Tuesday, December 9, 2014

Spon: Children's Mucinex Makes Ana feel better! #mucinex


I received this product for free from Smiley360 in exchange for my honest review. You can join Smiley360 here!

Dear Readers:

 For this review I was kinda hoping it would not call for first hand experience, but alas it is cold season and since Ana is in a larger class of Pre-school this year she has a greater chance of getting a cold or flu symptoms.  This past week, she came home with sniffles, a runny nose and a cough. But, we were ready thanks to Mucinex. We received the perfect combo of a soft blanket, a copy of Frozen (Ana's fave movie)and  some lovely hot/cold juice or tea travel mugs to drink out of , so she could chill by the pellet stove and watch a movie while she recuperated. And , she did. She felt better in a couple of days and was ready to go out and about by the weekend. 


All the details from Mucinex:
Triple Symptom Relief in a Single Dose
A stuffy nose + cough + chest congestion = one unhappy camper. When your child gets sick with more than one symptom, relieve what’s bothering your little one with Children's Mucinex® Multi-Symptom Cold Liquid in Very Berry Flavor.
This Children’s Mucinex® Product:
  • Relieves stuffy nose
  • Controls cough
  • Relieves chest congestion
  • Breaks up mucus
  • Includes dosing cup
Ana liked the taste of the Mucinex and we followed the dosing amounts really carefully. She felt better within 24 hours and ended up not even missing any school, which is amazing. Thanks Mucinex! 

Important Links:






Wednesday, December 3, 2014

Review and Contest: Arvazallia Professional Series Premium Argan Oil Hair Treatment





Hello Dear Readers:

At Arvazallia, our slogan is Beauty Maximized because we create products that are designed to not onlyMaximize Your Beauty but to Maximize Your Confidence and Spirit as well. Our Professional Series Hair Treatment Product Line is one of the Highest Rated and Best Selling Salon Quality Argan Oil Hair Treatment lines.

We are gearing up for the Arvazallia Beauty Maximized Video Challenge in the coming weeks which is a Video Contest for users of Arvazallia hair treatment products where they'll have a chance to share how they use Arvazallia products to Maximize their Beauty for a Chance to Win 1 of Several Amazing Prizes including:

Grand Prize Options
* All Expense Paid Royal Caribbean Cruise for Two
* Microsoft Surface Pro 3 64GB Edition
* Apple iPad Air 64GB WIFI Edition
* LG 50" Smart LED TV
* Michael Kors Tote & Sandal Combo
* Versace Swiss Vanity Watch
* $700 Arvazallia Branded Amazon Gift

There will also be a range of prizes to choose from for 2 Runner Up Winners and 5 Finalists.




1. Arvazallia Hydrating Argan Oil Hair Mask
2. Arvazallia Premium Argan Oil Hair Treatment
3. Arvazallia Ultra Curl Defining Cream with Argan Oil

IMPORTANT: This offer and the contest is Limited to USA Residents Only.


Important Links:

http://www.arvazallia.com/


http://www.arvazallia.com/professional-series-special-offer

http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=bl_sr_beauty?ie=UTF8&field-brandtextbin=Arvazallia&node=3760911

https://www.facebook.com/arvazallia



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.

Tuesday, November 25, 2014

Review: Coco's Closet Extend A Smidge Bra Extenders #luvcocoscloset





Hello Dear Readers:

 I am 12 weeks into this pregnancy and by now I am starting to feel the usual suspects: bloating, expansion, tightness etc. Also, My bra size has increased by a couple of cups and so these amazing Bra Extenders have really come in handy. I have the 3 color set. Nude, White and Black and they fit on pretty much all of my bras, and work wondefully. Easy to attach, they fit so easily and are expandable for the rest of my pregnancy too. Yay! Check out photos and more info below:


From the company:
"DURABLE LINGERIE SOLUTION: Built to Meet the Needs of Active and Pregnant Women.
GAIN EXTRA LENGTH: Gain the Extra Length You Need for a Comfortable Fit .
SAVE MONEY: Design Will Fit Most Bras and Sizes, Including 32, 34. 36, 38, 40, 42 A, B, C & D. Black, White and Nude. Spare the Time and Expense of Buying New Bras to Accommodate In-Between or Hard-to-Find Sizes or Temporary Weight Fluctuations.
SOFT & COMFORTABLE: Soft Backing Won't Chafe Your Sensitive Skin or Leave Unsightly Marks



How to Save BIG MONEY When Your Bra Gets Too Small!
Are your bras tight and uncomfortable? The problem usually lies with the strap, right?
Problem Solved!
Achieve just the right fit without shelling out the cash for new undergarments with the extra, adjustable length Extend-A-Smidge Bra Extender provides. Ideal for women of ALL SIZES. Simple design will fit most bras and sizes, Including 32, 34 and 36 A, , C, D & DD - Strapless bras too! Durable enough for athletic women and great for pregnancy.


The benefits of the Extend-A-Smidge bra Extenders:
- Adjust your straps to just the right length for your comfort
- Includes bra extender to fit virtually any brand
- Three included colors for easy matching
- Fumble-proof attachment and detachment
- Bra extenders stay securely in place during any activity, thanks to durable metal hook-and-eyeclosures
- Ultra-soft backing doesn't scratch your skin
TOP REVIEWS on Amazon. CoCo's Closet® has sold 1000's of fashion solutions to women SINCE 2008 -- it's what we do!
Includes FREE Article Series on Looking Great with a Little Extra Weight
Backed by a RISK FREE, 90 day CoCo's Closet® 100% Money Back Satisfaction Guarantee.
We want you to be happy, so for a limited time we are offering you a FREE subscription to our article series with our stylist team and our FREE guarantee.
What are you waiting for, make the right choice with Extend-A-Smidge by CoCo's Closet."



Important Links:



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.

Friday, November 21, 2014

Review: Hyaluronic Acid Age Delay Serum With Vitamin C + Green Tea #moreanaturals




Dear Readers:

From my recent review on Amazon:

"About a month ago, I started using Morea Naturals Hyaluronic Acid Serum and my skin has never looked younger or better! Now that I am 40 years old, I am always looking for natural, effective products that work on my more mature skin. This is a wonderful serum with mostly organic ingredients tht is light and pumps easily onto my fingers for application. "

And I do glow. I am sure the pregnancy is helping, but my facial skin is soft and supple and feels great since I started using this serum.

From the company:

FINALLY: Powerful New Serum Promotes Smooth, Glowing Skin At A Fraction of The Price 

This serum is great for busy women who want to pack a powerful punch of ingredients into one product. Also great for organic minded women. Hyaluronic acid is known for its proven ability to reverse the signs of aging. This silky smooth formula is loaded with antioxidants Vitamin C and Green Tea to promote collagen production and protect your skin from UV damage. 

What makes this serum better than all the others? 

• Instantly plump fine lines while reducing the appearance of wrinkles gradually
• Add intense moisture to dry skin
• Instant glowing complexion
• Improve appearance of dark under eye circles
• Safe for all skin types including sensitive skin

Our unique formula is so safe and effective it passed the rigorous standards to be sold at Whole Foods. 

• Paraben Free 
• 72% Organic
• Cruelty Free
• Airless Pump Bottle Keeps Ingredients Potent

Our serum is handcrafted in the U.S.A. in small quantities for maximum quality.


Important Links:

http://www.moreanaturals.com/
http://www.moreanaturals.com/products.html
https://www.facebook.com/moreanaturals
Buy Here on Amazon
http://www.amazon.com/review/R29AQZF3VFZ9KL





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.

Review: Ecodiscoverie's Multi-Surface Cleaner and Harvest Fruit and Veggie Wash #EcoDiscover #EcoD






Hi Dear Readers:

 I received two wonderful products from ecodiscoveries recently and both have been wonderful as I search for safe, effective green products to use in my house. I have always been aware of the dangers of cleaning fluids, but now that I am pregnant, I am actively avoiding bleaches, and other strong cleaning ingredients that are unsafe for baby and for me and my lungs.   Both ecodiscovery products, the Multi-surface Cleaner and the Harvest fruit and vegetable wash are safe. I really like that they arrived with an empty bottle and a condensed small bottle attached, to encourage refills and save on shipping, both very cool.

From the company:

 "EcoDiscoveries’ Multi-Surface cleaner is a safe and effective solution for cleaning the many surfaces of your home. Its plant-based surfactants are powerful and diverse enough to clean up almost any mess on almost any surface. Oh the possibilities! Safe has countless sides.










   Harvest is an all-natural food wash + preservative. All of the ingredients of Harvest are considered GRAS by the FDA and it is certified by the USDA as a “Biopreferred” product. It not only washes away residual pesticides, but it also increases the shelf-life of produce. Moreover, Harvest’s ability to get rid of chemicals and other contaminants makes this the perfect product for anyone living with chemical sensitivities or an otherwise compromised immune system.

Non-Toxic
Fragrance-Free
Hypoallergenic
Chlorine-Free
Petroleum-Free
Glycol-Free
Phosphate-Free
Ammonia-Free
Caustic-Free
Dye-Free
Biodegradable
No Animal Testing

I feel so much better using these products and knowing I am making a better choice for the environment and for myself. Check out the links below for more info.

Important Links:



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.





11 weeks in ...Baby Lee is the size of a FIG #pregnant

 
    Baby Lee is 11 Weeks and is the size of a FIG.    


Hello Dear Readers:

   As the first trimester winds down, I was hoping to feel better morning sickness-wise. I wish I could say it is the case, but alas I am still sick all day long, and have little to no energy. I was hoping to go back to the gym regularly at this point, but since I never know how naseous I am going to feel, it does not seem to be in my best interest.  There is always next week, but I am feeling sad about missing my Pilates and running and am feeling extra flabby. Pretty much the opposite of sexy, whatever that is. Blech.

Stats: 
Baby Lee is 11 1/2 weeks old and is the size of a fig, I am still really sick and have a lack of energy. There is no glamour in pregnancy and I am feeling pretty pudgy.

Weight:
131 lbs. I have lost two pounds since becoming pregnant. This makes me sad too, although I know it is quite normal and happens all of the time. I am still in my sz 6s, and 28 jeans...but I feel bloated so I may move up to some 29s (which I bought at Forever 21 when i was losing weight a couple of years ago). I am not quite ready for maternity clothes. Maybe at 13 weeks.


Hoping to pop soon, so I do not look just bloaty, but actually pregnant :)

Have a great weekend,

Mama Lee


Tuesday, November 18, 2014

Review: InstaNatural Stretch Mark and Scar Cream #instanatural



Dear Readers:


 I am willing to try anything to avoid stretch marks due to pregnancy. I was lucky the first time around with Ana, and have none. I am hoping that by using InstaNatural's Stretch Mark and Scar cream this time around,  I will not have any again. I have been using this cream once a day for over a month and so far so good as I head towards my third month.

Want to know more? From InstaNatural:



 "InstaNatural’s Stretch Mark & Scar Cream is an effective treatment to minimize the appearance of current marks, while also preventing the forming of new ones. Stretch marks and scars are created when collagen is weakened and skin is stretched or torn beyond its limit. Our cream heavily moisturizes affected areas – such as hips, stomach and arms - delivering nourishment and hydration to enhance elasticity of your skin and help restore a youthful look and even appearance.





Key Ingredients:
+ Vitamin C (15%)
+ Cocoa Butter
+ Rosehip Oil
+ Mango Butter
+ Grapeseed Oil
+ Evening Primrose Oil


Important Links:

http://instanatural.com/
Instanatural Scar Cream on Amazon



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.




Monday, November 17, 2014

Sponsored Tazo Chai Vanilla Caramel Latte and Chai Tea #SweetMeetsSpicy


Tazo Chai Vanilla Caramel Latte with cold milk and ice! 


Dear Readers:

received this product for free from Smiley360 in exchange for my honest review. You can join Smiley360 here!

I love Chai! So much so that my first dog is named Chai after the spicy tea that my husband made me when we were still dating. He would buy the ingredients in a NYC Indian Market and steep the tea, crush the cardamom, mix in the milk for a hot drink to go with our breakfast or brunch. Yum!! I have always loved spicy teas, lattes and drinks so I jumped at the chance to try out the Tazo line of Chai products and bring them to my next bookclub for a tasting (Nov 30th). 

Nowadays you can get the same great spicy and sweet tea without all of the labor, by steeping a cup of Tazo Chai from a teabag, or mixing in the condensed Chai as seen above (with milk, iced or hot!) in the Vanilla Caramel Latte Flavor, yum!! I had Duncan as my taste tester as I am currently pregnant and have cut out my caffeine intake. I did however steal a sip of that frosty, sweet, spicy goodness and believe me it is wonderful!!! I am stoked that they make a decaf chai tea, found HERE.

Tazo put together this little infographic all about the different flavors available (I want to try them all) and it is charming:


I am all about pumpkin during the Fall and Holiday season and will be bringing some tea bags in goodie bags for my friends to try at our next book club meeting in a couple of weeks. 

Want to know more info about Tazo Chai?



From Tazo:

About Tazo Chai
'Tazo Chai began with our signature Chai tea in filterbags, which brings together classic spices such as ginger, pepper and cardamom for a deliciously distinct taste. We then developed smooth and creamy latte concentrates, the perfect way to enjoy our delightfully unexpected Chai flavors with milk. Now we are introducing new flavors to Chai – from the sweet creaminess of Vanilla Caramel to the seasonal flavor of Pumpkin Spice, Tazo believes there is truly a Chai for everyone."

The kit that the lovely people at Tazo sent me included:
  •  Tazo Vanilla Caramel Chai Latte Concentrate
  •  Tazo Classic Chai, Decaf Chai and Chocolate Chai filterbags (4 filterbags of each flavor)
  •   Coupons for Free Tazo Chai to try all of the varieties and share with friends and family
  •    Tazo Chai tasting guide
  •    Sweet and Spicy conversation starter cards

I  I will be making goodie bags and bringing tea with me to my meeting and cannot wait to give the feedback then.  I will also come back here and post some photos, yay! 

I  In the meantime, Duncan and I will enjoy our Tazo Tea (decaf for me please) with our breakfast and for dessert! 



Visit Tazo at:

Saturday, November 15, 2014

Review: Chic Boho Mama Breastfeeding Wrap



Dear Readers:

  Baby Lee is almost 11 weeks in my tummy and I am starting to feel a little better. I have started my Pilates again and try to walk as much as possible. In the meantime, I am planning the baby's nursery, and buying small things to get ready. As soon as we know the gender, we will know whether to get out Ana's clothing and toys or whether we are basically starting from scratch (everything is pink, and girly, lol).

 One thing that is not changing this time around, is that I will be nursing for as long as Baby Lee will nurse.I aim for a year, and go from there. I love nursing, it is really bonding and wonderful for the baby and nowadays there are all sorts of wonderful baby and mama items that make it easier and more comfy. I was recently sent this beautiful, chic Boho Mama Breastfeeding Wrap and I cannot wait to use it with Baby Lee. It is so soft, and stylish. It snaps at the top and lays wonderfully. Also, it goes well with all of my black maternity clothes (leggings and tees) that I will be living in for the next 6 or so months. 




Want more info so you can get your own? Well, you are in luck. These beautiful wraps are currently on sale FOR JUST $39.99 USING THE COUPON CODE ARKRLDUS AT CHECKOUT.

Buy HERE at Amazon and don't forget to put in the code!!  Also, It will also be available in both purple and black at the end of this month.
Check out the purple, gorgeous:


 More info from the company:
  • MANUFACTURED WITH LOVE FROM ORGANIC BAMBOO MODAL with a touch of spandex for comfort and shape, this stylish multi-purpose garment is for the woman who cares what she wears and cares what she chooses to touch the skin of her precious baby. The Boho Mama Breastfeeding Wrap drapes beautifully across and around your body, whether you are pregnant, breastfeeding or just feel like wearing it. The lightweight, breathable fabric allows you and your baby to stay cool and look cool.
  • YOU CAN LITERALLY WEAR THIS LUXURY DESIGNER WRAP STRAIGHT OUT OF ITS STYLISH PACKAGING, as, unlike other nursing covers, it has no strong chemical smell that needs to be washed out. It may just become the most loved of all your maternity clothes and a firm wardrobe favorite long after you've done with maternity wear. IT'S THE PERFECT BABY SHOWER GIFT IDEA FOR YOUR BEST FRIEND, YOUR SISTER OR YOUR DAUGHTER.
  • SO, WHEN IS A NURSING COVER NOT A NURSING COVER? Answer ... when it is a Boho Mama Breastfeeding Wrap. THIS STYLISH, VERSATILE SHAWL IS FOR PREGNANCY, NURSING AND BEYOND. Rock it as a chic 21st century Boho Mama, with this beautiful multi-purpose scarf, which can be worn in at least 12 different stylish ways. Order from us today, for yourself or as a baby shower gift, and we'll send you a free guide on the different ways to wear it. !! HOT PROMO !! ORDER NOW AND GET IT FOR JUST $39.99 USING THE COUPON CODE ARKRLDUS AT CHECKOUT.

Important Links:



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.



Wednesday, November 12, 2014

Review: Azara Organics Organic Seaweed Facial Mask and Body Wrap



Dear Readers;

I admit it, I have not had time yet to use this amazing product. It arrived shortly after I found out I was pregnant and I am too scared, nervous and protective to try any new beauty products while the fetus is forming. I plan on making a facial mask during my second trimester. I cannot wait. The Seaweed smells wonderful and I love the power of detox. 


Want more info?

Important Info from Azara Organics:

"The Ancient Secret to Silky Smooth Skin

For centuries Northern European and Asian cultures have used the rejuvenating power of seaweed to achieve soft and supple skin, reduce inflammation, and detoxify the body.

The Magic of Seaweed

The first time you try our Seaweed Powder in a facial mask or body wrap you will be transported to the sea. Marvel at the feeling of calm that comes over you as the nutrient loaded seaweed satisfies and cleanses your malnourished skin. Experience an overall sense of well being as the unique mineral properties flush out the toxins leaving your skin smooth and youthful.

A Chemical-Free Solution to Healthy Skin

The skin-care business can be a frustrating industry to work in. Millions of dollars are spent creating and advertising miracle cures that only leave our skin in worse shape and are even harmful to our health.

Here at Azara Organics we have a simple rule for any product we create or use. If we don't feel safe and comfortable ingesting it into our body then it does not belong on our skin.

The Finest Quality Seaweed Money Can Buy

Our Organic Seaweed Powder(Ascophyllum Nodosum) is wild harvested from the clean cold ocean water of the North Atlantic. We constantly test it to insure its quality and consistency. We are happy to share the lab results for those who are interested.

Try This Natural Marine Wonder

We truly believe in the amazing powers of Seaweed Powder and want you to experience this natural marine wonder."

And:

Important Links:







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.


Tuesday, November 11, 2014

Review: Nancy Drew Labyrinth of Lies Game from Her Interactive #nancydrew



Dear Readers:

 I admit I do not have as much time to play video games as I once did.  Being a full time mom, a blogger and an actor...when I get in some fun time I enjoy it immensely. I popped this game into my PC not sure how it would go since I hardly ever play games on the PC. I was pleasantly surprised. I chose the amateur level and enjoyed figuring out where to explore in the amphitheatre,theatre and museum. I used the hints to get started and enjoyed the minigames. The graphics are clear and colorful and the characters are threedimension and have fun personalities. I found myself spending several hours at a time getting sucked into the game. It was fun.I am going to download the free guide to go with it and try to finish this winter.  What fun. Rated E for Everyone. 

I loved Nancy Drew mysteries as a child and read the entire collection, this reminded me why she was such a fun and smart character. I highly recommend this game for the mystery lover.


Important Info:




Thread Your Way Through a Maze of Deceit in this Epic Greek Drama!

A museum curator hires you to assist with the most anticipated event of the year, but artifacts from the exhibit are mysteriously disappearing. Are these mishaps connected to the amphitheater’s upcoming performance? Or is an unseen villain pulling strings behind the scenes? Uncover the truth and recover the missing artifacts from the Labyrinth of Lies!

GAME FEATURES:

Organize Greek Displays and Exhibits! Fill in for the museum curator and assemble exhibits before the grand opening

Use Stagecraft Expertise to Survive Backstage! Sneak behind the curtains to explore the treacherous underworld stage sets

Experience the World of Ancient Greece! Solve challenging puzzles based on actual Greek myths and artwork

The Hardy Boys are On the Line! Use your in-game mobile phone to hear potentially lifesaving tips from Frank and Joe

Select Difficulty Levels! Play at Amateur or Master Sleuth level and erase any mistakes without starting over





Important Links:

http://www.herinteractive.com/
http://www.herinteractive.com/shop-games/nancy-drew-labyrinth-of-lies/
https://twitter.com/HerInteractive




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.

Friday, November 7, 2014

9 weeks in...Baby Lee is a Grape!

Baby Lee is the size of a grape at 9 weeks! 
Hello Dear Readers:

I promised tummy photos and I will be taking weekly photos and updating them here. How fun! This week has been a hard one. I am still suffering from morning sickness. and taking two prescriptions for it. I feel better by the afternoon and can almost eat a real meal at night.

Stats:

Baby Lee is  9 1/2 weeks and is the size of a grape. He/she is making mama sick in the morning and I have a strong smell aversion going on.

133 lbs - I have gained 3 lbs since I started weighing myself pregnant. I would like to keep the weight gain to around 25-30 lbs at the most.

I can already feel the 28 jeans feeling tight by the end of the day and may have to pull out some of my old 30s soon. I am still a sz 6..but feel bloated and my breasts are in pain and sore and tender. I have already gone up at least one bra size ;((( but I know I will lose them when I lose the baby weight , phew.

Mostly the first 9 weeks have been not so fun. I am in pain, am constantly sick to my stomach and sometimes can barely eat. I am not going to sugar coat it. Being pregnant sucks. At least right now.  I am hoping it gets better.

Belly watch:

The bump is starting. I may pop soon!!






Stay well and Happy Weekend,  Mama Lee



Review: Vivant Skincare Mandelic Acid 3-in-1 Wash




Dear Readers:

 I received this amazing bottle of Vivant Skin Care Madelic wash to try out because my skin starting acting up shortly after turning 40. My hormones must have been raging (it did not take me long at all to get pregnant, but that is Another story) because my skin was flaring up and causing break-ups.

I have been using it for several weeks and already see marked improvement. 




Important Info:


Vivant Skin Care is from the scientist who made skin look healthier...James E. Fulton M.D. PhD, the researcher, cosmetic surgeon and dermatologist who developed vitamin A acid, later known as Retin A.


The Benefits of Vivant Skin Care Mandelic 3-in-1 Wash:

This powerful yet gentle antioxidant wash has Mandelic derived from almonds, green tea extract, grape seed, kiwi fruit and honey extracts.  Mandelic is ideal for adult acne because of it's anti-bacterial, anti-viral and anti-fungal properties. On blotchy skin it "lifts" skin discolorations and dark spots, while also having the benefical side effect of rejuvenating fine lines by helping to generate new collagen, elastin and hyaluronic acid.

A powerful yet gentler form of Alpha Hydroxy Acid, Mandelic is also ideal for treating sensititve Black, Hispanic, and Asian skin that becomes irritated by harsh benzoyl peroxide products.

Helps ingrown hairs and can also be used as a shampoo on scalp to control dandruff and acne.

Skin Types : Combination, Oily.
Key Ingredients : Smooth Granules, Mandelic Acid, Green Tea Extract, Kiwi Fruit Extract, Honey Extract, Grape Extract.
Directions : Start usage every other day. Shake well before use. Apply in circular motion to face, neck, chest and body. After several minutes, rinse thoroughly with water. Increase to once or twice daily as tolerated.



Important Links:




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.