Halloween + Skullness on My Neck.

It's Halloween everyone! 
This holiday snuck up out of no where. I wasn't as prepared as I would have liked to be, but I think I managed to pull everything together real quick and it seems to be turning out alright! After my son went to bed last night, I quickly decorated the dining area with what I had on hand. A Halloween table cloth from last year, some napkins, and a bunch of random Halloween decor we had here and there. I blew up 3 balloons and drew skeleton faces on the yellows (will also be using them tomorrow for Dia de los Muertos) and a pumpkin on the orange, which we will be paper mache'ing at some point today! I threw some Halloween goodies across the table, like the spider n bat rings, and set Mr. Skeleton upright, looking pretty cool. I made my son a Halloween breakfast using cookie cutters on pancakes to make pumpkins and ghosts, and adding egg to the inside of the cutout for a cute and healthy touch! The yogurt became a ghost and the grapes were caterpillars... He really enjoyed it! :)

I think I did pretty well for feeling last second and unprepared.
Now I must think of a fun lunch and dinner idea! 

In the mean time, check out my cool skeleton necklace I won from BizArk Deal!

 This necklace is sweater length (about 80cm) and made of Alloy metal. It is nice and strong and adds a cute touch to your style or Halloween costume! The colored skull sits over top a solid black, faceless skull shape, much like dog tags do. It can come in a variety of colors, like orange, green, yellow...the one I received is pink! It is very cute and looks like it will last a long time!
We will be going Trick or Treating later tonight and I just might dress up as an 80's chick.
>The necklace will accent my outfit ;)


Hope you all have a safe and happy night out Trick or Treating! ;)

Happy Halloween!

MIRA Kitchen Scale Review


The MIRA Kitchen Scale has and award winning thin design, with a top that is made of royal blue colored tempered glass, which is 4 times stronger then normal glass! It has a large 56*44mm LCD screen that displays measurements in the form of: pounds, kilograms, grams and ounces; providing accurate measurement from 0.1 oz to 11lbs. It will also instantly calculate the net weight of the ingredients, meaning it will automatically subtract the container weight to calculate the weight of the ingredients! The scale has GFX sensors making it touch sensitive so the buttons are for easy use. You just turn the scale on, choose your method of unit, and place the item on the scale, for easy measuring!

 

 
I love the distinct and modern look of the Mira Scale. Its measurements seem accurate and I love the fact that it will automatically subtract the weight of the items container it sits in, to give a full accurate weight of products. Having a compact area in the back for the batteries is a lot more convenient then worrying about a cord to plug in. The Mira Kitchen Scale is a great product to have on hand. It can help you control your portion intake for healthier eating or diets, and it will come in handy when those recipes call for specific measurements! With it's slim and small design, this scale can easily be tucked away when it's not in use, right next to your cookbooks!



 
The Mira Kitchen Scale is available for purchase on Amazon 
for $24.99 with free shipping! 
(It also comes with a full warranty and two Lithium Batteries)


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

Numi Tea Samples Review

I received 6 different flavors of Numi Tea, 
all flavors I didn't even know existed! The flavors are:

  • Broccoli Cilantro
  • Fennel Spice
  • Beet Cabbage
  • Spinach Chive
  • Tomato Mint
  • Carrot Curry




I have to admit...I didn't really like any of these flavors. Mixing vegetables with tea does not make a great taste, or scent. Each one left me feeling nauseous. The Tomato Mint was really potent of tomato flavor, much like a minty, really watered down tomato soup. Carrot Curry tasted similar to ramen noodles in an odd way. Spinach Chive and Broccoli Cilantro tasted a lot like some sort of soup, and the Beet Cabbage was just nasty. Out of all of them, my favorite would have been the Fennel Spice. It was still gross but it tasted slightly like Black Licorice.


With these unique Tea flavors, 
which one would you be most likely to try? 
Which one do you think you would actually enjoy?

-----------------------------
 


*I was not compensated nor required to write this review.  
I received the above products as a sample and wanted to share my opinions.
 
 

It's...a...Lightning Tiger!

Well today we got a new member of the family...

"Lightning Tiger"
A Wooly Bear caterpillar! :)

Since we can't have a cat or dog like we want just yet... This will have to do.

read my post on previous pretend pets

This Wooly Bear Caterpillar will bring my son memorable fun, as a unique pet to have. 

In his words "I can't believe I finally have my own pet!!" 


National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month

Have you ever adopted a pet from a shelter or are you thinking about doing so? 
There are so many animals who need a home. 
Adopting one is a great way to give both the pet and you life.

October is National Adopt a Shelter Dog Month! What a great time to adopt a dog.
With The Shelter Pet Project, you can find a local shelter through their site, somewhere that is close by you that shows the available pets waiting for a forever home. You can search for a pet by all the little details you prefer in your cat or dog, whether it be male or female, big or small...
The Shelter Pet Project will help you find the perfect match.

Paul & Victoria Shaffer have adopted 4 dogs! Check out their video here


 "Everybody should have a shelter dog, it's good for the soul!"

Mary Ann & Mark Behme on adopting older dogs...


I know not many people consider adopting older dogs because they want to have a longer life with them. But they too make great companions and as Mark and Mary Ann said,
"It's not always about you, It's about them. Saving them and helping them."

We can't forget about cats...There are also a lot of cats who need homes.
Ben Bisbee and Joe Takacs speak on their 3 cats they adopted


".. to know that something you saved is also saving your day.."

Having a pet really can save your day. Bringing you happiness when it's most needed...that unconditional love from a pet is something so unique and so special. As a child, I grew up having several pets, I was not once without one. I was blessed to have a family who also loved pets and allowed me to have my own. Now that I'm an adult with my own family, I would love for our little family to grow with a pet too. But sadly, this time in our life just isn't fit for one. In the future though...
I can see pet adoption on our list! :)

If you are able to provide a loving home for a pet, I really recommend you consider adopting one. Let The Shelter Pet Project help you find your perfect pet companion(s)!  

 #MeetMyShelterPet

*I participated in this campaign as a member of One2One Network and am eligible for a prize drawing.  
No compensation has been involved.

 

Get Your Disney Classic Box Set!

Disney is releasing a new box set with 4 Audio CD's filled with 
all the childhood songs you can imagine! This set contains over 90 songs!


Timeless Classics
Collected here are some of the most iconic melodies from Disney's golden era. From 'When You Wish Upon a Star' to 'A Spoonful of Sugar' and 'Zip-A-Dee-Doo-Dah' to 'The Whistle Stop,' these Timeless Classics are part of a musical heritage inextricably woven into our human culture heirlooms passed down through the generations.

Modern Classics
This compilation begins with 1989's The Little Mermaid, which not only ignited the renaissance of Disney Animation and storytelling, but a rebirth of Disney Music as well. Favorites from 'Under the Sea,' 'Beauty and the Beast' and 'A Whole New World,' these Modern Classics continue to shape the company's musical history and heritage.

Television Classics
Spanning from the 1950s to present day, this album represents quite an eclectic compilation of themes. At the very least, it's an interesting musical graph of changing tastes and social evolution over the last 60+ years. Everything from 'The Ballad of Davy Crockett,' to 'Get'cha Head in the Game' from High School Musical, is represented on this album, but probably the most beloved of these Television Classics however, has to be the 'Mickey Mouse Club Alma Mater.'

Theme Park Classics
Music plays a vital role in the Parks as well; whether it be cleverly establishing an attraction's story or the sheer brilliance of underscoring the banks and turns of a thrilling roller coaster. Collected here are not only those Theme Park Classics we know and love today, but others we fondly remember from days gone by. 

Available November 11, 2013 but you can....
Pre-order this Disney Classic Box set 
through Amazon for $56.31 with free shipping! 

Celebrate Disney's 90th Anniversary with this new set!



@DisneyMusic #DisneyClassicsBox




*I participated in this campaign as a member of One2One Network and am eligible for a prize drawing.  
No compensation has been involved.

Silly Souls Rock Star Baby Bodysuit Review


Looking for unique baby and children's clothing? 
Then Silly Souls is the way to go!

 


Silly Souls, launched in 2002, was the leader and original irreverent funny line of apparel and accessories that introduced attitude tees, the color black, urban cool rock star styles and breast feeding jokes on bodysuits and baby basic accessories to the pink and blue baby retail world.

Silly Souls has a wide variety of baby and children clothing, from newborn up to 6T, 
as well as gift packs and items for the mama's and daddy's. New categories are also being added in, including silicon bibs, pajamas, diaper bags, and keepsake gifts.

I received a Silly Souls Rock Star onesie in the color black, size 3-6 month. 
The screen printed design is a glittery star, with the words "Rock Star" and in smaller print below, it says "I'm gonna rock your world". The bodysuit is 100% cotton and is machine washable and dryer safe. This is such a cute and unique piece of clothing any baby, boy or girl, can look stylish in!


 The Rock Star baby bodysuit is available for purchase at Silly Souls for the price of $15.99 
or you could purchase the 4 piece baby gift set
which includes shoes, socks, a beanie hat, and a bib on sale for $39.99


Until 12/31/2013, you can use the coupon code: sillyblog to get 25% off your purchase!

You can find more information and Silly Souls products on 
their website, Facebook, and Twitter

Also be sure to follow SillySouls SillyMama at  http://sillysouls.wordpress.com/ 
for some funny and compelling stories of parenthood!  

 


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


Qi Orthopedic Pillow Review


Invented by Patrick Lee, the Qi Orthopedic Pillow is a pillow made especially to resolve back pain. It looks much like a throw pillow, but beneath the cover is an air-controlled orthopedic core, with the technology of a Sleep Number Bed System. It has a valve that you loosen to release pressure, or blow a few puffs of air into, to adjust, giving you the perfect amount of comfort needed for your lower back. This core helps eliminate pain and fatigue you may feel when sitting for long periods of time, by supporting the muscles and relaxing your body at it's correct posture.

Did you know that, according to the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons, 
30% of American adults are affected by low back pain?


(The Qi Pillow is pronounced as the Chee-Pillow, with Qi being Chinese for "life force or energy")

 
I like that you can adjust this pillow to suit the needs of your back. It's especially nice using in our computer chair to support my posture and give me comfortable seating without my back aching. Having the valve right in reach, on the corner of the left side makes adjusting the pillow so easy! You just unscrew the valve, blow air into it til you reach desired fullness, screw the valve closed and enjoy your comfort in sitting. You can adjust the valve as needed to reach the perfect setting for your back.
When I sit at the computer, my back tends to ache in the lumbar area, from lack of support. The Qi pillow has tremendously helped my posture and the comfort of me sitting. I also like the micro-suede fabric of the pillow, as it is soft and also cleans well. It disguises nicely on my couch, in the color Camel.


This pillow is great for any long or short period of sitting. 
Great on your computer chair, on the couch, even while driving. 

*The Qi Pillow should not be sat on, jumped on, or stepped on.


You can more information on the Qi Pillow on Facebook
as well as it being available for purchase at QVC for a retail value of $26.88 and it comes in either the color Camel, like mine above, or Sage green.

#QVCgifts


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

Bella Sun Luci's Sun Dried Tomatoes+ Pasta n' Pizza!


Straight from Mooney Farms and manufactured in Northern California, a family owned and operated company, Bella Sun Luci's, is the largest producer of sun dried tomatoes in the U.S.

Sun Dried Tomato Bruschetta is an authentic family recipe that consists of sun ripened tomatoes, fresh basil, premium olive oil, and Italian herbs.
Bella Sun Luci's most traditional use of their products is to spread their bruschetta directly onto your favorite toast, for a delicious appetizer! You can also stir it into cooked pasta, use it as a sauce on your pizza, spread it on a Panini or a wrap..so many possibilities!

The first jar of Sun Dried that I tried was the Bruschetta Sun Dried tomatoes. I put these in my cooked pasta as an added filler and new texture.

The flavor was interesting, something I don't think I've ever had before. I think the Extra Virgin Olive Oil that they are soaked in, gives them that wet texture, making me feel like I needed to cook them on a pan and eat them dry as if they were a tomato jerky...and that's just what I did! I cooked these tomatoes slightly so they became crispy and slightly burnt..and then ate them like they were a vegetarian Beef Jerky! They were delicious! But the grease of them soaking in olive oil made them extremely greasy, which ended up giving me a major belly ache. I used Sun Dried tomatoes as a topping to my homemade pizza as well. This worked good, but not as good as the "tomato jerky" haha.


Next I had the Sun Dried Tomato Pesto Sauce with Whole Pine Nuts. This was my absolute favorite!! I loved it! I spread it across my homemade thin crust pizza dough, topped it with Cheddar and Pepper Jack cheese, a little bit of ham pieces, and some Bacon Alfredo sauce drizzled on the top. Once it was baked and cooled, this was my first to try and it was absolutely delicious. A new favorite of the family! It has the perfect taste of smokey tomatoes and works as a nice substitute if you don't eat meat.
This one is worth trying!



I'm looking forward to making some of the recipes from Bella Sun Luci's, using their other Sun Dried tomatoes. Here are a few on my list to make: Sun Dried Tomato Dip, Spinach, Ricotta, and Tomato Artichoke Lasagna, Sun Dried Tomato Quiche, and Macaroni and Sun Dried Tomato Gratin with Sharp Cheddar...mmm making me hungry. You can also use the Sun Dried tomatoes to make your own sauces! Much like this Sun Dried Tomato Marinara. Yum! To find more Bella Sun Luci's Sun Dried Tomato Recipes, visit http://www.mooneyfarms.com/recipes/

*Now for the Contest Fun: 
If you create a recipe using 
Bella Sun Luci's Sun Dried Tomato products, 
you can enter to win $2500!! 
(open til July 1, 2014)
ENTER HERE
 

You can find more products and information at http://www.mooneyfarms.com/ and on Facebook and Twitter



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


WINNER CHOSEN! -Giving Away My Coupons

*And the winner is....
 Amanda W.!! Congratulations! 
----------------------------------------------------------

I have a stack of coupons growing, I don't plan on using. 
So instead of them going to waste... 

I want to pick a reader to receive them!!


49cents off up to $3.99 off! + two FREE item coupons.
*Some of the coupons expire 10/31/2013 so I need a winner soon :)

(I will add to this as I receive more coupons, up til the day I choose a winner)


If you would like to win this set of coupons, 
leave me a comment with your email address 
and I will use random.org to choose 
a person to win these!


Mandarin Orange Poke Cake+Recipe

We had a can of Mandarin Oranges in our pantry that wasn't getting put to use and the expiration date was nearing, so I needed to find a recipe to use the oranges up. I'm not fond of mandarin oranges so I wanted to find something other then salads and chicken to use these up in. I came across the recipe for this Mandarin Orange Poke cake, over at A Foodie Fairytale. It sounded delicious, much like the idea of a pineapple upside down cake, so I wanted to give it a try. The results were delicious indeed! This cake made my house smell fantastic and tasted wonderful.

 To make the Mandarin Orange Poke cake you mix the following ingredients together:
   1 Cup Flour     
 1 Cup Sugar     
1 Egg     
1/2 tsp Salt     
1 tsp Baking Soda     
1 can (11oz) Mandarin Oranges (do not drain)   

*I blended it all the ingredients together in a bowl, allowing
the Mandarin Oranges to sorta puree a bit, because I'm not fond of the chunks ;)  
Then I poured the batter into a greased pie pan (The recipe calls for an 8x8 square pan but since I don't have one, I used a pie dish.) and cooked the cake in preheated 350 degree oven for approximately 30-40 minutes
(I slightly over cooked mine at 30 minutes so time will differ per oven) 

When the cake finished, I quickly prepared the topping
with the following:
  
         3/4 Cup Brown Sugar     
   3 Tbsp Butter    
   3 Tbsp Milk

I used a fork and poked holes all over my cake,
then poured the finished topping over it. 
I flipped the cake over on my cake stand, which is something I would not recommend unless your cake is loose enough. I made sure to grease my pan before I poured in the batter, 
and the cake still stuck to the inside.
(which is why the photo to the bottom left looks a little messy ;)
So I would suggest just not flipping it :)


Slice your pieces and enjoy!!

 Though it came out darker then the original recipe poster, 
It was delicious and perfectly caramelized!



3 Superhero Shirts only $6.99 on Amazon!

Have a child that likes Superheroes?
Amazon has a pack of 3 Superhero Shirts for only $6.99! 
That makes each shirt only $2.33!  
(You can also get it with free shipping when you spend $25 or more.)
Great deal. Stock up for Christmas or Birthday! 

*Get deal here* 






BeyWarriors Shogun Battle Set Review From ChatterBox


ChatterBox from House Party sent me a BeyWarrior Shogun Steel Octagon Showdown Battle Set to review with my lil man! He loves BeyBlades so when he found out he would be receiving
the new BeyWarriors battle set, he was ecstatic! 
 The BeyWarrior Shogun Steel Octagon Showdown Battle Set comes with the Beystadium arena, 2 exclusive BeyWarrior battlers, 2 collector cards, and 2 ripcords+instructions. The BeyWarrior battlers are so fun because they allow the children to collect and customize their own battler, with the abilities to switch their arms, legs and heads. This was one of the many things my son loved about these BeyWarriors! He loves to customize his own toys and is very into Bionicles and Lego's
so customization was right up his alley. 
The Beystadium was easy to put together, mostly done by my 6 year old son, although one of the sides didn't quite want to line up with the under hole, so I couldn't put the under cap on it. It seems to be staying in place though so it works just as good. The two BeyWarrior battlers we received in this set are the Samurai Ifrit BW-01 battler and the BW-16 Ronin Dragon battler. They each come with a collector card that contains a code you can redeem online to unlock different Beyblade items.

BeyWarriors in action!!


 

Needless to say, my son LOVED this BeyWarriors Battle Set!! He enjoyed switching pieces around and loved to battle the warriors together. This is a great gift idea for kids who love the original Beyblades. The box says its for ages 8 and up, but my son is 6 and he does just fine with it.

You can find more about BeyWarriors + information at www.beybladebattles.com also on Facebook.


 

I received the above product in exchange for my review. All opinions are my own.