The Art of Random Willy-Nillyness: 2012
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Monday, December 31, 2012

Walgreens Hosts Night at the W ~ Official After-Party of the People's Choice Awards + GIVEAWAY!!!

I don't know about you but I am an awards show junkie. Around this time, all the award shows start and the season doe not end, for me, until Oscar night. Hubby hates it because when there is an awards show on TV, I am watching it.

And good news, on January 10th, every Walgreens® store in the U.S. will host “Night at the W™,” a free, beauty-themed event from 4:00 – 9:00 pm. Billed as the official after-party of the People’s Choice Awards, women across America are invited to talk with their local Walgreens Beauty Advisor on how to get their own glamorous, new look for the New Year and have a chance to win fabulous prizes. Those who attend will find many simple ways to elevate their look and get “red carpet ready” for a big night out – all from the aisles of their local Walgreens.

According to Fashion Consultant/”Godfather of Style,” Tim Gunn: you don’t have to spend a fortune to get your own “red carpet ready” look. On behalf of Walgreens, Tim offers the following great tips and tricks:
Get a Camera-Ready Smile: A bright white smile is absolutely necessary whether you’re walking the red carpet or the runway. A simple tip I tell all the runway models is use something like a Crest Whitestrips. There’s this 2 hour treatment you can put on when you are getting ready.

Get Ready for Your Close-Up: When it comes to facial hair removal, there’s nothing to be ashamed of, and there’s everything to gain. Olay has something new that is perfect for this and because it’s from Olay you know your skin will look fabulous!

Every day is a new chance for you to “walk the runway,” so I like to encourage woman to try new things whether it be a new lipstick or nail color.

Some of the most stunning looks I have seen lately are topped off with healthy-thick hair. Not every woman has thick hair and as women age their hair tends to thin. There is a new hair thickening product on the market from Pantene that will give you that gorgeous hair

To keep your skin glowing, it is important to stay hydrated by using a good moisturizer and drinking lots of water. And you can make your features pop with the right makeup and brightest smile.
These are such great tips. I have always thought you can look great on a budget. If you have the right products, then you can definitely look red carpet ready anytime!

To celebrate Walgreen's "Night at the W" and the People's Choice Awards, I have a great giveaway!! One lucky reader. One of you will win a prize pack that includes: Crest® 2 HR Express Whitestrips; Olay® Facial Hair Removal (Medium to Coarse); Pantene® Expert Collection AgeDefy Thickening Treatment; CoverGirl® Clump Crusher (Very Black); CoverGirl Jumbo Gloss Balm; and CoverGirl Nail Gloss. WOO!


All you need to do is enter on the Rafflecopter widget below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received a sample product for review purposes. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are solely mine and are based on my experience with the product. Sponsors are responsible for shipping prizes unless otherwise stated. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of any prizes.

Saturday, December 29, 2012

$50 Visa Gift Card Giveaway from Patti Flint, MD

This coming year, I am on a mission to get fit and fabulous. As I approach 50, I know I need to start turning back the clock before it is too late. I am going to start by losing weight and then going from there.

I know I need a little lift and tuck here and there. I am also noticing that I am getting jowly and those little laugh lines are turning into full on wrinkles. It i not pretty folks!

For those already set on getting plastic surgery, you need to check out out Patty Flint, MD. Dr. Flint is a board certified plastic surgeon in Scottsdale and Mesa AZ. She specializes in all aspects of plastic surgery including breast augmentation, face lift surgery, and tummy tucks, and offers a comprehensive skin care program using facial fillers, and Juvederm treatments.

I remember I used to be against plastic surgery, but no longer. It can make a difference in how you feel about yourself and how you look and I think that is important.

I have a great giveaway courtesy of Patti Flint, MD. I have a $50 Visa gift card for one lucky reader. What a great way to start the 2013! If you want to win, just enter on the Rafflecopter widget below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: Compensation was given but the opinions in this post are solely mine. Sponsors are responsible for shipping prizes unless otherwise stated. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of any prizes.

Tuesday, December 25, 2012

Merry Christmas!!

This year I got a White House Christmas card. That was so cool! I want to wish all my readers a wonderful Christmas.






Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Sol Republic Headphones Review and Giveaway!


I was recently asked to review a pair of SOL REPUBLIC headphones or earphones. I had not heard of SOL REPUBLIC headphones but then realized I had seen them before because Michael Phelps wore them during the Olympics. He was sporting several pair of the Sol Republic Tracks HD headphones during that time.

All SOL Republic Tracks and Tracks HD headphones feature interchangeable pieces that work with the entire Tracks Remix system, nearly indestructible FlexTech Sound Track headbands, plus a remote and microphone. The V10 HD Sound Engines provide listeners with deeper bass, higher clarity and crisp vocals.

Each piece is completely interchangeable so people can purchase the headband, cable and sound engines separately to build headphones that mix and match with their outfits, occasions or just to change up color or pattern. I loved that they had these headphones with a collegiate twist. I would have gotten a pair of the Tracks HD headphones but they did not have the University of Miami yet! But when they do, I might buy some to show my school spirit.

So, I decided on the Amps in ear headphones. I am always looking for a great pair of earphones. I usually buy cheapo ones and they break within days or do not give me great sound. I also needed a good pair of earphones for exercising.

Here are some specs on the earphones:
  • Listen In Comfort: Including four sizes of ear tips,you’re sure to get a comfortable fit and perfect seal for hours of music bliss
  • Secure Fit: Using StayFit™ design, Amps are angled to fit perfectly in your ear instead of falling out.
  • Wide-mouth pocket case: Our pocket case makes it easy to transport your Amps HD
  • 3-Button Mic + Music Control: Lets you adjust the volume, pause/resume/skip music and answer/hang-up calls. The high clarity mic captures every word possible.
  • Compatibility: 3-button mic + music control is designed specifically for full feature compatibility with recent generations of Apple devices. The audio and mic are likely to work with most devices that have a 3.5mm jack, including but not limited to, Android, Blackberry and Windows devices
I use my phone for music and have to plug it into the treadmill itself so that means I am blasting music all over the house. Not a good thing if hubby is watching TV or working. But I want incredible sound so I can be motivated to do my 2 miles. These earphones did just that.

The sound quality was incredible. I really like these earphones. And for $59-$99, they are so worth it! My hubby loves them as well because now he doesn't have to hear my salsa music blasting from the back room.

I have a pair of headphones or earphones, your choice, to giveaway to one lucky reader! These are such great quality that you will love them. Just enter on the Rafflecopter widget below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway



Disclosure: I received a sample product for review purposes. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are solely mine and are based on my experience with the product. Sponsors are responsible for shipping prizes unless otherwise stated. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of any prizes.

Tuesday, December 18, 2012

Red Gold Tomatoes with Green Chiles Queso Challenge + Giveaway!


I was asked to do a taste-test challenge using Red Gold Tomatoes. I was asked to compare the Red Gold   Diced Tomatoes with Green Chilies and another leading brand. You know I am all about food so I said yes.

I do love Red Gold tomatoes. I discovered them in the past year and they have become a staple in my pantry. One reason I love Red Gold is because they are a family owned company.

Here is a little info about Red Gold:  Red Gold has been around since the 1940s focusing on growing local in the Midwest where true seasons impact the flavor of tomatoes. The Midwest, while it's cold in the winter, has the perfect growing season for tomatoes, perfect angle of the sun, perfect temps -- and even the winter is good for tomatoes, as it breaks up the soil for tiny root systems. Red Gold grows its tomatoes in Indiana, Michigan and Ohio.

I really wanted to see if there is a difference in the type of tomatoes one purchases so I agreed to the taste test. I decided to try the Queso Dip recipe from the Red Gold site. I LOVE Queso Dip. It is one of those dishes that is just good. I could eat Queso all day long. Here is the recipe:

Recipe Overview
Servings: 12
Preparation Time: 05 minutes
Cook Time: 05 minutes 
Ingredients
1(10 ounce) can Red Gold® Diced Tomatoes & Green Chilies
1pound (16 ounces) pasteurized prepared cheese product, cubed 
Directions
  • In microwave safe bowl combine the RED GOLD® DICED TOMATOES & GREEN CHILIES and cheese. Microwave on HIGH for 5 minutes or until cheese is melted; stir after 2 minutes.
  • Serving suggestions: Serve with hot bread sticks, tortilla chips or assorted fresh vegetables. Add 1/2 pound ground beef for a variation.


That's how easy Queso is. So it was easy to make two batches using the Red Gold Tomatoes and the Rotel variety of tomatoes. To complete the taste test, I recruited my hubby. I also took the test as well.

We tried the Red Gold Queso first then the Rotel Queso. Here is the verdict:
Hubby: He thought both were delicious. He couldn't decide which was the better one so he continued eating both!  
Me: I tasted both. I felt that the Rotel was good. The Red Gold was good as well. I preferred the Red Gold because the tomatoes were spicier. I also thought the tomatoes were sweeter. The Rotel brand was a little tinny and the green chilies were sharp. The Red Gold tomatoes had a more mellow flavor. Overall, my vote went for the Red Gold. 

There you have. One vote for Red Gold and then hubby not really caring as long as it is Queso. LOL There are brads you discover and then stick with them. I am lucky that Red Gold is a brand found in North Carolina.

I also have a treat for one lucky reader. I have a gift pack of Red Gold Tomatoes to giveaway. The pack will include several varieties of the Red Gold line. I especially like the Diced Tomatoes with Basil, Garlic and Oregano. And I am now a huge fan of their Tuttorosso Tomatoes. So if you want to win, just enter on the Rafflecopter widget below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclosure: I received a sample product for review purposes. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are solely mine and are based on my experience with the product. Sponsors are responsible for shipping prizes unless otherwise stated. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of any prizes.

Monday, December 17, 2012

Skin Care by DDF - Great Holiday Gift Idea + Exclusive 50% Off Deal!!




As I get older, I find that my skin needs so much more care than it used to. I have always had good skin because of genetics. When I was younger, my skin always looked good. I barely had to do anything for it.

But the past few years, this has changed. I find my skin gets dry and ruddy. I am seeing fine lines appearing on the corner of my eyes and lips. I am not happy about it. A friend told me a couple of years ago that I needed to start exfoliating my skin to get rid of the dead skin and to keep my skin looking fresher.

I started doing that with just soap and microdermabrasion cloth or sponge. I decided I needed something a little stronger. Last year, my friend gave me a microdermabrasion kit to try. Basically you have a little handheld gadget that you can use to "polish" your face. I loved it. It really cleaned my skin and also gave my skin a renewed look.

I suggest if you are looking for healthy, more beautiful skin to invest in one of these kits. This holiday season is the best time to start for yourself or for a friend. Microdermabrasion can instantly improve skin tone and evenness, pore appearance, fine lines, skin radiance and brightness.

Right now, Doctor's Dermatologic Formula (DDF) is having a fantastic sale of its DDF Revolve 400X Micro-Polishing System. The  DDF 400X Revolve Micro-Polishing System is a breakthrough device that delivers microdermabrasion results that are as effective as a professional treatment. During this holiday season, you can get this handy dandy machine at a 50% discount! The retail price is $98 but they are offering it at $45 with FREE SHIPPING! Wow!

The DDF 400X Revolve Micro-Polishing System includes 1 Micro-Polisher, 2 Foam Deep Microdermabrasion Exfoliators, 1 Deep Cleansing Brush, DDF Polishing Crystals and 2 AA batteries. The 400 rotations per minute allows the the DDF 400X to polish away surface imperfections without hurting your skin. The self warming DDF Polishing Crystals and the Foam Exfoliator polish away the surface imperfections and make your skin look radiant and healthy looking. The kit also includes a brush head for daily deep cleansing and to maintain results between treatments.

Since it is small and lightweight, it can be used anywhere including the shower and it is perfect for traveling. I travel with my microdermabrasion kit. These kits make a great gift! I love mine and I have noticed that my skin is looking better. And as I age, this is so important to me. So if you are looking for a great gift for the women in your life, consider one of these kits. 

Through Jan 31, 2013, you can use code: DDFMICRODERMA to get the 
Revolve 400x micro-polishing system for only $45 (Retail price $98) with Free shipping. So head on over to the DDF and take advantage of this great deal!


Disclosure: This post is sponsored by Blogher and P&G. Opinions in this post are solely mine.

Wednesday, December 12, 2012

Merci Chocolates Giveaway!! #MeaningfulMerci




Every Holiday season we should be thankful for so many things. This year, I am thankful for my hubby who keeps me sane when I am running around trying to get the holiday shopping finished. I am thankful for my family who keep me grounded and support me.

There are so many things to be thankful for and so many people you can thank this year. So this year, why not show how special these everyday thank you occasions are? The holiday season is a particularly great time to share a meaningful thank you.

Whether the person you want to thank is your neighbor who throws a great party, or your postal worker who delivers the mail with a smile, there is no better way to share the ‘Joy of Thank You’ thank with a box of Merci chocolates.


There are so many people on my list that deserve a little #MeaningfulMerci. I am sure you have quite a few as well. Not only do Merci Chocolates make a great gift but they taste great as well.

Each Merci Chocolates gift box includes 20 individually wrapped chocolates. There are 7 different flavors to choose from: Milk Chocolate, Coffee and Cream, Hazelnut-Almond, Hazelnut-Creme, Dark Cream, Dark Mousse and Praline-Creme. They are all delish.


My favorite is the Milk Chocolate but I will eat any of these chocolates because they are so creamy and tasty. I also love that they come in individually wrapped packages. These make them great to put out as holiday treats for guests or to have around the office for co-workers!

If you want to show your gratitude to someone special this holiday season, consider giving them a box of Merci Chocolates and make their holiday season meaningful!

I am going to give one lucky reader a chance to win a box of Merci Chocolates to make his/her holiday meaningful. To win, just enter on the Rafflecopter below!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclosure: I received a sample product for review purposes. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are solely mine and are based on my experience with the product. Sponsors are responsible for shipping prizes unless otherwise stated. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of any prizes.

Monday, December 10, 2012

US Cellular & Janna Robinson Help You Enjoy a "Stress Free" Holiday Season + GIVEAWAY!!!


This holiday season U.S. Cellular has teamed up with Lifestyle and technology expert, Janna Robinson, host of the Hollywood Hi-Tech show on the DIY Network. Janna is lending her expertise to help you use your smartphone right and make your holiday's happier than ever.

With her vast experience in the world of entertainment, technology, and design, Janna will introduce an easy way to navigate through the new world of applications, available in the Google Play store. Finding delicious recipes, creating shopping lists, and sending all your loved one's unique holiday cards are just some of the apps you can utilize to ensure your home stays stress free in this year's app-happy winter wonderland.

Luckily, I was given the opportunity to ask Janna some holiday tech questions and she has answered them for me and my readers. Check out the video below!!



I hope you learned something new. I know I did. I will and have been using my smartphone to do my holiday shopping.

I want to thank Janna for taking the time and answering my questions. I also want to thank US Cellular for this opportunity. Check out USCellular.com for U.S. Cellular locations near you!


And thanks to U.S. Cellular, I have a wonderful gift basket for one lucky reader. This fantastic basket includes the following fun stocking stuffers:

* Robe
* Slippers
* Bath kit or shaving kit
* Google Play Gift Card
* Tea or chocolate sampler
* USB flashdrive
* Scented candle

Awesome!! To win this basket, just enter on the Rafflecopter widget below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received a sample product for review purposes. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are solely mine and are based on my experience with the product. Sponsors are responsible for shipping prizes unless otherwise stated. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of any prizes.

Wednesday, December 5, 2012

Pantene AgeDefy Product Line at Target + GIVEAWAY



Exciting news if you are one of those women who find their hair thinning as you get older! Pantene has launched a new line of AgeDefy hair care products that can actually make your hair look up to ten years younger! These new Pantene products are now available at Target!!

From November 18 through the end of December, Target stores nationwide will highlight new anti-aging products that offer women hair and skin anti-aging secrets that ‘help you drop a decade or more.’ New Olay Professional anti-aging products will also be featured.

The recently-launched Pantene AgeDefy line featuring Shampoo, Conditioner, Masque and Thickening Treatment was created to counteract the seven signs of hair’s aging. To get to the root of hair thinning, Pantene partnered with experts in the field, compiling clinical data from more than 1000 women.

The result is a much better picture of age-related changes in density and diameter. Through its research Pantene discovered new truths about hair aging, including seven signs that women experience Breakage, Split Ends, Frizz, Unruly Grays, Lackluster Color, Thin look and Dryness.

The key findings also revealed the hair aging process begins before menopause, around age 35, and symptoms go beyond graying and thinning.

I am one of the lucky ones whose hair is not thinning.  But I know a few friends plus my mom and sister are experiencing hair thinning. My hair may not be thinning but my hair is definitely greying, it is experiencing breakage and it is starting to get dull and dry. I know I am going to try these new products and I am absolutely going to recommend my friends and family start using the new Pantene AgeDefy.

To celebrate Target's new ways to look younger, I have a special prize package for one lucky reader that includes:

* Pantene Expert Collection Age Defy Shampoo
* Pantene Expert Collection Age Defy Conditioner
* Pantene Expert Collection Advanced Thickening Treatment
* $10 Target Gift Card

WOW! This is an awesome prize pack!! If you want a chance to win this, just enter on the Rafflecopter widget below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received a sample product for review purposes. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are solely mine and are based on my experience with the product. Sponsors are responsible for shipping prizes unless otherwise stated. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of any prizes.

Monday, December 3, 2012

Charmin Basic 1 Roll is now available at CVS + GIVEAWAY!



Great news for CVS shoppers, CVS is expanding its assortment of Charmin by now carrying the Charmin Basic one (1) roll. Charmin Basic is 2 times stronger than the leading value brand when wet. In my opinion, Charmin is also one of the softest toilet tissue around! Because Charmin is stronger, that means you change your toilet paper roll less often so you use less. It’s also been tested and proven safe for your plumbing system.
Proven Safe for Your Plumbing 
Ever wonder what happens to your toilet paper when it’s flushed? Well Charmin created this video and evaluates its toilet paper to ensure that it is safe for all the places it might end up after flushing (drain lines, sewers, septic tanks, and municipal wastewater treatment plants). Extensive tests show that when Charmin is used as intended in a properly functioning plumbing system, it shouldn't cause plumbing problems. In fact, Charmin has been a reliable bath tissue, trusted in millions of Americans’ homes, for over 70 years.

We use Charmin at home because it is one of our favorite brands. We also shop at CVS so this is great news. To celebrate the fact that the Charmin Basic 1 roll is available at CVS, I have a special prize package for one lucky reader. The prize pack includes:
Charmin Basic 1 roll
Febreze Candle sample
Febreze NOTICEable sample
$10 CVS Gift Card
To win, just enter on the Rafflecopter widget below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received a sample product for review purposes. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are solely mine and are based on my experience with the product. Sponsors are responsible for shipping prizes unless otherwise stated. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of any prizes.

Sunday, December 2, 2012

Abuelita "Abraza Una Taza" Campaign and Giveaway!!


It's wintertime and, for me, that means nights by the fire and warm beverages especially hot chocolate. One of those beverages include Abuelita products from Nestle. I have loved Abuelita products for years. My granny used to give me Abuelita products when we would visit her.

Abuelita Granulado used to remind her of the hot chocolate her mami used to make her. Unlike regular hot chocolate, Abuelita has a spicy flavor along with the chocolaty flavor. It is so tasty and will keep you warm and cozy. It is like a hug from a loved one.
Abuelita Granulado has the same rich flavor, aroma and foaminess as the original Abuelita Tablet, but prepared in minutes! Since it's so easy to prepare, you can enjoy a delicious cup and treat your family to the hot chocolate they love anytime!

Abuelita Instant lets you enjoy the rich flavor of Abuelita anytime even if you are not at home. Now you can transform everyday moments into special ones anytime!
I know when I have a mug of Abuelita it reminds me of my grandmother and the good times we had with her before she passed. It also comforts and keeps me warm on those cold winter days!

Now you can share a warm "virtual" hug with your amigos and family. Just visit the Abuelita Facebook page and use the "Abraza con una taza” Facebook app! You can choose from a variety of special cards and write personal messages to your loved ones!  Share the “abrazo card” with your Facebook friends and pass those hugs along to everyone!

There will also be weekly giveaways on the Abuelita Facebook page! The first 500 users who create a digital “abrazo” each week from November 5th, 2012 to January 6th, 2013 will be eligible to receive a special gift basket and subsequent users will receive a coupon for savings on Abuelita. No purchase necessary!! This is such an awesome giveaway.

Now to celebrate the "Abraza con una Taza" Facebook giveaway and campaign, I have a wonderful Abuelita prize pack to giveaway to one lucky winner!! The prize pack includes Abuelita Granulado and Instant, two mugs, spoon and a scarf to keep you warm! YAY!

So remember to head on over to the Abuelita Facebook page for a chance to win and to enter this giveaway, just use the Rafflecopter widget below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclosure: I received a sample product for review purposes. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are solely mine and are based on my experience with the product. Sponsors are responsible for shipping prizes unless otherwise stated. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of any prizes.

Friday, November 30, 2012

Holiday Side Recipes with Country Crock + Giveaway!


The holiday season is my favorite time of the year. I love cooking so during this time of year, I try and find new recipes to try.

One of my favorite side dishes for Thanksgiving or Christmas dinner is squash. It can be butternut, acorn, yellow or any other kind of squash. Squash is such a great ingredient because you can do almost anything with it.

This year, I found a recipe on the Country Crock site for Baked Spice Squash that I tried for Thanksgiving dinner. It looked easy to make and it looked so tasty, I had to try it.


Here is the recipe:
Baked Spiced Squash 
Ingredients:
* 2 Tbsp. Country Crock Spread
* 2 Tbsp. pure maple syrup or pancake syrup
* 1/2 tsp. ground cinnamon
* 1/8 tsp. ground black pepper
* 1 medium butternut squash (I used one medium acorn squash) 
Directions:
* Preheat over to 400 degrees. Lightly grease baking sheet; set aside
* Combine all ingredients except squash in small bowl. Arrange squash cut side up o baking sheet; brush with 1/2 of the spread mixture.
* Bake 45 minutes or until squash is tender, brushing with remaining Spread mixture halfway through cooking.

Of course, since my style of cooking is Random Willynillyness, I didn't totally follow the recipe but that's how I roll. I actually used an acorn squash because I prefer that. I also put the Spread mixture in the squash. I added a pinch of salt and a pinch of brown sugar. The squash came out delicious. I would recommend this recipe to anyone who loves squash and wants a new and different side dish!.

I was actually able to scoop out the squash mixture out of the squash and make it easier to serve. It was sweet and savory. I also loved that the Country Crock spread was easy to use. It was also tasty. Plus, by using Country Crock, I saved calories and fat!

If you love squash, you need to try this recipe. And remember to pick up some Country Crock for any type of recipe. I used it with my rolls and with my mashed potatoes as well! There are so many delicious recipes that you can use Country Crock in.   Yummo.

To help make your holidays better, Country Crock has provided me with a wonderful gift basket for one lucky reader. The gift pack includes:

* 1 coupon for a FREE tub of Country Crock
* Veggie preparation tips
* Four Country Crock holiday recipes (Holiday Broccoli Saute, Baked Spiced Squash, Garlic Mashed Potatoes and Cauliflower, Easy Creamed Corn)
* Vegetable Chop and Measure
* Calphalon® Contemporary Nonstick Bronze 12" Frypan

To win, just enter on the Rafflecopter widget below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclosure: I received a sample product for review purposes. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are solely mine and are based on my experience with the product. Sponsors are responsible for shipping prizes unless otherwise stated. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of any prizes.

Wednesday, November 28, 2012

Kleenex Share Packs ~ Softness Worth Sharing + Giveaway! #kleenexSWS


I work at a school so it is inevitable that I will get sick sometime during the year. Sometimes, I get sick a few times a year regardless of what I do to avoid the germy children. Just last month, I caught a pretty bad cold.

It was terrible. I had a runny nose and was sneezing up a storm. I started to catch a cough so I had to rely on some old home remedies from my abuelita and mami. The first thing I did was to grab my Vicks vapo-rub. I remember when I was a little girl, my abuelita used to grab the Vicks and slather it all over our bodies and then wrap up up in jammies and make us stay in bed. It worked.

So I decided to do the same thing now. It worked. I also made my mami's favorite remedy, hot lemonade. She would heat lemon water and add honey. Then she would give us two aspirins and make us drink her tea and go to bed. And for headaches, my mami used to give me a cloth that was drenched in rubbing alcohol and put it on my forehead. Believe it or not, that works too!

Of course, when I have a cold, I always reach for Kleenex tissues. They are the only brand I have at home and at work. Why? Because they are the best tissues around. My mami and grandmother used to buy Kleenex as well. They are a family tradition.

And boy, did I need Kleenex this last bout with a cold. I literally went through 2 boxes at home and one at work! Kleenex, Vicks, alcohol and hot lemonade are the ways I make myself feel better. Plus, it also makes me feel loved when I think back on all those times I was a little girl and had two wonderful women in my life who took care of me. I am glad their remedies live on still because they make me feel better whether I am sick or not.

It's those memories or small gestures that remind me I was and am cared for now. Something small can make you feel a lot better.

Now you can make someone you love feel loved by sharing a little softness with them this cold and flu season. Every year at this time, Kleenex allows you to send a little love to someone by sharing a Kleenex Care Pack (includes lip balm, 1 oz. hand sanitizer, coupon booklet, Kleenex® Brand Share Pack, Kleenex® Brand Slim Pack, and card to download four songs from the Universal Music artists) or a  Kleenex Share Pack .

When you buy a specially marked bundle or box of  of Kleenex® Brand tissue, you will find a code on the package. Head over to the Kleenex site and enter your code and send someone a Kleenex Care or Share pack and show them that you are thinking of them.


This is such a wonderful idea. It is a wonderful gesture for those friends and family that you care about. Who wouldn't love receiving a reminder that they are loved? So share a little softness this season and send someone a Kleenex Care or Share Pack. I know they will love it!

I also have one Kleenex Share Pack for one lucky reader. You can keep it or share it. It is up to you. Just enter on the Rafflecopter widget below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Disclosure: I received a sample product for review purposes. This post is compensated and in collaboration with Kleenex and Latina Bloggers Connect. Sponsors are responsible for shipping prizes unless otherwise stated. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of any prizes.

Monday, November 26, 2012

Endust, Start Living! Meet the Dustersons!


Doug and Debbie Dusterson are a fearless new dusting duo. Created by Endust, Doug and Debbie show us how to get things clean then start enjoying life. They use Endust because it’s fast and easy, that it helps them move on to more important things. They’ve even discovered ways to turn dusting drudgery into debauchery.

You have to go over to the Endust site and check out the latest Endust-inspired antics of the Dustersons and their family.Watch the first newly release Endust video here. Endust will be adding new videos the next few months!

Make sure to watch the whole video because after the video finishes you will be able to get a $1.00 off coupon for Endust, and if you “Like or Share” it, you can receive a $2.00 coupon.

The first video is hilarious!  Debbie and Doug run home to get intimate only to find that the house is a mess. Doug pulls out the Endust and hilarity ensues! I loved it. I am so like Debbie. A man who cleans is a big turn on! I wish hubby would do it more often. I will have to show him the video and hand him the Endust.

But I totally understand the Dustersons' dilemma. There are weekends when I want to go out and do something fun but I am stuck at home cleaning. Dusting is one of my least favorite chores. But Endust does make it easier. All you do is spray and wipe and it's done! Endust also works on multiple surfaces. Endust will clean wood, tile, non-fabric blinds and floors!

Not only does Endust make my life easier when cleaning but it also saves me money because I do not have buy other cleaning products! Endust also removes dust, allergens, fingerprints and smudges. It leaves no wax or residue!!

So take a minute ad watch the Dustersons in action! It will definitely make you take a second and ask if you are taking too much worrying about cleaning and not enjoying life!  So remember: “Endust, Start Living”.

To learn more about Endust and the Dustersons, check out the Facebook and Twitter pages.


Disclosure: “I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting for Endust. I received a product sample to facilitate my post and a promotional item to thank me for participating.”

Sunday, November 25, 2012

Sara Lee Review and Giveaway! 3 Winners




This Holiday season, I am always so busy cooking the main meal that sometimes dessert goes on the back burner. I am not much of a baker because, frankly, baking requires me to cook with a recipe and I am not good with that.

So I like to keep ready made desserts around the house so I can have them ready in a pinch. One of the brands I always keep around is Sara Lee Desserts. Sara Lee has so many wonderful varieties of pound cake and other sweets that will make your holidays so sweet.


Sara Lee has recently introduced new flavors of Pound Cake. Here are some of the flavors:

Sara Lee Lemon Pound Cake - The Newest Variety in more than a decade, made with real lemon juice
Sara Lee Butter Pound Cake - Classic, buttery taste with an updated recipe to be more moist
Sara Lee Light & Dreamy Pound Cake - Reduced fat alternative that contains 80 calories per serving with 100% less cholesterol and 55%  less fat than Butter Pound Cake
Sara Lee Pound Cake Slices - Introduced earlier this year, these single-serve, individually packaged slices are available in Original and Double Chocolate

I absolutely love Sara Lee Butter Pound Cake. I always have it around the house. Hubby actually love the Sara Lee Cheesecake. So this holiday season I had both in the house.

I love the cheesecake as well and I love it with fresh fruit because it brightens up the rich slice of cheese cake. Hubby loves his with a homemade berry sauce. I also love my pound cake. This year, I made a pound cake sundae by adding a little chocolate ice cream, whipped cream and nuts. It was delicious!

Remember that if you are not a dessert maker, like me, have some Sara Lee on hand to make a tasty and quick dessert! Just add some fresh fruit, ice cream or anything that you feel like adding because it will always delicious.


If you are creative with recipes, then be to enter the Sara Lee Share the Sweetness Recipe Contest! By submitting an original recipe using Sara Lee Pound Cake, you could have a chance to win a $500 Visa Gift Card plus desserts for a year! The contest ends December 12, 2012. For more details and to enter visit Sara Lee on facebook.



a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclosure: I received a sample product for review purposes. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are solely mine and are based on my experience with the product. Sponsors are responsible for shipping prizes unless otherwise stated. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of any prizes.

Wednesday, November 21, 2012

Shaving tips and P&G brandSAVER offers from Gillette and Dollar General + GIVEAWAY!!!! 2 winners!


I have another great giveaway from Gillette and Dollar General!! I also have a great video from Celebrity Stylist Marcus Geeter on how to fight those painful razor bumps.

These videos are so fantastic and my hubby has gotten some excellent tips from watching them. So take a look:



And check out your Sunday paper this week. The December P&G brandSAVER® will be in the November 25 edition and it will have some great deals on Gillette products, all available at your local Dollar General store. You can use the P&G brandSAVER® coupons at Dollar General to get high-quality Gillette and other P&G products at great prices!!

Here are just some of the December Gillette P&G brandSAVER® offers you can find:
* Buy one Gillette Male Disposable, get one Gillette Male Disposable FREE
* Buy one Gillette Female Disposable, get one Gillette Female Disposable FREE
* Buy Gillette Cartridges or Disposables and get $5 off one Gillette Fusion ProGlide Razor
* Get $5 off one Venus refill razor or bikini razor and refill
* Get $0.75 off one Gillette Series Shave Prep
To celebrate the December Gillette P&G brandSAVER® offers, I have a great giveaway! Two lucky readers will win the following prize pack! The pack contains:
* Gillette Series Sensitive Skin Shave Gel
* Gillette MACH3 Razor
* Olay Complete All Day Moisturizer With Sunscreen
* $20 Dollar General Gift Card

YAY! To win this great prize pack, just enter on the Rafflecopter widget below!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclosure: I received a sample product for review purposes from P&G, Dollar General and Gillette. No other compensation was given and the opinions in this post are solely mine and are based on my experience with the product. Sponsors are responsible for shipping prizes unless otherwise stated. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of any prizes.

Tuesday, November 20, 2012

Simple Twists For Cooking With Nuts From Chef Alex Guarnaschelli and Fisher Nuts + HOLIDAY GIVEAWAY!!!



I have to say that this time of year is my favorite time of year. First Halloween, then Thanksgiving and then Christmas and New Years. I love it so much because that means I get to start cooking up some of my favorite recipes and discover new ones.

I love to cook and bake and I love cooking and baking with nuts! And Fisher Nuts are part of my holidays this year. Fisher Nuts are delicious and easy to use in any holiday recipe.

This year Fisher Nuts is teaming up with Food Network Chef Alex Guarnaschelli, a regular judge on Chopped, to make holiday cooking a bit easier and to offer you  some simple twists for cooking with nuts during the holidays.

I checked out some of Alex's recipes on the Fisher Nuts website and found quite a few that I want to try. One recipe I am going to make is the Stuffed White Mushrooms with Pecans. I love stuffed mushrooms but have never tried them with nuts! But these look delish. Check out the recipe below:





I cannot wait to try this recipe for one of my holiday appetizers! It looks delicious. Plus, if it is a Chef Alex recipe then I bet it is so yummy!!

I have a wonderful prize pack, courtesy of Fisher Nuts, for one of my readers. This will definitely help you make some tasty food this holiday season. The prize pack includes:

* Fisher Chef’s Naturals Slivered Almonds
* Fisher Chef’s Naturals Pecan Halves
* Fisher Chef’s Naturals Walnut Halves & Pieces
* Food Network 5-Piece Stainless Steel Measuring Cups
* Food Network Silicone Spatula
* OXO Whisk
* Wood Cutting Board

To enter to win this fantastic Fisher Nuts prize pack, just enter below on the Rafflecopter widget!!

a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclosure: I am working with Fisher to share Chef Alex Guarnaschelli’s recipes and create my own original recipe using Fisher Nuts and tools they provided. However, my opinions are entirely my own and I have not been paid to publish positive comments.I received a sample product for review purposes. Sponsors are responsible for shipping prizes unless otherwise stated. Please allow 6-8 weeks for delivery of any prizes.