Dad of Divas' Reviews: May 2012

Thursday, May 31, 2012

Celebrity DIY Expert (And Awesome Dad!) Eric Stromer Coming to Sterling Heights! #dadchat


JUNE 9: BIG HOME IMPROVEMENT CHANGES IN SIMPLE, AFFORADABLE WAYS!
DIY CELEBRITY ERIC STROMER TO SHOW STERLING HEIGHTS HOMEOWNERS HOW TO DEMAND EVERYTHING, COMPROMISE NOTHING WITH HOME IMPROVEMENT

*AVAILABLE FOR INTERVIEWS*

WHEN:         Saturday, June 9
                        12:00pm -2:00pm - Lowe’s Home Improvement
                                              
WHERE:       Lowe’s Home Improvement:  2000 Metropolitan Parkway, Sterling Heights

WHO:              Eric Stromer is a popular name in home improvement with his roots as a 20-year veteran contractor, and is currently seen by millions of television viewers. This July, Stromer launches a new show on A&E, “Hideous Houses.” Stromer previously hosted the HGTV hit show “Over Your Head.” People magazine named Stromer one of its "Sexiest Men Alive."

WHAT:           Eric Stromer will perform home improvement demonstrations at Lowe’s. In 2011, an AMEX survey found 64% of homeowners planned to embark on a home improvement project, focusing on do-it-yourself projects and spending an average of $3,400. Stromer will show homeowners they can demand everything and compromise nothing because home improvement can be easy and doesn’t have to cost a lot of money. 

ABOUT:          Olympic Paint and Stain is part of PPG Industries, the world’s leading coatings and specialty products company. Through leadership in innovation, sustainability and color, PPG helps customers in industrial, transportation, consumer products, and construction markets and aftermarkets to enhance more surfaces in more ways than does any other company.



All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Painless Healthy Eating Habits for Kids

5 Relatively Painless Healthy Eating Habits for Kids

As parents, we work hard to protect our kids from harm. We teach them not to cross the street without looking both ways, and we teach them about stranger danger. We train our kids to practice safety at every turn.

Many of us are less successful at teaching our kids healthy habits, however. One of the areas that most parents struggle with is healthy eating habits. Yet, if the epidemic of childhood obesity is ever going to get under control, we need to find ways to help our kids eat healthier.
It doesn’t help that health foods simply often just don’t taste as good (to kids, anyways) as unhealthy foods. Not only do we have to struggle with a culture that encourages unhealthy eating, we have to struggle with our kids, as well.

Fortunately, there are some relatively painless ways you can help your kids develop healthier eating habits:
  1. Start by controlling what you put in front of them.
For the most part, there’s a good chance that your kids aren’t the ones doing the grocery shopping. That’s up to you. That means it’s also up to you to choose what kinds of foods you have on hand in the house. 

Choosing low-fat or nonfat dairy products, lean proteins, and cereals that aren’t high in fat or refined sugars are a good start.

Accordingly, you can limit their access to sugary snacks simply by making the right choices at the grocery store. Even more than limiting access, you can create a positive environment by always making sure there are some fresh, tasty, health options around. Fresh fruits, carrot sticks, and even celery with a lowfat yogurt dip are all good choices.

2.               Encourage your child to eat responsibly.
There are a couple of aspects to this. One is simply encouraging your child to eat more slowly. When your child eats slower, he’s better able to tell when he’s actually full, or when he’s still hungry.

This also extends into the area of education. Talk to your child about what foods are the best for them. Explain why fatty, greasy foods are unhealthy, and what they do to the body. Talk about what a balanced diet means.

3.               Make food a family thing.
Involve your kids in the process of choosing and preparing foods for the family. This will not only tell you what kinds of foods your kids really like, it will give you an opportunity to work with them to identify healthier options. It’s a great way to teach them about nutrition, and to help them learn a little about cooking, too. When your child is involved in preparing the meal, she’s much more likely to want to eat it.

Eating together as a family is often difficult in this day and age, but it’s also a good way to help children develop healthy eating habits. Make mealtimes a peaceful time of talking and sharing with one another. Stressful mealtimes mean eating quick and getting away fast.

4.               Make water your family’s drink of choice.
Consider limiting soda pop to dinner time, just once a day. Ration flavored drinks. Instead, allow each child to have a water bottle and encourage them to fill it as often as they like.
If your tap water isn’t particularly enjoyable for drinking, consider purchasing bottled water or even filtered water by the jug. You can keep a jug in the refrigerator at all times for a refreshing beverage.

5.               Don’t use food for rewards or sanctions.
It can be tempting to turn dessert into a reward for good behavior. Instead, consider other means of convincing children to do what you want.
Sending a child to bed without dinner can cause all sorts of food anxiety. Giving children candy as a reward can reinforce the idea that some foods – especially those sugary foods that are really bad for them – are of greater value than other foods.
Take food out of the equation when it comes to trying to modify your children’s behavior.
Being a parent can be challenging. You need to lead by example. Getting your kids to view food in a healthy way and practice healthy eating habits starts there. You need to be willing to make good food choices yourself, and then share those choices with your children.
It’s not always easy, but the methods above can help you get well on your way to a family with healthy food attitudes, without too much pain. Author Bio

Dorothy Wheaton, PA-C, is the lead clinical provider for Careworks Convenient Healthcare, a US company operating health clinics and urgent care centers in the Northeast United States.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Wednesday, May 30, 2012

Book Review - The Rich Get Richer, The Poor Can Too!

About the Book 
She’s not someone people thought would become successful. In fact, most people didn’t give Stacey Currie a chance at making it past her teens. But today, she’s a successful businesswoman living her dream life. Currie is showing people how to discover their passion and unlock the secrets to success in her new book, The Rich Get Richer, The Poor Can Too!.

By all accounts, Stacey should be living on the streets, in jail or dead. Growing up without a mother, Stacey was bought up in housing commission, was sexually abused at the age of nine, lived in a shed at 14, got pregnant at 15, was homeless with two babies at 19 and was living in a violent relationship at 21. But, Stacey somehow managed to pursue and achieve her dreams.

“If you have dreamed of success in your life but can’t seem to pinpoint exactly what your goal is, this book is for you,” says Currie. “If you are powered by passion, all things are possible.”

This 32-year old woman has managed to defy the odds by following her passion. She took action on her dreams, and now has five beautiful children and lives in her dream home by the beach. Through the very techniques described in The Rich Get Richer, The Poor Can Too!, Stacey grew a small business from $100 of sales per month to $100,000 per month.

My message is to say that no matter what your obstacles in life you can still make your dreams happen,” Currie says. “I want my readers to know how important and critical it is to live true to their purpose and passion.”

The Rich Get Richer, The Poor Can Too! is jam packed with practical, easy to follow techniques that will shift your thinking from “it’s too hard” to ”I can make it happen.” Stacey encourages everyone to uncover your passion, create a clear vision of your dream life and move past excuses and fears. About the author Stacey Currie has earned the nickname “dynamite” by colleagues, clients and friends. Stacey was a first time mother at 16, and now at age 32, is a busy mother of five. A businesswoman, speaker, published author and the Official Ambassador for the Lighthouse Foundation and Brave Hearts Foundation, she still finds time to keep fit, run a successful business and helps others achieve their goals. Stacey lives by her motto, “If you’re powered by passion, all things are possible.”

My Take on the Book
This book was practical and so easy to use! In reading through this I can easily see how anyone can get some great ideas on how to make much of one's life from little. The story of the author was an amazing one and one that most would not believe unless they read this book completely. I found the book to be inspirational and one that will encourage you to take a chance and try things that can get you moving in a different and potentially more profitable direction. 


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - The Searchers: A Quest for Faith in the Valley of Doubt

About the Book 
Never before had they known such hope.

In a world drenched in violence and oppression, here was a man armed with a message of peace and freedom. Into lives nearly overwhelmed by grief and sorrow, he brought compassion and healing and the deepest joy. To people who felt like outcasts and aliens, he showed the way home. And then, in one devastating night, all their hopes collapsed.

This is where our story begins—in the valley of despair. It is a tale of two friends, a stranger, and a search for truth in a world gone mad with doubt.

Historian Joseph Loconte unlocks the meaning of their exchange, set in the chaotic days following the execution of Jesus of Nazareth. Drawing from literature, film, philosophy, history, and politics, Loconte shows how this biblical drama is an integral part of our own story.

Sooner or later, we will find ourselves among the searchers.

My Take on the Book
This book takes a multi-faceted look at faith through both a historical, philosophical and biblical point of view. The book makes you think deeply about the topics presented and I found myself being drawn further and further into the book. What I liked most about the book is that it does not hit you over the head with the beliefs of the author, but instead he lets you make your own decisions based on what he presents. I also liked the history lessons within the book. Whether you are a person who readily reads the bible and are a student of biblical history, you are still given a good basis for understanding the background of the points presented which to me made a lot of sense!

I enjoyed this book and will definitely be sharing this soon with others!

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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DVD Review - Rocko's Modern Life: Season Three

About the DVD 
Australian wallaby Rocko, Spunky, Heffer and Filburt return for more hilarity-filled zany adventures in O-Town when Rocko’s Modern Life: Season Three 2-DVD set arrives in stores nationwide for the first time on July 3, 2012 from Shout! Factory. Packed with all 13 wacky episodes, this DVD set features an all-new cover art illustration and special commentary by series creator Joe Murray. A must-have for fans, collectors and animation enthusiasts, Rocko’s Modern Life: Season Three DVD set is priced to own with a suggested retail price of $19.93.

Created by award-winning animator Joe Murray for Nickelodeon, Rocko’s Modern Life boasts an all-star voice cast -- Carlos Alazraqui (CatDog), Tom Kenny (SpongeBob SquarePants), Charlie Adler (Aaahh!!! Real Monsters) and Doug Lawrence (SpongeBob SquarePants). Season three highlights include a murder investigation involving the Bigheads, Heffer unearthing a rare talent for belching, Filburt popping the question, the exposure of Rocko’s spinach tooth and more! At long last, the complete third season is now on DVD!

Rocko’s Modern Life is one of the most celebrated Nick animated classics. A favorite with viewers and critics alike, this hit animated series debuted in 1993 and garnered a Daytime Emmy® Award and an Environmental Media Award over the course of its 11-year run on the network.

With its off-kilter humor and a theme song performed by the B52’s, Rocko’s Modern Life is a production of Joe Murray Productions and Nickelodeon Animation Studios. It has been sub-licensed for home video distribution to Shout! Factory by Paramount Home Entertainment and Nickelodeon.

My Take on the DVD
I have been lucky enough to see some of the other seasons of this great series and was equally lucky to watch Season 3. With 13 great episodes of great animation and great story, this set is a great addition for anyone that loves this series, or anyone that has the first two discs in the series. For those that have never seen this series, you will love the the humor of the series, and if you are like me you will find yourself soon wanting to go back and see the rest of the series as well!


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Disney/Pixar's BRAVE - Recipes!!!



Since ancient times, stories of epic battles and mystical legends have been passed through the generations across the rugged and mysterious Highlands of Scotland. From Disney and Pixar, a new tale joins the lore when the courageous Merida(voice of Kelly Macdonald) confronts tradition and challenges destiny to change her fate.

“Brave” follows the heroic journey of Merida, a skilled archer and headstrong daughter of King Fergus (voice of Billy Connolly) and Queen Elinor (voice of Emma Thompson). Determined to carve her own path in life, Merida defies an age-old custom sacred to the unruly and uproarious lords of the land: massive Lord MacGuffin (voice of Kevin McKidd), surly Lord Macintosh (voice of Craig Ferguson) and cantankerous Lord Dingwall (voice of Robbie Coltrane). Merida’s actions inadvertently unleash chaos and fury in the kingdom, and when she turns to an eccentric Witch (voice of Julie Walters) for help, she is granted an ill-fated wish. The ensuing peril forces Merida to harness all of her skills and resources – including her clever and mischievous triplet brothers – to undo a beastly curse before it’s too late, discovering the meaning of true bravery.

Directed by Mark Andrews and Brenda Chapman, and produced by Katherine Sarafian, “Brave” is a grand adventure full of heart, memorable characters and signature Pixar humor that audiences of all ages around the world have come to eagerly expect. The film takes aim at theaters on June 22, 2012, and will be presented in Disney Digital 3D™ in select theaters.

A grand adventure full of heart, memorable characters and signature Pixar humor, “Brave” uncovers a new tale in the mysterious Highlands of Scotland where the headstrong Merida (voice of Kelly Macdonald) defies an age-old custom and inadvertently unleashes chaos, forcing her to discover the meaning of true bravery before it’s too late. Opens June 22, 2012, in Disney Digital 3D™ in select theaters.



All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Tuesday, May 29, 2012

Book Review - If I Knew Then What I Know Now

About the Book 
Making mistakes because you do not know any better is one thing, but to make them over and over is another. If this sounds familiar, you may require a needed course correction. If you are still wandering in the wilderness and cannot find your way out of the thick fog of Mistake City, maybe it is time to learn from the mistakes of others. It just may be time to take advantage of the wisdom from those who have "been there and done that".

About the Author
Ruby Hillsman has been a registered nurse for over 30 years and a retail business owner for more than 22 years. Married to her minister husband of 20 years, they now reside in Huntingdon, TN.

My Take on the Book
I was a bit torn on this book, as the book provides some great resources for the reader, and the stories that are shared make the ideas presented that much more tangible. That being said though, I will state that the book was not the strongest written book in regards to the style and how well the book finishes thoughts within chapters. There were many times when I wanted to have more in the chapters and thought that the author could have gone deeper. The personal approach to the book does allow the reader though to better understand the author's experience, and trough this deepen their own understanding of themselves as well.



All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Fischer & Wieser Father’s Day Gifts Turn Dad into a Gourmet Chef

They get rid of the boogeymen at night, give piggyback rides at will, and are notorious for not asking for directions. Now, just in time for Father’s Day, dads across America can also be gourmet chefs with Fischer & Wieser’s line of savory sauces. By trading in the ketchup and mustard in favor of fresh, exciting flavors, dads will be able to show off their culinary expertise instead of the usual tie or sweater vest. The following Fischer & Wieser sauces are gluten-free, preservative-free and ready to use right out of the jar!

The Original Roasted Raspberry Chipotle Sauce® is a smoky, sweet combination of luscious red raspberries and hot chipotle peppers. Perfect as a marinade for steak, chicken, or beef, this sauce is sure to keep guests talking. Use The Original Roasted Raspberry Chipotle Sauce® as a dip for chicken and vegetable skewers, or mix with olive oil for a delectable salad dressing that compliments any smoky grilling item perfectly.

Texas Pit BBQ Sauce gives a kick to the original smoky BBQ sauce, and is perfect for pouring generously over ribs, chicken or burgers. Fischer and Wieser perfected a sauce that pays homage to classic smokehouses, while introducing a unique chile--the Pasilla de Oaxaca--that is medium-hot and is known for its rich flavor.

Sweet and Savory Onion Glaze is another one of Fischer and Wieser’s sweet heat combinations, mixing onions and just the right amount of jalapeno pepper to create a versatile glaze for grilled meats and seafood. This trifecta of flavors is only a glimpse into the world of Fischer and Wieser, which has over 100 preservative-free, gluten-free, flavor-packed products to choose from; each one guaranteed to make a BBQ or a regular week-night meal a culinary adventure. Spice up Father’s Day this year with Fischer and Wieser, and give a deserving father a present that everyone in the family can enjoy!


My Take on the Sauce
Do you like to grill? If you have followed me in the past, you know that I do and I do enjoy trying new sauces and ways to make flavor explode from the meat that I am cooking. Recently I was provided with the opportunity to try the sauces listed above and recently I tried out the Fischer and Wieser’s Roasted Raspberry Chipotle Sauce.


When I heard about this sauce I was a bit intrigued. I say this because I love things that spicen up any dish and I also like items that are “hot” in flavor as well.


The company also speaks about the fact that they aim to provide their customers with unique foods that are hand crafted for each customer. I liked this message as I am all about the idea of customer first companies, and this company definitely seems to work in this regard.


Overall this sauce was amazing and was something that I would highly recommend to all!




All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - The Car Thief

About the Book 
Described as “one of the best coming of age novels of the Twentieth Century,” Theodore Weesner’s modern American classic is now re-launched for a new generation of readers to discover.

It’s 1959. Sixteen year-old Alex Housman has just stolen his fourteenth car and frankly doesn’t know why. His divorced, working class father grinds out the night shift at the local Chevy Plant in Detroit, looking forward to the flask in his glove compartment, and the open bottles of booze in his Flint, Michigan home. Abandoned and alone, father and son struggle to express a deep love for each other, even as Alex fills his day juggling cheap thrills and a crushing depression. And then there’s Irene Shaeffer, the pretty girl in school whose admiration Alex needs like a drug in order to get by. Broke and fighting to survive, Alex and his father face the realities of estrangement, incarceration, and even violence as their lives unfold toward the climactic episode that a New York Times reviewer called “one of the most profoundly powerful in American fiction.”

In this rich, beautifully crafted story, Weesner accomplishes a rare feat: He’s written a transcendent piece of literature in deceptively simple language, painting a powerful portrait of a father and a son, otherwise invisible among the mundane, everyday details of life in blue collar America. A true and enduring American classic.


About the Author
Theodore Weesner, born in Flint, Michigan, is aptly described as a “Writers’ Writer” by the larger literary community. His short works have been published in the New Yorker, Esquire, Saturday Evening Post, Atlantic Monthly and Best American Short Stories. His novels, including The True Detective, Winning the City and Harbor Light, have been published to great critical acclaim in the New York Times, The Washington Post, Harper’s, The Boston Globe, USA Today, The Chicago Tribune, Boston Magazine and The Los Angeles Times to name a few.

Weesner is currently writing his memoir, two new novels, and an adaptation of his widely praised novel—retitled Winning the City Redux—also to be published by Astor + Blue Editions. He lives and works in Portsmouth, NH.

My Take on the Book
The author does a great job at developing a storyline that is compelling and a world that is so vivid that you get drawn in and lost in the story itself (or at least I did). I loved the connection to Michigan as I have been to some of the areas that the story describes and I always love reading stories that bring me to places that I know like this. The book was a good coming of age story that makes you reflect on your own childhood, and for me, knowing how good that I had it!


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - Stillpower

About the Book 
For years, athletes, coaches, parents, and organizations have searched for the secrets to optimum mental performance. However, in spite of a myriad of tools and techniques, success and contentment continue to be as elusive as ever, until now. Kramer's Stillpower offers a revolutionary explanation for this predicament and provides a basic, yet dynamic, approach for the future. In an accessible style, Kramer reveals the innate principles behind consistent achievement and highlights the misalignment between the experiences of all performers and the strategies of the coaches, psychologists, and experts who are hoping to help them. Virtually all of us -- athletes and non-athletes alike -- are looking outside of ourselves, trying to unlock the keys to happiness, freedom, and excellence with ease. Garret Kramer encourages us to look within to finally find the answers.

My Take on the Book
As a parent of a daughter who seems to excel at every sport that she puts her mind to, and I was amazed to find that the ideas presented in this book made so much sense. I found myself agreeing with so many of his ideas and it was because of these ideas that I kept wanting to read and read and it took me so little time to complete! Not being an athlete in school, I am always looking for ways to support my child in her pursuits and Mr. Kramer has given me so much to think about and to act on and I for one have to say thanks for this and for so much more.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Book Review - On My Honor: Real Life Lessons from America's First Girl Scout

About the Book 
In 1911, Juliette "Daisy" Gordon Low was widowed and completely unsure of what to do with her life when a chance meeting changed her course forever. Determined and inspired by a belief that young girls and women should be taught to rely not on their husbands and fathers but on themselves, Daisy founded the Girl Scouts of the USA the next year.

One hundred years later, Daisy's life lessons still motivate and encourage thousands of young girls and women across the country through the Girl Scout organization. Shannon Henry Kleiber gives Daisy's classic, timeless advice a modern focus that is sure to inspire women of all generations. learn from Daisy's words of wisdom and strive to:

  • Know Yourself and Be Yourself
  • Love Living Things
  • Give to Others
  • Be a Sister
  • Challenge Yourself

"Have you ever stopped to think that your most constant companion throughout life will be yourself? You will always have this body, this mind, and this spirit that you call 'I,'" — How Girls Can Help Their Country (1916)

About the Author
Former Girl Scout and current Troop Leader, Shannon Henry Kleiber, is the mother of two daughters who have thrived over recent years through their membership in the Girl Scouts of America and its positive encouragement for young girls to grow into well-rounded women. While researching the woman behind the organization, Kleiber soon discovered how Daisy Gordon Low’s self- motivation and infectious personality have positively influenced millions of young girls and grown women who at one point or another have called themselves a Girl Scout.

My Take on the Book
As a co-leader of a girl scout troop I have to say that this book provided me with a ton of additional insight into the woman behind the overall organization. On top of this though the author brought forth some very humorous anecdotes about her own experiences as a Girl Scout leader. I could relate on some of the same experiences (at least some of them) and I have some others that I would have added if I had written the book myself. What I liked most was the fact that the book was so well researched and it brings the reader so much closer to the organization as well as to the history behind it and how all of this fits together into the lessons that the Girl Scout organization stands for.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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HGTV Magazine’s June/July Issue on stands today, May 29


The launch issue focuses on quick, colorful makeovers for maximum impact around the home and features familiar HGTV network stars such as Sabrina Soto, Emily Henderson and Chip Wade. Plus, editors demonstrate how to salvage unique yard-sale finds, paint like a pro, create a stylish outdoor room on a budget and more. Readers also get a sneak peek at the contestants from season seven of HGTV Design Star, premiering tonight at 9 pm EST on HGTV.

When was the last time you cleaned…
The popular column is back, this time discussing often overlooked household items that may need sprucing up around your home.

…your toilet brush?

How often: Once a month is enough to keep it in fighting shape.

How to: Dunk the brush in a bucket filled with 10 cups hot water, 1 cup bleach, and a squirt of dish soap. Let it soak for an hour as you knock out some other chores, then air-dry. If toilet-brush cleaning doesn’t set your heart on fire, use the disposable kind, which have single-use brushes that pop off into the trash.

…your earbuds?

How often: If you wear them a lot (to the gym, for yard work), that may mean weekly cleaning. Less frequent users can go a month or two.

How to: Wax and dirt buildup block the speaker output and muffle sound, but few people clean earbuds correctly. If the silicone caps are removable, pop them off and gently wipe with a cotton ball dampened with rubbing alcohol. Never saturate or submerge the earbuds. If the covers don’t come off, use a premoistened wipe designed for cleaning hearing aids- the towelettes won’t damage the parts.

…your tabletop fan?
How often: Rinse the grille and blades every few weeks. Any longer and you’re probably blowing dust into the air.

How to: Unplug the fan. Detach the front grille, then unscrew the blade cap and slide the fan blades off. Resist the desire to leave them on; they’re a lot harder to clean when spinning! Unscrew the nut that secures the back grille to the motor, then immerge the grilles and blades in warm water with mild detergent. While they soak, wipe the base with a damp cloth. Thoroughly dry all the pieces before reassembling to avoid getting the motor wet, which could damage it.



So you think you can paint
No matter how many times you’ve rolled a fresh coat of color on the wall, there are always more cool tricks to learn. Touch up your brush skills with this goof-proof guide.

USE PRIMER WHEN…
  • You’re painting a surface that’s never been painted before, like drywall or raw wood, says Kimberly Lacy, a project manager on Curb Appeal
  • You’re painting a wall with greasy spots, such as errant crayon swipes. If the rest of the wall’s clean, you can prime over just the offending areas.
  • You’re painting a light color over a dark one. You’ll save time and paint.
  • You’re using a supersaturated color, like cherry red. “At the paint store, ask to have the primer tinted close to the paint color to avoid doing lots of coats,” says Lacy


CHEAT SHEET: PAINT A ROOM IN THIS ORDER:
  • Ceiling
  • Molding, trim, and baseboards
  • Cut in around trim
  • Walls
  • Second coat on walls
  • Order pizza
  • Clean up
  • Eat pizza


THE BEST TAPE TECHNIQUES:
If you have a steady hand and lots of painting experience, you can save time by freehanding your straight lines. For the rest of us, there’s the magic of painter’s tape.
  • “Tape is great for making crisp, clean edges along molding, doors, and windows, and for painting stripes,” says Cortney Novogratz, host of Home By Novogratz.
  • To make sure paint doesn’t bleed, press tape on the wall really firmly- scrape along the edge with your thumbnail or an old credit card after you press it down with your finger.
  • Also use tape to cover hardware, such as door hinges or lock plates. Remove switch plates completely, but tape over switches.
  • Wait for paint to dry all the way, then remove tape very slowly.


--

How well do you know your kitchen?

1)      Which of these objects is dishwasher safe?
a.       Flip-flops
b.      Copper pots
c.       Wooden spoons

2)      What’s the best time to run your dishwasher if you want to save money?
a.       Before 9 am
b.      Around noon
c.       After 7 pm
d.      It doesn’t matter

3)      How long does a microwave typically last?
a.       5-7 years
b.      8-10 years
c.       11-13 years
d.      14-15 years

4)      You should always keep the oven door open when you use the broiler.
a.       True
b.      False

5)      What’s the best way to keep your house from smelling like fish while you’re cooking it?
a.       Cover the pan
b.      Boil water with a drop of vanilla extract
c.       Keep a small bowl of white vinegar by the stove
d.      Open the front door and the kitchen window

6)      What does the grate underneath your refrigerator do?
a.       Protects the condenser coils and allows airflow into the refrigerator for cooling
b.      Allows heat to exhaust, keeping your food cold
c.       Prevents dust and other debris from getting in and becoming a fire hazard

Answers: 1) A; 2) D; 3) B; 4) B; 5) C; 6) A


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Friday, May 25, 2012

New Father's Day Gift Set from Nudo

This Father’s Day, celebrate Dad over a delicious homemade Italian feast made with the new Aglio, Olio, Pepperoncino Gift Set from Nudo (www.nudo-italia.com), the company best known for its Adopt-An-Olive-Tree Program. This special Father’s Day gift set includes everything you or your father will need to prepare the classic Italian dish, spaghetti aglio, olio e peperoncino (spaghetti with garlic, olive oil and chili peppers).

The conveniently packaged set with artisanal Italian products is perfect for foodie Fathers who are happiest spending time in the kitchen. Or, let Dad sit back, relax and enjoy a classic Italian meal cooked especially for him.

Nudo’s Aglio, Olio, Pepperoncino Gift Set ($22.00) includes:

  • One 250ml tin of Nudo's olive oil, stone ground with fresh Italian garlic
  • One 500g box of organic spaghetti
  • One 50g box of dried Calabrian chillies
  • One beautifully designed, reusable Nudo spaghetti tin
  • One recipe card for spaghetti aglio, olio e pepperoncino, a classic Italian dish 
And for the Dad who already has everything, Nudo’s Adopt-An-Olive-Tree program is the perfect solution. Instead of just buying olive oil, adopt an olive tree and Dad will receive:

  • A personalized adoption certificate and information booklet that describes the tree, 
  • Four 500ml tins of first cold press extra virgin olive oil from the tree in the spring (mid-April),
  • Three 250ml tins ofinfused extra virgin olive oil in the fall. 
My Take on the Product
Getting gifts are unique in this gifts sent does both! From someone who enjoys cooking I can say that the items that you can't in this set will allow you to make some amazing dishes after Father's Day. The garlic alone looks good enough to eat or cook with. If you don't want to do that you can even use it as a dip for bread or other items. I will say that the chilies are a bit spicy, but if you like spice you will love these chilies. I highly encourage this case set for anyone looking for a unique gift for a father on Father's Day.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Aurora World Announces Crinkle Friends “Brights”!

About the Product 
Aurora World Inc.is pleased to announce a new product named Crinkle Friends “Brights”! Geared towards parent(s) and toddler(s), these new designs use bright, vivid colors and feature enough squeaks, crinkles and rattles to keep children happy and busy for hours. • Aurora has recently added Hedgehog (“10.5), Toucan (8.5”), Alligator (13”) and Crab (10.5) to its popular Crinkle Friends line, which already includes frog, pig and cow.



My Take on the Product 
This colorful, fun and engaging toy is one that any infant will enjoy! Not only do you get full-color in amazing detail, you also get the opportunity to engage the senses of sight and sound. The crinkling of the toy is one that the young child will definitely be drawn to. At the same time, the toy engages the child in creative play and storytelling with the toy that their family has. This is a great. I would highly recommend to one and all that have infants, you will not be disappointed.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Monster High & WeStopHate Partner to Empower Tween-Esteem

A girl’s self-esteem piques in 4th grade and plummets just one year later. It is in this spirit that Monster High, the popular tween franchise centered on the teenage children of famous monsters, has teamed up with WeStopHate’s founder, Emily-Anne Rigal the YouTube “cause-prenerur”, to take Emily-Anne’s online crusade to the halls of Monster High and scream her message of tween-esteem: “Those who are happy with themselves are less likely to put others down”

As a brand, Monster High celebrates individual fun freaky flaws, and this partnership aims to further that message by inspiring tween girls to celebrate and embrace their unique qualities that make them perfectly-imperfect by leveraging specially created online content, downloadable activities and an animated webisode featuring a monsterfied Rigal. The three-month multifaceted partnership with WeStopHate and Monster High kicked off for fans on May 13th and will run through back-to-school to inspire tween-esteem leading up to the first day of school.

Please visit www.freakyfab13.com to learn more about the partnership and the series of downloadable activities, encouraging a sense of empowerment through some spooktacular fun. Encourage mothers and their ghouls to download quickly, because on July 13, the content will come down, and a new activity will emerge!

May 13

  • Monster High FreakyFab13.com Takeover: On May 13th, Monster High fans were introduced to “new student” Emily-Anne and the mission of WeStopHate.org. Now, on www.freakyfab13.com , ghouls are invited to download a series of activities – encouraging a sense of empowerment through some spooktacular fun:
    • Self-Esteem Check List: developed by Rigal, this thirteen point checklist provides girls with helpful tips and tricks to inspire the freaky fab in all of us. From creating a fang-tastic playlist to rockin’ a gor-geous accessory as your signature piece, each serves to boost ones’ self-esteem.
       
    • Love, Yourself Letter: inspired by Rigal’s “Love, Yourself Letters” on WeStopHate.org, this activity encourages girls to write themselves a letter on what makes them uniquely freaky fabulous.
    • Monsterfied Mad-libs: in this monsterfied MadLib, Monster High student Draculaura™, who is unable to see her own reflection in the mirror, proves that trusting your ghoulfriends, that you are beautiful inside and out, can boost your confidence. 
June 13

  • Mirror Mirror, on the Wall, Love Yourself – Imper-flections and All: Beginning July 13, also on FreakyFab13, Monster High will dig up an interactive online experience where girls will get to “take back the mirror,” and resurrect a positive self-reflection by re-writing how they view themselves – from the inside out. Girls are invited to take or upload a photo of themselves to the online mirror. Then, they are given a series of positive, monsterfied sayings that they can apply to their mirror, print out or save to celebrate their imper-flections. 


July - August

  • Animated WeStopHate Webisode Debuts July: Leveraging the popularity of Monster High webisode content, which has generated more than 150 million video views, Rigal will become the star of a special Monster High webisode. As an animated monsterfied character, she will share the WeStopHate message of self-acceptance with Monster High students, Frankie Stein, Draculaura and the rest of the Monster High characters.
  • And the monsters are just getting started… there is so much more to come! 


The partnership with Rigal is the second of its kind, for Monster High, further advancing the brand’s commitment to supporting girl-founded organizations that promote positive messages for tweens. In 2011, Monster High® partnered with the Kind Campaign, a girl founded movement and documentary dedicated to spreading messages of kindness. In 2012, the Monster High® furthers this commitment with WeStopHate, spreading the message that accepting and celebrating our imperfections and fostering positive self-esteem, can bring an end to self-hate.

Launched in 2010, the Monster High® franchise has quickly exploded in popularity attracting a highly engaged global student body of tween fans. The brand currently boasts the #2 largest Fashion Doll property according to The NPD Group[1], a New York Times best-selling chapter book series, heavily viewed animated online and television entertainment, more than a million “likes” on Facebook and a monsterously successful consumer products collection.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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Search for the Great American Dad: Contest Open Until 5/28


Until May 28, Great American Cookies® fans will have the opportunity to submit a story in 200 words or less about why their Dad is the “greatest in America.” Entries can submit entries at http://www.greatamericancookies.com/.

Prizes Include:

  • $250 gift card towards Great American Cookies for 3rd runner-up
  • $500 gift card towards Great American Cookies for 2nd runner-up
  • One grand prize winner will win a trip for themselves and their dad to the National Baseball Hall of Fame in Cooperstown, New York 


All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.


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Heelys Kicks Off Summer with Its 4-Day Memorial Day Sale

Heelys Kicks Off Summer with Its 4-Day Memorial Day Sale 

Free ground shipping on all orders; Buy a Nano, get 50% off any pair of single-wheel Heelys Heelys, Inc. is helping kick off summe r with its annual 4-day Memorial Day Sale that includes free ground shipping on all orders. In addition, purchase a Heelys Nano and get 50% off any pair of single-wheel Heelys. The offer is valid May 25 -- May 28, 2012, and is good for U.S. customers only.

WHAT: Memorial Day weekend is the unofficial start of summer. Swimming, outdoor sports and other activities beckon. Skating around in a new pair of Heelys is a great way to get outside, enjoy the warm breeze and feel the sun on your face as you spend time with friends and family. Take advantage of Heelys Memorial Day Sale to get into a pair of Heelys and try out the Nano. Heelys(R) is offering two ways to save: free ground shipping on all purchases from Heelys Shop, http://shop.heelys.com, and buy the Nano and enjoy 50% off (before shipping and tax) any single-wheel pair of Heelys. This offer is good for U.S. customers only.

WHEN: 12:00 AM (CDT) Friday, May 25, 2012 through 11:59 PM (CDT) Monday, May 28, 2012.

WHERE: Heelys Shop - http://shop.heelys.com/ 

PRODUCT INFORMATION: HEELYS - MRP: $47 and up 
Heelys wheeled footwear allows the user to seamlessly transition from walking or running to rolling by simply shifting weight to the heel. Users can also transform Heelys wheeled footwear into street shoes by removing the wheel and replacing the heel cavities (adaptors) with heel plugs. Heelys wheeled footwear provides users with a unique combination of fun and style that differentiates it from other footwear and wheeled sports products. Heelys are sold in sporting goods and specialty stores nationwide and in more than 70 countries around the world. An instructional video on how to get started can be found at www.Heelys.com.

HEELYS Hx2 -- MRP: $60 
Heelys Hx2 has two removable wheels in each shoe, making it ideal for younger wearers. Not only is it easier to maintain balance, but also wearers of the Hx2 do not require as much leg strength to lift up their toes to skate. As they get the hang of skating, though, the Hx2 can be converted into a regular pair of Heelys for a more challenging ride simply by removing one of the wheels. Pop out both wheels and the Hx2 becomes a regular street shoe.

HEELYS NANO -- MRP: $85 
The all new Nano was designed in house at Heelys and works by simply removing the wheel from one of the skate shoes and snapping the patented wheel bracket into the Sole-LinkT, like a ski or snowboard binding. For use on a single foot, the innovative board thrills the user with the same sensations and freedoms felt while slalom skiing and wakeboarding. The Nano lets skaters move farther, faster and longer than ever before.

MORE INFORMATION:
Log on to http://www.Heelys.com for products, videos and how-to guides. Follow Heelys on:
Facebook - http://www.facebook.com/Heelys,
Twitter - http://twitter.com/Heelysworldwide and
YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/Heelysworldwide.

Heelys, Inc. is a company founded on innovation. It designs, markets and distributes its action sports-oriented products to the youth market under the Heelys(R) brand. The company's primary product, Heelys wheeled footwear, is a patented dual-purpose skate shoe that incorporates a stealth removable wheel in the heel. Its new product, Heelys Hx2, uses two wheels for better balance and control, making it ideal for younger users. Heelys' third offering, Nano, ramps up the Heelys experience by giving skaters a board that links into the patented Heelys shoe bracket. This allows them to skate farther, faster and longer than ever before. Instructional videos on how to get started can be found at http://www.Heelys.com/.

All opinions expressed in this review are my own and not influenced in any way by the company.  Any product claim, statistic, quote or other representation about a product or service should be verified with the manufacturer or provider. Please refer to this site's Disclaimer  for more information. I have been compensated or given a product free of charge, but that does not impact my views or opinions.

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