Flowers And Treats, For Others, Or Just To Keep!

The holidays are a time for families, and one of my favorite families are the 1-800 Flowers family, including 1-800- Flowers.com, 1-800 Baskets.com, Fannie May, Cheryl & Co, Plow and Hearth Outdoor, The Popcorn Factory, Harry London, Hearthsong, (ahhh let me catch my breath!)Magic Cabin, Wine Tasting Network, Ambrosia, Geerlings Wade, Wind & Weather, ProblemSolvers, and Celebrations! Did I leave any out!!! Send a gift of Cheryl & Co this holiday season! Packed to the very tip top, this towering giant of a gift is sure to satisfy and cookie lover's sweet tooth! I know it satisfied mine! The frosted sugar cookies beat the sprinkles off the competition in a home taste test. This tower boasts a variety of cookies and I was able to taste the very best of their offerings. I'll be placing my order soon!

1-800 Baskets.com sent a lovely Festive Holiday Sleigh that will help usher in the holidays! These tempting treasures will help me pass my holiday hosting test with flying colors! Beautifully arranged, this sleigh is packed with all your favorites. Perfect for the big night, and all those leading up to it!
The Popcorn Factory has the greatest popcorn! Fresh, never stale, this flavorful popcorn hits the spot. Open up a tin and have a fun holiday movie night. It's a nice change from ordinary bag/microwave popcorn and less greasy than movie theater popcorn! Crunch after crunch, you'll fall in love with this treat. Butter, Cheddar, Caramel and more!

 1-800 Flowers sent me a beautiful holiday centerpiece almost two weeks ago! The Holiday Lights Centerpiece was delivered by my local florist. The arrangement was stunning when it arrived. Over the next few days it blossomed into a full, lush arrangement! I mist it daily, and after at almost two weeks, everything is still vibrant and lush! All flowers are healthy and the greenery looks fresh!! The day I received my centerpiece, I found this fantastic wreath on my doorstep! The Green Pear and Berry Wreath is full and beautiful. It is medium sized and it looks nice in my kitchen! It is so fragrant and before I opened the box, I could smell the scent of Christmas! Adorned with small realistic looking pears and berries, this wreath has lasted! I mist it daily and so far, there have been no dropped needles! Visit one of these fabulous sites and order that perfect holiday gift! My husband has used 1-800 Flowers for years and they have always given him the very best customer service!

To Disclose: I was sent these treats for this review. No monetary compensation received.

Celebrate The Holidays With Nestle! Contest And Giveaway Too!

Nestle is having an awesome Holiday Giveaway! Check out the Holiday Memories Photo Contest and enter to win a $500 gift card as well as other prizes. There are five grand prize winners who will receive a $500 gift card and then 45 $50 gift cards for all 45 finalists. To enter, submit your favorite (or fitting) holiday photo into one of (or all five) themes. Enter before 6:00 p.m. ET on 1/4/10! Click here for rules! Nestle is giving one of my readers a little holiday cheer too! Win a $40 prize pack including free coupons (good for free products!) from Toll House (chocolate chips and cookie dough), Carnation Evaporated Milk and Breakfast Essentials, Stouffer’s, Juicy Juice and Boost Kid Essentials, as well as products from Wonka and Rasinets. They will also be including a 4x6 silver photo frame and the Carnation holiday recipe guide! To enter, simply visit Nestle and tell me which Nestle Family product is your favorite! Leave 5 extra comments for entering the Holiday Memories Photo Contest! Digg or stumble for two extra entries and follow me for one more! Giveaway ends midnight Jan. 4 2010! Open to US residents only!
To Disclose: Nestle is sending a "giveaway package" to me and also providing one to a lucky reader!

A Gift Of Cake And Flowers! Truffles Too!

You can buy truffles just about anywhere. You can't buy these anywhere except Nonnie Waller's Traditional Southern, an online boutique! Flowers and chocolates go hand in hand, and one company has put them together in the most beautiful way. Adding a touch of southern charm, Nonnie Waller's makes gift giving very special with elegant hatbox presentations. With a variety of designs, filled with delicious chocolates and cakes, some topped with gorgeous nosegays, your loved one will be delighted with these treasures! We were given the opportunity to sample some of these decadent truffles. Everyone that shared that mouth watering experience was in chocolate heaven, and each truffle lasted more than a bite, prolonging the sensation! Each truffle is large and although they are "4 bites in each one", mine seemed to be more! The silken chocolate truffles are rich and velvety smooth, some of the smoothest chocolates that I have had the pleasure of tasting. The Creamy Milk was my all time favorite, while my husband enjoyed the Rich Dark and Logan loved the White Chocolate. Each truffle was beautifully decorated and almost too beautiful to eat. The Creamy Milk has to be the creamiest milk chocolate that I've ever had. Logan also loved the Raspberry with a candied violet. I have never been a fan of fruit and chocolate, but this was pretty good! Logan on the other hand, took one bite and made several sounds which told me how he felt. Even Sam joined in and made a few very loud Mmmms.

If your loved one isn't sweet on chocolates, send a cake instead! A delicious pound cake is tucked neatly inside a beautiful hatbox, and some are topped with a beautiful fresh flower nosegay. The cake looks rich and moist! Their holiday cakes are selling out fast, so hurry and order by Wednesday, 3pm ET for December 24 delivery! Nonnie Waller's is the perfect site for ordering year 'round gifts. Valentines, Mother's Day, Birthdays, Showers, and Anniversaries. They are sure to make the holidays more festive too! The hatboxes can be used to store treasures long after the treats are gone, and the nosegays are as beautiful (or more) than any fresh flower arrangements around! Stop by their site and have a look around. You are sure to find that perfect gift for even the most hard to shop for person on your list!

To Disclose: I was provided with Truffles for this review. No monetary compensation received.

All-Clad Roti Pan!

I've never had a roaster to be proud of. When I first moved out, I bought a $30-$40 roaster and used it until the non-stick began to wear. It wasn't high quality. At best, it held a roast or turkey, and it didn't leak! It was perhaps an upgrade from the aluminum roasters from the grocery store, but after a few years, even that was arguable. My pan was very lightweight and while it did the job, it never really did it well. The non-stick wasn't really nonstick and cleanup usually lasted days. Soaking and scrubbing, I finally threw it away earlier this year. This holiday season, I was going to make due and buy an aluminum roaster from the store and throw it away afterwards. It was one less item to clean. However All-Clad sent me this great Roti Pan and I used it two days ago for the first time! The pan is heavy. It feels like a quality roaster! It came with a rack and Turkey Lifters! Two days ago, I roasted a turkey. After a few hours, I removed my turkey from the oven. After letting it rest, I used my Turkey Forks/Lifters and easily placed my bird on a carving board. I placed my All-Clad Roti Pan on the stovetop and made a rich gravy with the drippings. The pan was heavy, but pretty easy to maneuver. It worked great in the oven and I was happy to be able to use it on the stovetop, instead of scraping the drippings into another pan. My turkey was evenly cooked and it had a beautiful golden brown color. Since I used the roasting rack, the bottom of my turkey was also nice and golden, not soggy underneath from sitting in it's juices like all of the turkeys of my past. When I lifted my turkey off the rack, I noticed that it came off beautifully. There were no stuck on bits and pieces. I washed the rack, allowing only the water to remove the excess seasonings and cooked on drippings. The water did the trick, except for a few stubborn bits. Next, I cleaned my rack, only using a soft sponge and virtually no pressure. Perfect! Now for the pan. This made me nervous! I ran hot water over my pan and used the same soft sponge. Everything wiped out with ease! Want to know more?
The Roti Pan from All-Clad is available in large (16-inch) and smaller (14-inch) sizes. This pan is an investment in future holiday cooking! Along with roasting the holiday turkey, the Roti is great for a rack of lamb, a big batch of vegetables, and a simple roast chicken.
Features:
Large roasting pan with nonstick cooking rack and turkey forks
18/10 stainless-steel cooking surface for easy clean up
Stay-cool stainless handles with non-corrosive rivets
Cooking rack (with handles) promotes even roasting
Measures 16 x 13 x 3 inches (W x D x H); dishwasher-safe; limited lifetime warranty
After using this roasting pan, I know what I've been missing. I should have invested long ago and saved myself from the frustrations caused by using a substandard roaster. Buy yours today and make holiday meals (and clean-up) easier than ever!
To Disclose:
All-Clad provided a Roti Pan and Turkey Forks for this review. No monetary compensation received.

Holiday Dinner Feast! Omaha Steaks!

There is still time to make your life a little less hectic during the holidays! Order your Christmas or New Year's feast from Omaha Steaks! It's not the traditional fare, but it is just as memorable! I received The Ideal Gift Collection and it is, well, ideal! Perfect for a couple, this delicious assortment of flavorful foods includes:

2 (5 oz.) Filet Mignons
2 (5 oz.) Top Sirloins
4 (4 oz.) Omaha Steaks Burgers
2 (4.5 oz.) Stuffed Sole w/Scallops & Crabmeat
4 Stuffed Baked Potatoes
Chocolate Lover’s Cake
This package also includes a free cutlery set and cutting board. It regularly sells for $135 and they are offering it for the holidays at $59.99! Tonight, we tried the Omaha Steak Burgers. They are so of the best ever! The hamburgers are already formed and ready (after defrosting) to throw on the grill! No getting your hands messy! The filet mignon and even the top sirloins are tender enough to cut with a fork. The filet melts in your mouth in a way that reminded me of Kobe Beef. There's not a lot of fat, so I'm guessing they use a little holiday magic to tenderize! Obviously they buy their magic in bulk and spread it around throughout the year, because their steaks are always tender! This package is available online, at 1-800-228-9055, or at one of their more than 80 retail stores nationwide! Order from Omaha Steaks now and get ready for an easygoing holiday without the stress and prepwork!

To Disclose: I was sent The Ideal Gift Collection in exchange for this review, but I requested permission to write them up before I was offered this wonderful gift! Of course, I couldn't refuse! Omaha Steaks has been a part of my husband's life for years, and more recently, mine!

Holiday Gift Idea: Keurig One Cup Wonders!

I hate coffee, but almost everyone I know is an avid coffee drinker. When they come to my house, I offer them drinks, but never, ever coffee. I don't even know how to make it! My husband is totally different. He roasts his own beans and brews a mean cup of coffee, at least that's what my relatives say. For the past couple of weeks, I have been doing the impossible! Making coffee for friends and family, one cup at a time! Awesome! I even go out of my way now to ask everyone (and their mothers and brothers too) if they want a cup! But I have enjoyed the benefits too! Hot teas and cocoas. Yum! Right out of the box, and the Platinum Keurig is ready to go! First, you plug it in, wash the water reservoir and fill it with water. After that, set your time, cup size and temperature option. Pick out a K-Cup and set it in it's holder and set your cup underneath. Pull the lever and press brew. In less than a minute, your cup is ready!

Features:

5 Cup Sizes: 4 oz, 6 oz,8 oz, 10 oz, & 12 oz *
Iced Beverage Setting
Removable 60 oz Reservoir
Fully Programable Features
Blue Backlit Display
Quiet Brew™ Technology
Award Winning Design

Logan, my six year old, even made his own cup! But he couldn't touch it until the cup was cool enough to hold! And it's pretty dummy proof. It prompts you on screen to let you know when it needs water, and the blue light under the reservoir flashes to alert you. There is an automatic off feature too! My new Keurig has had nonstop action since it's arrival. I have tried teas and hot cocoas, and my husband and family have enjoyed the different coffee varieties. My husband has even used his own beans by using the My K-Cup option! It's a refillable basket that allows you to use your own coffee! If you never thought you'd be able to afford pods or K-Cups, and that's kept you away from this type of machine, you can afford it now! The Keurig is attractive and it looks great on my countertop. My mom loves it so much, she has tried to talk me into giving it to her! There isn't any chance of that happening, but maybe Santa will leave one under her Christmas tree! Bundle up with Keurig!

To Disclose: I received a Keurig and K-Cups in exchange for this review. No monetary compensation received.

Holiday Gift Idea: LIKEaBIKE!

When Logan began learning to ride a bike, he had a difficult time. The training wheels were wobbly, and they never really taught him anything. After they came off, Logan was left to learn all over again. Balance bikes teach your child balance. Logan received his first bike a few years ago. He later received a balance bike. We took the training wheels off his bike and set it aside. After having a wonderful time learning to balance, he picked up his bike and rode it the very first time! He was so proud. We were too! No falls or tears, just laughter and fun times. Logan loved switching back and forth between his traditional bike and balance bike, but it did not last long enough! After receiving a LikeaBike, I discovered that not all balance bikes are created equally. The balance bike we gave Logan was expensive, and the materials were pretty good, or so we thought. After a few months, the seat fell apart and the wood broke. My son was well below the height/weight limit and I was surprised that it didn't hold up! When I opened the box containing the Forest LikeaBike, I could not believe the difference! LikeaBike is made with thicker wood. It is so much sturdier than any balance bike I've seen. I could see this lasting for years. Here's more about Forest:
the masterpiece
very strong laminated beech wood
distinctive look with dark green cotton seat, green mudguard and grey felt
seat height adjustable from 12.5 to 16.1 inches
weight is 8.1 lbs
comes equipped with rubber handle grips
Logan test drove the LikeaBike and loved how well it handled. The seat and grips were comfortable. Sam played on it too! It was a little large for him, but he will be learning to balance in no time at all! Most children dream of new bikes for Christmas. Most don't realize that those bikes come with months of frustrations and tears! Help your child grow and succeed by giving them a balance bike first. LikeaBike may be pricey, but it will withstand the wear and tear from multiple children. It's easily adjustable and lightweight. Perfect for smaller and larger children! LikeaBike offers several styles to fit your child's needs! Check them out!

Holiday Meals Made Easy! Cuisinart!

 I love Cuisinart. I loved them since I discovered small appliances and cookware back in high school. I have never had any problems with their products and they have always performed as expected. Recently, I was given the opportunity to try out two new products! The first is the Cuisinart Rice Plus Multi-Cooker with Fuzzy Logic Technology, and it will do everything except mix cookie dough. If you only own one appliance, this should be it. It's perfect for anyone with limited space.
Here are the features:

• Equipped with fuzzy logic technology for perfect results every time
• Pre-programmed menu options including White Rice, Sushi Rice, Brown Rice, Risotto, Oatmeal, Slow Cooking, Steaming, and Soup, as well as Quick Cooking and a Reheat function
• Automatically switches to Keep Warm after cooking is complete, for up to 24 hours
• Programmable Finish Time allows user to set when dish will be ready
• Makes up to 15 cups of cooked rice
• Non-stick aluminum cooking pot
• Easy-to-use/easy-to-read control panel and backlit blue LCD display for easy use
• Removable steam release and inner lid for easy cleaning
• All removable parts are dishwasher safe
• Includes steaming rack, measuring cup, rice paddle and spoon
• Basic to gourmet recipes included
• Limited 3-year warranty

I had a rice cooker for years and I loved it. It was ruined in our great flood. I never knew how much I depended on it until I was without it! We eat a lot of rice and it's nice to let a rice cooker do it's thing! I hate standing over a stove and I always manage to overcook my rice when I do. I'm also always left with a stainless steel pot with a stuck on layer of rice. I hate to clean those! Now I can multi-task without worry! My rice always comes out perfect and the non-stick cooking pot is a bonus! When I read that this rice cooker makes soup, I was very excited! We eat a lot of soup during the cooler months. I love a bowl of potato or vegetable beef soup and this smart appliance makes it possible. It's also a slow cooker! I can also slow cook a meal or my husband can make oatmeal for the kids! My family loves steamed veggies and we have found the Rice Plus Multi-Cooker easy to use. We haven't used it for risotto or brown rice yet, but we will in the near future. I'll keep you posted! I was pleased with this Rice Plus Multi-Cooker from Cuisinart. It's a little pricier than your average rice cooker, but the features and optional uses make this a great bang for the buck! It's a great value! It is easy to use and the rewards are great!
 I was also given the opportunity to try a Cuisinart Elite Collection 14-Cup Food Processor. I never thought I would want a food processor. I have a little gadget that chops my onions, and seriously that is all I thought I would use a food processor for. I thought it was a waste of space and a lot to clean up after use. Boy was I wrong. This appliance has earned a coveted space on my countertop. I won't say I use it daily, but I do use it often. It's not just for slicing carrots or potatoes or other veggies. I can shred cheese, and clean-up is easier than using my cheese grater. I use my new food processor to make dough for bread, which I make about every other day! That's right! I make all of our bread-no store bought for us! I can make homemade peanut butter or other delicious and healthy nut butters, dips, pizza dough (and slice or shred the toppings!) and killer homemade pie crusts from scratch! Smoothies, sliced beef or pork for sandwiches, and fruit purees! But food processors are expensive. How do you justify buying one? You will save time! If your brain has been trained to live without a food processor for years, it will take time to retrain your way of thinking. I still find myself wanting to pull out my stand mixer or a knife and cutting board. Each time I do, I stop. It helps having my food processor on my countertop at all times. I can whip up cookies in less than half the time. It beats pulling out my stand mixer and setting it up. Cake mixes, they are just as fast and easy. Clean up is about as time consuming as cleaning a mixing bowl and stand attachment, maybe less. The Cuisinart Elite Food Processor has dishwasher safe parts, so after a quick rinse, I toss them in. That's it. I was never around food processors growing up. My mom never had one. I do remember my grandmother dragging out a dinosaur of a food processor once or twice, but she didn't use it often. It was very noisy! That's about all I remember about it. That and it was a pain to clean! When I used my new Cuisinart Food Processor, I could not believe how quiet it was! It is heavy (maybe I should say sturdy and well built!), and it is sleek and modern. It is such a pleasure to use!
Here are the features:

• 3 Food Processors in 1!
• 14-cup Large Bowl, 11-cup Medium Bowl, and 4½-cup Small Bowl with Pour Spouts & Measurement Markings
• Exclusive Patent-Pending SealTight™ Advantage System –Seals Bowls and Locks Blades
• Easy On/Off Locking System with Push-Button Release
• Stainless Steel Adjustable Slicing Disc (1 to 6mm)
• Stainless Steel Reversible Shredding Disc (fine/medium)
• Large and Small Stainless Steel Chopping/Mixing Blades with BladeLock System
• Dough Blade• Cuisinart® Supreme® Wide-Mouth Feed tube and Cover Assembly
• Electronic Touchpad Controls – On/Off/ Dough/Pulse with surrounding Blue LED Lights
• 1000-Watt Peak Power Motor
• Retractable Cord
• Accessory Storage Case with Lock
• Spatula
• How-to DVD
• Recipe/Instruction Book
• All removable parts are dishwasher safe
• 20-Year Motor Warranty3-Year Limited Warranty
• Available in Die-Cast,White and Black

I have to say, the retractable cord is genius. Why can't all small appliances sport this feature??? I also love that the touch pad is smooth. There are no little gaps to fill up with food! The buttons wipe clean with ease! This powerful food processor is easy to use and the blades seem to stay sharp. I am always finding a new use for my new kitchen helper! Check out these great products and more from Cuisinart! They make quality products and offer them at reasonable prices. They also stand behind their products with great warranties and excellent customer service!

To Disclose: I was sent A Rice Plus Multi-Cooker with Fuzzy Logic Technology and an Elite Collection 14-Cup Food Processor from Cuisinart in exchange for these reviews. No monetary compensation received. If you have any questions not answered about either of these products, please send me an email! I'll be glad to answer them!

Holiday Toy Shopping!

I am lucky enough to have the opportunity to review many toys. I also try to stay up to date on new toys that are released. If you are having toy troubles this holiday season, or any time of the year, there is a great resource for you! What to know what the top toys are? Toy Of The Year Awards will give you the top pick for each category or age group! It's all in one place, so you will not have to waste time hopping from site to site. It will save time and frustration! You can vote for your favorites! Plus, you can enter to win fabulous prizes for your child! It's all at toyawards.org! Another great site is Toy Industry Association (TIA) where you can download free play guides! You can sign up for recall information and get great holiday shopping and safety tips! You will also find great ways to shop on a budget. And lets face it, saving money is always a great thing. Learn about trends, play and join conversations! More on toy recalls, and find links and other resources. Learn about classic toys and toy history. Check out these great sites and stay informed. Learn interesting facts and make better decisions! Happy Shopping! To Disclose: I did not receive any product or monetary compensation for this mention. I found these sites to be helpful and I wanted to help Team Mom in promoting them.

Holiday Gift Idea: Taste Of The Islands!

 When I think of rum, I think of paradise. A little tropical adventure and warm sand beneath my feet. That was before I tried Tortuga Rum Cake and Fudge. I hate fruitcake and for years I thought rum cake would be similar. I avoided it like the plague. During my online holiday searches, Tortuga Rum Company kept showing up in my searches. It was destiny. When I requested an assortment, I thought my husband would probably like it and be able to help with the review. My package arrived quickly and I was surprised with the contents! Coconut Rum Fudge, Original, and Banana Rum Fudge! And a Chocolate Rum Cake! I LOVE rum and I LOVE chocolate. Still I consider myself a picky eater. I hate trying new foods. New products of any other kind, I love! But if it goes into my mouth, it better smell really good and be made up of things I like. It drives my husband out of his mind! Tortuga Cakes and Fudge passed both of those tests. It was love at first bite. I don't think I need any help from my husband. Now, when I think of rum, I will be thinking of the most flavorful cakes and fudge I've ever had. It's simply paradise to my tastebuds. It's so unusual, I really don't know how to describe it. Nothing I could ever say would do justice to these treats. When I first tasted it, I was speechless as the fudge melted away on my tongue. It leaves the most incredible flavor in your mouth!The Original Rum Fudge tastes smooth. The rum flavoring isn't harsh and you don't experience the alcohol burn. Take the flavor of rum and drown it in chocolate. Really great chocolate. That's what you get in every bite! The flavor of the rum overwhelms the chocolate in a really good way. I loved it!!! My second favorite was the Banana Rum Fudge. Oh my goodness! Chocolate and bananas are great together. Toss in some rum and you have the perfect combination! The Coconut Rum Fudge was my least favorite. I don't like coconut, so that's probably why. This fudge contains small bits of coconut. The flavor of the coconut fudge is good. Even though I'm not a big fan of this, I could eat it if it wasn't for the coconut bits! My husband and Logan loved it and they will be polishing it off pretty soon! The Chocolate Rum Cake. Where do I begin??? It was moist. Very moist! Any more moist and it would leave puddles in it's beautiful signature gold box! The rich cocoa flavor combined with the rum flavor was a taste I have never experienced. Chocolate and rum were made for each other and if you have any doubt about that, it would be erased after your first taste. If you are tired of ordinary fudge and ordinary cake, try something different and exotic. Tortuga Rum Cakes and Fudge will be on my holiday list from now on. Other flavors are available too!
To Disclose: I was given a mini Chocolate Rum Cake and a Three Pack of Rum Fudge to try for this review. No monetary compensation received.

Holiday Gift Idea: SPONGE Skincare!

As I've mentioned before, I always love to try new things, especially when it comes to lotions and potions and other skincare goodies! Never before have I enjoyed a review as much as this. It caused no weight gain and it left me blissfully happy. Sponge Skincare. The ultimate in skincare luxury. Last night, as I lay in bed, I was talking to my husband about how wonderful these products were. I usually don't carry my blog to bed, but this was worthy of a little pillow talk. I smelled really great and my skin felt even better! I was sent several samples, which is my only complaint! They are gone and I am left with only memories! I did manage to get a couple of full size products that have not yet made their way to shelves. The samples that I squeezed until they were empty, and then managed to cut open to make sure, were Galaktoma Somatos - body milk, Jambes Lourdes - anti-fatigue leg cream, Krema Niktas - night cream, Krema Triantafillo - rose + sage cream, and Ladi Avokanto (which I did not see on their site). Let me tell you about each of them! Ladi Avokanto is made with avocado, vitamin e and d. It is a serum that firms, smoothes, and helps diminish those pesky wrinkles that creep up on you when you're not looking. It gives you a nice, radiant glow! It looks like olive oil and it smells like a garden of herbs. It is my favorite product for the face and neck! During winter, my face changes drastically from combination to dry. This fantastic concoction gives my skin a boost and eliminates those winter blues. Did I mention how wonderful it smells!?! Next, let me mention my second favorite product! Krema Triantafillo. It smells amazing and it works as well as it smells. For your face, neck, and decollete, you use it morning and evening for best results. Made with rosehips and sage, this dream cream strengthens and protects while promoting clarity, radiance, and softness. It is 100% chemical free. While I did not witness any miracles in the short time I used it, I did find myself touching my face more because it was unbelievably soft. Next on my list was Krema Niktas. This night cream is absolutely divine. It was not as heavy as I expected, but it did the trick for me. My sensitive, break-out prone skin drank it up. It never irritated my skin and it didn't clog my pores. The natural herbal scent wasn't as intoxicating as the others, but it was still nice! It was made with St. Johns Wort, linden, and sage. Jambes Lourdes is an anti-fatigue leg cream. Holidays shoppers should stock up for a pick me up when they get home! Also you may want to pack some in your travel bags for those lucky enough to travel for the holidays! It is made from mastic, sage, and rosemary. The sample that I used was enough for almost three applications. I did notice that my legs felt better, less tired after the first use. If my legs were really aching, I'm not sure if this product would be powerful enough to cure my aches and pains, but it would be nice to try! Galaktoma Somatos. Thank you Sponge! Made with St. Johns Wort, peppermint, and olive leaf, this lightweight body milk nurtured my soul and moisturized my body and made me feel like a pampered goddess. I don't always moisturize after my hot showers and we all know what hot showers do to a body. I think I heard my skin scream thank you after application. Not really, but I felt so much better! I also tried two products for the eyes. I hate my dark circles and puffiness caused by sometimes late night blogging and Sam. Krema Mattia is an anti-wrinkle cream that will firm, smooth, and hydrate. I applied as directed and while my circles did not disappear, they were improved. My very fine lines were less noticeable because my under-eye skin was hydrated! Also, I awoke without any of my usual puffiness. I used this new product along with Gel Mattia, another under eye treatment. It's primary function is to reduce under eye puffiness and dark circles. I am not sure which product is ultimately responsible for my results, but I am extremely happy with both. They do not clog those little pores beneath your eyes and my eye make-up went on so much better! I highly recommend Sponge Skincare if you want to treat your skin! They make great stocking stuffers, and great under tree presents too! I'll take mine either way!

To Disclose: I received the samples and products listed above in exchange for this review. No monetary compensation received.

Winners!

Congratulations to all my winners!!!

Kellie Conklin who said...
I loved the holiday christmas applique onesie and shoe set. So cute and perfect for the holidays! Thanks!
November 27, 2009 9:05 PM

Check your inbox! You won our Bebe Dulce Giveaway!





Sher who said...
I like Leilan! I love Hawaiian stuff!
December 4, 2009 6:59 PM

You won our Circle Of Friends Giveaway! Check your inbox!!!





Stephanie who said...
I follow you
November 28, 2009 3:35 PM

AND

ktgonyea who said...
I like Christmas 2 :)
November 28, 2009 3:25 PM

You won our Baby Christmas 2 Giveaway! Check your inbox!!!!

Holiday Gift Idea: Remote Control Truck For 2 Year Olds!

 This year, Logan will have a new remote controlled toy for Christmas. After searching the stores, I was unable to find one for Sam! Sam is already into Logan's toys. If Logan leaves his door open, Sam will stand outside and plot. When Sam makes up his mind about which toy he wants, Sam runs in and grabs it. Then he tucks it into his body like a football and runs as far as he can go before he will put the toy down to play. He very rarely gets away! But when he does, he usually has a truck or car with lots of sirens or lights. He loves cars and trucks! When I was contacted to do this review, I was so happy! Sam was going to have his very own Remote Control Monster Truck! Chicco's Billy Fun Wheels!
It features:
The first motion-controlled monster truck for preschoolers!
Intuitive steering wheel can be rotated left or right to steer the truck
Realistic engine, reverse capability, and honking sounds add to the fun
Headlights light up - all the better for those nighttime races before going to bed!
Rubber threads help prevent damage to floors
For children ages 2 years and up
Requires: 4 x AA 1.5V batteries and 3 x AAA 1.5V batteries (not included)
Billy Fun Wheels is the first motion-sensing remote control monster truck for children 2 years and up! The intuitive remote control is shaped just like a steering wheel, and it is perfect for little hands! Rotating the wheel makes the monster truck turn left or right. Arrows on the steering remote light up to help your child understand which way the truck will head. Engine sounds and working headlights add to the realism of "driving" the truck, and a fun honk warns everybody in it's path! I took this toy for a spin of my own and I was happy with the way it handled. It does well on wood floors, tile, and carpet! Pick yours up before Christmas! If big brother (or sister) is getting remote controlled cars or trucks for Christmas, shouldn't your little one? Trust me, Billy Fun Wheels will keep your little ones from plotting!
To Disclose: I was sent a Billy Fun Wheels in exchange for this review. No monetary compensation received.

Holiday Gift Idea: Fragrance!

My husband has worn L'EAU D'ISSEY cologne by Issey Miyake for years. Each year, I buy a gift set and he usually runs out just before Christmas. I have always made my purchases from department stores, but this year I checked out FragranceNet.Com! I've seen the commercials, but never paid attention to their pricing. One day I was curious, so I checked them out. You can save a lot of money by purchasing from their site! I like to buy several fragrances for myself and change every few days. It keeps things interesting and new! FragranceNet.Com has awesome gift sets that are sometimes less than the price of a large bottle of perfume! Oui! I love it! It's like getting a large bottle and a bonus! I received a L'EAU D'ISSEY cologne gift set including EDT SPRAY 4.2 OZ & AFTERSHAVE BALM 1.6 OZ by Issey Miyake for my husband. It was packaged well and the gift set arrived in a very attractive package. The scent is exotic. A hint of citrus and spice combined with lower notes of musk, amber and woods makes for one seductive combination. Read the reviews! And be prepared to fight off other girls! My husband has had numerous compliments! FragranceNet.Com price was $72.19, with a retail price of $80 and free shipping. It's not half off, but figure in my trip to the store, fighting crowds of holiday shoppers, and not paying sales tax and it's quite a deal! They do offer other fragrances at surprising discounts! Take a few minutes and compare prices. You'll save at FragranceNet.Com! Want to save even more? When you use coupon code 2gerber, you'll save an additional 10% off your purchase online at http://www.fragrancenet.com/ or by calling 1-800-parfums! Happy Holidays!

To Disclose: I received the gift set in exchange for this review. Compare the savings for yourself! They have gained a future customer for sure!

Holiday Ham Pick! Dakin Farm!

This past Easter, I had the pleasure of reviewing a ham from Dakin Farm. This holiday season, I am spreading the word! Dakin does it best! I was not familiar with Dakin Farm when I found them them online. After visiting their site I saw a ham that was cob smoked, which was intriguing, and they promised a guarantee for being the best. I crossed my fingers and hoped for the best. I was beginning to think that all hams were created equal, without any variation in taste. Either you lucked up and bought one with decent flavor, or it was too salty or bland. I received a whole Bone-In Spiral-Sliced Ham earlier this year. This artisan ham is hand-glazed with Dakin Farm's very own Pure Vermont Maple Syrup. I hate maple glazes and toss out the packets that usually come with the ham, but this glaze enhanced the unique flavor of the ham. It was meant to be. Most hams that I have tasted are smoked, but they lack the true smoked flavor that can be tasted throughout the ham. Up until now, I never realized what I have been missing. This ham was saturated with the most wonderful smokey flavor and the glaze was the perfect compliment. The smokiness was heavy, like it had been slow smoked with wood for days! The smokiness even reached the bone. It was one of the juiciest hams that I have had the pleasure of tasting. It is my absolute favorite! The ham was rich and flavorful and it will fill your home with the most intoxicating aroma that is sure to be remembered long after it's gone. We are still talking about it! Dakin Farm Hams are celebrated by Bon Appetit and The Food Channel. If this is what Vermont tastes like, I may move! Visit http://www.dakinfarm.com/to order! You will not be disappointed. They offer a wide variety of other gourmet products to tempt your tastebuds! If you want to make your holiday dinner extra special, this is the way to go!

To Disclose: I have a previous relationship with this company, but was under no obligation to mention Dakin Farm hams or suggest these hams as my holiday favorite. No product/monetary compensation received.

Stocking Stuffers For Mom! Skinnygirl Margarita!

 Santa, please drop a long skinny bottle into my stocking. But not just any bottle. I want a Skinnygirl Margarita, so I can celebrate the holidays without counting the calories. It's the perfect size and the perfect shape. I have been such a good girl this year! Recently I was sent a Skinnygirl Margarita! It is a ready-to-serve, pre-mixed cocktail and it's only 100 calories per serving! I am more of a rum fan, but I did pour a glass before passing the bottle to my husband! This cocktail smells nice and it is quite refreshing when served chilled! The flavors mingle nicely on my tongue, and I love that the tequila doesn't overpower the drink. The Skinnygirl Margarita was created with clear tequila, lime juice, and only a splash of citrus liquor, drastically reducing the calories of the traditional cocktail. All natural and lightly sweetened with Agave Nectar, it has only 100 calories in a full 4 oz serving. The flavor is very mild. A little too mild for my husband's taste, but for mine it was just right. The aftertaste is great and it made me regret giving my husband the bottle! I was left wanting another drink! Since my husband is quite the gentleman, I was able to reclaim my bottle. Skinnygirl Cocktails was created by none other than Bethenny Frankel. The name might ring a bell! Celebrity Natural Food Chef, The Real Housewives Of NYC, stand-alone star with an upcoming Bravo series, and published New York Times Best Selling author with a new book- Naturally Thin, she recently became engaged and is expecting her first little one! Congrats!!! Unfortunately, that might mean I have to wait on a rum cocktail (unless there is one out already?) because she very well can't extensively test the products for many long months! I'll be waiting patiently. In the meantime, I'll be sipping Skinnygirl Margaritas!
This post was meant for adults 21 and up! If you are nursing or pregnant, taking certain medications, or have a history of liver disease, you should avoid alcohol consumption.

To Disclose: I was sent a bottle of Skinnygirl Margarita in exchange for this review. Honest opinions are given. No monetary compensation received.

Holiday Gift Idea... Make That Must! Dylan's Candy Bar!

Right now, I am so jealous. My cousin is on her way to NYC. Do you know what's in NYC? Forget the landmarks, the clothes, Chinatown, and famous pizza. Maybe forget was a bit harsh. You should really go for Dylan's Candy Bar! Daughter or legendary designer, Ralph Lauren, Dylan has made her own way in the concrete jungle. Falling in love with the magical world of Wonka, as most of us did, she followed her dream and built a candy empire that makes the dreams of children and adults alike, come true. Her Third Avenue Candy Store became the largest candy store in the world in 2008. With over 5,000 types of candy, you are sure to find exactly what you're looking for! I wonder if they hand out tourist maps for visitors??? How else would you be able to find that long time favorite?

 I was lucky enough to receive the Medium Christmas Drum Basket for review. When I asked for it, I thought it was festive! I am open to trying new things, so I did not focus on the contents. If I had, I would have picked another. Before you even think this is going to be negative, read on. I hate gingerbread. Can't stand it. This basket is full of it! Ugh! What had I done! The basket quickly arrived and I admired it for quite a while before opening it. You should know that it was tied with beautiful ribbons and it was in perfect condition. Nothing was out of place, and it made a 1,000 mile journey in the hands of sometimes careless shippers. It was perfect! After I opened it, I quickly removed several products to try. There were few familiars. I was in mostly uncharted territory. Here's what arrived in my basket:

Dylan's Candy Bar Dark Mint Bar

Dylan's Candy Bar Gingerbread bar

Gingerbread Popcorn

Peppermint Sticks

Peppermint Hot Chocolate

Dark Chocolate Non-Pariels

Whirly Pop

Christmas Cookies

The Dylan's Candy Bar Dark Mint Bar is now my favorite candy bar. Seriously, I want to order a case. It is a rich chocolate bar surrounding a thin, almost crisp mint layer. It doesn't compare to Andes or After Eights. The flavors are more intense, but the mint is not overpowering. I loved it! The Dylan's Candy Bar Gingerbread bar was good! I actually liked it! It is a little like a Krackel Bar. The gingerbread is crisp! My husband now considers this one of his favorites. I kid you not, the Gingerbread Popcorn is my new favorite flavored popcorn. I really don't taste the gingerbread at all. It tastes like a very light, perfectly coated, caramel popcorn. It was crunchy and it stayed fresh for days after opening. The Peppermint Sticks were good. I don't normally eat these because I hate to get peppermint stuck in my teeth. Logan loved them. I was smart! I used them to stir my new Peppermint Hot Chocolate! It was a real treat! Usually, I avoid peppermint hot cocoa because it is too minty. I'm normally a Penzey's hot cocoa girl, and I like original and sometimes mint, but even their mint hot cocoa is a bit too strong if you are drinking more than a small cup. I like a hint of mint and this was the perfect combination of chocolate and mint. The cocoa wasn't powdered. It was shaved chocolate! It appeared to be milk chocolate, semi-sweet, and dark, with some peppermint thrown in! You could eat this with a spoon! Right out of the tin, before mixing it! My husband made some on the stovetop. Ohhh, so good! I also sprinkled some on ice cream. That was also quite tasty! I will be buying this from now on. How can I go back to powdered cocoa after something so great?! I hate coffee. Cocoa is my thing and I drink it year 'round. I feel for my husband's pockets. They may be empty after I place an order! The Dark Chocolate Non-Pariels made me remember my childhood. These were always a favorite. I loved them! These were thinner than the ones from my childhood, but just as good. The Whirly Pop? I'm still saving that for later! We all shared the Christmas Cookies. They were beautifully frosted/decorated. They were gingerbread and the flavor was a bit strong for me. After one, I passed them on to those who would appreciate them more! I know it may seem that I was overly complimentary of these items, but I cannot tell you enough, these products were so different! I experienced a few new flavors and now I have a few new favorites. I'm glad I failed to read the description first. I hate to think I could have missed out on the opportunity to try this assortment of goodies! Stop in Dylan's Candy Bar is you are in NYC. There are two other NY locations. You will also find them in Orlando and Houston (lucky you!) or in select Bloomingdale's, Saks Fifth Avenue, Neiman Marcus, Nordstrom, Sephora, Urban Outfitters, Juicy Couture stores and even more. Find sweet fashion and beauty products too! I miss my yearly trips to NYC, but hopefully they will resume in the new year. My first stop will be Dylan's Candy Bar! I hope they're ready!

To Disclose: I received this gift basket in exchange for this review. Honest opinions and comparisons were given. But for another gift basket, I might talk about how other candies fall short of my expectations. They probably would if I ate them between bites of Dylan's fabulous confections.

Holiday Gift Idea: My Pillow Pets!

Several years ago, my cousin (the closest I have to a sister) took me on a cruise to Alaska and Victoria, BC. She had a dental conference, and I was the lucky one that could sleep in every day! I'm thankful that she didn't torture me and ask that I sit in on those meetings! At each port, I jumped at the opportunity to buy souvenirs for Logan. It was the first (and last) time that I was away more than a few hours. Guilt. I was overloaded with it! When we stopped in Victoria, I picked up a soft moose pillow. I thought it was cool, and so did Logan. Recently I found a much cooler moose to replace the last. While there are no memories attached to this new addition, this moose pillow is definitely a step up. It's bigger, softer, and much cuter than the last! But not so cute that my six year old leaves it behind. They are currently inseparable.
Sam on the other hand was given a frog a few days after he was born. His frog was meant to comfort him after a round of shots. My husband picked it up in a gift shop just before the appointment to be prepared. I guess he thought a newborn would appreciate it? Not quite sure. But the frog theme stuck. Sam's new frog really is appreciated and Sam's favorite activity is jumping on the frog or snuggling into the plush soft material. After countless jumps, the frog is still in perfect condition! It also cleans up well!

 Let me tell you a little more about Pillow Pets! They are high quality pillows that double as animal friends! They are made with super soft chenille! There are other animal themed pillows on the market. One even has a blanket stuffed inside. It is not as soft as this. Nowhere near as soft. My children love to snuggle with their new pillows. I have also been known to curl up next to one if I find one laying around. That doesn't happen often enough!The pillow opens flat, or you can Velcro the sides of the pillow to make it more like a pet with legs. See above picture? The Velcro strap is midway on the sides and when the ends are put together, it appears that the pet has 4 legs. When open, the sides are straight. The Velcro also features a tab which covers the Velcro when it is not in use, so your child will not get snagged by rough Velcro unexpectedly. When Sam is a little older, I must get him a frog backpack. It's super cute and perfect for toddlers! The animals are playful and fun, and there are so many designs! They also have blankets (I want one!), slippers (these too!), and neck pillows! If you are looking to keep your little ones warm through the winter, you can warm their bodies and warm their hearts with these great finds! Check out My Pillow Pets and fall head over heels for these cute animal friends!

To Disclose: I was sent two Pillow Pets in exchange for this review. Honest opinions (and comparisons) were given. No monetary compensation received.

Holiday Clean Up! Ultimate Cloth!

 The Holidays! You clean your house top to bottom. You slave away in the kitchen, making a large mess if you are like my dear husband. Then guests arrive, sometimes with little adorable mess makers in tow, each contributing in hopefully only a small way to the new mess. After they leave, you may spend a day or two cleaning up! When we entertain, that's usually how things go! If we are left with a small mess, we are pretty happy! I usually break out my cleaning bucket, overflowing with chemicals or natural cleaning products. Let me tell you, some of those products are expensive! I have heard tales of different people cleaning with water. I thought they were crazy! I have used different cleaning cloths before with water and while the cloth was magic, it required more steps and I never stayed with it. I think I rely too heavily on other products. Recently, I have been using a new product. I was contacted and asked to give it a try. I love trying new products! I received Ultimate Cloth. When I opened the package, I noticed that the cloth was stiff, unlike microfiber cloths I've used before. Following the instructions, I wet my cloth and squeezed out excess water. Make sure you squeeze out as much as possible! Then, simply clean any surface! No lint is left behind! Ultimate Cloth does a great job cleaning mirrors, my least favorite thing to clean. I can never clean them without leaving a streak. This time, I was impressed! Ultimate Cloth polished my granite countertops and made my appliances shine! I did have some stuck on food after a pot boiled over on my stovetop. I wiped and wiped. Most of the food came off, and after a little soaking, the rest was easily removed. I also used Ultimate Cloth on my computer screen and television! It worked well! When I finished using my cloth, I tossed it in the washing machine with detergent and bleach. Afterwards, I hung it to dry. Don't use fabric softener or wash it with towels. This will keep your cloth from working as well! All in all, this is a great value and simple to use!

Right now, you can try it for free, just pay shipping and handling.

This cloth should last up to 5 years with general use. I definitely use my Ultimate Cloth more than I thought I would. With small children, I am forever cleaning smudges off my windows! When I do a walk through, I grab my Ultimate Cloth and wipe everything down. No buckets of cleaner, no spray bottles! It's pretty convenient!
To Disclose: I was sent a pack of Ultimate Cloths to try in exchange for this review!

20% Off Giftcards? Sweet Sales At Coco Bonbons!

I love to shop for clothes. Not for myself, but for my kids. While I am often frustrated because of:
a. lack of cute clothes for little boys, or
b. inappropriate (in my opinion) children's clothes that mimic "adult styles"
I know I can always find something at Coco Bonbons. Playful designs that capture the essence of childhood. All that's sweet and innocent. Pretty pinks and cupcakes for girls, and robots and spaceships for boys. The designs are comfortable. Perfect for play or those often brief periods of rest! The only restrictions will come from adults, not the clothes!

These clothes are unique. The designer plays with different fabric patterns and textures and the results are nothing short of extraordinary. Everything seems to work together so well. You can tell that a lot of thought is put into each design. Separates coordinate beautifully with other pieces, and you can find coats, mittens, and hats to match! Let's not forget the umbrellas!
Right now, Coco Bonbons is having an incredible sale! There are coats for $20, pants for $10, and sets (outfits) for only $18! Also, giftcards are 20% off! Do I need to mention that giftcards are great stocking stuffers? They are also great for the children on your list, especially nieces and nephews that always seem bigger than you remembered. You can also take advantage of free shipping using coupon/promotional code FREESHIP before December 9, 2009! Better hurry!
To Disclose: I was under no obligation to post this sale. I have a previous relationship with this company and I can attest to the quality of these products! I wanted to pass these savings on to you! No product or monetary compensation received for this mention!

Holiday Dinner/Dessert Idea: This One Takes The Cake!

Everyone could use a little help during the holidays. Especially when it comes to food preparation. When I requested a 6" Prize-Winning Chocolate Layer Cake from We Take The Cake, I wasn't sure what to expect. Today it arrived and as I unwrapped this decadent dessert, I noticed that it was packed very well! My cake was in perfect condition and the presentation was stunning. Beautifully boxed, it would make the perfect hostess gift, if you could stand parting with it! This rich dessert would be a sweet ending to any holiday feast! I knew this cake was only 6", and after it was unwrapped, greed overcame me. How could I share? I seriously struggled with this. After realizing that I was having selfish thoughts, I decided to share. Disappointment quickly set in, only because I thought it would be gone later today after we all had a taste. My disappointment grew to anger after the first bite! So good... I will be dreaming about this tonight! How could they make the cake so small!!! Still there was time to hide it, but I could not give in to the temptation after my little boy caught a glimpse of this cake. With pleading eyes, I knew I had to cut an extra slice. If not, surely he would tell his daddy what I was hiding. After the third bite, my anger subsided and I was in chocolate heaven. It is so rich and creamy! This 6" cake weighs in at 2.5 pounds. It's dense with chocolate and each bite melts in your mouth. A sliver is all you can handle and it really will serve at least 8-10. I thought surely I would go back for seconds, but one slice was all I could handle today. Don't worry, I will be back for more tomorrow!

 This little cake packs a huge punch of flavor! Intense chocolate flavor will satisfy any craving. The chocolate buttermilk cake is moist and rich. The chocolate cream cheese frosting melts into each layer and the cake is topped with rich chocolate ganache and chocolate curls. Death by chocolate? No. This is way better. And worth every penny. Yes, I will buy one of these masterful creations in the future. My only problem is deciding which. I am thinking about a classic southern favorite. Red Velvet cake, what else? But once you've tried the 6" Prize-Winning Chocolate Layer Cake, it would be hard to pick anything else. If you are not into chocolate, We Take The Cake has plenty of alternatives just for you. These cakes are all they claim to be and more. Much, much more! Visit We Take The Cake and treat yourself, family, and/or friends to some of the greatest cakes around!

To Disclose: This cake was sent in exchange for this review. No monetary compensation received. These are my honest opinions.

Holiday Gift Idea! Child To Cherish!

One of my favorite companies, Child to Cherish, is now offering The Little Baker Suitcase Collection! Child to Cherish is the industry leader of quality, innovative children’s keepsakes and gifts, designed by Patrice Lowe. The “Little Baker” suitcase collection makes for an ideal gift to both give and receive year round with both holiday and general Little Baker versions offered! The next generation of the company’s popular keepsake suitcase offerings, the new “Little Baker” collection is offered in a Grandma (with grandma mouse and bear designs and Child to Cherish signature wording “Ready or Not Grandma…Here I Come!) or Little Baker series. The 11.25 x 8 x 3.5-inch tin suitcases feature whimsical animal designs with bears, mice and bunnies. They are absolutely adorable! Inside each suitcase is everything any little baker needs-apron, wooden rolling pin and spoon, cookie cutters and 5 scrumptious cookie recipes (Sugar, Chocolate Chip, Peanut Butter, Gingerbread and Snickerdoodle cookies). This new collection is certain to delight children age 2 to 8 and makes a wonderful keepsake box or even lunch box for the kindergarten year. They are available in either Little Baker Series with three designs (boy, girl, Christmas) or Grandma Little Baker Series with three designs (boy, girl, Christmas)

Recommended Retail: $40

Other holiday offerings from Child to Cherish include a decorative handprint kit ornament and Plant a Tree for Me gift. All items are available for purchase at http://www.childtocherish.com/. Shop now for Christmas delivery!!!

To Disclose: I received no monetary compensation or product for this mention. I have worked with Child to Cherish in the past, but I was under no obligation for this post!

Local Heros Night At Bass Pro Shops!

My husband is a firefighter/paramedic/former Army Ranger. He would put himself in harm's way without a second thought. He is my hero, and I am thrilled to know that Bass Pro Shops also appreciates what he, and others like him, do for their communities and country! Heroes are all around us. Police officers, fire fighters, paramedics, war veterans, soldiers and military personnel--many times they go unnoticed and unappreciated. Bass Pro Shops believes in heroes and believes they all deserve to be recognized and thanked. To show how much they appreciate their Local Heroes and their service, Bass Pro Shops will open their doors Sunday night, December 13th, from 7pm to 10pm for a very special private evening of activities, shopping, discounts and drawings. All Local Heroes and their immediate families are invited to attend. (Must show badges or other identification to attend this event)
They and their family can visit the magical Christmas Village that is Santa’s Wonderland and enjoy items like slot car racing, laser and soft gun arcades, remote control cars and trains. Heroes and their families can even have a free picture made with the jolly old elf himself. A special offer for Heroes includes a 10% discount on any photo packages purchased in store that night only.
Kids will enjoy the special Sand Art craft activity that is offered that night only (while supplies last). Heroes and their families can enjoy the shopping with a 10% discount on regularly priced items plus take advantage of special sales offered throughout the store. And, to wrap up the holidays, free gift wrapping is included.
Special drawings will be held for Bass Pro Shops gift cards beginning at 8pm. And, to honor Local and Military Heroes, a special Santa’s Wonderland ornament will be distributed to the first 100 Heroes that arrive at 7pm.
Christmas is a time to remember what others have done for us. There is no better time to show our appreciation for the local heroes that are around us every day.
For more information regarding Local Heroes Night (excluding Foxborough, MA and Branson, MO) and other Santa’s Wonderland events and features at your local store, visit www.basspro.com/santa.
About Bass Pro Shops Group:Bass Pro Shops -56 retail stores in 26 states and Canada visited by over 100 million people annually, international catalog and internet retailing, American Rod & Gun wholesale division selling to over 7,000 independently owned retail stores worldwide, Outdoor World Incentives also selling Bass Pro Shops gift cards through over 132,000 retail outlets across America and a restaurant division with 26 locations. For more information regarding Bass Pro Shops store locations, products or special events, please visit http://www.basspro.com/. To request a free catalog call 1-800-BASS PRO.
Tracker Marine Group – Manufactures and sells Tracker Nitro, SunTracker, Tahoe and Mako boats through Bass Pro Shops retail stores and hundreds of independent dealers worldwide. Visit http://www.trackerboats.com/
Resort Group – Big Cedar Lodge and other resort properties including restaurants and golf course. Visit http://www.bigcedar.com/ for more information.

Gone In 60 Seconds! Gift Idea and Giveaway!

Instant Wrinkle Relief
AminoGenesis Introduces Gone in Sixty Seconds, a Revolutionary New Wrinkle Solution

Give us 15 seconds and we will give you 15 years! Gone In 60 Seconds is a powerful formula that activates on contact to visibly erase fine lines and deep wrinkles – in just seconds! So, why put yourself through the expense and hazards of Botox injections for short term results? A scientific blend of oxygenating peptides, micro-collagen and firming proteins tightens, firms and reduces puffiness all day long. It’s like having a temporary face-lift in a bottle!

FEATURES:
· InstaFirm Protein: An exclusive protein technology that instantly starts to firm skin and plump up wrinkles, creating younger looking skin – within seconds
· OxyPeptide: Naturally derived peptide that is clinically proven to increases skin respiration and oxygenation by as much as 754%
· GABA: Naturally produced in the body to relax muscles, eliminating the need or desire for painful injections
· Micro-Collagen: Delivers a boost of collagen to the help firm the skin
· Patented Delivery System: Advanced patented technology time releases key ingredients all day long

BENEFITS:
· Visibly Firms: Fine Lines and Deep Wrinkles – In Just Seconds!
· Rebuilds: Skin Firmness
· Use Under Make-Up
· No Albumin, No Whitening Effect
· Natural Formulation Does NOT Contain Propylene Glycol, Parabens, Synthetic Colorants, Nor Synthetic Fragrances
· Dermatologist Approved

AminoGenesis products are cruelty free (no animal testing) and do not contain animal by-products.

Usage: Massage a small concentrated amount around the eyes, smile lines, neck area. Allow a few minutes to firm and tone the skin.

About AminoGenesis Skin Care
AminoGenesis Skin Care was founded in 2000 after creator Ron Cummings, a longtime sufferer of dermatitis, was recommended a cream for his skin condition. Once he learned everything he could about that cream he used, Ron decided to make the life-changing decision to end his existing career and enter the unfamiliar business of skincare. He learned that the cream was actually a potent mixture of amino acids, essentially the building blocks of all life. All living things, plant or animal, that grows on this planet share exactly the same amino acids – it is the arrangement of amino acids that makes everything and everyone unique. They are the building blocks of every structure in human skin; vital skin proteins like collagen, elastin, lipids and all cellular tissues are made from amino acids. The basis of the AminoGenesis philosophy is that skin functions fantastically when it is properly nourished and it is with amino acids that skin becomes properly nourished. Several years ago the team of world class doctors, chemists and researchers that Ron enlisted set out to harness the power of amino acids. After about a decade of research and testing, the original AminoGenesis formula was born and the results astounded even those who created it. For more information, please visit http://www.aminogenesis.com/.
Win Gone In 60 Seconds! To enter, leave a comment and tell me what you want Santa to leave in your Christmas Stocking! Follow me for 1 more entry. Digg for 2 extra entries! If you follow me on Networked Blogs, leave two more comments! Giveaway ends midnight December 10, 2009! Open to US and Canadian residents! Good Luck!
To Disclose: I have never tried this product. No monetary compensation or product received for my time. I was offered this giveaway in exchange for this mention and I wanted to pass this opportunity on to my readers!.