tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-98790682024-03-08T06:34:11.928-05:00Momanthology.comA collection of motherly musings, recollections, product reviews, giveaways and much, much more....Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.comBlogger420125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-39174584991405324782018-07-05T20:35:00.001-04:002018-07-05T21:24:45.464-04:00Art Supply Steals, Deals and Hacks <br />
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I have an addiction to buying art supplies -<i> buying</i>, not necessarily <b><i>using</i></b>. I have the best of intentions when making a new purchase. I get a project in mind and while committing to purchasing whatever it is for whatever I plan to use it for, I promise myself that this is going to happen. Like I said, the best of intentions.<br />
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Sometimes I start a project and realize it is going to take much too long and give up before I finish. Other times I realize the fantastic project I had in mind is beyond my skill level and that I need to start out out simpler. Often it is just that I simply take on too big of a project and realize that I have to start smaller and build up to something bigger. In the very worst of cases, I start to get a compulsion to have something. I start obsessing and really feel like I HAVE to have whatever it is.<br />
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I started to feel guilty of spending so much on art supplies. Even though I am a bargain shopper art supplies are costly. To reduce costs I slowly started buying "used" art supplies. Often these are new or like new. I buy a good number of my supplies second hand now - 1) because the cost is reduced, 2) because I get more bang for my buck, but also 3) because I hate to see waste. I am passionate about recycling, upcycling, reusing, etc. The consumerism in America is really horrendous - it is excessive, especially compared to other countries. As much as I am against this in theory, having a compulsion to buy something does not help so I feel less guilty when buying second hand. I am saving something from being dumped in a landfill and hopefully putting something to use that would have been otherwise wasted.<br />
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Where do get my art supplies? New supplies I buy from both small, independent stores and large, big box retailers - I will list my favorites in a separate post. For second hand supplies I mainly buy at garage and yard sales, ebay, and other online retailers but my favorite place is the Scrap Exchange, a re-use center in Durham. Some of the pricing can be inconsistent but I generally get a great deal on markers, pens, pencils and inks. I also my vintage papers, old office supplies, storage containers, etc.<br />
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Whatever the case I have a sh*t-ton of art supplies. I committed this year to using what I have, minimizing what I buy (especially if new) AND repairing or making my own art supplies. Lately I have made my own ink pad refresher, blending pen refills, DIY gelli plate and modeling paste (new post to follow soon). I have revived dried out markers (water and alcohol based) and invested in ink pads AND ink pad refills. In addition to re-inking old ink pads the re-inkers are pretty versatile - these can be used for water coloring, dying different materials, etc. I'll be posting and sharing how-to's and such.<br />
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I look forward to sharing all of these with you so please visit often and feel free to share your own tips, tricks and hacks. For my first post please see <a data-lynx-mode="asynclazy" data-lynx-uri="https://l.facebook.com/l.php?u=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.momanthology.com%2F2018%2F07%2Fcolored-modeling-paste-hack.html&h=AT3VRT_1-8Nepcp3IN2IfpR_fEJWMapwgS_m4UVr9oHR730xN8ZvSAGax3dQNmLzj5FlR2ao0HxBl8njbbGPpNLCIxmAdvF--XLT1ysYejwMLo-Xj06Ziu8We5jRgqFv6fg" href="http://www.momanthology.com/2018/07/colored-modeling-paste-hack.html" rel="nofollow noopener" style="background-color: white; color: #365899; cursor: pointer; font-family: Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 14px; text-decoration-line: none;" target="_blank">colored modeling paste hack</a> .<br />
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<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/u/2/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none 0% 0% repeat scroll transparent; border-color: initial; border-style: none; border-width: medium;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-41096428199764551952018-07-05T19:10:00.000-04:002018-07-05T21:25:17.834-04:00Colored Modeling Paste Hack<br />
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Modeling paste is one of the pricier art supplies. I have a sampler kit that I love but the full size products can be very expensive. I found a few recipes online to make your own modeling paste. <br />
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Out of the recipes I found the one I chose to go with was:<br />
- 1 part white acrylic craft paint<br />
- 1 part talcum powder (dollar store)<br />
- 1/2 part white glue / school glue<br />
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When mixing the modeling paste I ran out of white craft paint so substituted with gesso. I wanted the mixture a little thicker also so kept experimenting until it was the consistency that I desired. <br />
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After I finished the first batch I decided to try mixing with stamp dye refill. I ended up making two batches but kept a larger jar of the white modeling pasted. These film canisters were the perfect size to stir and store the colored samples. <br />
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<b><u>How to:</u></b><br />
- Pour homemade modeling paste into a film canister or other small container - fill no more than 2/3<br />
- Add a few drops of your favorite dye (I used Stampin' Up and Memento Brand dye ink refills)<br />
- Stir until fully blended. It helps to keep scraping the sides to get an even mixture. Since the container is clear it is easy to see if you need to continue scraping and stirring.<br />
- Repeat adding color and stirring until you are happy with the results.<br />
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I kept adding a few drops until I got the color I wanted. I found that some colors (yellow and blue for example) took much less dye where others I had to add quite a bit more to get the right amount of color saturation. Once finished I labeled each container.<br />
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I also made a small sample using dye and Pearl Ex powdered pigment. The iridescent finish is very subtle and I unfortunately had to use quite a bit of the pigment. I think it would be more cost effective to use a white paste, then apply pearl-ex as normal once the modeling paste was dry. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikKUpXac9t6psRVPl_RK5bEf9ZkU4V9zCPAFNqOevCv1xqsweo39ESMDN-cImsGuCXJB3HrWA-pmPmLEunK3exrT2v2dxuOkx7vJ1VtsxW7rHwMH7X-zF1nZqgYMXfL3O8SpiW/s1600/IMG_1944%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1600" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEikKUpXac9t6psRVPl_RK5bEf9ZkU4V9zCPAFNqOevCv1xqsweo39ESMDN-cImsGuCXJB3HrWA-pmPmLEunK3exrT2v2dxuOkx7vJ1VtsxW7rHwMH7X-zF1nZqgYMXfL3O8SpiW/s400/IMG_1944%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b><i>My review:</i></b><br />
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<b><u>Pros:</u></b><br />
- Quick and easy to make<br />
- Inexpensive<br />
- Practically effortless color customization<br />
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<b><u>Cons:</u></b><br />
- Mixture was a little thinner than commercial modeling paste. I found that it was easier to apply by dabbing vs. spreading it.<br />
- The homemade paste worked better on the stencil designs that were not as fine or intricate. The larger the area to cover, the better. <br />
- Drying time was longer.<br />
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Please note that the finish was matte. If you want a glossy or translucent finish I would suggest coating with a glaze once finished. Using a glossy paint and less powder may also give it less of a matte finish.<br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">If you try this I would love to hear how it worked for you! Please feel free to share in the comments below :)</span></b><br />
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<b>See the photos below. </b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4WcGbWrtuNM9cui7PrWw540MnSbhZTJ03OoMcOe0PCigoGc1So47YtML3ySj9IDvN5fAKm-f9dPvr8nKdmXZVKFpzSejyXiXBzA1s_79irkRImdbg0y2IeBfXUAwAiPR4-5OH/s1600/IMG_1942%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1200" data-original-width="1600" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh4WcGbWrtuNM9cui7PrWw540MnSbhZTJ03OoMcOe0PCigoGc1So47YtML3ySj9IDvN5fAKm-f9dPvr8nKdmXZVKFpzSejyXiXBzA1s_79irkRImdbg0y2IeBfXUAwAiPR4-5OH/s400/IMG_1942%255B1%255D.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/u/2/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-12767518601085924272018-07-05T16:05:00.001-04:002018-07-05T16:06:58.996-04:00Back to business!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK2w3MBMZ2Gep12AOxgcyXc4HQikzTDAJoLwcZ50vbqk813qvQYkCGVFnVe5WM-45F56XHUQcvaqjsIJKs6YvkZQ5cBrkaWfKoFFlwlSialuimu3iwezY9z5J55QU-wQ_Uwfe-/s1600/IMG_0745.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="1600" data-original-width="1200" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgK2w3MBMZ2Gep12AOxgcyXc4HQikzTDAJoLwcZ50vbqk813qvQYkCGVFnVe5WM-45F56XHUQcvaqjsIJKs6YvkZQ5cBrkaWfKoFFlwlSialuimu3iwezY9z5J55QU-wQ_Uwfe-/s320/IMG_0745.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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After a long sabbatical I have slowly decided to blog again. Why the long break? We simply became so busy in our day to day lives that I really no longer had the time that I once did. The children - now young adults - had become so busy with school, sports, social lives, etc. I also have several interests (reading, art, working out, etc.) so really had to prioritize what I wanted do with the limited time I had (and still have). I had also simply lost an interest in blogging. I really felt like I wanted to be sharing information about things that I am passionate about so although I may still do product reviews and host giveaways, it will be more tailored to where I am at in my life now. The content will be more closely mirrored to my current hobbies, interests and day to day experiences. <br />
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I hope to slightly reformat the blog but realize how much I have forgotten - my tech skills are definitely a little rusty. Unfortunately I had to delete most of the former content from my blog - one of the links I had posted for a partner was against Google's TOS. Unfortunately they would not tell me which blog post so in frustration I eventually deleted most of them. I tried re-posting all of the content but it was simply too time consuming and then I honestly just did not even see the point of doing so.<br />
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I hope that my former readers will still choose to re-visit Momanthology. I have missed your visits and your comments and have also missed liaising with other bloggers and PR partners. It will be great to hear from you again and rejoin the land of the living - cyber-living anyways! <br />
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<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/u/2/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-52907541774942757702015-10-06T23:43:00.003-04:002015-10-06T23:53:24.020-04:00Our super spectacular trip to ColoradoOne of my friends at work built a BEAUTIFUL Cabin in Colorado. He generously offered to let me stay. I did not plan to take him up on his very kind offer but somehow did end up doing exactly just that!<br />
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Every year my old college roommates and I try to get together. For this trip 2 of my college friends (La and Susan) and I met for a phenomenal girl's weekend! Samantha, Carrie and Jessica were not able to attend).<br />
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This was probably our favorite reunion trip of all. Colorado was SO beautiful and there was so much to do. I wish we had more time to visit but we made the most of the time that we had.....<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Day 1:</span></b><br />
<i>Denver Airport, Broomfield, CO and Fairplay, CO</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9NdaLrFojMd3lGrir0TzAkjuO_nGZGsPAyZKJcR_4Jzi-r_NYvSat0fg0e2O_dv8DzKM8AvtdFUa1ib4bhEePKLqx8_5kCcZDe1cDahXcIatmMKxx4hV-hWS72viAvh0I04PE/s1600/IMG_2661.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi9NdaLrFojMd3lGrir0TzAkjuO_nGZGsPAyZKJcR_4Jzi-r_NYvSat0fg0e2O_dv8DzKM8AvtdFUa1ib4bhEePKLqx8_5kCcZDe1cDahXcIatmMKxx4hV-hWS72viAvh0I04PE/s200/IMG_2661.JPG" width="151" /></a>Arrive in Denver and meet the girls at the car rental lot. We began the trip with a stop to Chris K.'s house to pick up the key and get general cabin instructions. Afterward we stopped at Walgreens and then Walmart due to a minor but urgent medical situation as a result of the change in climate and altitude. After that was squared away, we finally started on the trip to Fairplay, CO.<br />
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I am last to arrive so I do not get "shot gun". My friend Susan is designated driver. We did drive by <i><a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red_Rocks_Amphitheatre" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Red Rocks Amphitheatre</a></i> on the way out of town. Although we had tried to catch a show, there were not any bands playing that we wanted to see. (I had actually seen ABBA play several years ago at Red Rocks and it was AWESOME - best concert venue I have ever been to!)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsSWKJC46-M4yTfdTJCxwM_06ogfpleK08jPdIYdoKVMaifF_XwCV2uLqSXKYJV4RndRHIrh9U3jKQeaLtWbwmv8i50FxpRFN_hzb5DNrRR5W9gFG_feCq_NPGoIWtTI3VGjCw/s1600/IMG_2464.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2FWinFmPe3pPYwF77PT21M5nRXHZ6w0O37bPYmbPAhF3IDPdR1rdoyN6pOml1t0haPOrVQ9FX0VtodXhPmBZaawntDBIVgtoD7oPNgPlye4MyCWId8CwwKghVVSeRR7iC9tgv/s1600/IMG_2463.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2FWinFmPe3pPYwF77PT21M5nRXHZ6w0O37bPYmbPAhF3IDPdR1rdoyN6pOml1t0haPOrVQ9FX0VtodXhPmBZaawntDBIVgtoD7oPNgPlye4MyCWId8CwwKghVVSeRR7iC9tgv/s320/IMG_2463.JPG" width="241" /></a><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsSWKJC46-M4yTfdTJCxwM_06ogfpleK08jPdIYdoKVMaifF_XwCV2uLqSXKYJV4RndRHIrh9U3jKQeaLtWbwmv8i50FxpRFN_hzb5DNrRR5W9gFG_feCq_NPGoIWtTI3VGjCw/s320/IMG_2464.JPG" width="241" /><br />
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Once we arrived in Fairplay we stopped at <a href="http://shopprathers.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Prather's</a>, the one grocery store in town, and loaded up. Then we stopped at the liquor store to purchase beer and wine. Although there was only one Grocery Store, it did seem like there were a couple of Liquor stores. We went to the one that had the sign literally upside down (very funny - I could totally appreciate the humor in that). Even though the sign was upside down, people had no problem finding it. The Liquor Store was <b><i>quite</i></b> the hot spot at 5pm on a Friday afternoon..... For a small town the liquor store was seeing more than it's fair share of action. </div>
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After we were fully stocked up on groceries and alcohol, we began the trip up to the cabin. This involved a drive through town, turning onto country road and driving down until it turned into a dirt road. It then took a lengthy trip up a mountain. It was a very steep drive with many sharp turns in a very remote area.. Needless to say we made sure that we had everything we needed before leaving the cabin or before going home.</div>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Day 2:</span></b></div>
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<i>Breckinridge, CO; Dillon, CO; and Frisco, CO</i></div>
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For our first adventure we headed to Breckenridge which was a couple of hours away. Our first stop in Breckenridge (just outside of town) was at <a href="http://www.snowcapssleddogs.com/" target="_blank">Snow Caps Snow Dogs</a>. The $65 fee for the Cart Tour covers a tour of the facility, meeting various dogs, learning about the general area and the actual facility as well as learning about the different breeds of dogs, how the dogs are named, how they interact with one another, how they are trained, how the dogs are selected and how dogs who retire are adopted out. Quite a bit of information! During the tour we were able to interact with the dogs which was fun. My oldest daughter actually have an Alaskan Husky - she now lives with us so it was helpful to learn about the breed. <br />
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Once the facility tour was complete we were ready for the cart ride During the winter when there is a good covering of snow on the ground the dog team will actually pull visitors on a sled. Since it was autumn however, we sat in a golf cart instead of in a sled. The dog team was hooked up to the cart and pulled us just like they would a sled. Our tour guide Ike explained that the dogs actually do all the work and he generally only uses the brakes to assist (not the gas). The tour was fun and the dogs were VERY excited.<br />
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After the visit to Snow Caps we headed back into Breckenridge where we shopped for a while Afterward we headed to <a href="http://www.townofdillon.com/index.aspx?page=116" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Dillon Lake </a>/ Frisco, CO. One interesting thing we learned at Dillon Lake was about Zebra Mussel prevention efforts; Zebra Mussels are an aquatic, invasive species that can cause significant damage to water quality and property. (You can read more <a href="http://www.townofdillon.com/index.aspx?page=286" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a>).<br />
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After Dillon Lake we stopped to eat and then headed back to Fairplay. We made sure to stop at the Continental Divide on the way home. We hit it just around sunset so we were thankful that we were able to get photos.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">Susan </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">@ Continental Divide, September 2015</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">La @ Continental Divide, September 2015</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">MaryBeth </span><span style="font-size: 12.8px;">@ Continental Divide, September 2015</span></td></tr>
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Once we arrived back in Fairplay we stopped by SouthPark Bowling Alley for some bowling and world-renowned tamales. Seriously. Dorothy's was featured on the Food Network's "The Best Thing I Ever Ate". We had already had dinner but we were committed to trying these tamales. Now I have not eaten too many tamales in my lifetime but I do have to say that these were delicious. We got three different tamales - Jalapeno Cheese, Pork and Bison, The Bison was my favorite! After we finished our game of bowling (I lost), we headed back to the cabin and went to bed early because we had a busy day planned for Day 31<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Day 3</span></b><br />
<i>Manitou Springs, Pike's Peak, and Lake George</i><br />
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On the way to <a href="http://www.pikes-peak.com/about-pikes-peak/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Pike's Peak</a> we made a pit stop at Wilkerson Pass - it was a little park / rest stop with a spectacular view of the valley. I was fascinated with the Aspen trees when we were in CO. The leaves were just starting to turn and I was able to get some beautiful photos.<br />
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We only stopped for a bit and hit the road again to visit Pike's Peak. We had planned to take the train up to the top of the mountain but the tickets were sold out. It was then that we made the very brave decision to drive up to the summit. Let's just say this... It was scary on the way up and it was even more frightening on the way down. I was not allowed to drive however as that apparently would not have just been scary or frightening, but <i>terrifying.</i> I did not argue as I had absolutely no desire to drive up OR down the mountain. Instead Susan drove up Pike's Peak and La drove down. <br />
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On the way up there were various pit stops - one apparently that Big Foot frequents. We tried to act as frightened as we could for the cameras. I will not be winning any academy awards any time soon.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Big Foot at Pike's Peak - we found him!</td></tr>
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After goofing off with Big Foot we hit the trail again. It was a twisty, turvy, STEEP drive to the top. When we made it up the entire way I felt pretty lightheaded. As I watched people veer to the edge of the cliffs on either side I sat back and tried not to judge too harshly. While Susan and La walked around I stayed back and collected rocks for my rock tumber - 1) because I was dizzy from the altitude and car trip up AND 2) because I am a nerd.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">At the Summit of Pike's Peak</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Rocks for my Rock tumbler</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">South Catamount Reservoir</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12.8px;">South Catamount Reservoir</span></div>
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<b><u>Garden of the Gods</u></b><br />
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<b>This was my <i><u>favorite</u></i> park that we visited. </b></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gardenofgods.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Garden of the Gods Visitor & Nature Center</a> - Great resource. Had a wealth of information through interactive computers and visual displays on not only the park, but also wildlife, flowers, plants and geology native to the region. The display was a network of tvs and touch screen computers - I could have stayed there all day looking up and cross referencing. The museum had a display on dinosaurs and I was sad that I did not have my traveling Bronto from work (even though the dinosaur on exhibit was not a Bronto but instead a newly discovered species found in Colorado - the </span><span style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.gardenofgods.com/educational/edu-2/theophytalia-kerri" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Theiophytalia kerri</a></span><span style="text-align: center;">)</span></div>
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<span style="text-align: center;">See the nature center photo of the interactive display followed by my own personal photos of the park (and of me at the park!). SO beautiful.</span></div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Photo from Nature Center website of interactive display / exhibit</td></tr>
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<b><u>Manitou Cave Dwellings</u></b><br />
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I have ALWAYS wanted to visit the cave dwellings. I find how past generations and other civilizations lived during their time on earth fascinating. For each group of people it is interesting to learn about where they lived, what activities their days were filled with, how their families and the community was structured, etc. Details here: http://www.cliffdwellingsmuseum.com/preserve</div>
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After touring the cave dwellings we visited the gift shop and I picked up a few items for my children. We were pretty tired after such a full day and headed home. This was the night of the eclipse and subsequent blood moon so we had to pull over the side of the road a couple of times and watch. I had NEVER seen an eclipse before and always wanted too so I was very appreciative that I finally had the opportunity to do so. The sky was relatively clear and we were able to see most of the eclipse. An older man who drove up next to us had binoculars which he let us use to get a closer look. I tried to get a photo but could not capture a proper picture using my iphone. </div>
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After the full eclipse we got back into the car to finish our journey home. By the time we reached Fairplay most of the restaurants were closed except for 1! (Asian Fusion). We made it in just before closing so we took our food to go, had a beer while we waited for the food to be prepared and headed back to the cabin once we had our order in hand. </div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Day 4</b></span></div>
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<i>Fairplay!</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDo3Ct4GXnyndr4jPt3Ro7eAKZiQ6Tyxqz64JmvwI_N0uwKmFvwpGNN-VouD1vJsW9HCiPCtq154LnczcpTY-ClbFD2diCofmabfGfJIh_tRHtJY4wMbPwGdsJ43sA9WvQ2vRM/s1600/IMG_2648.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDo3Ct4GXnyndr4jPt3Ro7eAKZiQ6Tyxqz64JmvwI_N0uwKmFvwpGNN-VouD1vJsW9HCiPCtq154LnczcpTY-ClbFD2diCofmabfGfJIh_tRHtJY4wMbPwGdsJ43sA9WvQ2vRM/s320/IMG_2648.JPG" width="241" /></a>Well, we HAD a full day planned but a car accident that stopped traffic for hours both ways ended all of that.<br />
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We planned on visiting the South Park City Museum and ghost town but we were distracted by a bead store (WONDERFUL!) and art shop next door. We ended up shopping in the morning and then headed to Buena Vista where we encountered the accident. After waiting an hour we turned around and spent the rest of the day driving around Pike National looking for wildlife. Susan was determined to see wildlife - especially a moose - but all we ended up seeing was a raccoon and a mule deer. All this within 1 - 2 miles of the cabin. We should have never left LOL!<br />
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Afterward we headed home and La made dinner. Afterward we drank wine / beer and played cards until the wee hours of the morning. <br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6h6WizXZkbG0GINN8fIL0_XcrvhoTJa4cfM1gKvNv-sYqWP6IST9L13QuN0Oj86lwCXVXjNbk2GadRyVcmWVc4_jbYEhDPd4T8GAg1AsSzwu98s0CXIiIHgeRO5ugRlZxDORz/s1600/IMG_2649.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="482" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6h6WizXZkbG0GINN8fIL0_XcrvhoTJa4cfM1gKvNv-sYqWP6IST9L13QuN0Oj86lwCXVXjNbk2GadRyVcmWVc4_jbYEhDPd4T8GAg1AsSzwu98s0CXIiIHgeRO5ugRlZxDORz/s640/IMG_2649.JPG" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pike National Forest</td></tr>
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Day 5</span></b><br />
Back to Denver / Broomfield<br />
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The morning started with a mad rush to clean the cabin and pack the car. We then drove back to Broomfield to drop off the keys, repeatedly thank my co-worker and then head back to Denver to the airport. Between dropping off the keys and heading to the airport we stopped for a quick lunch at <a href="http://www.azitra.us/" target="_blank">Azitra</a> - one of my <b><i>f</i></b><i><b>avorite </b></i>restaurants in Raleigh . (I actually meet my old co-workers there when we are able to coordinate schedules). It was so ironic that Azitra also had a location in Colorado exactly where we decided to stop - especially as they only have a small number of locations (Raleigh, NC, Broomfield CO and somewhere in VA).<br />
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Overall it was a fabulous trip - I already miss my girlfriends and we are already planning our next adventure! <br />
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<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-38777745925353033782015-08-10T00:04:00.002-04:002018-07-05T21:32:25.438-04:00Adult coloring - the newest art trend! ReviewI remember as a child I had a coloring book that I loved (late 70's) consisting of geometric patterns. It was part of a small series and at the time there was not really anything else like it. Ironically the same books are still sold today but there are now SO many other different options for what is more recently referred to as "Adult Coloring". There are books in the geometric patterns that I still love, but also books with designs in or inspired by mehndi, mandalas, art deco, art noveau, fantasy, wildlife, nature, butterflies, fairies, fashion, flowers, etc. Whatever strikes your fancy really.<br />
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I actually recently decided to color as a way to practice shading for drawing (which I had also recently taken a renewed interest in). I have a vast collection of colored pencils and I was brushing up on different techniques and thought that an intricate coloring exercise would be a good way to practice both shading and working with different color palettes. I remembered the books that I loved as a child but when I researched books to buy I was shocked at the vast variety of books available. Soon after I read that "adult coloring" was a hot new trend. <i>I cannot tell you how many times I get an idea and take up or purchase something and shortly after it becomes very popular. It is times like these that I consider myself a trend setter LOL. Not really but it does seem to happen quite a bit :)</i><br />
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Initially I did start out coloring with pencil and found that while it was very helpful for practicing shading techniques, it was also relaxing. Recently I was talking at work about how I had tried adult coloring and another co-worker shared that she also had taken up adult coloring but with Sharpies, not pencil. I enjoyed the coloring but not the time involved when using pencil so decided to give markers a try. I now prefer using markers but will probably continue to use both colored pencil and marker depending on how intricate the design is and what I am trying to accomplish. <br />
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I was recently given the opportunity to review books for Skyhorse publications. Given my new found love of coloring I happily offered to review. The books are very different from one another stylistically but I am genuinely enjoying both. If I had to pick one, the Whimsical Designs would be my favorite.: <br />
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Art-Nouveau-Coloring-Skyhorse-Publishing/dp/1510704329/ref=sr_1_8?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1439173795&sr=1-8&keywords=skyhorse+coloring+books" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Art Nouveau: Coloring for Everyone</a> </b><br />
<b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Whimsical-Designs-Coloring-Skyhorse-Publishing/dp/1510704582/ref=sr_1_6?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1439173795&sr=1-6&keywords=skyhorse+coloring+books" target="_blank">Whimsical Designs: Coloring for Artists</a></b><br />
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If you are considering purchasing an adult coloring book look no further - these books are great.<br />
- high quality paper<br />
- a large number of designs - 46 images in each book!<br />
- different levels of complexity in designs some more basic and some extremely intricate<br />
- examples of colored pages in the beginning of the book<br />
- a page for color swatches - create your own color combinations<br />
- preforated pages for easy removal<br />
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One thing I found that was funny (in a good way). Take these out when around kids or a few friends. You will be surprised how many people want to stop what they are doing and start coloring - seriously! People love to color!<br />
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<b><u>TIPS AND TRICKS</u></b><br />
If you do take up this fantastic new, yet not-so-new, trend here are a few pointers<br />
- invest in some good cardstock - if using permanent markers make sure to put a piece of cardstock underneath to absorb excess ink so you do not ruin the page underneath OR the surface you are coloring on if you rip the page out to color on. You can see above how the color can tend to bleed through.<br />
- invest in a good variety of pens / pencils. I discovered that even with the most careful hand, the thicker permanent markers will not do well with the fine lines. I actually purchased a set of fine line markers from the dollar store and these are working just fine.<br />
- If you accidentally color outside a line or put the wrong color in a certain section do not get worked up about it - Chances are that the mistake is not very noticeable. By the time you finish coloring you yourself will probably not even notice!<br />
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<b><u>MEDIUMS</u></b><br />
- I have a variety of markers (a TON actually). For permanent marker I find that <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sharpie-Fine-Tip-Permanent-24-Pack-Assorted/dp/B0003WN0DO/ref=pd_sim_229_1?ie=UTF8&refRID=1BJ10DS7GK1NM5V56XG7" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Sharpies</a> offer a lot of color options but are not acid free. <a href="http://www.amazon.com/BIC-Permanent-Marker-Assorted-36-Count/dp/B000OZMSYC/ref=sr_1_1?&s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1439175429&sr=1-1&keywords=bic+permanent+markers" target="_blank">Bic Permanent markers</a> are acid free so I use these in my mixed media artwork as well as for coloring. <br />
- For fine lines invest in a fine line marker like <a href="http://www.amazon.com/MacPhersons-Stabilo-30-Color-Wallet-Set/dp/B00ATBRJRC/ref=lp_12896731_1_19?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1439175293&sr=1-19" target="_blank">Stablio</a>,<br />
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If you want your work to last a long time without fading, use colored pencil or acid free markers. Some good examples of acid free markers that I own and love are:<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Ranger-Distress-Marker-7-35-Inch-49-Pack/dp/B00DV751L2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Tim Holtz Distress</a> (waterbased)<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Zig-Memory-System-Writer-Colors/dp/B007F0TBY4/ref=sr_1_9?s=arts-crafts&ie=UTF8&qid=1439175122&sr=1-9&keywords=zig" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Zig</a> (dye based - these are also light fast)<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Uchida-1122-12A-Double-Ended-Markers-Primary/dp/B0008G1UKK/ref=sr_1_1?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1439175725&sr=1-1&keywords=le+plume+marker" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Le Plume</a> (dye based - brush marker on one end and fine point on the other!)<br />
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If you are looking for a little glitz, consider glitter markers or gel pens. Some that I have are Zig's <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Wink-Stella-Glitter-Marker-Pens/dp/B005AUFWOY/ref=sr_1_1?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1439177816&sr=1-1&keywords=wink+of+stella" target="_blank">Wink of Stella </a>(LOVE these), <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Fiskars-Gel-Pen-48-Piece-Value/dp/B000S161FO/ref=sr_1_1?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1439177791&sr=1-1&keywords=fiskars+pens" target="_blank">Fiskars Gel pen set</a> and Sakura's gelly-roll pens in <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sakura-37904-6-Piece-Assorted-Stardust/dp/B000N71IPQ/ref=sr_1_6?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1439177836&sr=1-6&keywords=sakura" target="_blank">Stardust</a>. <br />
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If you opt for colored pencils there are a ton of options. I prefer the softer, waxier pencils like <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Prismacolor-Premier-Soft-Colored-Pencils/dp/B000E23RSQ/ref=sr_1_1?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1439175848&sr=1-1&keywords=prismacolor+colored+pencils" target="_blank">Prismacolor</a> or <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Crayola-50ct-Colored-Pencils-68-4050/dp/B00000J0S3/ref=sr_1_2?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1439175837&sr=1-2&keywords=crayola+colored+pencils" target="_blank">Crayola</a> - I find these offer strong color saturation and easier to blend / pull colors into one another but on the negative side it is more difficult to get the fine detail without constant resharpening. If you are OK with less color saturation but more fine detail a harder lead may be preferable. A good example of this is <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Sargent-Art-22-7251-50-Count-Assorted/dp/B0027PA1AU/ref=sr_1_1?s=office-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1439175881&sr=1-1&keywords=sargent+colored+pencils" target="_blank">Sargent-Art</a> - these pencils are too hard for my taste but I have my set to my 14 yo daughter and she absolutely loves them. <br />
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If you find that you love adult coloring, find what medium works best for you!. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Almost finished!</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYgzIkQKDqopykcEpBS92o4NDCOza4dQRoohJ5sTVmWIVImryjnTESAjfySen-xcCF5kpXvhOKTjjbi4PsvHdwS13JS9fbge5pPe1UDIpz5FzuE8iOEXGtfP9MYCaGKjn4Tfwz/s1600/IMG_2364%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYgzIkQKDqopykcEpBS92o4NDCOza4dQRoohJ5sTVmWIVImryjnTESAjfySen-xcCF5kpXvhOKTjjbi4PsvHdwS13JS9fbge5pPe1UDIpz5FzuE8iOEXGtfP9MYCaGKjn4Tfwz/s640/IMG_2364%255B1%255D.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Page I am currently working on</td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaoxz1HfZcVvVit7xLzhFdkAiv3iBrGDtmZ1nLaFWqR1ha0YXLtZgrnl-4xzGzQAbc4BqqAVYalypOfFqilRGcNaL8oHVdrfkr5auuaKCSbrlN9hAn75VqkTothll6Blxr3ZJX/s1600/IMG_2355%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaoxz1HfZcVvVit7xLzhFdkAiv3iBrGDtmZ1nLaFWqR1ha0YXLtZgrnl-4xzGzQAbc4BqqAVYalypOfFqilRGcNaL8oHVdrfkr5auuaKCSbrlN9hAn75VqkTothll6Blxr3ZJX/s640/IMG_2355%255B1%255D.JPG" width="480" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Finished page!</td></tr>
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<b>Press Release!</b><br />
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<i><a href="http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_ss_i_3_8?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=skyhorse+coloring+books&sprefix=skyhorse%2Cstripbooks%2C141" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Skyhorse </a>presents 12 new titles to help you achieve mindful meditation through creation.
Since 2013, coloring books targeted to adults have topped bestselling charts, selling more than 1.5 million copies in over twenty-two languages. Five of the top thirty titles on Amazon’s bestseller list are coloring books aimed at adults. Skyhorse Publishing’s first four adult coloring books featuring the paisley and mandala motifs have already sold out four printings, selling at bookstores like Barnes & Noble, on Amazon, and at specialty stores like Michael’s Arts & Crafts and A. C. Moore.
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<i>Not unlike the adult summer camps and wine-and-painting parties that have surged in popularity over the last couple of years, coloring is a nostalgic activity that allows people to unplug and fend off the stresses of daily life. With our screen-weary culture, it’s no surprise that adult coloring events have begun to pop up across the US attracting “colorists” to unplug and unwind in social settings.
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<i>The recent surge in adult coloring is not just attributed to nostalgia but also its therapeutic effects. Coloring encourages creativity without the intimidation of staring at a blank page. In fact, research suggests that coloring within a premade design might help fight anxiety. Clinical psychologist Kimberly Wulfert of EverydayHealth.com explains that “In coloring, you’re being mindful, and when you move in a rhythmic fashion for an extended period of time, that becomes a meditation.”
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<i>Unlike most coloring books, Skyhorse’s books have sixteen pages of full color for inspiration along with perforated pages, allowing budding artists to photocopy, gift, or display their beautiful creations! This twelve-book series features vibrant illustrations and detailed introductions highlighting the histories of themotifs, including paisley, mandala, art nouveau, zen, mehndi and whimsical designs.
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<i>Whether you’re interested in the mindfulness movement, in therapy for seniors, or in a business trend that’s dominating the book business, adult coloring books are hot!
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<b>Thanks to Skyhorse publishing, here is a download available for free to Momanthology readers!</b><br />
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<i>Disclosure: I received two books for review purposes. I did nt receive any monetary compensation. All opinions expressed are my own.</i><br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-89678793384341934392015-08-09T22:11:00.001-04:002015-08-09T22:17:42.575-04:00Bonefish Grill - Review<div class="add-image-img" style="border-radius: 4px; border: 1px solid rgb(221, 221, 221); box-shadow: rgba(0, 0, 0, 0.0980392) 0px 0px 2px; float: left; margin: 0px 15px 5px 0px; padding: 4px; width: 210px;">
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The girls and I had a great opportunity to visit the newly remodeled <a href="https://www.bonefishgrill.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bonefish Grill</a> in North Hills (Six Forks Road, Raleigh, NC). I was accompanied by my oldest daughter and middle daughter (my youngest daughter was in NY visiting family). </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The girls were excited but not sure what to expect. I consider Bonefish Grill more of an adult restaurant so we never took the girls there when they were younger. Now that the girls are older it was really special to give them more of a fine dining experience. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> I myself had previously visited another Bonefish Grill location with co-workers but mainly for drinks and appetizers - this was the first time I visited for dinner. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I had not visited the Six Forks location prior to the remodel but I do have to say that the interior was beautiful - modern with rustic elements....clean lines but varying texture in the decor - light and dark hardwoods, ornamental iron, booth dividers made of glass and papyrus(?), etc. The lighting was low and the general ambiance was what you would expect when going out to a nice dinner. It</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> all worked together very nicely. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">When we arrived we were offered a seat outside but I informed the greeter that we already had reservations. Once we entered the restaurant I noticed that it was actually full with a small wait but fortunately our table was ready and we were seated immediately.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The girls were not familiar with the menu but were hungry. When the server arrived to take our drink order, I also ordered the Bang Bang Shrimp for the appetizer. Once we were settled and had our menus I helped the girls select their entrees which I usually have to do when we go to out for a nicer dinner. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The girls ordered off of the regular menu. Miss C. was very hungry so I suggested the Grouper which is mild tasting fish but seems to have a denser texture so is more filling than other white fish options. Miss N. on the other hand likes a lighter fish so I recommended that she try the Tilapia. Christine, our server, agreed with my recommendations - the girls did not want to take just my word alone so it was helpful to have a second opinion. Ultimately both girls LOVED their entrees. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">I like to try different foods (always) and opted to order off of the seasonal menu instead. You can see our choices below. </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">With the exception of the Bang Bang Shrimp I was able to include pictures of everything else we ordered. (The shrimp were fabulous and eaten very quickly - basically they were gone before I remembered to snap a photo!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Overall we had a wonderful experience. Our server was excellent - very friendly, helpful and attentive. Our food arrived quickly and was absolutely delicious. The manager (Willoby?) also stopped by our table to check in with us. I always appreciate when the manager takes time to do this. It shows that the business cares about the customer experience. I would definitely visit Bonefish Grill again and hope to do so on a date with my DH or with a group of friends . I would also definitely recommend Bonefish grill to family and friends. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Pictures of our dining experience are included below along with a recent press release about the new menu. </b>I hope that you enjoy!</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig2eWgVvtnbnjtF1hN8rDGugfHpuusIoHp0zybHvfVS0vvPmS_CnbqRlGyKWjgtpLl99D6wrwXf3Nx64Kdvhch6bIezhPlmR8wO83Aaof_WCSvWrxfhH6sZ26Mvr14MmNuM_qW/s1600/IMG_2367%255B1%255D.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEig2eWgVvtnbnjtF1hN8rDGugfHpuusIoHp0zybHvfVS0vvPmS_CnbqRlGyKWjgtpLl99D6wrwXf3Nx64Kdvhch6bIezhPlmR8wO83Aaof_WCSvWrxfhH6sZ26Mvr14MmNuM_qW/s640/IMG_2367%255B1%255D.JPG" width="640" /></a><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Miss C and Miss N!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bread and Olive Oil with seasoning. By the time I remembered to take a photo it was almost gone!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">My dinner!: Wild Caught Sockeye Salmon with a spinach / bleu cheese / bacon sauce. Sides: Mushroom Ravioli and Zucchini. Delicious! The Salmon was wonderful but the Mushroom Ravioli were to die for! </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Miss C's dinner - Grouper with mango salsa, whipped potatoes and a side of zucchini.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Miss N's dinner - Almost identical to Miss C's but instead of the Grouper, she opted for the Tilapia with mango salsa. She also had the whipped potatoes </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">and a side of zucchini.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Miss N's favorite dessert - Crème brûlée! We actually made </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">crème brûlée at home for her birthday a few months back. Unfortunately it did NOT come out well so she was so excited to order some for dessert; t</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">hankfully she shared as it was wonderful - rich, creamy and decadent! We had a great time joking about how the Bonefish Grill </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">crème brûlée</span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> was so much better than the version </span><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">we tried to make at home LOL.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Another dessert option was an espresso martini (my favorite!) - SO tempting but it was late and I had to drive so opted to bypass and share Miss N's dessert instead. There is always next time!</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You can find out more about Bonefish Grill at the following sites"</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bonefish Grill <a href="https://www.bonefishgrill.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">website</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><a href="https://twitter.com/BonefishGrill" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Twitter</a></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">From the official Press Release:</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bonefish Grill's New Culinary Forward Menu Offers Innovation and Variety</span></h3>
<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><span class="article-date" style="box-sizing: inherit; color: #444444;">Jul, 2014</span><span style="color: #444444;"></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><em style="box-sizing: inherit;">New selections available at all locations starting today</em></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">You spoke and we listened! Today, Bonefish Grill® is launching its new guest-inspired menu with more than 20 new innovative items to complement classic favorites. The culinary forward menu adds Bowls, Steaks, Deluxe Sides and Dessert Flatbreads, using only the highest quality, freshest ingredients, to the existing innovative and seasonal offerings.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"With the new additions to our dinner menu, guests can experience a new side of Bonefish Grill," said Bonefish Grill President Stephen Judge. "We continue to offer our guests great value, fresh fish selections and now an even wider variety of choices. There’s something new for everyone to love."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">New bowls deliver bold flavor, using fresh vegetables that combine Asian and Mediterranean inspired flavors.</span></div>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Spicy Tuna Bowl</strong> – premium sushi grade, sesame-seared rare tuna served with avocado, sweet chile sauce, jasmine rice and passion fruit salsa</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Seared NY Strip Bowl</strong> – USDA Choice NY Strip seared to your preference served with marinated cucumbers, roasted peanuts and passion fruit salsa, jasmine rice and a black pepper aioli</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Shrimp Pad Thai Bowl</strong> – sautéed shrimp combined with rice noodles, green onions, peanuts, egg and a traditional Pad Thai sauce</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Fire Roasted Vegetables Bowl</strong> – a seasonally fresh selection of vegetables combined with pearl couscous with herb and pesto dipping sauce available with choice of wood-grilled shrimp or herb-grilled chicken</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">New Wood-Grilled steak specialties include a savory 13 oz. USDA Choice Rib-Eye, perfect with white truffle butter or choice of several new steak signature sauces including:</span></div>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Béarnaise Sauce</strong> – classic hollandaise based sauce flavored with tarragon and red wine</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Asian Peppercorn Demi-Glace</strong> – schezwan peppercorns blended with a reduced brown sauce</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Porcini Sage Butter</strong> – blended butter sauce with porcini mushrooms and fresh sage</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Creamy Mushroom and Bacon Sauce</strong> – Marsala wine reduction finished with sliced mushrooms and crisp bacon</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">White Truffle Butter</strong> – Italian white truffles blended with fresh creamy butter</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Or try the Ahi Tuna Steak, fire-kissed and perfectly paired with a signature sauce including the new Lime Tomato Garlic sauce – creamy butter sauce with garden fresh tomatoes and a hint of lime.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Deluxe Sides are now available to complement Wood-Grilled selections and entrées including:</span></div>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Crab Fried Rice</strong> – jumbo lump crab wok-fried with eggs, bell peppers, carrots and green onions with a hint of soy sauce</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Porcini Mushroom Ravioli</strong> – classic Italian ravioli filled with porcini mushrooms and ricotta cheese sautéed in a sage brown butter and topped with crispy mushrooms</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Wood-Grilled Broccolini</strong> – small florets tossed with garlic herb butter</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Four new appetizers provide a unique approach to classic favorites:</span></div>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">NY Strip Tataki</strong> – perfectly seared USDA Choice NY Strip, Thai peppers and a mustard soy sauce</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Twisted Edamame Hummus</strong> – edamame replaces traditional garbanzo beans, topped with a roasted tomato relish and crunchy pepitas served with flatbread chips</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Bang Bang Shrimp® Flatbread</strong> – crispy shrimp, mozzarella cheese, cilantro and a creamy, spicy sauce</span></li>
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<li style="box-sizing: inherit;"><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">Cold Snap Ceviche</strong> – chilled bay scallops, shrimp, fresh fish, avocado, cucumber, jalapeno, citrus, cilantro served in a glass made entirely of ice and warm tortilla chips on the side</span></li>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The perfect way to finish a meal is with a Dessert Flatbread such as S’mores with creamy chocolate, toasted marshmallow and graham cracker crumbs.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Bonefish Grill has also added new handcrafted concoctions to start or complement any occasion. The Fresh Pineapple Martini is made with Malibu Rum, St. Germain Elderflower liqueur, fresh pineapple and homemade vanilla bean simple syrup. The refreshing Cold Snap Cucumber Cosmo is made with Reyka vodka, Solerno Blood Orange liqueur and fresh English cucumbers served on the rocks in a glass made entirely of ice.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">"We're always looking to push the envelope," said Judge. "Our innovative and creative culture is going beyond what we have presented in the past. This new menu, coupled with friendly and attentive service, will continue to make Bonefish Grill a favorite place to dine."</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The new menu is now available at all Bonefish Grill locations nationwide. Reservations are conveniently available via Catch-A-Table, Bonefish Grill’s new online reservation system available 24 hours a day, seven days a week at www.bonefishgrill.com or by calling the restaurant. Walk-ins are always welcome.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><strong style="box-sizing: inherit;">About Bonefish Grill</strong><br style="box-sizing: inherit;" />Founded in St. Petersburg, Florida, Bonefish Grill specializes in market-fresh fish from around the world and other savory wood-grilled specialties. Guests receive "chef's coat service" and are guided through an innovative, seasonal menu and specials featuring the highest-quality, fresh ingredients. Combined with a big-city bar, Bonefish Grill offers hand-crafted cocktails and an affordable list of 30 wines by the glass offering a great match for any food pairing.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">The restaurant provides a fun and lively place to eat, drink, relax and socialize on any given day of the week. The experience is based on the premise of simplicity, consistency and a strong commitment to excellence at every level. In thirteen years, the award-winning Bonefish Grill family has grown to nearly 200 restaurants across the country. For more information, visit www.bonefishgrill.com, or find us on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/BonefishGrill" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Facebook</a> or <a href="http://www.twitter.com/bonefishgrill" style="background-attachment: initial; background-clip: initial; background-image: initial; background-origin: initial; background-position: initial; background-repeat: initial; background-size: initial; box-sizing: inherit;" target="_blank">Twitter</a>.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Thank you to <a href="https://www.bonefishgrill.com/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Bonefish Grill</a> for this review opportunity! I was provided with gift cards for review purposes. I did not receive any other compensation for this review and I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.</b></span></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-61703237065705751922015-05-24T03:44:00.002-04:002018-07-05T21:32:25.461-04:00Repurposed Notebook<br />
I have a ton of old notebooks - several are branded promo items. I decided to revamp a few of these. Here is a mini-notebook that I turned into an art journal. (The prismacolor pencil is added for size reference). I love this because of the smaller size - I can take it with me virtually anywhere. I also love the funky lettering, motivating statements, contrast of the black against the colorful painted background and the overall aesthetics. <br />
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How To:<br />
This is a very quick and simple project that you can make using scraps. I used painted paper created on my gelli plate, mixed media stickers, washi tape, black cardstock, cardstock letter stickers and metallic gold rub-on shapes. <br />
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the painted paper was trimmed to size and mounted on the cover. Then I decorated until I was happy with the end result. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtby23e2N6ehVlq6dpvkU_6HgY2gbnNRgVtLXzg-C1TqLePfSwOY7tHgrHlsJRGZUvUCAfpxDA20TMeU-tOBbyF1UrTXrA5ac0N4WwRiomHgrNj1_GG3yxsm7G4YYDsv1vBcQm/s1600/IMG_2086.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgtby23e2N6ehVlq6dpvkU_6HgY2gbnNRgVtLXzg-C1TqLePfSwOY7tHgrHlsJRGZUvUCAfpxDA20TMeU-tOBbyF1UrTXrA5ac0N4WwRiomHgrNj1_GG3yxsm7G4YYDsv1vBcQm/s400/IMG_2086.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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Here is the inside - an art card that I made a while back mounted on the inside cover. On the next page you can see a list of planned projects and my dirty little secret - (I have horrible penmanship). <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl34G9esRrsJDshOLXcvbs0vy6bsC2L4R7LifXkqYXMQ5hNezjov5mr4x_85pY1RZsIoDljmjRUt15eo-eITL1PLjsy5Z-OB4D3aFC7PfEW89rnIquvorV3pTyci88IkSBrrz0/s1600/IMG_2087.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhl34G9esRrsJDshOLXcvbs0vy6bsC2L4R7LifXkqYXMQ5hNezjov5mr4x_85pY1RZsIoDljmjRUt15eo-eITL1PLjsy5Z-OB4D3aFC7PfEW89rnIquvorV3pTyci88IkSBrrz0/s400/IMG_2087.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
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I have made other repurposed notebooks from composition journals, moleskin journals, etc. This is a quick, easy and fun project that can be given as a gift or made for personal use. </div>
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<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-85496497956963786592015-05-16T02:25:00.003-04:002018-07-05T21:32:44.151-04:00Drawing in colored pencil 101<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I recently started drawing again but have had to basically reteach myself the basic fundamentals. I have swatched all of the pens and pencils that I own and have been practicing different shading techniques. <br />
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At Good Will I purchased a book on bulb flowers with the intention of.using the photos to practice drawing. I definitely need to work on better use of white space. I also need to apply less - the finished project had a waxy / glossy finish which means I used too much product - I either layered too much color or applied too much pressure when drawing.<br />
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The project below was completed using a variety of colored pencils and Faber Castell Pitt Pens. I plan to finish up the top right corner but this is otherwise complete.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Original image</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Initial outlining, coloring and shading</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Adding more color and shading</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">almost finished!</td></tr>
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<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-75856728128355930892015-05-08T23:28:00.000-04:002018-07-05T21:33:10.705-04:00Updates and Six ingredient Paleo recipeI am still posting older posts that had to be deleted a while back tue to an issue with "unnatural inbound links". I debated on whether or not it was worth the effort or not but decided that it was.<br />
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I decided to work from oldest through newest posts so if you see things coming through, please check the dates. I am back dating to the original post. Right now I am still on 2008. regardless of how tedious this project has become I will continue to post until most of my original content is back on the blog.<br />
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Since the above is rather boring, here is something a little more fun. Recently I have been going on and off Paleo. I have probably lost 20 lbs total over the last year but have plateaued recently. I also find it difficult to stick to beyond a couple of weeks<br />
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This is one of my favorite dishes - it is not only delicious, but also very simple and easy to prepare. I love breakfast but cannot eat first thing in the morning so usually I prepare this for brunch or dinner.<br />
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- <u>2 - 3 eggs, scrambled</u> (tip: add water, not milk, to make your eggs light and fluffy)<br />
- <u>chopped tomato</u> I used about a half of a large tomato<br />
- <u>1/2 an avocado, sliced</u><br />
- <u>sea salt and course ground pepper</u> to taste. <br />
- <u>hot sauce</u> <i>I used Sriracha but for someone that is on a strict Paleo diet, stick with regular hot sauce (or no hot sauce) as Sriracha contains sugar.</i><br />
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<b>Bon appetit!</b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFydcuI0w1AGlNWvaVsBBiLNQ7fSVkGRShanZggtzbZrv7crn36JGI2BL95wyesxlfUmq-3A5XGYiCP-2NqpXi25W8Qi7SlqfmUKF7eX458Wp2UrppwqhG2P63_tE6-J91m0X_/s1600/IMG_2007.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="480" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFydcuI0w1AGlNWvaVsBBiLNQ7fSVkGRShanZggtzbZrv7crn36JGI2BL95wyesxlfUmq-3A5XGYiCP-2NqpXi25W8Qi7SlqfmUKF7eX458Wp2UrppwqhG2P63_tE6-J91m0X_/s640/IMG_2007.JPG" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-39411524144910828012015-05-02T01:52:00.001-04:002015-05-02T01:56:01.203-04:00"Graduation Day with Mom and Dad" chalkboard themed layout<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I have not posted much lately. Blogging really has fallen to the bottom of the priority list. Between work, my kids activities and my other interests, I just do not have the time or passion that I used to have. </div>
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Lately I have been doing more mixed media / fine art but still occasionally scrapbook. I worked for a couple of months on this album and wanted to share double layout. </div>
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I made a graduation scrapbook for my DD. This is one of my favorite layouts. The pages both have an abundance of layers but these did not photograph with as much depth and dimension as I would have liked. The entire album was created with chalkboard themed paper and embellishments. By the time I was finished I was completely over this trend but overall I was happy with the results.</div>
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National Scrapbooking Day is today so it is an appropriate time to share! Please feel free to linkup in the comments section any recent projects that you may have completed. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTdNsWEBhAxky9F1MVCjo7Ra5qY2vUGx6IqKnVfWVZcwIJi4fMO3JlQqpB7gYoG8tSXA-ss1h_AXVVJ1B9EAOLKYCKQDLGNRF39Zrwb0YYuDmF6ff9pwGMMtrnBpvIIXjYIbzH/s1600/IMG_1788.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiTdNsWEBhAxky9F1MVCjo7Ra5qY2vUGx6IqKnVfWVZcwIJi4fMO3JlQqpB7gYoG8tSXA-ss1h_AXVVJ1B9EAOLKYCKQDLGNRF39Zrwb0YYuDmF6ff9pwGMMtrnBpvIIXjYIbzH/s1600/IMG_1788.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitWTINP8vb4zwtv4FUnKKQACD21opbVbvKivi0UeNG2hDnJ7L4kl68r2veT9bL3RpJN5ZgSrpAnb3WR8xvXSVSv3InYvcGcrRBBEv8dOrMn1dAhKI8B1IDom6AISH8YVAs-IJm/s1600/IMG_1784.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEitWTINP8vb4zwtv4FUnKKQACD21opbVbvKivi0UeNG2hDnJ7L4kl68r2veT9bL3RpJN5ZgSrpAnb3WR8xvXSVSv3InYvcGcrRBBEv8dOrMn1dAhKI8B1IDom6AISH8YVAs-IJm/s1600/IMG_1784.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OlQpaSkWmR8/VT2MHMkh4ZI/AAAAAAAAZi4/CoeccQwgiwk/s1600/IMG_1787.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-OlQpaSkWmR8/VT2MHMkh4ZI/AAAAAAAAZi4/CoeccQwgiwk/s1600/IMG_1787.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-64582545022329136002015-02-13T21:17:00.004-05:002015-02-13T21:17:32.542-05:00What is the most popular post on Momanthology?<br />
<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">It would be this gem > CLICK <a href="http://www.momanthology.com/2011/10/death-by-alcohol-and-seafood.html" target="_blank">HERE</a></span><br />
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<span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Apparently this is much more common than I thought when I initially posted. I do appreciate the comment from Charles</span><span style="font-family: 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"> which gives a great scientific explanation. Thanks Charles!!!! :) </span><br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-17492494870176966002015-02-13T21:08:00.002-05:002015-04-26T16:35:45.405-04:002015 updatesIt has been so long since I posted so I am sharing several random musings. Sorry for the long post!<br />
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I am still in the process of re-posting old reviews. It is tedious but I did figure out how to backdate these to the original date they were published.<br />
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<u><b>2015</b></u><br />
What else has been going on? I have been very busy at work - after the first of the year my work load increased significantly (as did everyone else's). This was expected and I have been trying to get as much done as quickly as possible to avoid becoming buried because new work will continue to come in. I have been in my current role for close to a year. Leaving the company that I worked at for 15 plus years was a bit of a journey but in the end it could not have worked out better. I love the company I now work for and feel very fortunate.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXyUGG0XijSj2fyLFuTNfjOdSYpsRgse-yG59QgcmG1lCI5Vf78QxjMsDJZLOAv_yD8DIH37NTPpd7vXJ_lBcTPwXcJch6UFuyn4cpML5iBDITRyQnFSZPFo8Vsp19JSFjoZXB/s1600/10703888_4959606004049_8762649736971185378_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXyUGG0XijSj2fyLFuTNfjOdSYpsRgse-yG59QgcmG1lCI5Vf78QxjMsDJZLOAv_yD8DIH37NTPpd7vXJ_lBcTPwXcJch6UFuyn4cpML5iBDITRyQnFSZPFo8Vsp19JSFjoZXB/s1600/10703888_4959606004049_8762649736971185378_n.jpg" height="400" width="225" /></a><br />
On to the family... I look back at earlier posts from 6 years ago and I cannot believe how quickly the girls have grown:<br />
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- Miss C. left home over the holidays to live with her girlfriend and is busy living her own life. <br />
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- Miss N. has a boyfriend. <br />
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- Miss E is 21 mos younger than Miss N but has surpassed her in weight, height and shoe size! Miss N. has always been tiny for her age but she has leveled off. I am thinking that she should have one more decent growth spurt but only time will tell.<br />
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The girls are back in soccer already.Below is a recent picture of Miss N., 14, and Miss E., 12, taken at the mall around x-mas time. This picture cracks me up - both are wearing Hollister jeans, Ugg boots and Victoria's Secret shirts. I did not buy them these - I refuse to spend a fortune on kid's clothes for the brand name. That is where their grandmas step in - they do not have the same objections I do :)<br />
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<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none 0% 0% repeat scroll transparent; border: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-14630292057215434942015-01-25T22:25:00.001-05:002015-01-25T22:25:35.029-05:00Rainbow Loom Layout<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIpysvzGW6LJga_HT42GpCckutgEPr-oQ3o_0rgU7paQHNKRRI4anEFC4rBw1Chisa_FV0qnkzq5wtr7dDtsNS7zYjuAh5WHZVVEcEi0jrLOjo06EqujWB8ZCZib3vopiM5Ewv/s1600/IMG_0123.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjIpysvzGW6LJga_HT42GpCckutgEPr-oQ3o_0rgU7paQHNKRRI4anEFC4rBw1Chisa_FV0qnkzq5wtr7dDtsNS7zYjuAh5WHZVVEcEi0jrLOjo06EqujWB8ZCZib3vopiM5Ewv/s400/IMG_0123.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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Here is a fun Project Life layout I did of the Rainbow Loom craze with a plain sheet of rainbow paper on the left. X-mas 2013 she received a tote that held 3 - 4 plastic organizers and plenty of bands to fill it up. What fun it was sorting thousands of bands (NOT!). I ended up doing most of the work but it was a labor of love and I love the picture of her little hand sorting the bands.<br />
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Miss E. loved making bracelets on her loom and you could find her weaving away any day of the week. She still does love making the bracelets, but not obsessively like she did about a year ago :)<br />
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<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-53199988450836518082014-12-13T16:34:00.001-05:002014-12-13T16:38:28.386-05:00Get Your Betty On - Review and GiveawayI have a long standing partnership with Betty Crocker and am pleased to be sharing another fantastic giveaway with my readers.<br />
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I have been blogging since 2008 and during that time I have worked extensively with Betty Crocker and General Mills. I have shared this before but for those of you who are new, in 2010 I was one of an extremely fortunate, select group of bloggers who was invited up to the General Mills facility to tour the campus, learn about the company and bake in the test kitchens. I am not really sure how I got invited because I am a home baker - most of the ladies I shared this adventure with were hard core bakers :) Regardless, I had such a wonderful experience that I will treasure forever.<br />
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Here are a couple of pictures from the event:<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Me! Posing as Betty Crocker</b><br />
<i>Photo Credit Matt Holland</i></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b>Baking with Betty Bloggers</b><br />
<i>Photo Credit <a href="http://www.matthollandphotography.com/Events/Baking-with-Betty-8-24/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Matt Holland</a></i></td></tr>
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The Betty Crocker name has always been synonymous with baking to me - I inherited my grandmother's 1960's Betty Crocker cookbook and it is my absolute favorite one. I refer to it quite often - especially when I bake from scratch.<br />
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Thanks to Betty Crocker am thrilled to be sharing another awesome giveaway - #GetYourBettyOn. <br />
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This holiday season make sure to set aside time for baking. It is a tradition in our house. I love making frosted xmas cookies, pizzelles and pumpkin bread. I also usually try to bake a new recipe.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQFzScINaVZuUtukbI7faHRRbzosgqa0NSCdxfvsj6EBDj8uuQK6ct1WdASHxcjTtoGB-aatIkvMIGrw16lfT7dPiwZysqpsWWu89dQaO-ufqqHrfbvxzoLzM4FxsxH-SL3x1/s1600/basket.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsQFzScINaVZuUtukbI7faHRRbzosgqa0NSCdxfvsj6EBDj8uuQK6ct1WdASHxcjTtoGB-aatIkvMIGrw16lfT7dPiwZysqpsWWu89dQaO-ufqqHrfbvxzoLzM4FxsxH-SL3x1/s1600/basket.jpg" height="320" width="240" /></a></div>
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Betty Crocker created a basket filled with baking goodies for me and one lucky reader. The basket includes:<br />
- Kitchen tablet stand<br />
- Betty Crocker™ Mixing Spoon<br />
- Betty Crocker™ Oven Mitt<br />
- “Get Your Betty On” Apron<br />
- Gingerbread Cookie Cutter<br />
- Betty Crocker™ Sugar Cookie Mix<br />
- Betty Crocker™ Chocolate Chip Cookie Mix<br />
- Betty Crocker™ Whipped Vanilla Frosting<br />
- Betty Crocker™ Holiday Recipe Booklet 2014 – featuring The Top 10 Cookie Decorating Ideas of 2014<br />
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I look forward to trying one of these recipes when I bake next weekend. I WOULD have already tried one and shared it with you but my kiddos already baked both the Betty Crocker™ Sugar Cookies AND the Betty Crocker™ Chocolate Chip Cookies (both of which were delicious by the way)! <br />
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Here are just a few of the recipes you can try:<br />
- <a href="http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/holiday-blossom-cookies/949c1cf6-d4a7-4ed0-b5da-055536c6ed6e" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Holiday Blossom Cookies</a><br />
- <a href="http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/cookie-wreaths/794be539-28b7-4d9d-b190-3580b58c83b2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Cookie Wreaths</a><br />
- <a href="http://www.bettycrocker.com/recipes/melting-snowmen-cookies/8631c9b5-61cf-4bdd-aafe-e58b5dc996a4" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Melting Snowman Cookies</a><br />
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The fine folks at Betty Crocker are all about sharing the memories of baking cookies with kids this season, and pulled together a helpful online <b><a href="http://www.bettycrocker.com/Menus-Holidays-Parties/MHPLibrary/Holidays/kids-christmas-cookie-corner">Kid's Cookie Corner</a></b> featuring their Top 10 cookies for kids and short, inspirational/how-to videos on each. <br />
This will be a quick giveaway. I will select a winner next Monday (12-22) so make sure to <a href="https://twitter.com/hashtag/getyourbettyon?src=hash" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">#GetYourBettyOn</a> and check it out!<br />
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To enter to win, you must follow me via one one of my pages (blogger, twitter, facebook, google plus, etc). To win, simply post how you follow me and your favorite <a href="http://www.bettycrocker.com/search/searchresults?term=holiday%20cookies&termDataSource=d6fb75f5-d19a-49cd-9ba0-c10a6e45afb2" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">holiday recipe from Betty Crocker</a>. Once you have done that, fill out the rafflecopter form below. Extra entries are available!<br />
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<i><b>Thank you to Betty Crocker for this review and Giveaway opportunity! </b></i><br />
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<a class="rcptr" href="http://www.rafflecopter.com/rafl/display/0a638837127/" rel="nofollow" data-raflid="0a638837127" data-theme="classic" data-template="" id="rcwidget_ivk89eo9">a Rafflecopter giveaway</a>
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<i>Disclosure: I did receive a gift basket for review purposes. I did not receive monetary compensation nor was I required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.</i><br />
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<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com38tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-40491720557677171422014-12-13T14:03:00.002-05:002014-12-13T14:03:21.943-05:002014 Last Minute Holiday Gift Ideas (Kids) - ReviewI love reviewing products or simply sharing great finds with momanthology.com readers. Here are some amazing last minute gift ideas for children.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_P_Ar3E7nMGx7ZZg9CYumkHtP1jHgh1oWBfCIlMmySASB8ItqQ0ld92oi33KvaUtQbL9S8lV5yNnNQ61tUw_64bEZwEztkaJWjzgq9GbnlEpfId-sOL8eLvxgUhIKZrk3Hwl/s1600/frozen+cover.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk_P_Ar3E7nMGx7ZZg9CYumkHtP1jHgh1oWBfCIlMmySASB8ItqQ0ld92oi33KvaUtQbL9S8lV5yNnNQ61tUw_64bEZwEztkaJWjzgq9GbnlEpfId-sOL8eLvxgUhIKZrk3Hwl/s1600/frozen+cover.jpg" height="320" width="233" /></a></div>
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Jump on the "Frozen" bandwagon. If you celebrate Halloween I am sure that you lost count of the number of Elsas that ran into. If you are looking for a fantastic Frozen themed gift, look no further! · <b>Disney Frozen Poster-A-Page: Magical Moments</b> is a fantastic gift for kids. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-jU9kfcT7RELLolJRAmB_BMwznlqkFKw_SPGSO4M5NuMb_N7DtrfrH4LS8FV9YAgpQaKCzakegjqBKqR7gXAEY-IUkPAcbL6nO1KwsjT65OAF_hEHVJhyphenhyphenhyphenhyphenBILL5LWvn-S_y8/s1600/frozen+about.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-jU9kfcT7RELLolJRAmB_BMwznlqkFKw_SPGSO4M5NuMb_N7DtrfrH4LS8FV9YAgpQaKCzakegjqBKqR7gXAEY-IUkPAcbL6nO1KwsjT65OAF_hEHVJhyphenhyphenhyphenhyphenBILL5LWvn-S_y8/s1600/frozen+about.jpg" height="320" width="232" /></a><i>With wintry scenes and cherished characters, this book follows Anna and Kristoff as they encounter Everest-like conditions, mystical trolls and a hilarious snowman, in their epic journey to find Elsa.</i><br />
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This book is really great - each page features a different scene. The book is thick and heavy so there are a ton of pages to thumb through. There are character and story synopsisis through the book and the images are also suitable for cutting, cropping and hanging on a wall. Miss E. claimed this for herself and loves it!<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Disney-Frozen-Poster-A-Page-Poster-Page/dp/1618933620" rel="nofollow" target="_blank"><b>Disney Frozen Poster-A-Page</b></a> is currently available on Amazon.com. If you are a prime member, get it within 2 days!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsY5GuxyRs2yd6iU0b7YFFgxwIIGh3AxDWNjRIsL1zWivDX13pEKOqZ6ky7tSnIDPVQ3cYTdCF4h8TITylqi5rIOUgEH-xZeDzjzgCwmGfCwOVKDVEqYeb7HT69Ci2eneWItiZ/s1600/91bf8rd24vL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgsY5GuxyRs2yd6iU0b7YFFgxwIIGh3AxDWNjRIsL1zWivDX13pEKOqZ6ky7tSnIDPVQ3cYTdCF4h8TITylqi5rIOUgEH-xZeDzjzgCwmGfCwOVKDVEqYeb7HT69Ci2eneWItiZ/s1600/91bf8rd24vL.jpg" height="320" width="232" /></a></div>
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Not a Frozen fan or have a little boy that prefers sci fi? <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Star-Wars-Episodes-Poster---Page/dp/1618933647/ref=sr_1_2?s=books&ie=UTF8&qid=1418496881&sr=1-2&keywords=star+wars+saga+poster" target="_blank">Star Wars Poster-A-Page: The Skywalker Saga</a> </b>is a great option also. Someone at work has a little Star Wars fanatic so he was the lucky recipent of this book. If you are interested in buying you can also use the Amazon coupon code for this purchase<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyVnJRf_IwHwB1m0a1oiZCPXvgaApblMII8qyfFe6Nv6bKNPs1ndXopeuN-hHG53tDMJuXcB9ePpBVsred_a7Mth8bDNm_Sr-dZtHZ9jiRrmrxuuAvTNyodQv6QYJlZ_DBTojd/s1600/IMG_1004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyVnJRf_IwHwB1m0a1oiZCPXvgaApblMII8qyfFe6Nv6bKNPs1ndXopeuN-hHG53tDMJuXcB9ePpBVsred_a7Mth8bDNm_Sr-dZtHZ9jiRrmrxuuAvTNyodQv6QYJlZ_DBTojd/s1600/IMG_1004.JPG" height="320" width="240" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8yoRCH_1eKP8mfi6k6tbaoSIt4veLOwI94jeNuvHrg5kPPzrdcImglsa4h3gH4t0xwiyWwPhWiC0K_XrJG5S64DDCBkJILGc4sPfwQTY3a4xfPz11ja3W-YS3RqaOMHpzcJDW/s1600/91CwMByJmcL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8yoRCH_1eKP8mfi6k6tbaoSIt4veLOwI94jeNuvHrg5kPPzrdcImglsa4h3gH4t0xwiyWwPhWiC0K_XrJG5S64DDCBkJILGc4sPfwQTY3a4xfPz11ja3W-YS3RqaOMHpzcJDW/s1600/91CwMByJmcL.jpg" height="320" width="235" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyVnJRf_IwHwB1m0a1oiZCPXvgaApblMII8qyfFe6Nv6bKNPs1ndXopeuN-hHG53tDMJuXcB9ePpBVsred_a7Mth8bDNm_Sr-dZtHZ9jiRrmrxuuAvTNyodQv6QYJlZ_DBTojd/s1600/IMG_1004.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg8yoRCH_1eKP8mfi6k6tbaoSIt4veLOwI94jeNuvHrg5kPPzrdcImglsa4h3gH4t0xwiyWwPhWiC0K_XrJG5S64DDCBkJILGc4sPfwQTY3a4xfPz11ja3W-YS3RqaOMHpzcJDW/s1600/91CwMByJmcL.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a></div>
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<b><span style="color: red;">Check out the fantastic deal below posted today (12/13/2014) that expires tomorrow. This could be used on either book!</span></b><br />
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<i><b style="box-sizing: border-box;">Take an Extra 25% Off Any Book:</b> Use promo code BOOKDEAL25 at checkout to get an extra 25% off any book for a limited time. Excludes Kindle eBooks and Audible Audiobooks. Restrictions apply.<a href="http://www.amazon.com/b/ref=bk_hdibs_bd25_so?ie=UTF8&node=10510039011&pf_rd_m=ATVPDKIKX0DER&pf_rd_s=special-offers-1&pf_rd_r=0AVP7BA1090TYS4YQCAS&pf_rd_t=201&pf_rd_p=2002016282&pf_rd_i=1618933620" rel="nofollow" style="box-sizing: border-box; color: #0066c0; text-decoration: none;" target="_blank">Learn more.</a></i></div>
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If you are more interested in games than books, here is fun option. <b><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IVQ3BTC/?tag=googhydr-20&hvadid=47164293896&hvpos=1t1&hvexid=&hvnetw=g&hvrand=10027381057586489038&hvpone=&hvptwo=&hvqmt=b&hvdev=c&ref=pd_sl_61ep408cfr_b" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Battle Sheep Game</a></b> is involves strategy and is great for kids and adults. I sort of works the opposite of checkers. Each player starts off with a stack and the idea is to split the stack and try to occupy as much of the board as possible. The strategy comes in with determining how you will split your stack, how you plan to occupy the board and how you try to block your opponent. <br />
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What I like about this game is that it is something the entire family can play. It is fun for kids but challenging enough that adults or older kids will not get bored. For more info watch the informative video below or visit the following <a href="http://www.blueorangegames.com/index.php/games/battle-sheep" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">link</a>. Battle Sheep Game is currently available on Amazon.com on sale (12/13/2014). Prices may be subject to change so if interested act quickly!</div>
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<i><b>Disclosure:</b> I received sample products for review purposes. I did not receive any form of compensation and I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own</i>. <br />
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Growing up I remember fighting with my brother over who got the toy in the Cereal Box. I don't remember how we worked it out but I recall having my fair share of prizes. </div>
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Right now each participating brand of General Mills cereals is offering a free Mega Bloks car with a set of Hello Kitty and Power Rangers stickers and instructions to cut out a pattern to construct a cardboard jump from the cereal box. This car is COMPLETELY customizable. Let the arguments commence! <u></u><br />
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When we received our sample, Miss E. opened the box and found the toy. At first she was upset because the car was completely bare. I explained that she could decorate the car - she then noticed the "Hello Kitty" stickers and her eyes lit up. We are both big fans of Hello Kitty :) Within minutes we had a completely jazzed up car!</div>
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Oh, and a great way to prevent those pesky arguments? Buy two boxes!<br />
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This promotion is running through Monday 12/01. While you are out holiday shopping this weekend, don't forget to stop for groceries! Make sure to pick up a box of your favorite General Mills Cereal. <br />
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<b>Participating Brands:</b><br />
- Honey Nut Cheerios<br />
- Reese’s Puffs<br />
- Cocoa Puffs<br />
- Lucky Charms<br />
- Golden Grahams<br />
- Cinnamon Toast Crunch<br />
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For a little fun, check out the video below! General Mills partnered with Maker Dad – <span style="color: #1f497d;"><a href="http://digital-current.com/generalmills/megabloks.pdf" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Mark Frauenfelder</a></span> – to rev up the breakfast table with a Rube Goldberg style contraption seen in this video made entirely of General Mills Mega Bloks cereal boxes. <span style="color: black;"><a href="http://bit.ly/Fandamonium" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">http://bit.ly/Fandamonium</a> </span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="//www.youtube.com/embed/8RncTjj_iqg" width="560"></iframe>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif;">Thanks to General Mills I have a giveaway for my readers - One lucky, random winner will receive a a $50 Target gift card, an exclusive Mega Bloks collective car kit and </span><span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: black; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; padding: 0in;">participating Mega Bloks cereal boxes. </span><br />
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<span style="border: 1pt none windowtext; color: black; font-family: Helvetica, sans-serif; padding: 0in;">If you would like to enter to win, please follow the prompts in the rafflecopter form below:</span><br />
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Disclosure - I was provided with products to review as well as a prize pack for my readers. I was not required to write a positive review and all opinions expressed are my own. </div>
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<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com56tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-60070739281537121892014-11-18T23:50:00.001-05:002014-11-18T23:50:30.281-05:002014 NC State Fair FunWe came. We saw. We conquered.<br />
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For the first time in SEVERAL years I attended the North Carolina State Fair (October 2014). We actually had a great time and I was glad that I was able to document most of it. Here are some of the highlights. <br />
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We marveled at the elaborate balloon display:<br /><br />
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We salivated over the fabulous food exhibits:<br /><br />
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<b>HONEY</b></div>
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<b>APPLES</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-akfIvYmpD_eFe8hQyJc_CqguZeXqYL59pYRDF0caUd1OBJQLbrqSkzF3gXdNOUbE_dVcm-KagJLhLmUVy7znUnYfoNcJrMEloCjtqfYL91VBjrOjFfhu89NNUdyW0ooThUR3/s1600/IMG_1137.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-akfIvYmpD_eFe8hQyJc_CqguZeXqYL59pYRDF0caUd1OBJQLbrqSkzF3gXdNOUbE_dVcm-KagJLhLmUVy7znUnYfoNcJrMEloCjtqfYL91VBjrOjFfhu89NNUdyW0ooThUR3/s1600/IMG_1137.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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<b>GINORMOUS PUMPKINS</b></div>
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<b>THE CUTEST VEGGIES AT THE FAIR!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCbl6WZoVhaljyvWYv-Z1rs90ZIel0Y462sLlyPhqua0dk0iMkpc3V6RPhP2L4ATm32e29U7izavDCOUOeUgEKYrvALk5Ng6y4Gai4-qGKbY7rSWR_UnvR1y_qGhfqw_jsGmZ6/s1600/IMG_1080.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjCbl6WZoVhaljyvWYv-Z1rs90ZIel0Y462sLlyPhqua0dk0iMkpc3V6RPhP2L4ATm32e29U7izavDCOUOeUgEKYrvALk5Ng6y4Gai4-qGKbY7rSWR_UnvR1y_qGhfqw_jsGmZ6/s1600/IMG_1080.JPG" height="400" width="400" /></a></div>
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We oohed and ahhhed over the adorable farm animals:<br /> </div>
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We went on rides (even me!):<br /><br />
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We played games:<br /></div>
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We went "people watching":<br />
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We ate YUMMY food:<br />
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<b>FRIED OREOS</b></div>
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AND.... dun dun duuuun.... We won Blue Ribbons!<br />
<i>I entered 2 rubber stamping categories in the Novice Category for Rubber Stamping - Card Making. Next year I will qualify for the "Professional" category if I choose to enter again. </i><br />
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Novice Category / Rubber Stamping - Embellishments: First Prize<br />
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<br />Framed at for temporary display at home in my craft room / art studio:</div>
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Novice Category / Rubber Stamping - Layers: First Prize <b><u>AND</u></b> Best of Show. The layers and detail were hard to photograph. I will share the techniques in a later post but I would like to get a better photo so the layers are more visible. </div>
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Until next year....<br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-26155326643703646332014-11-18T23:07:00.002-05:002014-11-18T23:17:11.701-05:00Key West Health and Beauty - Review Holiday 2014<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzCslRRYAe3bKO4J_U6umAdtKEMXmEX1GpD5zoBKGFS6klsCKoasT0K5y0OIDr_W6UI6zwt2JzzjHIY9ByPoxfSnZRIDKz5P4edj3hzjggeUL8AvfYi4gESqt3nD50DJQ7TOH1/s1600/Key_West_Logo.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzCslRRYAe3bKO4J_U6umAdtKEMXmEX1GpD5zoBKGFS6klsCKoasT0K5y0OIDr_W6UI6zwt2JzzjHIY9ByPoxfSnZRIDKz5P4edj3hzjggeUL8AvfYi4gESqt3nD50DJQ7TOH1/s1600/Key_West_Logo.jpg" /></a></div>
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Recently I was asked by <b><a href="http://keywesthealthandbeauty.com/about-us/" target="_blank">Key West Health and Beauty</a> </b>to review two of their products - <a href="http://keywesthealthandbeauty.com/organic-raw-unrefined-african-shea-butter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Raw Shea Butter</a> and <a href="http://keywesthealthandbeauty.com/retinol-night-cream/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Retinol Face Cream</a>. I think it is important to try new skin care products so I am usually open to reviewing new items. As we age, our skin needs change. I personally have found that my skin is much drier now that I am older, especially in the fall and winter, so I was looking forward to testing these items.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguxZ8fc9_avFNms6jjMIfRWU-CjT1ofyZaaU3vjqZ6N74eecPlOCsefQASvYnygRc0BE-0BD3mPJxrZMTUdiK4bP5bjd-_pD8EGYY5Dup-yEgo-G6sDrcWHqsjX7qsgxF7WE9n/s1600/Retinol-Cream.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguxZ8fc9_avFNms6jjMIfRWU-CjT1ofyZaaU3vjqZ6N74eecPlOCsefQASvYnygRc0BE-0BD3mPJxrZMTUdiK4bP5bjd-_pD8EGYY5Dup-yEgo-G6sDrcWHqsjX7qsgxF7WE9n/s1600/Retinol-Cream.jpg" height="320" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://keywesthealthandbeauty.com/retinol-night-cream/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Retinol Night Cream</a></b> - I was interested in trying this cream because I have problematic skin. The main thing I have noticed with this cream is that it is very rich and emollient but is also very absorbent. Some of the benefits per the Key West website<br />
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<li><i>Diminishes or removes age spots, hyper-pigmentation, sun damage and more</i></li>
<li><i>Unclogs and deep cleans pores</i></li>
<li><i>Restores brighter, more youthful skin</i></li>
<li><i> Boosts collagen production which: <br /> - Firms, plumps and tightens your skin <br /> - Eliminates fine lines and wrinkles <br />- Diminishes large pores</i></li>
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I have not been using it long enough to determine any long term results but so far I am enjoying the product. The night cream is what I would consider a higher end / high quality product and has an ARV of $79.99. It currently (November 2014) can be purchased at 50% off of retail. At $38 this is an affordable <i><b>luxury</b></i>. <br />
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<b><a href="http://keywesthealthandbeauty.com/organic-raw-unrefined-african-shea-butter/" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">Organic Unrefined African Shea Butter</a></b> - I have reviewed several skincare products through the years. I have been blogging since 2008 and have been fortunate to work with several companies - small independent brands to large corporations. I have reviewed a variety of skincare products and always post an honest review but I do not typically compare products. Obviously some products I will prefer more than others and I do have to say that the African Shea Butter <u>one of the <b>BEST</b> skin care products I have used... ever!</u>. I love it. My entire family loves it - even my daughter with super sensitive,m eczema prone skin. We will be purchasing this body butter regularly.<br />
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In the winter my skin does tend to get dry, especially on my legs, hands and feet. I have used it primarily on my feet and hands - a little more liberally to my feet though. On my hands I found that just a small dab is enough to moisturize. Too much and it will be a little too oily. <br />
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The key to applying is to thoroughly rub between the hands as it is semi-solid out of the tub. The rubbing motion melts the butter to where it is smoother in consistency and both easier to apply to the skin and easier for the skin to absorb.<br />
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I always wanted to try Shea Butter but did not know much about it outside of hearing how great it moisturizes. I am embarrassed to admit that I did not even know what Shea Butter was. Apparently Shea Butter is extracted from the nut of the African Shea Tree.<br />
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What do you get? Close to a full pound of Shea Butter (14 oz). This is a lot especially as a little bit of shea goes a long way! This typically retails for $39.95 but can currently be purchased now (November 2014) for only $14.95. That is SO affordable and such an incredible value. At this price I really think this would make such a great gift for <i>anyone</i> on your holiday list.<br />
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<b><i>Thank you to Key West Health and Beauty for this wonderful review opportunity! </i></b><br />
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<i><span style="font-size: x-small;"><b>Disclosure: </b> I received a product for review purposes. I was not required to write a positive review. For more information on this blog and posting practices, please refer to the disclosure policy at the bottom of this page. Posted prices are effective the date posted. Prices are not guaranteed and are subject to change</span></i>. <br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-89626151060405779192014-11-18T22:19:00.002-05:002014-11-18T22:20:16.177-05:00Polish Pottery from Artisan Imports - Holiday 2014 Review<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">I have always loved art glass and various types of pottery. A recent find at goodwill of a Bristol leaf pitcher from The W</span><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">izard of Clay was one of my thrift store success stories. (I remember touring his studio outside of Bristol NY in the late 80's). I also love Italian and Polish pottery but it would be a little bit more difficult logistically to tour studios that produce authentic pieces unless I was planning a trip to Europe. I was recently given the opportunity to review an authentic piece of Polish Pottery of my choice from Polmedia however..... Polmedia imports goods from overseas - in this case from Poland.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Polmedia is a family owned business that has been in business since the wall came down and free enterprise was allowed (post communism). You can find out more about the company <a href="http://www.artisanimports.com/Polish-Pottery/aboutUs.php" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a>. </span><br />
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<span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">What I find most impressive about Polish pottery and what I feel sets it apart from other types of pottery is the intricacy in the designs. Most Eastern European countries have similar types of design - very detailed and colorful, typically painted in cobalt blue. You can find out more about Polish Pottery <a href="http://www.artisanimports.com/Polish_Pottery/About_Us.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">HERE</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><a href="http://www.artisanimports.com/" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;" target="_blank">www.artisanimports.<wbr></wbr>com</a><span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;"> </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">I absolutely love the <a href="http://www.artisanimports.com/polish-pottery/plates-platters/stoneware-plates/H0557C.html" rel="nofollow" target="_blank">stoneware plate</a> we received. It is a little smaller than a salad plate but larger than a saucer. The detailing on the painted design is wonderful. Retailing at under $28, this is a great value. Some ideas:</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">- Purchase a variety of plates in different patterns and use for your daily dinnerware</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">- Use for entertaining. Simple appetizers or a small dessert would look lovely displayed on one of these plates</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">- Use when preparing food - I have used my plate as a spoon rest or to set small diced veggies during food prep.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">With the holidays approaching, this would make a beautiful hostess gift or present for the person who has it all! </span><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">The selection on the artisianimports.com site is immense and there should be a design to accommodate all tastes. Who would not appreciate a beautiful, unique handmade gift? This would be a memorable and appreciated gift! </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: arial, helvetica, sans-serif;">Thank you to Polmedia for this review opportunity.</span></span><br />
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<i><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: x-small;">Disclosure: I received product for review purposes. I did not receive any monetary compensation nor was I required to write a positive review. For more information on this blog and on my posting practices, please refer to the disclosure policy at the bottom of this page. </span></i><br />
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<a href="https://www.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-16706633225511486662014-11-13T20:15:00.000-05:002014-11-13T20:15:00.485-05:00Blast From the Past "The Complete Idiot's Guide to Making Natural Soaps" review<b style="color: black; font-family: 'Times New Roman'; font-size: medium; text-align: start;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><i>Due to a technical issue, earlier posts on this blog were deleted. These posts are being re-shared with Momanthology.com readers on a daily basis. This blog post was originally published on November 6, 2011</i></span></b><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I was very, very happy when I was contacted about reviewing </span><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://idiotsguides.com/nf/Book/BookDisplay/0,,9781615640225,00.html#" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">The Complete Idiot's Guide to Making Natural Soaps</a></i><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> by Sally Trew and Zonella Gould. I have always been interested in making my own soaps but everytime I tried to research how to do it I felt buried in information. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">There are different types of soap, different ways to make soap, different formulations, etc. and it was overwhelming to figure out where to start, what to buy and what do do.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The very beginning of the book gave a brief overview of how soap is made, and what materials are needed and how to store the finished product. There was a strong emphasis on safety and what measures are.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The next chapter covered </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Oils and Butters</b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> and what is appropriate for which varieties - some are lathering, others are moisturizing and others have medicinal benefits. There are also different forms for certain varieties of oil depending on how refined the material is. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Chapter 3 covers fragrance oils - not all oils are good for the skin. Find out which ones are wonderful for your skin and what properties they will bring to your soap. </span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">The rest of the book focuses on making the soap - learn how to use molds, the difference between hot process and cold process soap making. From calculations to curing, you can quickly and easily learn the ins and outs (and do's and don'ts). You can even learn how to make liquid soap or whip up a batch in your slow cooker!</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;">"<i>Soapmaking has always been a popular craft with a dedicated group of followers, but with the explosion of urban homesteading and people looking to go green, noncrafters are now joining in on the fun. Whether it's making natural soap to live greener, give as gifts, save money, or make money, The Complete Idiot's Guide(r) to Making Natural Soaps has everything the new soap maker will need to create organic, natural soaps of all kinds. </i></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>Includes recipes to make a wide array of molded, poured, and liquid soaps"</i></span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Part I - The Basics of Natural Soap-Making</b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">1 - Introduction to Soap Making</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">2 - Oils and Butters</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">3 - Fragrance and Essential Oils</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">4 - Hello to Soap Calc</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">5 - Soap Molds</span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> Part II - Making Cold and Hot Process Soaps</b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">6 - Cold Process Soap</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">7 - Hot Process Soap</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">8 - Cold and Hot Process Soap Recipes</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">9 - Goat Milk Soap</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">10 - Liquid Soap</span><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Part III - Getting Creative with your Soap</b><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">11 - Coloring Your Soap</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">12 - Taking Your Soap to the Next Level</span><br />
<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">13 - Fun with Melt and Pour Soap.</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">Overall I really love this book and cannot wait to try out natural soap making! These women are obviously experts and through their trial and error experiences, even beginners can learn what works and what doesn't. </span><br />
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<span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">ARV is listed as $14.95 USD but is is currently on sale for under $10. </span><span style="color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">This would be a fantastic gift to the crafter, DIYer or eco-conscious recipient on your gift list. Even better, buy it for yourself and make fabulous soaps for those on your gift list! Either way this book will be well-loved and well-read :)</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: xx-small;"><i>Disclosure - I did not receive any compensation for this post. I did receive a book for review purposes. For more information on this blog and on my posting practices, please refer to the disclosure policy at the bottom of the page. </i></span><br />
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<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-41283975758390427652014-11-11T08:00:00.000-05:002014-11-11T08:00:03.301-05:00Blast From the Past - "Harvey Prince Eau Flirt and Eau Fling Fall Giveaway Festival Giveaway" (ended)<i style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Due to a technical issue, earlier posts on this blog were deleted. These posts are being re-shared with Momanthology.com readers on a daily basis. This blog post was originally published on September 16, 2011</b></span></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5ML-_UPFAUE7jf5LaAhezRQm91Y5KAtxZS3PbRGd5aiyqJ3sSOh2gHU5MS0v8tPVg7qQ0hKRNmYUfiehb5LAMDI2ZrYM7QHRhxDvgaO2MmiSkAonWba0ZOxacTc2yhPgmWil/s1600/sub_fling.png" style="clear: left; color: #1155cc; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="173" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH5ML-_UPFAUE7jf5LaAhezRQm91Y5KAtxZS3PbRGd5aiyqJ3sSOh2gHU5MS0v8tPVg7qQ0hKRNmYUfiehb5LAMDI2ZrYM7QHRhxDvgaO2MmiSkAonWba0ZOxacTc2yhPgmWil/s200/sub_fling.png" width="200" /><span style="color: black;"></span></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYpzPDGeDpDan5zvGzBT_ds4WA-44kew-uiNsyCs7a9DykTtHEecbhxVNPowpsbGeri7uHjB_cgDwvOD1QH4EweQyYKggcvtnxdnXzob-C2BDDWoV9SItyUL6yeucdhgMxfrj4/s1600/fling+hp.jpg" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYpzPDGeDpDan5zvGzBT_ds4WA-44kew-uiNsyCs7a9DykTtHEecbhxVNPowpsbGeri7uHjB_cgDwvOD1QH4EweQyYKggcvtnxdnXzob-C2BDDWoV9SItyUL6yeucdhgMxfrj4/s1600/fling+hp.jpg" /></a></div>
<br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">I have worked with Harvey Prince a few times over the last couple of years. Read my reviews:</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.momanthology.com/2009/03/ageless-fantasy-pefume-review-and.html" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Ageless</a> </b><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><a href="http://www.momanthology.com/2009/09/flirt-review-and-giveaway.html" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" target="_blank"><b>Eau Flirt</b></a><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.momanthology.com/2011/09/harvey-prince-eau-flirt-and-eau-fling.html" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Eau Fling</a></b><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">A few things that are interesting about Harvey Prince:</b><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">- Their products are crafted locally in the USA, using the finest essential & natural oils from around the world.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">- Their products are 100% Cruelty Free. They use absolutely no animal testing, phthalates, parabens, sulfates, benzene, GMOs, or triclosan.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> I really love these beautiful fragrances! Harvey Prince is taking an innovative approach to fragrance. If you are a woman who likes people, places and things that are unique one of their scents should surely speak to you! If you are unsure of which selection you would prefer, for a small cost you can order samples on their website.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><i>As part of the Fall Giveaway Festival event, I have a fun giveaway sponsored by Harvey Prince! Two lucky winners will take home1 of Harvey Prince's best selling bottles -<u> one individual will win Eau Flirt and the other will win Eau Fling</u>. (ends 09/30)</i></b><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: medium;">To register simply fill out the Rafflecopter form below! Easy Entry!</span></b><br />
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<span style="font-size: medium;"><b><span style="color: red;">GIVEAWAY ENDED</span></b></span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Disclosure: </b>I received the opportunity to provide a prize pack to one of my readers through a PR firm. I did not receive any compensation for my reviews or for this giveaway. For more information on this blog or on my posting practices, please refer to the disclosure policy at the bottom of this page</span></i><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </span><br />
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<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-28368804222847489802014-11-10T09:00:00.000-05:002014-11-10T09:00:11.576-05:00Blast From the Past - "Tropical Traditions - Fall Giveaway Festival Review and Giveaway" (ended)<i style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Due to a technical issue, earlier posts on this blog were deleted. These posts are being re-shared with Momanthology.com readers on a daily basis. This blog post was originally published on September 16, 2011</span></i><br />
<i style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><br /></span></i>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWc0wehedmcpnhKmkMMReN4VDxpTMegwYKkoXqIOEYFL76xShbnut15so2gtjdBzT2IWKjPf5Oo5HDJsJsk_uNGCE-VXn6CS2Buj_RWicFh5FgI3XaVWenLSyhC-JyBUoGPLOl/s1600/tt+headertext.jpg" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="53" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWc0wehedmcpnhKmkMMReN4VDxpTMegwYKkoXqIOEYFL76xShbnut15so2gtjdBzT2IWKjPf5Oo5HDJsJsk_uNGCE-VXn6CS2Buj_RWicFh5FgI3XaVWenLSyhC-JyBUoGPLOl/s320/tt+headertext.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<i style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">As part of this giveaway festival, I am again partnering with </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;"><a href="http://www.tropicaltraditions.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Tropical Traditions</a></b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">, a regular sponsor on </span><a href="http://momanthology.com/" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" target="_blank">momanthology.com</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">. I love working with Tropical Traditions because they offer high quality natural and organic products on their site. Not only do I work with them on reviews and giveaways - I am also a customer. I recently ordered the </span><a href="http://www.tropicaltraditions.com/virgin_coconut_oil.htm" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" target="_blank">Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil </a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">that I had reviewed previously. Consider me a Coconut Oil convert!!!</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">For the Fall Giveaway Festival I had the opportunity to review both the </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;"><b><a href="http://www.tropicaltraditions.com/organic_hair_oils.htm" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Tropical Traditions Hair Oil</a> </b>and the <b><a href="http://www.tropicaltraditions.com/virgin_coconut_oil_for_hair_treatment.htm" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil for Hair</a>.</b></span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYr5XYVgsEFJV21SJpwG9ypKtJB3FQfiOQ4naCy13_1jQPfoFAr_oz71RBtkgIMZuSkMmkxCdxJiimXhoT9RjTbcN0QNa8vAcGINnNyRG-LXOT9jXXOWE9B6wD2V0ovyGM6iTC/s1600/tt+organic_lavender_hair_oil.jpg" style="background-color: white; clear: left; color: #1155cc; float: left; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiYr5XYVgsEFJV21SJpwG9ypKtJB3FQfiOQ4naCy13_1jQPfoFAr_oz71RBtkgIMZuSkMmkxCdxJiimXhoT9RjTbcN0QNa8vAcGINnNyRG-LXOT9jXXOWE9B6wD2V0ovyGM6iTC/s200/tt+organic_lavender_hair_oil.jpg" width="64" /></a><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">"Tropical Traditions has formulated three different hair oils using our organic <a href="http://www.tropicaltraditions.com/virgin_coconut_oil.htm" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil</a> along with other high quality organic oils known to nourish hair. Along with the base of organic Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil, we included organic jojoba oil, organic macadamia nut oil, organic rosehip oil, organic shea butter, and organic carrot seed oil in each formulation. Two of the formulations are scented with the highest quality organic essential oils available, imported from France: Rosemary and Lavender. There are no other ingredients besides these high quality organic oils: NO SILICONES, NO SULFATES, and NO ALCOHOLS".</i><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></i></i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-uPdaE8nZdhqoRQGfmcYPRjChAyxFsvQ_C42ckC8kNgn20_12UJO-iGoVc9CWkZneoFy9bzyCNcjmlw_rUcSyuq0E9epUq_Bvftjs1wvB1ajZgLOzZ-71hSviVsCGrA7RKIDg/s1600/tt+organic_rosemary_hair_oil.jpg" style="clear: left; color: #1155cc; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-uPdaE8nZdhqoRQGfmcYPRjChAyxFsvQ_C42ckC8kNgn20_12UJO-iGoVc9CWkZneoFy9bzyCNcjmlw_rUcSyuq0E9epUq_Bvftjs1wvB1ajZgLOzZ-71hSviVsCGrA7RKIDg/s200/tt+organic_rosemary_hair_oil.jpg" width="64" /></a></div>
<i style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">Available scents:</b><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">Unscented</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">Lavender</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">Rosemary</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ySEDxuS_fcBBzZtxAqypy8eoKsogSl35YRC7zOpWRM6xiHI2pp8-33Fw7pMvO7VYiNCM0stVJTcUaHNoBQ5S0JAuKUxqh1_MGWHmmMpscdjna-SplZittZa0np7FWDk3RM_a/s1600/tt+organic_unscented_hair_oil.jpg" style="background-color: white; clear: left; color: #1155cc; float: left; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0ySEDxuS_fcBBzZtxAqypy8eoKsogSl35YRC7zOpWRM6xiHI2pp8-33Fw7pMvO7VYiNCM0stVJTcUaHNoBQ5S0JAuKUxqh1_MGWHmmMpscdjna-SplZittZa0np7FWDk3RM_a/s200/tt+organic_unscented_hair_oil.jpg" width="64" /></a><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">MY REVIEW:</b><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;"> I have extremely dry, brittle hair but the scalp can tend to get oily. I am fortunate that my hair "expands" when going from wet to dry so it looks thicker than it actually is. The flip side of having this texture is that as it dries, my hair tends to get very frizzy and kinky in some areas; this makes it much more difficult to manage when dry and prone to breakage. Another challenge is that through the years my hair has lost a great bit of curl and thinned (due both to age and to alopecia). </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">Women of different ethnicities will often have different hair care concerns. Taking care of specific ethnic hair types may need to be approached differently. Even though I am Italian, my hair is has many of the same traits of African American hair and I face many of the same challenges that African American women do. As such, after quite a bit of research, I have adopted some of the recommended hair care practices for taking care of African American hair, including using oil treatments, for taking care of my own hair. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;"> I have tried other oil treatments but with mixed results finding that I have to literally dispense a "perfect" amount of product. If I don't put exactly the right amount on I either do not see a difference at all OR my hair looks greasy and the thinning is accentuated from the excess of product. I was interested to see if using coconut oil would perform any differently....</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">When I received the package from tropical traditions I took it out of the box, squirted a quarter sized amount in my hand and then rubbed it evenly from ends and worked my way up. After I did that I went into the bathroom to look at the mirror and was very happy with the results. </span></i><br />
<ul style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><b>No greasiness</b></li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><b>Frizzy hair tamed</b></li>
<li style="margin-left: 15px;"><b>Smoother, silkier texture</b></li>
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<i style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">I was shocked actually. Now granted, it did not get rid of ALL of the frizziness, but it definitely worked, more so that any other products I have tried. I think what was most impressive was that it made a NOTICEABLE difference. I am really looking forward to seeing what happens with long term use.</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">I tried the lavender scented product. I have used the Tropical Traditions lavender scented soaps and found that these had more of a true lavender scent. The hair oil seemed to have a combination lavender - coconut scent which was not unpleasant, but it was not what I was expecting either. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">I am not sure why the coconut oil works differently than other oils other than it is easily absorbed by the hair. Having noticed this myself, I confirmed my suspicions by googling.... For some reason coconut oil is absorbed more easily into the hair shaft instead of clinging to the outside like other oils can tend to do. I am not sure if this will work for everyone but it is recommended for all hair types. (I also cannot confirm that you will have the same results that I did, but it cannot hurt to try.)</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">I am such a huge advocate for Tropical Traditions Products. I really think that their products are of excellent quality and are of great value. If you are on the fence about purchasing from Tropical Traditions, read over their testimonials, the great information posted on site and compare the prices to other retailers. For example, on my last order I priced the coconut oil. I found that Tropical Traditions offered the best value for what I was looking for (natural, organic coconut oil in a larger package). The people behind Tropical Traditions are also a passionate advocate for living a natural, organic and sustainable lifestyle and want to share that passion with their customer base. I will continue to regularly use their products and hope that you will consider doing so. </span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">I have one Tropical Traditions Hair Oil product to giveaway to one of my readers. This is a $28 value! Enter using the Rafflecopter form below! Also, when I announce the winner I will post an update about the </span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: 'Times New Roman', Times, serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil which I am also reviewing :)</span><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;"><i>GIVEAWAY ENDED</i></b><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b>Disclosure:</b> I received the opportunity to provide a prize pack to one of my readers through a PR firm. I did not receive any compensation for my initial review or for this giveaway. For more information on this blog or on my posting practices, please refer to the disclosure policy at the bottom of this page. All opinions expressed are my own. </i><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><br /></i></i><br />
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<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-43669787639803113862014-11-09T08:00:00.000-05:002014-11-09T08:00:04.217-05:00Blast From the Past - "VTech InnoTech Prize Pack Fall Giveaway Festival" (ended)<i style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Due to a technical issue, earlier posts on this blog were deleted. These posts are being re-shared with Momanthology.com readers on a daily basis. This blog post was originally published on September 16, 2011</span></i><br />
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You may remember my initial VTech InnoTech informative post - VTech's InnoTech is an electronic tablet for children ages 4 - 9. This post is loaded with information including product specs, product capabilities, pictures and video content.</div>
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<i style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeA1R19RNYFlZW9ZcGrKeeFqxMUrDniyZcVqowai0OI-_aj508kT0PII6whNZwhMFqtVYUUP-bDuiWcblJV59ZWC5YHi6pNYXmSWs1HcAUfFkprK6gaJJDeaL9UoE5RIgYYmFj/s1600/vtech+crayons.jpg" style="background-color: white; clear: left; color: #1155cc; float: left; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="119" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeA1R19RNYFlZW9ZcGrKeeFqxMUrDniyZcVqowai0OI-_aj508kT0PII6whNZwhMFqtVYUUP-bDuiWcblJV59ZWC5YHi6pNYXmSWs1HcAUfFkprK6gaJJDeaL9UoE5RIgYYmFj/s200/vtech+crayons.jpg" width="200" /></a><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDafXsDIxiiK6MfWjLBA5uuIvKJEicXCWGts7NPi9odckxyXzUhn1_yO-C2auRBOGbVIaLcBpoBrM89HisZr8mlghvV9OficGqgse4FdANC6aKwt1gK2iV4Zyysux2TKrDOhNQ/s1600/vtech+tee.jpg" style="background-color: white; clear: left; color: #1155cc; float: left; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="119" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhDafXsDIxiiK6MfWjLBA5uuIvKJEicXCWGts7NPi9odckxyXzUhn1_yO-C2auRBOGbVIaLcBpoBrM89HisZr8mlghvV9OficGqgse4FdANC6aKwt1gK2iV4Zyysux2TKrDOhNQ/s200/vtech+tee.jpg" width="200" /></a><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">As part of this event, I have a fun giveaway sponsored by VTech. I have one VTech InnoTech prize pack to giveaway to a lucky reader. </span><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">The prize pack includes a children's t-shirt (S, M or L), flash drive and crayons (ARV $30 USD).</b><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;"><span style="font-size: medium;">To enter for a chance to win simply follow the instructions below on the Rafflecopter form. Easy entry!</span></b><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><b style="background-color: white;"><span style="color: red;"><br style="font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" />GIVEAWAY ENDED</span></b><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b><br /></b></span></i><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b><br /></b></span></i><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b><br /></b></span></i><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;" /><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Disclosure:</b> I received the opportunity to provide a prize pack to one of my readers through a PR firm. I did not receive any compensation for my <a href="http://www.momanthology.com/2011/08/vtech-innotab-new-electronic-tablet-for.html" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">initial post</a> or for this giveaway. For more information on this blog or on my posting practices, please refer to the disclosure policy at the bottom of this page</span></i><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; font-style: normal;">.</span></i><br />
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Love your tablet? I love mine too! I actually have to fight my kids for it. If you don't own a tablet yet, it is very likely to be high on your wish list. Well not to be left out in the cold, VTech has jumped in a created a Tablet for the younger tech set!</div>
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<b>VTech. More to Love. </b><i><a href="http://www.vtechkids.com/landingpage/innotab" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">InnoTab</a>. The Learning App Tablet</i><br /><br />Here is some helpful information on the InnoTab that I received from VTech:</div>
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<br /><i><b>About InnoTab.......</b><br />• The InnoTab is a cutting-edge, multi-function tablet for children 4-9. Packed with fun, the InnoTab offers interactive and animated e-books, learning games, creative activities and more – all in one compact, durable tablet. Pull it out of the box – and it’s ready to go for hours of play<br />• The InnoTab features:<br />- A 5” brilliant color touch screen LCD (industry’s first?)<br />- A sleek, kid-tough and compact design to take on the go<br />- Animated e-books, learning games, music player, video player and so much more,<br />- A cartridge library that features kids’ favorite characters<br />- A tilt-sensor for game control<br />- 100 downloadable titles (by the end of the year)<br />• While adult tablets costs $600, the InnoTab is $79.99 – a smart purchase for kids. You can give your kid a tablet designed just for them for less than your family’s monthly cell phone bill.</i></div>
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If you are more of a visual person, check out the informative videos below and see how the <b>VTech</b> <b>InnoTab</b> is educational, interactive and fun!<br /><br /><b><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zDxnBGPJD3s" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">InnoTab Overview Demo from VTech</a></b><br /><br /><br /><br /></div>
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<b>Behind The Scenes: </b><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5RQQOzJvyw4" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Behind The Scenes with VTech's InnoTab</a><br /><br /><br /><br /><br /><b>Behind The Scenes: </b><a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bj63mFQy2gQ" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">InnoTab's Touch Screen &amp; Motion Games</a><br /><br /><br /><br /></div>
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<br /><b><u>This is a Smart Purchase/Investment: </u></b><br />• <b>The InnoTab provides hours of play</b> that lasts for years; long term this is an excellent value.<br />• <b>The InnoTab is multi-functional</b> ; kids can play games, watch videos, play music, read ebooks and more</div>
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• <b>More for the child as they develop; </b>This is a gadget that grows with your child!<br />• <b>Great Price; </b>For a fraction of the cost of a "grown-up" tablet, this includes age-appropriate applications that your child will actually use.<br /><br /><br /><b><u>INNOTAB FEATURES AND DETAILS</u></b><br />1. E.Reader<br />2. Motion Games<br />3. Art Studio<br />4. Coloring<br />5. Organizer<br />6. Music<br />7. Videos (sold separately)<br />8. Photos (sold separately)<br />9. Downloads<br /><br /><b>Product Details:</b><br />· 5" color touch screen and tilt-sensor for educational gameplay<br />· E-books, educational games, creative activities, learning apps, and more available on cartridge or as downloads from VTech Learning Lodge Navigator website<br />· 4 different media players: E-Book reader, MP3 music player, photo viewer and video player<br />· 64MB onboard memory and SD card slot for memory expansion<br />· Learning toy connects to PC/Mac with included USB cable<br />· 4AA Batteries Required<br />· ARV is only $79.99 USD<br /><br /><b>Looking for a fabulous b-day gift or already beginning holiday shopping? You can Pre-order InnoTab at your favorite Retailer:</b></div>
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<a href="http://www.toysrus.com/product/index.jsp?productId=11888558" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Toys R Us</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/VTech-InnoTab-Learning-App-Tablet/16672573" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Walmart</a></div>
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<a href="http://www.walmart.com/ip/VTech-InnoTab-Learning-App-Tablet/16672573" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><span style="color: black;"></span></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/dp/B004VJNRKG" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Amazon</a><br /><a href="http://www.kmart.com/shc/s/p_10151_10104_004W003460800000P" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Kmart</a><br /><br />For more information you can also check out the Innotab from VTech on <a href="http://www.facebook.com/vtechtoys" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">facebook</a> and <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/VTechToys" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">youtube</a>.</div>
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<i><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Disclosure - </b>I received information on the InnoTab from VTech through a PR firm. I did not receive a product to review nor did I receive monetary compensation. I will be able to give an InnoTab prize pack to one of my readers. For more information on this blog and on my posting practices, please refer to the disclosure policy posted at the bottom of this page.</span></i></div>
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<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-11844999252446965772014-11-08T09:00:00.000-05:002014-11-08T09:00:02.545-05:00Blast From the Past - "ShaToBu - Fall Giveaway Festival Review and Giveaway" (ended)<i style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><b>Due to a technical issue, earlier posts on this blog were deleted. These posts are being re-shared with Momanthology.com readers on a daily basis. This blog post was originally published on September 16, 2011</b></span></i><br />
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<i style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><span style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;">I was thrilled when ShaToBu contacted me - this is actually an ironic story. I work from home 1 - 2 days a week and go into the office 3 - 4 days a week. Our dress code at work is professional casual. I usually wear black slacks (I have about 6 pairs!), a nice shirt or sweater and heels. </span><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><span style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;">I cannot stand "panty lines", seeing the outline of someones thong or clothes that look ill fitting. Because I prefer the clean lines, when wearing slacks I always wear a shaper. I have 3 shapers - I love 2 of them and the other I only wear if either of first two are being laundered. I also can stand to lose more than a few pounds. Shapers do help give a slimmer appearance to a certain extent. </span><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRsTdWq1d50RIlYkEBy9Fdn1hThMw0mOCnK37KfIomEWsxE5-F6Ga1rv6qYQYQqsUABEXs81tOCRlcDRMcCF12XaaEaf_f-iyJdutLkg34VzIvcX1eXgpoj7jlodilleya3YjM/s1600/shatobu+description.png" style="clear: left; color: #1155cc; float: left; font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: start;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjRsTdWq1d50RIlYkEBy9Fdn1hThMw0mOCnK37KfIomEWsxE5-F6Ga1rv6qYQYQqsUABEXs81tOCRlcDRMcCF12XaaEaf_f-iyJdutLkg34VzIvcX1eXgpoj7jlodilleya3YjM/s200/shatobu+description.png" width="200" /></a><span style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;">Unfortunately the two shapers that I love have seen better days and I realized I needed to buy a new one. I have tried inexpensive shapers and they do not withstand much use so I am willing to spend considerably more to get one that will last for quite some time. I was literally planning to go out and buy a new one later that in the day when ShaToBu contacted me asking me to review their product. Talk about good luck!</span><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><span style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;">When researching the product I learned that ShaToBu is different than your every day shaper. What makes their product different is that it is designed to work your muscles through resistance bands that are sewn into the garment itself.</span><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirJ5-RgEBKVgQvivxzEEUVNFOIKHyIebO45I30iLisJV3TchisGzi8fEL4Qip4ImI02kgqQnvBgmb0ngTQL1Or73QzN-eQBzIQsJ6U5bY_QhtTtKi7L3xz_-28Jo6OYKSnIAVK/s1600/shatobu+knee+high.jpg" style="clear: right; color: #1155cc; float: right; font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: start;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirJ5-RgEBKVgQvivxzEEUVNFOIKHyIebO45I30iLisJV3TchisGzi8fEL4Qip4ImI02kgqQnvBgmb0ngTQL1Or73QzN-eQBzIQsJ6U5bY_QhtTtKi7L3xz_-28Jo6OYKSnIAVK/s1600/shatobu+knee+high.jpg" /></a><span style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;"> </span><i style="text-align: start;">"ShaToBu - The Workout You Wear - is the revolutionary shaper that helps women shape, tone and burn more calories during everyday activities. The benefits go beyond ordinary shapewear - ShaToBu instantly gives a sleeker silhouette, but women can also see and feel a difference in their bodies with regular use over time. By incorporating resistance bands right into the garment, muscles work a little harder and more calories are burned during daily activities."</i><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><b style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;"> Check out the informative video below:</b><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2l1wc2RE_1F_iNe9WuAcEfzk-A5lK_XydIB6QTl7BDLY89Z3hUrh8ndoaVCZvSg8pG-cBzWmzvynBWt-9ZmDYmG2ay8a9icG9Y8VLT69bm5rYBZmMvQuVClufIt2H4YGaZBek/s1600/shatobu+header+jpg.JPG" style="clear: left; color: #1155cc; float: left; font-style: normal; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: start;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2l1wc2RE_1F_iNe9WuAcEfzk-A5lK_XydIB6QTl7BDLY89Z3hUrh8ndoaVCZvSg8pG-cBzWmzvynBWt-9ZmDYmG2ay8a9icG9Y8VLT69bm5rYBZmMvQuVClufIt2H4YGaZBek/s200/shatobu+header+jpg.JPG" width="156" /></a><span style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;">I selected the Waist to Knee Shaper - this retails for $48 USD. Through the years I found that if a shaper is too small, it will be binding and uncomfortable but if it is too large it does not do as effective of a job. Because of these reasons, it is important to select the appropriate size. I was at the end of one size and on the cusp of another so ordered up to make sure that I had a good fit.</span><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><span style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;">I received this VERY quickly. I opened immediately to check it out. The ShaToBu shaper does look noticeably different from the others that I have used. It has a defined waistband, a tummy panel and resistance bands in the thigh area.</span><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><strong style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;">My Review:</strong><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><span style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;">- I noticed that the ShaToBu is very lightweight but heavy duty (solidly constructed). I think I will need to be careful not to snag the lighter nylon-wovenparts of the garment when putting on; once on however it does have the heaviness of wearing an extra garment. Becuse some of the areas are lighter weight than others and more susceptible to snagging, I will be hand washing to preserve the longevity of the shaper. </span><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><span style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;">- Even though I ordered a size up, I found that this was a very tight fit. Once on it was surprisingly not uncomfortable at all, but I will admit it took an extra minute to get on. </span><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><span style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;">I am shorter and most of my weight is in the butt, thighs and hips (pear shaped), so if you have a similar body type I would recommend ordering up a size. Otherwise I would suggest taking measurements and using your own discretion. </span><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><span style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;">- The length was longer than my other shapers which is nice - for me this meets at the knee instead of mid thigh. One of the concerns with the shorter length is the lines at the end. Since the ShaToBu meets closer to the knee where the pant fit is looser than the thigh area, this concern is eliminated. </span><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><span style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;">- I definitely felt the resistance when walking but it was not at all uncomfortable of debilitating. I really look forward to using it when I am at work!</span><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><span style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;">If you are in the market for a new shaper, I recommend checking out the ShaToBu as it provides some of the benefits of a workout (resistance) through every day activities. </span><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><br style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;" /><b style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;">Thanks to ShaToBu, I also have one shaper to give to one lucky entrant in their choice of style, color and size.</b><span style="font-style: normal; text-align: start;"> For details please refer to the Rafflecopter form below. Please note that this is open to Canadian and US residents! Ends 09/30/2011.</span></i><br />
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<b><br /><span style="color: red;">GIVEAWAY ENDED</span></b><br />
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<i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><b>Disclosure: </b> I received the opportunity to provide a prize pack to one of my readers through a PR firm. I </span></i><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">did not receive any compensation for my initial review or for this giveaway. For more information on this </span></i><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">blog or on my posting practices, please refer to the disclosure policy at the bottom of this page</span></i><br style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" /><br />
<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none 0% 0% repeat scroll transparent; border: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-9879068.post-1033040709635075322014-11-07T09:00:00.000-05:002014-11-07T09:00:06.025-05:00Blast from the Past -" Everyday Minerals Fall Giveaway Festival Giveaway" (ended)<div style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-size: 13px;">
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<i style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; text-align: start;"><span style="color: purple; font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;">Due to a technical issue, earlier posts on this blog were deleted. These posts are being re-shared with Momanthology.com readers on a daily basis. This blog post was originally published on September 16, 2011</span></i></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">As part of this event, I reached out to <a href="https://www.everydayminerals.com/" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Everyday Minerals</a>. I have transitioned to using mineral makeup and have tried many brands. I found out about Everyday Minerals on a different blog promotion and have been a customer of theirs since. You can find out more about the company <a href="https://www.everydayminerals.com/about-em" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">HERE</a>. You can also browse the glowing <a href="http://www.everydayminerals.com/about/love-letters" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">testimonials</a> posted on site.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Everyday Minerals offers high quality mineral makeup at a fraction of the cost of other premium brands. I have used both expensive brands and non-expensive brands . Everyday Minerals is a fine cosmetic line at a mid-range price point. I have stopped using the more expensive brand because Everyday Minerals offers a better value for the money without compromising quality.</span></div>
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<span style="color: black; font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; vertical-align: baseline; white-space: pre-wrap;">Recently I purchased the following - all of this was well under $100!:</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQasvJfocF_bBE5BoNOqNlaBowJFRMGPXe4-PDj2zEQKSwAliN_LCCsgwijwAMYFOK6wqU4cBEFAU9IGVKaXOTgPc-ttFDnN-row1YZCDbgr5FGrID_iZlDXph3yib5yL_BW_/s1600/em+artgirl.png" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><span style="font-family: Helvetica Neue, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif;"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgVQasvJfocF_bBE5BoNOqNlaBowJFRMGPXe4-PDj2zEQKSwAliN_LCCsgwijwAMYFOK6wqU4cBEFAU9IGVKaXOTgPc-ttFDnN-row1YZCDbgr5FGrID_iZlDXph3yib5yL_BW_/s200/em+artgirl.png" width="200" /></span></a></div>
<a href="http://www.everydayminerals.com/store/color/new-colors/eye-shadow-brush-gift-package-art-girl.html" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" target="_blank"><b>"Art Girl"</b> <b>eye shadow set</b></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl1YbQVW86U5gBDQVV_9w6XiZoZBUBvCwo8vxgeqFXtsG4fEmLSUyHkIC0DxAV7ZMwAwoPJ5wt_mZWIr1FsTh3N8O1mqlPR6oaY7N0IuMs9Usgxb23W4WL6T5yvTrLP7E_IZlp/s1600/em+duwopabove.jpg" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjl1YbQVW86U5gBDQVV_9w6XiZoZBUBvCwo8vxgeqFXtsG4fEmLSUyHkIC0DxAV7ZMwAwoPJ5wt_mZWIr1FsTh3N8O1mqlPR6oaY7N0IuMs9Usgxb23W4WL6T5yvTrLP7E_IZlp/s200/em+duwopabove.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<a href="http://www.everydayminerals.com/store/color/eyes/shimmer/wish-you-were-here.html" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" target="_blank"><b>"Wish You Were Here" Shimmer Eye Powder</b></a><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHmfUehrI7zIXg73ru4zBKOEk5fFbW6tem5dqRWGLrc8nUf3_JmW6XTRoDbyg-YAhdC4ftlo3QnwyJXDx2soHXcdj2I1yvC41ZMjM0kPNyGp5usJqKfV2OKodiFSm6LiWEmPSW/s1600/em+medium_1_2.png" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhHmfUehrI7zIXg73ru4zBKOEk5fFbW6tem5dqRWGLrc8nUf3_JmW6XTRoDbyg-YAhdC4ftlo3QnwyJXDx2soHXcdj2I1yvC41ZMjM0kPNyGp5usJqKfV2OKodiFSm6LiWEmPSW/s200/em+medium_1_2.png" width="200" /></a></div>
<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.everydayminerals.com/store/try-me-free/base/medium-matte.html" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Medium Matte Sampler </a></b><br />
<i style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">(<a href="http://www.everydayminerals.com/store/try-me-free/base.html" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">FREE Sample</a> with every order! Simply add your choice to your cart)</i><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1sGOX7fFs5XGDMvvNJGcv0V63ro7DNz-R8DBPSjkT6r_PvWOU6tD78GXgdJ7hBdpdOlAdhTqvinsrmAbbLytAqcgea4UkmvI_CGs0ySIwk8UTa_C-jzVCbdzTDYZMZaszVpXf/s1600/em+mediumbeigebeauty_1_1.jpg" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1sGOX7fFs5XGDMvvNJGcv0V63ro7DNz-R8DBPSjkT6r_PvWOU6tD78GXgdJ7hBdpdOlAdhTqvinsrmAbbLytAqcgea4UkmvI_CGs0ySIwk8UTa_C-jzVCbdzTDYZMZaszVpXf/s200/em+mediumbeigebeauty_1_1.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.everydayminerals.com/store/base/matte/medium-matte.html" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Medium Matte Base</a></b><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> from the </span><a href="http://www.everydayminerals.com/store/base.html" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" target="_blank">Everyday Minerals Bases</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> section</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1h0ZzPrvWmJv_XlHWDMfGWhNGQO1wXbzzcV2p-KWyRSsA6gq1qFDaKrtvTtvoGqkWrBf0O40GvMPgAXFnNu6j9zZr59uCsDUHMndi63qKZMdnGe4uW4xLZ-xC3R6iuhdZveE_/s1600/em+mintccbeauty.jpg" style="color: #1155cc; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1h0ZzPrvWmJv_XlHWDMfGWhNGQO1wXbzzcV2p-KWyRSsA6gq1qFDaKrtvTtvoGqkWrBf0O40GvMPgAXFnNu6j9zZr59uCsDUHMndi63qKZMdnGe4uW4xLZ-xC3R6iuhdZveE_/s200/em+mintccbeauty.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.everydayminerals.com/store/face/concealers/conceal-mint-color-corrector.html" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Mint Color Corrector</a> </b><br />
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<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> </b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBWeqa6LKzvCaDC5kreRD_A5lSZKCR0xA6ZwbcN3Myx-_h9ctRsIPoSr4AG-qWthvyMU-hx4GyfqiIK_yTowr-0nd9l1VxXucJw84cZhYJCRaHQz-2aGYdgRAmY2Y1Us-ljYWM/s1600/em+file_16_6.jpg" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBWeqa6LKzvCaDC5kreRD_A5lSZKCR0xA6ZwbcN3Myx-_h9ctRsIPoSr4AG-qWthvyMU-hx4GyfqiIK_yTowr-0nd9l1VxXucJw84cZhYJCRaHQz-2aGYdgRAmY2Y1Us-ljYWM/s200/em+file_16_6.jpg" width="200" /></a><br />
<b style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.everydayminerals.com/store/color/collections/no-makeup-makeup-kit-medium-to-tan.html" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">"No Makeup" Makeup Kit</a></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwANAvkYkdxQ960-xPgxbD8w_GFSqXFZ0OAhskQ5SuerDPor2O-4_QczpDFy54739p3cFJU9CoxlgAT7KkWTcrV7L-h0O3KtZwwVXlsP6KSy5V4hnTn6yp-xR63ZzBZcwEIz4a/s1600/finishingdust-above.jpg" style="clear: left; color: #1155cc; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwANAvkYkdxQ960-xPgxbD8w_GFSqXFZ0OAhskQ5SuerDPor2O-4_QczpDFy54739p3cFJU9CoxlgAT7KkWTcrV7L-h0O3KtZwwVXlsP6KSy5V4hnTn6yp-xR63ZzBZcwEIz4a/s200/finishingdust-above.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<b><a href="http://www.everydayminerals.com/store/face/concealers/conceal-mint-color-corrector.html" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">Finishing Dust</a></b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJ_cidPtI-g4HojZSm2_I4WgbaWSgQdNncjN4VTBeVPO-zET94YrZglqoG_hkYku2kr3VtC6UlyuwNqRMgZdXKA8qPR6vRy7dWM2lxSnZcDUayamNEAvwGHCur6hpd23t1-VF/s1600/em+multiintensivebeauty.jpg" style="clear: left; color: #1155cc; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwJ_cidPtI-g4HojZSm2_I4WgbaWSgQdNncjN4VTBeVPO-zET94YrZglqoG_hkYku2kr3VtC6UlyuwNqRMgZdXKA8qPR6vRy7dWM2lxSnZcDUayamNEAvwGHCur6hpd23t1-VF/s200/em+multiintensivebeauty.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<strong style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><a href="http://www.everydayminerals.com/store/face/concealers/conceal-multi-intensive.html" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">"</a></strong><br />
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<a href="http://www.everydayminerals.com/store/face/concealers/conceal-multi-intensive.html" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><strong>Multi Intensive Concealer "Big</strong></a></div>
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I also purchased a small sampler set of <a href="http://www.everydayminerals.com/store/face/face/face-anti-shine.html" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank"><b>everyday shine powders</b></a>. Unfortunately these can no longer be found on the website because the <a href="http://www.everydayminerals.com/store/try-me-free/promos.html" rel="nofollow" style="color: #1155cc;" target="_blank">"try me free" promos</a> change every week!<br />
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These are such a great value and at the Everyday Minerals website you will find a variety of finishes and shades to meet different skin types and skin tones. Thanks to Everyday Minerals I have a small set of cosmetics to giveaway to one reader. <strong>One winner will receive a full size blush, shadow and lippie plus a sample! <span style="color: black; font-family: arial; font-size: xx-small; font-stretch: normal; font-weight: normal;"> </span></strong></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">To enter, simply check out the </span><a href="http://www.everydayminerals.com/" rel="nofollow" style="background-color: white; color: #1155cc; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;" target="_blank">Everyday Minerals</a><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"> website and then fill out the rafflecopter form below</span><span style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;">:</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><b><span style="color: red;">GIVEAWAY ENDED</span></b></span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7L7HR0P96DRXEe1xXQLQTX29l1r4Iyp-SEbwnjxFKgTBZaS8gjhSNhDJ-CKCPxDpIDUvURFJHPVIinrD4DmUwsLcAXG7CuAZiSGB01Zdu8TcsHXod2Bl8_tQQm-k6yuzpAQ6/s1600/invoice-art-hdr.jpg" style="clear: left; color: #1155cc; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;" target="_blank"><img border="0" class="CToWUd" height="112" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT7L7HR0P96DRXEe1xXQLQTX29l1r4Iyp-SEbwnjxFKgTBZaS8gjhSNhDJ-CKCPxDpIDUvURFJHPVIinrD4DmUwsLcAXG7CuAZiSGB01Zdu8TcsHXod2Bl8_tQQm-k6yuzpAQ6/s400/invoice-art-hdr.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<em style="background-color: white; color: #222222; font-family: arial, sans-serif; font-size: 13px;"><span style="font-size: xx-small;"><strong>Disclosure:</strong> Everyday Minerals will be providing one prize pack to a random winner. I did not receive any compensation for my initial review or for this giveaway. For more information on this blog or on my posting practices, please refer to the disclosure policy at the bottom of this page</span></em><br />
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<a href="https://draft.blogger.com/blogger.g?blogID=9879068" target="_blank"><img src="http://i447.photobucket.com/albums/qq196/misaacmom/siggy.gif" style="background: none transparent scroll repeat 0% 0%; border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none;" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09626942181065470301noreply@blogger.com0