizzoff on Twitter. Leave me your twitter name.
Follow @frugalfamilyfun on Twitter. Leave me your twitter name.

Blog about this for 5 extra entries. Leave me the link to the post

Put our button on your blog for 1 extra entry. Leave me the link to your blog.

Sign up for Curly Hair Solutions' email alerts.

Tweet daily about this giveaway-up to 5 entries per day!! (1 entry per tweet, must be at least 1 hour apart)

Tweets must state that this is a contest and must include @frugalfamilyfun @frizzoff and the link to this giveaway! Leave me the link to your tweet in the comment.

Contest begins now and ends May 29,2010. Winner will be chosen via random.org and will be notified via email. Winner has 48 hours to claim their prize or forfeits the prize. In this case we will redraw for a new winner.

I was not monetarily compensated for this review. I was given the products mentioned from Curly Hair Solutions for review. These opinions are not affected by the products received. They are my honest opinions. The winner will also be receiving the Curl Keeper from Curly Hair Solutions. Photos from Curly Hair Solutions.

Thursday, April 29, 2010

Winners of the Staples OXO collection giveaway!!!

Here are 2 more lucky winners! These 2 have won our Staples OXO Collection Giveaway!!

Via random.org the lucky winners are: 

#88: Kimberly who said...  tweet http://twitter.com/Aerated/status/11369315292


# 127: PowerSweepstaking who said... http://twitter.com/sweepstaking/status/11634018157




Congrats! you have been emailed and we are waiting for your response! If we don't hear back in 48 hours we will redraw!

Again, some of the people who were originally selected as a winner didn't follow rules and therefore we redrew for new winners! Please check out our other Current Giveaways!

Wednesday, April 28, 2010

What to do when your child is lost.

This past weekend, my husband and I had the scariest experience of our lives. We were at a local festival, where they had the park set up with dozens of booths for kids day. There must have been over 500 people in a park no bigger than 2 ½ acres. Well, we were getting ready to leave and my husband spotted a friend. I was going to the picture booth and had our youngest with me. My husband had our middle child and my oldest daughter was going to go with me but decided to go with daddy. After getting the picture that we had taken earlier, I went back to the spot I had left my husband. He was there with our middle daughter, but our oldest was no where to be found.



We both began to hunt the aisles of the fair for her, trying frantically to spot the little blonde girl in the swarms of people. As minute after minute ticked by, I began to get more and more scared, trying to figure out what went wrong and where she could be. Finally I spotter her across the way with a woman carrying her to the entertainment stage. I literally shoved my stroller through the crowd as I ran to get her. As I made my way I could hear the woman on the microphone, saying my daughter's name, that she really wants to find her parents Lisa and Brian and she's 4 years old. That was the happiest reunion ever!!! She was crying, I was crying....it was emotional!! I was so proud that she knew to find a nice woman to help her, and was able to tell her name, age and parent's names, even in a scary situation!! Here are my tips to helping your child be prepared if this should happen to you!!:

1. As soon as your child begins to speak, teach them her or his name. First and last. We even taught mine her middle name!! For us this began just after she turned 1, and by 18 months she had quite the vocabulary!
2. Teach your child the names of you and your spouse. Again first and last. Especially if somebody has a different last name than the child. The more info the child can supply in an emergency the better!


3. Teach your child to find a nice looking woman. Sorry to offend all you men out there, but it is more likely a man will snatch a child than a woman, NOT THAT WOMEN ARE NOT CAPABLE OF DOING SO. But generally it is recommended to seek an adult woman or police officer to help you. Or tell your child to find a woman with kids of her own.

4. When they are older, teach address and phone number. Of course teach them discretion as to when and with who they should share this, but its important to know in the case that they are kidnapped and will help reuniting happen faster.
5. Tell your child to try to stay in one spot if they should get separated from you. This makes it easier to find them and quicker too.


What do you do if your child goes missing?


If you are in public, search the immediate area you are in and last saw your child. Ask if anyone has seen your child. Always be sure you know what your child is wearing. If there are security guards or police, notify them of the missing child. If not, seek the customer service desk or an employee for help.


If your child is not found within a few minutes, contact authorities to help you find him/her. Time is precious and if your child has been abducted you want to be sure to get someone on the case a.s.a.p.


If your teen is missing, contact friends and family and see if anyone knows anything. Cases can be runaways or abductions, and you can never be too cautious. Your child's safety is the number one priority.



For more tips, visit these websites:

National Center for Missing and Exploited Children
Parents.com
life.familyeducation.com

Liquid Love Water Bottle Review/Giveaway

Water is good for your health and it has great beauty perks too!! Drinking water helps you maintain a healthy weight, helps keep your skin clear of zits and helps your skin to stay refreshed and moisturized!! Of course, it can be hard to drink water if you are like me and don't like the taste or prefer the convenience of a portable water bottle. One great way to have great water on the go is the Liquid Love Water Bottle from WaterCheck !!



This bottle is made of stainless steel, so it keeps the water super cold! It keeps cold things colder longer and I would say you could even use it (carefully!!!) for keeping hot things HOT! The bottle has a sleek design and is available in blue or green!! Here are some of the product details:



WaterCheck was started by Leslie Gabriel. Here is some info from their web page:


Hi Water Lovers, I am Leslie Gabriel, CEO of WaterCheck.biz. People call me WaterMan, H2O Ambassador. Thanks for splashing by our site.



WaterCheck.biz  is a leader in the development and distribution of water filtration, water testing and water conservation and personal hydration products.
We've got over 300 of the best H2O products for water lovers everywhere. Stay, browse and share us passionately.

Email us nowThis e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it This e-mail address is being protected from spam bots, you need JavaScript enabled to view it for your discount code. You also get free standard shipping in the USA, for all orders.


Got a question, call us @ 888 222 0840 - we are committed your satisfaction.

We support H2O sustainability organizations too. Through April 30, 2010, we're supporting the great work of ...

Clean Water For Haiti - Clean Water For Haiti is providing support and expertise for sustainable clean water projects in Haiti. Visit them - NOW.


Contact us if you have any questions.



Yours Truly In Health & Sustainability,

Leslie Gabriel, WaterMan, H2O Ambassador


P.S. Check out our great WaterMan Blog. Its the best H2O blog on the net.




 Water is a much better choice than sodas, teas and sugary drinks. Adding ice to water can help make it easier to drink, as many people have to have it icy cold for it to “taste right” (yes I am one of those people!) Drinking water with your kids will encourage them to drink water as well! You can also introduce water during the first year and get your child to love water from the start! Talk to your child's doctor to find out when adding water to his or her diet is right for you!!

Website - http://www.watercheck.biz/


Blog - http://www.watermanblog.com/

Podcast - http://www.andsoitflows.com/
Facebook - WaterCheck on Facebook

The Liquid Love Water bottle can be yours!! Here is how to win one!



Go to http://www.watercheck.biz/  and tell me something you learned. Anything. ☺ Come back here and tell me what that something is in a comment below. Be sure I have your email in case you are the lucky winner!!


How about some extra entries? Leave separate comments for all that you do!

Follow @superwaterman on Twitter. Leave me your twitter name.


Follow @frugalfamilyfun on Twitter. Leave me your twitter name.

Blog about this for 5 extra entries. Leave me the link to the post
Put our button on your blog for 1 extra entry. Leave me the link to your blog.

Tweet daily about this giveaway-up to 5 entries per day!! (1 entry per tweet, must be at least 1 hour apart)

Tweets must state that this is a contest and must include @frugalfamilyfun @superwaterman and the link to this giveaway! Leave me the link to your tweet in the comment.

Contest begins now and ends May 25,2010. Winner will be chosen via Random.org and will be notified via email. Winner has 48 hours to claim their prize or forfeits the prize. In this case we will redraw for a new winner.



I was not monetarily compensated for this review. I was given the products mentioned from Watercheck for review. These opinions are not affected by the products received. They are my honest opinions. The winner will also be receiving the Liquid Love water bottle from Watercheck. Photos from Watercheck

Hearth Song Play and Freeze Ice Cream Maker Review and Giveaway!

Ice cream goes pretty fast in our house!! So I was super excited to try out the Play and Freeze Ice Cream Maker from Hearth Song!! This ingenious toy actually makes ice cream inside it while you play with it!! How cool is that?!?!? I was totally shocked and intrigued when I saw it, and when it came we got it out and tried it right then and there!!


Here's how it works:

You fill ice end of the ball with as much ice as you possibly can fit!! Then add one cup of rock salt* Close the lid securely!

Rock salt works best, but sea salt and kosher salt are good substitutes!! When using sea salt or kosher salt, use and additional ¼ cup. Do not use driveway chemicals (calcium chloride or potassium chloride.)

Mix up your ice cream ingredients in a container. Remove lid form the end with the metal cylinder and pour in your ingredients. Close the lid securely but do not use the plastic wrench to tighten the lid.


Now comes the fun!! Shake, roll and pass the ball and freeze the ice cream at the same time!! After 15 minutes open the ice cream end and scrape the hard ice cream off the sides of the can. Mix with the liquidy ice cream in the center. Close the lid again and then check the ice end. Pour out the excess water and add more ice ad up to 1/3 cup rock salt. Close the lid and continue to play 15 minutes or until the ice cream is the best consistency!



Now, I have found that you have to experiment with the time to get the right consistency. I would also recommend using cream, NOT half and half. This will give it a better consistency. There are tons of great recipes that come with the ice cream ball, and you can also purchase the ice cream flavors set to add instant flavor to your ice cream!! I found the chocolate flavoring to be too artificial, so I would recommend using your favorite chocolate syrup to add chocolate flavor.




Here is what my 4 year had to say about it: I love it!! I want to play with it everyday. It's fun to play with.

We played with my 3 daughters and myself! We had a blast passing, rolling and shaking the ball! A couple times they tried to kick it, and I had to remind them you can't bounce, drop or kick the ball or it will break! You also have to be sure that the lid goes on very securely, or it may leak. You must line it up right and be sure there are no gaps in the seal.


The Play and Freeze Ice Cream Maker is great for use indoors or outdoors! I would recommend doing it in a shady spot on hot days, as the heat from outdoors may prolong the freezing process. This ball is great for any age, we played with a child as young as 16 months!! I am planning on using it for our daughter's birthday as a game and dessert in one!! There are going to be lots of kids so it should be a great way to keep them entertained!!

It is also important to remember to KEEP THE BALL MOVING!!! That was the struggle I faced playing with really little ones because they want to say who they pass it to.... “I'll pass it to mommy.....” you get the picture. It just takes longer to get to the right consistency if its not moving constantly.


Find other great products and get great updates from Hearth Song on facebook!


This toy is so much and fun and super yummy!! Hearth Song would love to offer you one to share with your family!! Here is how to win:



Go to HearthSong.com and find something you like. Anything. ☺ Come back here and tell me what that something is in a comment below. Be sure I have your email in case you are the lucky winner!!


How about some extra entries? Leave separate comments for all that you do!



Follow @HearthSongtoys on Twitter. Leave me your twitter name.



Follow @frugalfamilyfun on Twitter. Leave me your twitter name.


Blog about this for 5 extra entries. Leave me the link to the post

Put our button on your blog for 1 extra entry. Leave me the link to your blog.

Tweet daily about this giveaway-up to 5 entries per day!! (1 entry per tweet, must be at least 1 hour apart)

Tweets must state that this is a contest and must include @frugalfamilyfun @hearthsong and the link to this giveaway! Leave me the link to your tweet in the comment.

Sign up for HearthSong's email alerts

Contest begins now and ends May 27,2010. Winner will be chosen via Random.org and will be notified via email. Winner has 48 hours to claim their prize or forfeits the prize. In this case we will redraw for a new winner.



I was not monetarily compensated for this review. I was given the products mentioned from Hearth Song for review. These opinions are not affected by the products received. They are my honest opinions. The winner will also be receiving the Play and Freeze Ice Cream Maker from Hearth Song. Photos from Hearth Song.

Tuesday, April 27, 2010

Winner of the Surgicare Waxing Collection!

This is a great product that I love to use all the time!! It is saving me money and making me look fabulous!! I love the great Surgicare line of waxing products!! Here is the lucky winner who can wax at home too, via random.org:


janetfaye who said...25

2. Reader subscribed with Google Reader.

Congrats!!! You are our lucky winner and have been emailed!!  We are awaiting your response!! If we don't get the response email in time we will redraw for the prize! Thanks to all and please check out our other giveaways!!

Winner of the Charm Factory Bracelet!!

I am so excited to announce the next winner of one of our contests!! The lucky winner of the Charm Factory Contest , via random.org is: Melanie who aid...

71

your button is on my blog (left side), entry 1

http://itsmemelbie.blogspot.com
Congrats!! We have emailed you and we are waiting to hear back to claim  your prize! If Melanie doesn't respond in the alloted time, we will redraw! Thanks again to all who enter and as always enter our other Current Giveaways 

Monday, April 26, 2010

Sunglass warehouse winner!!

After a long weekend I am here to announce our winner of the Sunglass Warehouse contest!!  Via Random.org our winner is current giveaways!!
Tamara B. said... 145 #2, subscriber by RSS.

Congrats!!! Please enter our other

Friday, April 23, 2010

A newborn’s conversation with God…..








A baby asked God, ‘They tell me you are sending me to earth tomorrow, but how am I going to live there being so small and helpless?’ God said, ‘Your angel will be waiting for you and will take care of you.’

The child further inquired, ‘But tell me, here in heaven I don’t have to do anything but sing and smile to be happy.’ God said, ‘Your angel will sing for you and will also smile for you. And you will feel your angel’s love and be very happy.’


Again the child asked, ‘And how am I going to be able to understand when people talk to me if I don’t know the language?’ God said, ‘Your angel will tell you the most beautiful and sweet words you will ever hear, and with much patience and care, your angel will teach you how to speak.’


‘And what am I going to do when I want to talk to you?’ God said, ‘Your angel will place your hands together and will teach you how to pray.’

‘Who will protect me?’ God said, ‘Your angel will defend you even if it means risking its life.’

‘But I will always be sad because I will not see you anymore.’ God said, ‘Your angel will always talk to you about Me and will teach you the way to come back to Me, even though I will always be next to you.’

At that moment there was much peace in Heaven, but voices from Earth could be heard and the child hurriedly asked, ‘God, if I am to leave now, please tell me my angel’s name.’

God said, ‘You will simply call her, ‘Mom.’


Thursday, April 22, 2010

Introducing the
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Get $1 off new Expo Washable Markers!! Click here to get your coupon!!
These new dry erase markers offer:
• 6 bold, bright colors
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• Perfect use with Expo dry erase boards


Pine-Sol®'s Powerful Difference™ program

Pine-Sol®'s Powerful Difference™ program awards dozens of grants to women leading the charge for change and helps provides tools, resources and inspiration to help and encourage others to start championing and creating change in their own communities.
 
Since Facebook is such a powerful social networking community, Pine-Sol® has launched the Powerful Difference™ Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/PowerfulDifference, allowing fans to connect with and get inspired by other difference makers.  There, you'll find an easy-to-use Facebook application which allows you to display on your Wall the five women who have made a powerful difference in your life, helping inspire others to do the same.  Honor someone you know today at http://apps.facebook.com/powerfuldifference/.  You can also learn more about the program and get ideas on how to take action by visiting www.PowerfulDifference.com

Wednesday, April 21, 2010

Snail Mail Review and Giveaway!!

Between email, Facebook and twitter, we don't really communicate by postal mail much anymore!  But Snail Mail Notes is here to help us regain this lost form of communication!!  Here is a little more about Snail Mail Notes from their founder Paula, found on their About Us page:

Photography has been a long-time hobby of mine. I am usually the person behind the camera with a group of friends or at a party.  I literally have copypaper boxes full of pictures I've taken over many years.

I also love the written word, whether I am reading it, writing it or sending it.  Some people collect angels or unicorns.  I seem to collect stationery. Greeting cards, note cards, writing paper.... I have a large collection in a container under my bed.

I began creating personal stationery for myself a few years ago, combining my love of photography and interest in writing.  Friends complimented my handiwork and I began creating cards as gifts, personalizing them when I could.   I gifted them to others, encouraging them to brighten someone's day with a handwritten note.
I have wanted to find an outlet for my creative passions for some time, and snail mail notes is the culmination of that search. 

Paula offers beautiful photography on single fold cards or small cards like the type you use for flowers! They are available with a message or without!! There are tons of designs to choose from!
I got to try out the Thank you cards!  The cards say thank you in english, french, spanish and other languages! Simple and elegant design that are perfect for any time you need to say thank you!! I also got a selection of the enclosure cards that are perfect if you don't have a card, or to stick in with a gift! Also great for flowers, or just a little note to say you are thinking of someone! I was so thrilled to receive such great note cards!!

Snail Mail Notes can even design a card! Check out the Commissioned work to see what else can be done! Any card you see on the site can be personalized! Use a picture from the site or use your own photo! Combine with a quote from you or a favorite scripture to create a one-of-a-kind greeting or gift!

Snail Mail Notes would like to offer you a set of note cards!! Here is how to enter!

Go to Snail Mail Notes and tell me which card design is your favorite! Leave your comment below!  Be sure I have your email to contact you if you win!

For some extra entries, do the following, and for each that you do, leave a separate comment below telling me you did it. Example: if you blog about it for 5 entries, leave 5 separate comments, such as "blogged here (leave me the link), entry #1" and so forth. shoot me an email at frugalfamilyfunspot(at)gmail(dot)com if you have any questions!!

1. Follow @snailmailnotes on Twitter (for 1 bonus entry!)

2. Follow @FrugalFamilyFun on twitter (For 1 bonus entry!)

3. Follow me on Google friend connect (For 3 bonus entries!)
4. Add my button to your blog (For 3 bonus entries!) (Leave me a link to the blog!)

5. Blog about this giveaway. Include the link to this contest and a link to Snail Mail Notes (For 5 bonus entries!) (Leave me a link to the blog!)

6. Tweet about this giveaway!! MUST include the link to this review AND @FrugalFamilyFun AND @snailmailnotes

THIS CAN BE DONE 5 TIMES DAILY FOR 1 ENTRY PER TWEET. THESE MUST BE SPACED OUT, AT LEAST 1 HOUR APART!! (For 1 bonus entry each, total of 5 daily!)


7.Sign up via email or RSS Feed through Google reader for our updates!(can do both, 2 entries for each!)



The contest will begin now and end May 20, 2010 at 11:59 P.M. PST. One winner will be chosen via Random.org The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to respond or they forfeit their prize. In this case a new winner will be chosen! Good luck to all!




Snail Mail Notes  provided me with a free sample of this product to review, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose.  Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product. Snail Mail Notes  will also be providing the winner with a product. Photos from Snail Mail Notes

She Colors My Day Project

The She Colors My Day project began when a mother named Annette, dying of breast cancer, created a keepsake for the four daughters she was preparing to leave behind. Annette sent a c.d. of she and her daughters singing to her many friends and family. Unbeknown to Annette, her act of love would be the inspiration for her friend, Cristina Carlino, founder of Project Miracle, to ignite the She Colors My Day movement - a celebration of the never-ending bonds of mothers and daughters. The now worldwide She Colors My Day movement embarks upon a global journey to create for a cure. Inspired by a mother's infinite love, this ever widening circle of caring will benefit the Susan G. Komen for a Cure ® Foundation and the Entertainment Industry Foundation's /Women's Cancer Research Group biomarker project. Hear the story in Cristina's own words here

  • Color With Us- We can start by taking the first steps to coloring someone else's day through a platform we all know well- Facebook.  The She Colors My Day pink crayon is a Facebook application created to be shared with those we love. The pink crayon can be virtually passed around on Facebook so we can all help to create for a cure.
  • Sing Along- The "She Colors My Day" song co-written by Cristina Carlino and Stuart Mathis for Cristina's daughter has been recorded by multi-Grammy award winner, Amy Grant. Download the "She Colors My Day Song" and video and help to support this organization. A portion of net proceeds from the song supports the She Colors My Day project, benefiting Susan G. Komen for a Cure ® Foundation and the Entertainment Industry Foundation's/Women's Cancer Research Group.

Monday, April 19, 2010

What's A Dame to Do?! Giveaway!!

Last week I posted my review of a fun game called What's A Dame to Do?! Today we are giving away the game!!



Here is how to enter to win!!


Go to the review and find this question: You see an Ex at the grocery store 2 aisles away and you are NOT looking your best, what's a DAME to do?!   The answers that are on the cards are listed in that paragraph.  Find it, then come back here and comment, telling me what you would do!! 


For some extra entries, do the following, and for each that you do, leave a separate comment below telling me you did it. Example: if you blog about it for 5 entries, leave 5 separate comments, such as "blogged here (leave me the link), entry #1" and so forth. shoot me an email at frugalfamilyfunspot(at)gmail(dot)com if you have any questions!!


1. Follow @gamesfordames on Twitter (for 1 bonus entry!)

2. Follow @FrugalFamilyFun on twitter (For 1 bonus entry!)

3. Follow me on Google friend connect (For 3 bonus entries!)
4. Add my button to your blog (For 3 bonus entries!) (Leave me a link to the blog!)

5. Blog about this giveaway. Include the link to this contest and a link to Games for Dames (For 5 bonus entries!) (Leave me a link to the blog!)

6. Tweet about this giveaway!! MUST include the link to this review AND @FrugalFamilyFun AND @gamesfordames

THIS CAN BE DONE 5 TIMES DAILY FOR 1 ENTRY PER TWEET. THESE MUST BE SPACED OUT, AT LEAST 1 HOUR APART!! (For 1 bonus entry each, total of 5 daily!)


7.Sign up via email or RSS Feed through Google reader for our updates!(can do both, 2 entries for each!)

8. Sign up for Games for Dames Email alerts  (For 1 bonus entry)


The contest will begin now and end May 18, 2010 at 11:59 P.M. PST. One winner will be chosen via Random.org The winner will be notified via email and will have 48 hours to respond or they forfeit their prize. In this case a new winner will be chosen! Good luck to all!

Games for Dames  provided me with a free sample of this product to review, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose.  Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product. Games for Dames  will also be providing the winner with a product. Photos from Games for Dames

Winner of the Rubbermaid Junk Drawer Organizer!!

Spring is here, which means time for spring cleaning!! We have teamed up with Rubbermaid:


 to help one of you get organized!! Via random.org our lucky winner is:


Strawberry Kids said... 97 http://twitter.com/strawberrykidss/status/12180070668


Congrats!! I have emailed you and am waiting for your response!! If we don't hear back in 48 hours we will redraw!! Thanks again to all who entered and continue to enter our current giveaways!!

Winner of the Domino's Pizza Gift Card Giveaway!!

Well it's lunch time right now and I am STARVING! Could totally go for some Domino's Pizza!! One of you lucky entrants can have some too!! via random.org the winner of the $20 gift card is: 

Sarafan2 said... 137 Follow on Google Friends Connect #2





Congrats!! I have emailed you and am waiting for your response! If we don't hear back in 48 hours we will select a new winner!! Thanks to all who entered and please check out our other current giveaways!

Sunday, April 18, 2010

Water Saving Tips

As we all know, water isn’t free. Sometimes we don’t think about just how much water we really are using!! We take for granted that we have clean, freshwater at our dispense! While other countries struggle with little or no water, we literally watch it go down the drain!!  Check out these surprising facts on water waste:

An American taking a five-minute shower uses more water than the typical person living in a developing country slum uses in a whole day (1)

The daily requirement for sanitation, bathing, and cooking needs, as well as for assuring survival, is about 13.2 gallons per person (1)

About 95% of the water entering our homes goes right back down the drain (2)

It is estimated that over half of the water used on yards is wasted due to over watering.  (2) 

Running the tap while you brush your teeth you can waste 4 gallons of water!! (2)


How can we save water???? Here are some fabulous tips from EarthEasy:

1. Check faucets and pipes for leaks
A small drip from a worn faucet washer can waste 20 gallons of water per day. Larger leaks can waste hundreds of gallons.
2. Don't use the toilet as an ashtray or wastebasket
Every time you flush a cigarette butt, facial tissue or other small bit of trash, five to seven gallons of water is wasted.

3. Install water-saving shower heads and low-flow faucet aerators  
Long, hot showers can use five to ten gallons every unneeded minute. Limit your showers to the time it takes to soap up, wash down and rinse off. "Low-flow" means it uses less than 2.5 gallons per minute. 

4. Use your dishwasher and clothes washer for only full loads
Automatic dishwashers and clothes washers should be fully loaded for optimum water conservation. Most makers of dishwashing soap recomend not pre-rinsing dishes which is a big water savings.
With clothes washers, avoid the permanent press cycle, which uses an added 20 liters (5 gallons) for the extra rinse. For partial loads, adjust water levels to match the size of the load. Replace old clothes washers. New Energy Star rated washers use 35 - 50% less water and 50% less energy per load. If you're in the market for a new clothes washer, consider buying a water-saving frontload washer. 
 
5. When washing dishes by hand, don't leave the water running for rinsing
If your have a double-basin, fill one with soapy water and one with rinse water

6. Water your lawn only when it needs it
A good way to see if your lawn needs watering is to step on the grass. If it springs back up when you move, it doesn't need water. If it stays flat, the lawn is ready for watering.Use a conservation hose nozzle.  Another great way to save water in the yard is to collect rain water!


7. Don't run the hose while washing your car 
This simple practice can save as much as 150 gallons when washing a car 
8. Use a broom, not a hose, to clean driveways and sidewalks 

9. Use your water meter to check for hidden water leaks
Read the house water meter before and after a two-hour period when no water is being used. If the meter does not read exactly the same, there is a leak. 


10. Don't let the faucet run while you clean vegetables.
Just rinse them in a stoppered sink or a pan of clean water

It is also important to teach our kids about conserving water!!  By starting them out early, water conservation will come natural and won't have to be a forced effort! You are your child's teacher, so you have to show them the way!!  Simply reminding them to turn off the water when not using it, or reminding them to be sure it is all the way off can save tons of water!! 

Did you know that in other countries, millions of women and children have to spend their day traveling to collect water from places that are polluted? Because it is the only water they have, they choose to do this to survive.  In 3rd world countries, people live off 3 gallons of water a day-the amount we use in ONE FLUSH.  We all need to take our part and be aware of the amounts of water we are wasting!! Let's take care of our Earth!

Sources

Friday, April 16, 2010

Winner of the Swaddle Designs Giveaway!!

This is a little late but better than never!! Via Random.org  our lucky winner is:

Ashley said... 68 I would choose the certified organic with kiwi trim :)

Congrats Ashley!! You have been emailed and we are waiting your response!!  If we don't hear back within 48 hours we will redraw in accordance with the contest rules!! Thanks to all who entered and be sure to enter our other Current Giveaways!

My Job Chart!

Spring is officially upon us. And in addition to warmer weather, chocolate bunnies and blooming flowers, this season signifies far less fun for most Moms- spring cleaning! If you're having trouble rallying your troops to help you clear out the clutter and get your house in tip-top shape, we just might have the perfect solution for you. And unlike those pretty petals in your garden, this is one tool that will be brightening up your household throughout the seasons!
 
If you haven't had a chance to check out myjobchart.com, now is the perfect opportunity. Can you imagine your kids actually looking forward to doing chores? My Job Chart makes it possible.
 
My Job Chart is a FREE online Chore Chart that teaches kids to work in a fun and productive way. Using an easy and fun online system, My Job Chart inspires kids to do their chores on time. An interactive point system tracks your child's progress, creating excitement and enthusiasm among kids. And the fully customizable chore chart allows you and your child to decide upon mutually determined rewards, fostering communication and developing responsibility. You even get an email or text message when your kids finish their chores or they earn a reward!

Go to  Myjobchart.com and create your account today!!! 

 Don't forget to connect with My Job Chart by checking out their parenting blog, following them on Twitter at @MyJobChart and becoming a fan on Facebook!


Via MomSelect
Disclosure: I was entered for a chance to win a gift card in exchange for this post.  No monetary exchange took place
 

Thursday, April 15, 2010

My Little Secrets Review and Giveaway

I am all about comfortable fashion!! And My Little Secrets has some of the best!!  They offer great products that can take you from day to night effortlessly!
Ever had sore feet walking in your heels, flat hair on a big day, or wearing a back-less top but no undergarment to go with it?
You’ve came to the right place, welcome to My Little Secrets! They are the ONE STOP SHOP for all your wants and needs. They are here to share with you all their Fashion, Beauty, and Travel secrets to help women solve their every day problems. They specialize in selling products that are functional, yet fashionable. All their products are hand picked by the founder, tried and tested!
 
Here is a little about the company from their About Us Page

At My Little Secrets , we are here to share with you all our Fashion, Beauty, and Travel secrets to help women solve their everyday problems. We specialize in selling products that will help you day to day, yet keep you fashionable, trendy, and stylish at all times! All our products have been hand picked by our founder, tried and tested.

My Little Secrets  is based in Toronto, ON, Canada. Majority of our products are not readily avaiable in retail stores across Canada and our mandate is to give our customers the best one stop shop experience. We are constantly improving our product selection to introduce new products every month.
My Little Secrets  is not your average online shopping site, but it is a place to find tips and products for all your Fashion, Beauty and Travel needs. Follow our Blog page for general Fashion, Beauty and Travel tips and tips on using our products.


I got to try the beautiful Convertible Dress!!
The Convertible Dress is perfect for all occassions! Wrap it anyway you want to change the way it looks! Perfect for travelling. Perfect as a cover up on the beach. Great as a dress for a day at work. Change it from a day to a night look, pair it with flats, pair it with heels. This is a must have in your closet.The Convertible Dress is perfect gift for Mommies-to-be!

This dress can be wrapped in many ways!



If you go to the Convertible Dress page and scroll to the bottom, you can see all the great combinations you can do with the dress!!  It can be strapless, halter strap, thick sleeves, even a skirt! The possibilities are endless and like I said it can go from the office to the night club! Perfect for many occasions!!  This dress is also very forgiving if you have a little bit of the baby pooch left or other imperfections you are wanting to hide! I am so in love with it!!

I also got to try the Fit In Clouds - Black Sequin flats!! 
Clouds are portable flats that fold and fit in a pouch, slightly larger than the size of the iPhone. You can carry this pouch in the smallest of purses, and when the time comes, you take off your heels and slip on your clouds! They look like classy ballet slippers, but they have a thick rubber sole to provide protection and comfort while walking and most importantly, they fold!
Sequins is the latest fashion trend! Fit In Clouds offers the perfect black sequin shoe accented with a cute black bow on top and adorned with black disk-shaped beads. This shoe is super sleek and classy with a thick and comfy non-skid sole. And best of all…no one would even guess its a fold-able shoe. A perfect match with your little black dress for any black tie event or for an evening out with your favorite pair of hot jeans.
The shoes fold and fit into a black pouch (about 5" by 7" by 1.5" thick with a drawstring close) as shown in the pictures. In the folded state, each shoe is less than 0.75" thick. Perfect to take with you for weddings, parties and clubs when high heels are a must, but the pain from them is not welcomed!

The shoes are super comfy and match anything from skinny jeans, a dress or slacks! Also great as mentioned above to wear after your heels have killed your feet!!  They come in a great little carrying pouch so its super convenient! Just throw it in your bag and you're good to go!  Tons of celebrities have been spotted with their Fit In Clouds!!

My Little Secrets also offers other great products!! One of my favorites is the Travel Fix Kit!!
This is perfect for gals on the go!! The perfect quick fix for the little things needed while away from home. When in the sky or on the road…you are prepared!  This handy little travel kit by Urban Aid is full of great items often needed or forgotten when you are on the road! Toss one in your over night bag and carry-on.  Comes in a reuseable hinged tin with a clear top… How perfect is that!
Includes:
1 toothbrush
1 disposable razor
1 sewing kit
1 vanity kit
1 pair of ear plugs
2 dental flossers
1 moist towelette
1 hydrating lotion towelette

Check out  My Little Secrets on Facebook!!

 My Little Secrets would like to offer 2 of you a chance to try out some of their great stuff!! One winner will receive the Travel Fix Kit and a second winner will receive the Fit In Clouds - Black Sequin Flats!!

Here is how to enter!!: 

***MANDATORY ENTRY: THIS IS REQUIRED FOR ALL EXTRA ENTRIES TO COUNT!***
Subscribe to My Little Secrets blog! Click here to go to the page to sign up! Then come back here and tell me that you did!  Be sure to leave your email so I can contact you if you win.  If it's on your blogger profile that is fine!

Extra Entries: for each that you do leave a separate entry

Follow @MLSecrets on Twitter 1 extra entry

Follow @FrugalFamilyFun on Twitter  1 extra entry

Tweet about this giveaway. Include the link to this giveaway, @mlsecrets and @FrugalFamilyFun
You can use this tweet:
Enter to win 1 of 2 fabulous products from   @mlsecrets and @FrugalFamilyFun!! Fit in Clouds flats or a Travel Fix Kit! http://ow.ly/1z2Rv 

Can be up to 5 times daily, tweets must be at least 1 hour apart for entry.  1 extra entry for each tweet. 


Subscribe to our email updates, via google reader, or  via RSS feed , 1 extra entry for each

Put our button on your blog, leave me the link to the blog THIS WILL BE CHECKED. 3 extra entries

Blog about this contest, including a link back to this giveaway and to My Little Secrets worth 5 extra entries.

Contest begins now and ends May 15, 2010 at 11:59 PM PST.  Winner will be selected via Random.org and will be notified by email. Winner must respond within 48 hours or forfeits prize.  Good luck!

 My Little Secrets  provided me with a free sample of this product to review, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose.  Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product.  My Little Secrets will also be providing the winner with a product. Photos from  My Little Secrets
 

Swagbucks!