Let's Talk LipSense

A few weeks ago I received a package in the mail and may have been a little bit too excited.

See, I've heard about LipSense, but I didn't have it in my budget to give it a try. So, when I received some information on Red Gate Beauty offering up some samples to bloggers interested in trying and reviewing the products? I signed up.

I figured there was no way I would be considered.

BUT!

I was. Am. Here I am.

So, my first attempt at using LipSense was broadcast out on my Instagram stories. Now, unfortunately those don't stay around, so I had to save my videos and try to pull them together. Hang tight for that one - I'll share it once I'm totally done working on it.

Here's my first go with LipSense.

Tweet

Keep reading »

Shop NOVICA and support artists across the globe.

* This is a sponsored post on behalf of NOVICA. I am a long-time fan of both, their products and their mission and all expressed opinions are my own. *

If you've been a reader here for a while then you know I have been a fan of NOVICA for many years. I especially love when I'm given an opportunity to work with them AND introduce you to their beautiful products and mission. 

It's been a while since I've posted about them, but NOVICA has been hard at work updating their mission and finding a way to maintain their dedication to artisans across the globe AND add a focus of finding and supporting happiness.

NOVICA offers incredible products from amazing talents across the globe so when you make your purchase you're supporting designers in places like India, Africa, Central America and Asia (to name only a few!). These talents create things like jewelry, home decor, fashionable accessories and so much more.

Tweet

Keep reading »

Looking for beautiful gift ideas? Shop Heart of Haiti and support a worthy cause.

* I am a member of the Everywhere Society and they provided me with this product for review. All thoughts and expressed opinions are my own. * 

I met the fine people of the Everywhere Society this fall at Type-A Parent Conference. Their booth in the conference expo included a number of products from the Heart of Haiti line at Macy's that they support. As soon as I saw that they were planning an upcoming campaign supporting this effort I volunteered myself as a participant.

Tweet

Keep reading »

Spoonful of Comfort ~ product review

* I received a complimentary gift package of Spoonful of Comfort for my review. 

I have not received compensation for this post. *

I've always heard about Spoonful of Comfort. Always thought it sounded amazing. Maybe even went so far as to wish someone would send it to me. /fine - no maybe - I have!/

I've sent it to a friend before and she loved it. Said it was an incredible surprise and an amazing relief for her to have dinner for her and her husband. I was glad. And still intrigued. Would it be weird to send it to myself? 

Yay! Thanks for being you! Love, Me?

And so when the Spoonful of Comfort team contacted me about possibly reviewing their product, I was all in. Yes, please, when can I try it? 

Within no time at all I had this beautifully organized package of goodies at my door. 

Tweet

Keep reading »

The Lifesaver II by Mio ~ product review

I have had the opportunity to use the Lifesaver II by Mio over the last few months and have to tell you, I don't know what I have been doing living without it for so long.

The Lifesaver II is a portable power pack for your cell phone or tablet. I've primarily been using it for my phone and it really has been an amazing little accessory.

I got a new phone around the holidays and I haven't been dealing with as many battery issues as I had in the past, but that doesn't mean I don't overuse my phone sometimes and totally need a way of getting some juice.

Ideally the best way for a blogger like me to test one of these portable chargers would be to attend a conference. And I was able to do that recently, twice.

The first huge test was when I attended a social work conference earlier this month and was there for the entire day. I relied on my Lifesaver to keep me charged for any online reading I needed to do, but what I didn't expect was that I'd end up helping my neighbor at the conference, as well. The gentleman sitting next to me was having issues with his phone and I totally plugged him in and charged him up so he could turn his phone on and see what was happening. I think I just sold him a Lifesaver II! He even wrote it down. Admittedly, he was an older gentleman, and I don't think he even knew that portable phone chargers existed.

I also had a full weekend worth of opportunity when I attended the Shot@Life Champions Summit in DC a few weeks ago. It was the first time I was away from home for several days straight and using my smartphone pretty excessively. As anyone can tell you, when you attend a conference as a blogger, you're likely to need your phone or your tablet to keep active on social media during the trainings and sessions. And this event was no different. I also found myself away from the hotel and out on the hill (yes, the hill in DC! More to come on this soon!) and I needed to know that my phone would be working no matter what.

This charger did not disappoint. I'm thrilled to have it and thrilled at how quickly it charges my phone. I pretty much keep it in my bag all the time now with the small cable attached. The only disappointment I had was that there was no attachment to charge my iPad. Although I've read that it does work with them, so maybe mine was missing? Either way - no matter - it's still a great charger.

I know today's society it's awful how reliant we are on our phones, but sometimes, when it comes to blogging, our jobs, our roles as parents or employees, we're counting on them - I know you feel me. And so the Lifesaver II by Mio has absolutely helped me to be more available and helped me avoid the anxiety of that dreaded flashing low battery warning!

I'd definitely recommend this product for those in the market for a portable charger. It's really sleek and can fit into a pocket in my bag WITH my cell phone. It's not clumsy, clunky or any other type of negative adjective you can think of.

So check it out! And if you do let me know what you think. I'm curious to hear your opinions.

* I was provided with a Lifesaver II charger by Mio to review. I was not compensated for this review in any way. All expressed opinions are strictly my own. *

Tweet

Sofia The First: Review and Giveaway

Sometimes as a blogger we get cool opportunities. This is one of them that I'm lucky enough to be a part of. Lucky for my daughter, who enjoyed the music so much she found a way to sneak out her bedtime CD and switch it with this one. Cute, right? Sneaky. But cute.

So, where was I? Right - - I'm lucky. And you could be, too. But you have to enter this giveaway first. SOFIA the FIRST, to be exact. *See what I did there?*

Let me tell you some more about Sofia the First: Songs from Enchancia.

I'm giving away not one. Not two. But THREE copies of this CD. And I'd love for you to win one for yourself and your lil one(s)! Why, you ask? Well - stay with me ...

Do you have yourself a little one who is a fan of Sofia The First? If so, you're going to want to check out this video. Definitely. And have your son or daughter watch it with you. As soon as you do you're going to end up with loads of "Mommy, I want that!" and "Can we get that? Can I watch it again?" because it's super cute.




Now for the hard work. It's not hard at all, promise.

All you have to do is enter my Rafflecopter giveaway below and you could win. Easy peasy.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

If you can't wait to win, you can purchase your own copy of this CD via Amazon or iTunes.

* Disclaimer: I am a participating influencer at The Entertainment New Media Network. I have received free product for review and to give away to my readers. I was not compensated for this review in any way and all expressed opinions are strictly my own. Some links in this post are affiliate links. *

Tweet

Legend of Kung Fu Rabbit, DVD Review

* As a member of Entertainment New Media Network I was provided with a copy of Legend of Kung Fu Rabbit to facilitate my review. I received no other compensation for this post and all expressed opinions are completely my own. Or my daughter's. *

A new super cute movie is out for you - uhm - I mean your kids. Of course I mean your kids!

Tweet

Keep reading »

Moe's Catering does everything for you! #welcometoMoes

This post is sponsored by Moe's Southwest Grill. All products were provided to me free of cost. All expressed opinions are strictly my own. I am a participating blogger in Moe's Blogger Advisory Council.  




I have been so lucky this summer. I've had an opportunity to work with Moe's Southwest Grill and could not be more excited about the experience.

Moe's Southwest Grill offers catering packages that are beyond your expectations.

I decided to opt for the fajita package, which included grilled chicken, ground beef, black beans, rice, grilled peppers and onions, and loads of fajita toppings. Huge flour tortillas finished off the meal, with gallons of sweet and unsweetened tea (they even brought ice! And paper cups!). My pictures below don't do justice to the amount of food that was delivered. We ordered for a party of 20, but had enough leftovers to feed several sets of friends for a few dinners, along with ourselves.

Moe's also offers both, a salad bar and a taco bar, along with their Burrito box option. For more details on their catering choices, check out Moe's Southwest Grill Catering Menu.

Not only is the food amazing, but they deliver, come into your home, set everything up for you in disposable serving platters and leave you with such an easy clean-up!

One thing that pleased me about Moe's, especially with so many kids in attendance, was the variety. The variety caters to each of your guests' tastes. My husband doesn't eat onions, but my mom and I (my parents were visiting) really enjoyed the grilled peppers and onions. I'm not big on super spicy stuff, so I didn't have to add any extra heat, while my husband and some of our guests were thrilled at the choice. Kids can be so picky, any parent knows that, but with a large number of children attending we had no issues of complaining or worries about what was in their food and what they might need to pick out. Don't like tomatoes? Don't add the pico. Dairy issues? Skip the cheese - more for me! And the guacamole? To. Die. For.

Along with the huge variety and amazing food, they also provided us with crayons and a coloring tablecloth, along with several coloring printouts for the kids. Moe's also sent over bracelets, noisemaker toys, balloons, frisbees, and a candy-filled piñata!!

The kids all had a blast trying to beat the candy out of that thing - mostly unsuccessfully - it was REALLY sturdy! But they had so much fun. We used these sweatbands that Moe's sent us as "blindfolds" and my husband rigged up the piñata to a pipe so he could safely hold it for the little ones. They were especially excited to tear it apart with their hands once it started breaking.

I probably have about 10-12 more pictures of the little ones attacking the piñata with a stick, but they all came out blurry because it was hit so hard and swinging around so quickly. Obviously it was a definite hit (no pun intended!).

So, if you're looking for a place to cater your next kids' party or family gathering, you need to look into Moe's. It's absolutely worth it and it's definitely something I am going to consider for the next time I am hosting a party in my home.

* Disclaimer reminder: This is a sponsored post. All products (food, drink, cutlery, entertainment items) were provided to me through Moe's. All expressed opinions are completely my own and I can honestly restate that we were more than pleased with the product provided. Thanks, Moe's, for a great party! *

Tweet

I'm talking 'bout bums with Cottonelle ~ #spon

* This is a sponsored post that was written by me on behalf of Cottonelle. 

Tell me the truth, do you use your phone in the bathroom?

Come on, you can tell me.

I'll confess. I do it.

Only at home (I just can't be one of those people talking in the stall!) and only with people like my mom or my best friend, but I've definitely done it before.

And how many times have you found yourself talking through the bathroom door while on the toilet? Parents out there - I know you know what I'm saying. I recently explained to my daughter how when she was an infant I had to HOLD her in my arms while I went "potty"! So I know you. I AM you.

Now ... #LetsTalkBums

You won't discuss bathroom habits with people, but you totally find yourself talking TO people while going to the bathroom. And don't say you don't - because there's a study that shows more than 60% of us DO. So, if it's not you, who is it? 

But I get it. Nobody really likes to talk about the bathroom. Not unless it's related to our kids.

Think about it. We start when they're really young. As a mom it's a pretty easy topic to approach with other women. Sometimes we fall into the topic so quickly, we don't even realize we're doing it. But then when it comes to us, we might discuss digestive issues with our nearest and dearest, but bum-talk? Probably not happening. Honestly, many of us would rather suffer in silence than discuss anything with our doctors, let alone our friends. But why? What's so taboo about this topic that makes us shy away from it as we do?

Cottonelle would like to help us change the way we talk about our bums. Opening up and discussing this sort of thing will help us help each other.

I'm not sure what embarrasses us most about talking about our cleansing habits when it comes to the bathroom. I understand it's a private thing. I won't get into the debate of whether you use the bathroom in front of your significant other or anything - that's your choice. But I'd like to talk about keeping clean for a bit.

And speaking of ... I'm coming clean today. I'll admit that while I started off buying Cottonelle for my daughter I found myself using them. Repeatedly. And they work. Really.

You'll obviously need to try them for yourself to believe me, but I've found that it's a cleaner and fresher feeling than just using toilet paper alone. Cottonelle's Clean Routine is something you might find yourself implementing regularly - to your own surprise!

And Cottonelle Flushable Cleansing Cloths now come in a discreet and sleek newly designed dispenser. It's upright, so it can sit on your vanity and be completely out of the way. Mine fits right in the corner, easily accessible with relation to the location of my toilet.

I really love the dispenser. It makes using these so much easier, and is simpler when it comes to opening and, for lack of another word, dispensing the product. The old holder was flat and a bit bulky. It didn't stay put on the counter. This one is much easier to use, for sure.

See them both in my bathroom below!

Please excuse the poor lighting in my bathroom. 

Not sure exactly what happened there. 

Using cleansing cloths like these shouldn't seem that odd. It might at first, because you're not used to it, but once you start using them they'll start to feel like a part of your everyday routine. They even have an easy to carry On-The-Go soft pack (10 ct) that you can slip into your purse, backpack, or laptop bag. The perfect size for traveling, too.

Now, are you ready to check them out? And ready to talk bums? Head on over to Cottonelle's Facebook page to join the discussion today!

* Cottonelle wants to get you talking about your bum and on a better way to clean "down there" by using the Cottonelle Clean Routine. By combining the use of Cottonelle Toilet Paper and Cottonelle Flushable Cleaning Cloths, the Cottonelle Clean Routine is a revolutionary way to keep your bum clean. 

Are you ready? Don't be shy! Visit http://facebook.com/cottonelle to learn more about the Cottonelle Clean Routine and join the clean routine conversation. 

This is a sponsored post that was written by me on behalf of Cottonelle. All expressed opinions are my own after using these products that were provided to me. 

Tweet

Taking pictures w. the #BlackberryZ10 #VZWA

* I have received a BlackberryZ10 phone and service to use for three months as provided to me by Verizon Wireless. This post reflects my personal experiences while using the phone and its features as a Verizon Wireless ambassador. I am not further compensated for this post. It is an honest review of the Z10's camera features. *

I went to the zoo with my daughter's kindergarten class the other day.

Pause. Take a moment to let that sink in, would you? I. Went to the zoo. On a field trip. With 20-something kindergarteners. AND three other K classes.

Yes.

I did it.

And I survived!

And I brought my BlackberryZ10 phone with me. See it? *Look down!*

It's as sleek as ever, easy to use, and my absolute favorite feature is the camera. It seriously might be giving the Samsung Galaxy S3 camera a run for its money!

One of the best things about the Z10's camera is the instant touch to take a picture. You don't have to find the camera "shutter" when you want to take your shot, you just tap the screen and the picture is yours. Capture the moment immediately!

This is especially beneficial when taking pictures of children. And, as you'll see in a moment, animals.

Getting my 6-year-old to stay still for a few shots to be sure I've caught the right one is never easy. But with the Blackberry Z10 I'm in luck. I'm actually able to take a handful of pictures before she blinks. Tap - tap - tap! No fumbling for the small circle on your screen. Just hit it anywhere. I've taken pictures of myself and friends using my knuckle on the screen. Seriously. It worked!

And look at how crisp and sharp these pictures turned out:

Excuse my giant head, I was kind of close to the camera, going for the "There's an elephant right behind you!" kind of shot. And hey - it worked!

These images have only been edited to include my @goodgirlgoneredneck watermark-tag. I have not filtered or touched them up in any way. They're awesome. If I do say so myself. Keep looking ...

Do I not seem as though I am right next to the animals? I mean, if you're going by these shots, I could reach out and touch them, right? Obviously that's not true - but this camera made me really happy. I didn't even bring my regular digital camera with me. I stuck with the phone and was glad I saved myself from having to carry something extra.

I did tweak the following picture a bit because I wanted to blur out my daughter's classmates, but I love how the camera caught her looking into the water - a beautiful glow and pretty shot - as she looked for the seals, or maybe something else? I forget!

SO, if you're looking for a new phone and a great camera is a critical characteristic, I can tell you that so far the Z10 is a huge hit with me.

More on the phone's other features soon ... just stay with me and check out the #VZWA and #VZWVoices hashtags for more discussions.

* Reminder: I am participating in the Verizon Wireless ambassador program at this time. Verizon Wireless has provided me with a phone and three months of service in exchange for my honest review of the product. #VZWA #VZWVoices *

Tweet

Have you heard about Time? ~ #spon #review

* I received a free copy of Rod Stewart's new CD Time by participating in this campaign via the One2One Network. I have not been compensated for this post, but did receive the CD for free. Upon completion of this post I am entered into a giveaway, but there is no guarantee I will win. At all. But it'd be kind of cool if I did! *

Time is the name of Rod Stewart's new album.

Album. Does anyone use that word anymore?

They use lingo (hee!) like, dropped. When is your new record dropping?

Record!?! Kids today don't even know what a record IS.

But Rod Stewart does.

He's been around in the music industry for four decades. FOUR DECADES. That's as long as I've been alive!!!

He hasn't released new music in twenty years. And here he is. Back with a vengeance. Okay, maybe a little bit softer than a vengeance. But he's back!

When I started to listen in, I heard the pure yet raspy tones of his voice. He sounds (and looks!) exactly the same. He really does.

She Makes Me Happy is such an upbeat song. And I like it a lot. It's catchy, and I promise I'm not just saying that because it's the first song on the album. Promise.

 *Oh, wait! I just realized that I have the video link! Here, watch!*



Now because the first song does have such a good feel to it, you expect that from the rest. And I believe you get it. There are the ballads interspersed throughout, but the power of his voice and the feelings he stirs up are constant and strong. Take It's Over, for example. Whew. I haven't even had the experience he is singing about and it's strong enough to impact me. Some of the ballads might feel a little droopy, or they did for me, but the songs that are good? They more than make up for it.

I have to admit that I have a ton of Rod Stewart related memories. I've danced around my parents' living room to his music with my aunt and cousins. And because of that, when I saw the opportunity to listen to his new stuff and talk about it with my readers I figured why not?

So, if Rod Stewart brings up some fun memories for you, consider picking up a copy of Time. It might be your kind of music, it might not, but test it out online if you want. Listen to a few clips and see if you're interested. Worth a shot, right? Someone like Rod who has been around for forty years has to have SOME kind of talent, right?

 I mean, how much TSwizzle and that Bieber kid can you listen to? Amiright? /guilty as charged/

I'm linking you up (non-affiliate) with Amazon's MP3 version of the Time, by Rod Stewart because I know that y'all don't buy CDs anymore. It's all about digital media these days, isn't it?

And if you decide to give it a try - let me know what you think. I'm curious to see if he meets your expectations or standards.

Disclaimer reminder: * I received a free copy of Rod Stewart's new CD Time by participating in this campaign via the One2One Network. I have not been compensated for this post, but did receive the CD for free. Upon completion of this post I am entered into a giveaway, but there is no guarantee I will win. At all. But it'd be kind of cool if I did! *

Tweet

From Windows to Blackberry. #VZWA

Y'all know I'm a Verizon Wireless Ambassador, right?

Oh, you forgot? All my #VZWA hashtagging up the wazoo didn't work for you? Harumph.

Well, I'll fill you in. Because I'm moving on from my Windows 8x phone, and I am headed to Blackberry land. Yikes. Another step into unchartered territory for me.

See? Here's my new baby:

And I figured I'd take a photo shoot so you could see it next to the Windows 8x and the Samsung Galaxy SIII. (Don't mind the fingerprints!)

To sum up my experience with the Windows 8x, I wound up liking the phone more than I expected. I stuck with it when I went for a run or a walk, and focused on finding fitness with my phone, I also was really excited to learn I could load my iTunes music onto my Windows 8x phone! That was especially helpful when running towards a fitter me.

I admittedly had a few concerns when I started testing out my Windows 8x phone.  The buttons still bother me and I've had friends tell me the same thing. They found it hard to take pictures, and while I love the protection offered by the Otterbox case, it didn't make using the buttons any easier.

I still miss apps like Instagram and Angry Birds. And I can't utilize the options to connect between my Windows-using friends because I don't have that many Windows-using friends right now. Perhaps it will catch on and turn into the new "go-to" operating system for everyone, but it's just not there yet.

Oh! I almost forgot to let you know. Pandora is now available on Windows phones. Have you not heard about Pandora? Come on out of the dark ages, my friends. Free music. And it's ad-free for Windows users for the time being. This rocks. Completely.

I look forward to testing out the Blackberry Z10, and if you know me, and I think you do, I've already tested out the camera and found myself excited that all you have to do is TOUCH THE SCREEN ANYWHERE! ANYWHERE! No buttons to push, tap, shove, etc. Just tap that screen and the shot is yours. That's pretty awesome, if you ask me.

Stay tuned for more details as I become familiar with my new friend. Hope you'll let me know if you have any questions for me, too, as I would be happy to give you whatever insight I might have.

I'm a Blackberry virgin no more!

*I am participating in the Verizon Wireless Ambassador Program. Verizon Wireless has provided me with a wireless device and three months of service in exchange for my honest opinions about the product. 

Tweet

iTunes on my Windows 8x phone. #VZWA

I learned a while ago that I could load up my iTunes music to my Windows 8x phone, I just got lazy, worried I'd screw it up and - well - lazy, and so I never checked it out.

But man, it is SO easy to do.

And now I can run my Couch to 5K workouts to Britney Spears whenever I like!

So, let me show you how easy it was to do this.

I'll share the direct link for you via Windows here: Copy iTunes music to your Windows 8x phone

But hopefully my wording will be just as clear.

Basically it's this simple. Download yourself a Windows Phone app on your Mac.

Follow the step-by-step instructions once you've hooked up your phone to the Mac and you're golden. Seriously. It was crazy simple, I promise. And that link shows you nothing more.

So now, if you're like me, you're all about your music. Whether that includes Taylor Swift and/or Carly Rae Jepsen, or ranges all the way to Brad Paisley and Blake Shelton, you're going to want to get it onto this phone.

Oh, and you're totally entitled to opt for the teeny bopper pop stuff. Even if you've learned that you're older than Justin Bieber's MOTHER!

So, this Windows 8x Phone has Beats Audio. Have you heard of it? Yeah, I hadn't either. But it's pretty cool. It's clear, even on a windy day when I'm running (or trying to).

From the HTC website:

Exclusive built in amplifier for Beats Audio™.

Enjoy high-def, uncompromised sound for all you do. 
Boost sound with less distortion than other phones for the ultimate entertainment experience.

Beats Audio gives you an incredible music experience. The sound is clear, the music isn't painfully pulling on your brain or making you flinch, and you will enjoy a complete rhythmic experience. Rich sound and pure tone are just what you want. To the point that you won't need to use an iPod for your music anymore, and can keep everything on one device you carry with you all the time.

This article re: the best smartphone for music lovers over at Verizon is an excellent read when you're wanting to learn more about Beats Audio.

So, if you're looking to combine your MP3 Player of choice with your cell phone, this might be the way to go for you. Check it out.

For more info on my observations with this device, feel free to click on over to my initial post where I am testing out the new Windows 8x phone! And let me know if you have any questions. I'd love to help you answer them as I'm figuring the phone out for myself.

*I am participating in the Verizon Wireless Ambassador Program. Verizon Wireless has provided me with a wireless device and three months of service in exchange for my honest opinions about the product. 

Tweet

Finding Fitness. #VZWA

There has been a lot of chatter (much of it negative) about the lack of apps in the Windows store as compared to the options for Android phone users, so I'd like to put something positive out there and share one aspect of my experience with the Windows 8x phone so far.

I have uncovered a decent handful of apps that are helping me find my way back to fitness in the new year.  And I expect as I keep digging I'll unearth a lot more.

As you may already know, I really like to either try an app before I purchase it, or I strictly opt for free apps, especially since I am testing this phone as a Verizon Wireless Ambassador and don't know whether or not it will ultimately be mine when all is said and done.

So the following apps have been easy to use and access, and FREE:

12 Days of Fitness
* At first glance it looked like it was going to be 12 different exercise recommendations to give me new ideas. When I finished the 1+ mile today and checked it off, I looked ahead. Day two has something new, but it also INCLUDES the mile! These people might be crazy ... or they just don't know me at all.

Edomondo
* I've used this before on my bike. Haven't tested it out on the Windows 8x yet, but it's a pretty decent app in my opinion.

Runtastic
* Used this for a 1.5 mile walk and it worked really well. The only thing is it doesn't seem capable of running on the phone's front screen. So I couldn't check my status without swiping, and sometimes entering in my password, which if I were running would have been a bigger issue, but was still kind of inconvenient. I did have some issues logging into it, as well. It kept saying I had an account, but wouldn't let me post an update to facebook, which I do like to do now and then. The store does have a Pro app for $4.99 but I'll probably give it a few more test runs before I decide whether or not to purchase it.

Total C25K
* This is absolutely comparable to the C25K apps I've tried from the Google Play Store. There is a fantastic option for the music to stop when the app is giving you your alert, which can be a huge help for the switch from running to walking and back again.

Water Log
* Admittedly I haven't used this yet. I'm excited it's there, and I downloaded it when I first got the phone. Pretty much all I drink is water so I've been lazy at checking it out. Soon!

MyFitnessPal
* I've never found this to be as easy for me to use as LoseIt (which I can't get in the Windows store) but they do have info on a much larger and more specific variety of foods and restaurants, so it could be worth a try.

I just downloaded these apps for free, as well, but have not tested them yet:

Calorie Counter
* I think this might be fairly comparable to LoseIt, which I have been using on and off (and currently on again) over the past two years. And looking further into it I see that it includes nutrition information for a huge list of restaurants, and nutritional content of many supermarket brands. Huge win there!

Fast Food Calories
* At first glance this app includes information for places I do sometimes eat at, like: Wendy's, Subway and IHOP. Oh no! And Dairy Queen. EEK! McDonald's, Burger King and Arby's are in there, as well. The list goes on, but I think I'll stop there.

There are some other apps in the Windows store that might benefit others, but I'm going to skip for now. Things like the Gym PocketGuide, which looks like it might tell you where gyms are in your area but is supposed to give you basically a dictionary of exercises. It's free, so I might come back to it.

WeightWatch is an app that looks similar to the aspects I like of LoseIt, MyFitnessPal and Calorie Counter. There appear to be free heart rate tracker apps - I'm not sure how you'd use them - but hey, they're free, so go for it if you're motivated to.

I will add that as difficult as the buttons are on this phone, while running last night I somehow managed to lower the volume of my music, WITH gloves on. I can't even figure out how that happened because turning this phone, or the camera, on with the tiny buttons on the side of the phone has been difficult, to say the least.

So while I've had my share of complaints, and a minimal share of positives up til now, I'm pleased to say that this aspect of using the phone has started working for me. Maybe I'm just pushing harder at figuring it out? I don't know. I'll take it, though. I like it when things work right!

I haven't really reviewed the camera yet, and I have been having some so-so experiences with it, but this is the shot I took today on my run. No filter and I only watermarked it. Pretty, right? It's daytime but the way the sun was situated the ground looks so dark. I love it, though.

Oh! The music! I forgot about the music ... stay tuned for more on that next time.

*I am participating in the Verizon Wireless Ambassador Program. Verizon Wireless has provided me with a wireless device and three months of service in exchange for my honest opinions about the product. 

Tweet

Testing out the Windows 8X. #VZWA

If you haven't yet checked out my intro post on my new Verizon phone you can head over to this post where I am introducing the Windows 8x phone! to you all, or you can keep reading!

I'm testing out the new Verizon Windows 8x phone for the coming months. It's interesting for someone like me who hasn't used Windows in quite some time.

I had no idea what to expect. Have you seen the ads yet? The *home page* (is that the best term to use? I'm not always sure ...) is pretty cool. You can customize it to meet your needs, similarly to how you'd put your favorite apps front and center on your Android.

Tweet

Keep reading »

I'm at it again ... #VZWA

That's right! I'm lucky enough to have an opportunity at a second stint as a Verizon Wireless Ambassador.

And my phone arrived on Thursday! Woo!

First, I was excited to great the FedEx delivery lady. I even offered her a cup of coffee for the road (she declined, I think I might have startled her a bit!).




And then I finally got into this baby. Whew. This box was SERIOUSLY SEALED.

Oh, wait. Hmmn.





Ah, yes, another box. Obviously at this point I was realllly close. I tweeted the above pictures as teasers. I figured I'd help avoid spoiling the phone for anyone - though I think any of us who received the "Windows" clue were expecting the 8X.

And, well, here she is! (She? Are phones really she-s? I have no clue. It's actually blue, so maybe this one isn't a girl ... but I really like the blue color!)

So, next I followed the included instructions on how to remove the SIM card from my Samsung Galaxy S3 (check out my previous VZWA posts to find out more on that phone if you're interested!) and put it into the Windows 8X. It was fairly easy, but I will admit I had to call my husband and ask how to get it out of the Galaxy, because it was kind of tricky. 

Once I moved it over and set the new phone up to charge, I was ready to read. 

I have a lot of learning to do, my friends. We have a session coming up this week so I can learn more - because it's been quite a while since I've messed around with any Windows environment, and digging through that in my handheld device is DEFINITELY tricky. 

But I am up for the challenge, without a doubt. And I've already figured a few things out. 

Note to anyone interested, when you're setting up your apps and the phone asks for your location, it's okay. You can ensure that each app (ie: twitter, facebook) does NOT use your location for your posts, etc. You just change it in the settings of the app. Did that make sense? I can probably explain it better but I might do well to hold off until I know the phone well enough. 

In the meantime, guess who got her hands on it already? 

*I am participating in the Verizon Wireless Ambassador Program. Verizon Wireless has provided me with a wireless device and three months of service in exchange for my honest opinions about the product. 

Tweet

I have to talk about underwear now.

Yes, I mean it.

I'm doing some reviewing as an In the Mood Intimates Ambassador.

Which means I got a free pair of cute underwear in October.

It's pink. And pretty. I have a picture or two, but don't worry, I'm not going all flashy on you. I promise.

I'll admit, I wasn't sure this would be something I'd be interested in doing. But I got curious. So I checked out their website.

And - it's not TMI yet, I promise - they have plus-sized lingerie. Check it out. Twenty-four pages worth of the stuff! Pretty cool, no?

Check out the packaging...

It arrived in a splashy gold box with a cream ribbon bow. Brand name sticker underneath. It was perfectly discreet.

And then I opened it up.

Here's where the TMI part comes in. Sorry.

Click this link to learn more about the pair of Hanky Panky Signature Lace Plus-Size Boyshorts I received.

And check out the next picture to see how pretty and pink they are. A delicate lace that is more comfortable than not, true-to-size, these boyshorts fit and for lack of a better word, function really well.

The plus-sized product comes in a variety of four colors to choose from. These undies also come in non-plus-sizes. Those are available in eight colors, and (this is expected) run a few dollars less than the plus-sized pair.

I don't know how much you normally spend on your underwear, but if you're in the market to treat yourself to a new pair that's prettier than your usual undergarments, check these out. Because sometimes it's nice to have that little secret of something lacy on underneath your winter clothes!


* I was provided with this product for review by In The Mood Intimates. All expressed opinions are strictly my own. 

Tweet

Alphabet Photography ~ Product Review

I'm so excited to have the opportunity to receive an original Alphabet Photography product to review and enjoy.

If you have not yet heard about Alphabet Photography, let me give you a little introduction. Alphabet Photography is a very cool artform that allows you to create any word by using images taken that resemble letters. These images exist in a library where you go through and decide on letters that mesh together best to create the word of your choice.

While many friends reviewing this product decided to create beautiful and inspiring words, others of us chose to display family names. First, last, combined, whatever works for you they will create it out of pictures of things you see around you every day that *look* like letters.

Surely you know how it is? You see something and think, that looks like ...  fill in the blank! Well, these photographers have captured the "looks like" and enabled us to turn them into complete words of our choosing.

The artwork came bubble wrapped in a strong cardboard box. Once opened I saw that the frame was packaged carefully and beautifully as shown here:

The completed artwork reflected a variety of images from the Alphabet Photography library of choices. I must have arranged and rearranged the possibilities a dozen times before I finalized my decision.  I decided to make us a piece displaying our last name.

My mom was visiting when this arrived and she thought it was beautiful. We discussed what a perfect gift it would be for someone's new home, new baby (beautiful for the baby's room!) or as a holiday gift for someone special. Like your parents or in-laws, maybe? [Wink, nudge!]

I'm not normally of the mindset to buy myself something so seemingly extravagant, because I often feel like my home is a mish-mash of pictures and frames and more. But as elegant as this artwork is, it also blends right in with the rest of my home.

I was so pleased with my choice that my husband hung it up over our mantle the evening we opened it. Which is crazy fast in this household! It fits perfectly with our decor, and with the color scheme of our downstairs. It kind of ties the room together in a way that I didn't expect, but truly appreciate.

Each official Alphabet Photography piece is a true original as chosen by you for someone special and is a perfect display of originality, class and style.

The perfect customized gift that includes photographs from all over the world, this is the original Alphabet Photography. Celebrity owners include: Prince Charles, Prince William and Kate, Tyra Banks, Ryan Seacrest, Canadian Prime Minister Stephen Harper, John Schneider, Nelly Furtado and many more!


*This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of Alphabet Photography. The opinions, photographs and text are all mine. 

Tweet

I took #gfree living for a spin!

When I went to BlogHer back in August I connected briefly with the Udi's Gluten Free products people at the expo. I didn't have much time to speak with them, but I did get a few bites of a delicious grilled cheese sample on one of their awesome breads. It was, as I will often say about melted cheese, deliciousness.

In our brief passing I noticed they had a form available for anyone interested in participating in a 14 day gluten free challenge with Udi's. I figured why not inquire about it - and so I entered my info and waited. Eventually I received an email with link to a form to fill out so I could participate and be provided with some samples/coupons to help me start my journey off on the right foot.

I received a package that contained this folder filled with loads of gluten free information and coupons. The provided documentation told me where to look for hidden gluten, what sorts of gluten free staples to keep handy, and a list of what to substitute for my favorite gluten-loaded products.

When I started giving gfree living a go, I was down a few pounds after a few weeks of a group challenge I was participating in. I posted about it back on October 3rd, and was excited to get going.

After two solid weeks of strict gluten free living, monitoring ingredients and tracking my food to the tiniest detail, I put back that weight and a little bit more.

To say this was not what I expected would be a lie. I had high hopes that eating gluten free would have me dropping weight more quickly, as opposed to leading me to find myself in a standstill. I hit a rut, and maybe it was because I was compensating for the "normal" foods with specialized gfree products? I wasn't just going with Udi's - I tried a truckload of other brands, as well. If you follow me on facebook you've probably seen the variety I tried over the 2+ weeks.

I contemplated following this diet for longer, to see if it would help me. I really thought maybe I should follow the *rules* and keep at it, and maybe then I'd see what happened. But I recognized something as I went through it. I didn't have a medical reason to go gluten free. My sister-in-law is a trillion times healthier since the day she stopped putting gluten into her system. She's lost a decent amount of weight and feels so much healthier.

This wasn't happening for me.

Now, I didn't expect it to be a complete change in a small two week window, but I had hopes anyway. And I know that to be my healthiest self I need to be moving. Motion = exercise = some sort of way to burn and put out the calories you put in, right? I mean - you don't have to be a science major to know that. Notice I said science. I never know if I should go with physics, or chemistry or what, exactly. That's just who I am.

Anyway, I have been moving a bit more. And when I stopped my gluten free challenge, a few days past the 2 week mark I had planned on, I started to just eat. I am opting for fewer *carb-loaded* choices and making healthier decisions. I've increased my fruits and veggies, something I've been doing anyway, but noticed that while I was going gfree, I somehow lost focus on. I was so intent on making the right choices when it came to gluten that I lost track of the rest of my meal. I'm a better eater than I was a million years ago. I'm a mom and a wife and we, as a family, sometimes eat crappily (word? maybe - maybe not!) and other times I have us on the best possible track.

I'm currently addicted to kale chips and cauliflower soup. Both homemade. Both happen to be 100% gluten free. I didn't make these things when I was focused on the challenge. Why? I don't know. Somehow gluten = bread/carbs to me and I was trying to be so strict there. I bought random products and snacks that I don't normally eat JUST because they were gluten free. (Pirate's Booty, anyone? My addiction returned easily. I reminisced about the days Pirate's and Veggie booty were a constant for me. Healthy snacks abound! But were they?)

I will include that sometimes I did feel fuller after a gluten free meal, and maybe that was because of the things I was eating, and not just the products? I was over-eating less during meals, but absolutely snacking more. Hmmn.

So, overall, I don't know that I have that much to report. I didn't see a significant change in myself over the trial period, and yet, that isn't to say that I wouldn't have had I kept going. And not to get too personal, but I have noticed a change back to certain digestive issues post-trial, which could totally be from my upping the veggies and whatnot, or just from reintroducing certain foods into my body. Or maybe because I actually do have a sensitivity to gluten? I guess I don't know for sure.

I truly thank Udi's for the opportunity to give this a go. It's been something I have wanted to do for a while now, and their products and coupons AND information were a great help in getting me started. Another huge plus is that the Udi's website has a community and the participation there is fantastic. You can pretty much get all your gfree questions answered, and so many first-hand experiences are shared, you're set if you decide to step forward into the land of gluten free and try this journey for yourself.

I can absolutely recommend their granola and dark chocolate brownie bites as shown below, because both of those were delicious! The bread was also good - but it is an adjustment and I preferred it toasted. I froze the loaf so it would last me, and then toasted a few pieces as needed.

But you don't have to take my word for it, you can try it for yourself. Just grab a $1 coupon for Udi's products by heading on over to their website and signing up.

* I was provided with a variety of products and coupons from Udi's Gluten Free foods to help me get started on this 2 week challenge. All expressed opinions and detailed experiences are my own. 

Tweet

Motherhood and technology. #VZWA

So, my friends, guess what?

I'm still addicted to my Samsung Galaxy S3!

Did you figure it would be the case? Because from the get go I kind of knew it would be that way.

In today's post I've decided to discuss how my Galaxy helps me be a mom.

And yes, as you can expect, I do talk about the camera some more. But by now you should know that about me. I'm completely stuck on this camera. It's better than any phone camera I've ever had, and it's also quite possibly better than the FujiFilm digital camera I currently use as my go-to. It's kind of taken over there.

So ... where was I?

Right! Motherhood.

We all know that despite really wanting to sit down for a family dinner out now and then, our kids are not always on the same page as we adults are. And as much as I'd love to say my child is the perfect angel, I'd be lying if I did. And even when we request to have her food come out first, we often find ourselves looking for something to pass the time.

Enter ... Angry Birds!

But everyone knows about Angry Birds. So what else can we use to pass the time? Have you heard about Bad Piggies? Yeah - me, too. I'm honestly still trying to figure out how to play it, but it's kind of got that Angry Bird feel.

And if you know anything about me you know that our family is made up of huge Phineas and Ferb fans. And though we've never tried the Where's my water app, my daughter is an absolute Where's my Perry? fan.

I'm frugal, so I usually opt for free apps ... but you can go ad-free and buy the real ones.

And besides going out for meals, we try to entertain our kiddo, especially on the weekends. That's often where the camera comes in, as capturing the moment is a huge part of who I am.

Sometimes it's hard to actually put the camera away and just be - but it's kind of nice to have the phone on-hand all the time so I can grab it for a few shots here and there and then put it away again. So I'm able to capture those moments and move forward to be a part of them.

Like boat riding, bubble-blowing, trying on costumes and/or sporting equipment and learning through fun. Our pumpkin patch visit included a train ride, picking out pumpkins, tossing them - even, and examining the insides through a microscope. Learning and creating is easy to experience and often hard to capture, but this camera is so quick I find myself moving fast enough to capture those moments and review them later on.

And although I don't use it that often, the Media Hub option on the phone is fantastic. Again, I try to find the best free entertainment I can, but having several options for movies, TV shows and more for my daughter are fantastic, and sometimes worth the price.

We don't travel very often, but the Samsung Galaxy S3 is like a portable library of great entertainment for not just 5-year-olds, but for me, as well. You can get entire seasons of your favorite television shows with just a few clicks.

And with the screen size of this phone, you're not forced to watch what you've downloaded while squinting or holding it as close to your face as possible. The Galaxy S3 also came with an excellent pair of headphones (that I recently used with my iPod Nano while participating in a 5K), providing you the option of enjoying your shows with fewer distractions.

So, as I've explained before, I'm totally loving this phone. Have you checked it out yet? What have you experienced?

To review my previous posts on the Samsung Galaxy S3 and my #VZWA experience, check out the following links:

An excellent apps experience.

Have you seen my pictures lately?

New apps and my Galaxy S3.


Disclosure: I am participating in the Verizon Wireless Ambassador program and have been provided 
with a wireless device and three months of service in exchange for my honest opinions about the 
product.

Tweet