Check this out! Win an Apple iPad 2 (16GB)

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Shaping the New You (Review & 2 giveaways)

Starting a new year, many people want to make changes in their life, and starting to eat better or start exercising is usually at the top of the list of changes.
Chicken Soup for the Soul came out with a new book called, "Shaping the New You."

101 Encouraging Stories about Dieting and Fitness... and Finding What Works for You

No one likes to diet, but the personal stories in this book will encourage and inspire readers with its positive, practical, and purposeful tales of dieting and fitness. Readers will find hope, help, and hints on getting fit and staying healthy in these 101 stories from those who have been there, done that, and maintained it. Stories about wake-up calls and realizations, moving more and eating better, self-esteem and support, and lifestyle changes, big and small, will motivate any reader looking to start fresh or needing a boost. This is a great book for anyone embarking on a healthier lifestyle.
Join Richard Simmons in the great adventure of Shaping the New You. Richard states, "These stories really resonate with me. There is no better inspiration than hearing someone else's story." You can read his personal story in this Chicken Soup for the Soul book.

There is nothing better than hearing the success stories from other people. A personal story makes the reality seem possible, because someone has already gone through it. It is fun to read the stories in this book, some you can relate to, or tried yourself, and you may get inspired to try something that worked for someone else. There are so many stories in this book about many topics like: regaining control, conquering the gym, learning to like yourself and your body, getting started, having an accountability partner, and more. Chicken Soup for the Soul books are great for inspiration and this one may be great for motivation.

***ENTER TO WIN!!!***
This contest is open to bloggers, and non-bloggers of the United States, and will end on February 28th. There will be two winners!

To enter: comment about something you would like to change for this new year, and if you made any new year resolutions.
**For extra chances you can: blog this contest, add my button to your site, subscribe to my blog, follow Sassyfrazz on twitter (if you tweet this contest use the hash tag #sassyfrazz), and/or become a fan on facebook, and/or visit everyday and comment on another one of my blog posts (leave a comment letting me know what you commented on). Lots of chances to win! Don't forget to put the extra comments for the "extra" work. Good luck!**

I will contact the winner by e-mail and they will have 3 days to claim their prize, and at that time...if no response, I will have the option to pick a new winner.

This review was provided from Chicken Soup for the Soul. I am sponsored to offer a giveaway for my readers through this review and two books were provided for the giveaway. I was given the product for my personal opinion and option to share with my readers. I was not compensated for my time or written review.

Umi: A Little Dressed Up~ photo contest/win Umi shoes

A Little Dressed Up

A ghoul? A princess? Or perhaps a frog? Umi wants you to show off your little one dressed up for Halloween.

Post a photo or a couple photos of your costumed boy or girl on our A Little Dressed Up events page on Facebook! Then get your friends and family to go vote!* The boy and girl with the most 'likes' on October 31st at 8pm central time, will win a selected pair of Umi's from their Autumn/Winter 2010 collection!

And don't forget to post the name of your child and their age in the caption, please!

*Vote by clicking 'Like' link associated with a particular photo.

I know that I am going to enter for my kids! I love Umi shoes, and my kids love dress up!

Check out the great selections of shoes at Umi :http://www.umishoes.com/

I was sent this information to share with my readers. I was not compensated in anyway for my review.

Check out these Great Contests!!

Attention all BlogHer 2010 Moms!
Do you need a time-out and some quality “me” time? Well, BornFree wants to give you a well deserved break!
BornFree is offering one lucky mom going to BlogHer 2010 in NYC this August the Ultimate Indulgence Package at Elizabeth Arden Red Door Salon & Spa, Dinner for two at The Russian Tea Room & a $1,000 NYC Shopping Spree!
Enter Here: BornFreemom.com


Belle Baby Carriers is offering a special DAD’S DAY GEAR GIVEAWAY with all of the gear that a new dad or dad-to-be needs.
One lucky winner will receive:
The “Jasper” hat from Wallaroo Hat Company
DadGear’s Courier Bag
Belle Baby Carriers Organic Black carrier
Cultivated Caveman Books – Caveman’s Guide to Baby’s First Year and Caveman’s Pregnancy Companion
(Total value - $225)

To enter, visit BelleBabycarriers.com and click on the Dad’s Day Gear Giveaway logo. You can also email your name and email address to FathersDayGiveaway@BelleBabyCarriers.com for entry.

BornFree Offers Dads the Chance to Win $500 in Products…
Father’s Day is around the corner and BornFree wants to recognize all of the hard work that dads put in during the year. Tell BornFree what makes the father in your life so special. BornFree will choose one family to send $500 worth of BornFree products to!
Founded by father, Ron Vigdor, BornFree is the leading brand of BPA free baby products.
Visit BornFreeMom.combrag about dad for details on how to enter.
Additionally in honor of Fathers Day, BornFree is offering a free 3-pack of BornFree BPA Free bottles with every online purchase of $50 or more.
Visit Newbornfree.com for more information.

Enter to win a Filtrete Cleaner Air Getaway!!
3M, the makers of Filtrete filters, created Clear Advantages. You can register to receive seasonal e-newsletters featuring money-saving offers, filter change reminders and better home living tips.
Now through July 31, moms that sign up for Filtrete Clear Advantages will be entered in the Filtrete Cleaner Air Getaway for a chance to win a seven day/six night Alaskan cruise for a family of four! To sign up for Clear Advantages, visit www.Filtrete.com. And, for a downloadable mail-in rebate for $4 off the purchase of two Filtrete Air Filters with a 1000 Microparticle Performance Rating or greater, your readers can click here: Filtrete rebate.

Winners and Contests

Congratulations to the winners of these contests! Thanks so much to the sponsors who provided the prizes for my readers, and thanks to those who came to sign up to enter!
I have e-mailed the winners, and if you see your name here, feel free to contact me. Have a great week everyone!!

Enter to win a Smart Charger! (and help kids get involved with charities) : Cheryl F. {The Lucky Ladybug}
Cascade Complete ~ Review & $25 Walmart Gift Card Giveaway!! : Tim
Enter to win a $5,000 green home makeover! ~ Seventh Generation Review & Giveaway!! : Aileen
Wild Creations: EcoAquarium Review & Giveaway!! : Renski17
Energizer Ultimate Photo Contest (GIVEAWAY!! Retail value: $33) : Nicole C.
Draw Your Own Sun” art contest: 8th Continental Soy Milk (Review & Giveaway) : blueviolet


Contests to still enter!! Hurry...some of them end soon!!
"Disinfection Cleaning Kit" Seventh Generation works great & is SAFER!! (Review & Giveaway)

Candlewick Press Books (Review & 2 GIVEAWAYS)

Zippity Doo's (Review & Giveaway)

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Thanks DAD (Review and 2 Giveaways)

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Teacher Tales (Review and 2 Giveaways)

ENTER TO WIN~ Backyard BBQ Giveaway with Skin MD Natural (over $300 value)

***MORE GIVEAWAYS AND REVIEWS COMING THIS WEEK!!***

ENTER TO WIN~ Backyard BBQ Giveaway with Skin MD Natural (over $300 value)

It is summertime, and what better way to kick it off than with a HUGE giveaway!!

Summer is a great time for entertaining friends, fireworks, picnics and grilling!Whether it's in your backyard, at the park or on the beach, 4th of July usually means fun in the sun, and Skin MD Natural would like to help you throw the perfect bash with their Backyard BBQ Giveaway valued at over $300!! You can also check out their summer grill menu and summer sun safety tips to make your party a success.
PRIZE PACK INCLUDES
5 Bottles Skin MD Natural SPF+15
5 Bottles Skin MD Natural Original
6 Red Hotdog & Fry Serving Baskets
16 Piece Blue Cutlery Set
4 Pack Insulated Fish Tumblers
4 Pack Fish Party Spreaders
6 Pack Fish Wine Charms
Ultimate Barbeque Cook Book with over 300 Recipes
All Natural Caribbean Burger Blend Seasoning
Hickory Wood Smoking Chips
Non Stick Grill Basket
Decorative Patriotic Candle Holder

THE GIVEAWAY ENDS:
June 25th, 2010 and the winner will be contacted using the email given at sign up for the skin care & beauty newsletter.
Winner will have 24 hours to respond.
If no response is received another winner will be chosen.

RULES FOR ENTRY:Must be 18 years of age or older and a resident of US or Canada

METHODS OF ENTRY:
Mandatory Entry Required:Sign up for their healthy skin newsletter and receive a free 20 page Summer Skin Care Guide
Extra Entries:
Follow Skin MD Natural on Twitter
Tweet about the giveaway including a link to their page
Like them on Facebook
Share the giveaway on your Facebook Wall including a link to this page
Write a blog post about the giveaway and send a link to giveaway@skinmdnatural.com

Also, Skin MD Natural is offering 20% offall during the month of June just enter the discount code SUMMER10.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Teacher Tales (Review and 2 Giveaways)

It is nearing the end of the school year for my son, and many other students are already out for summer break. I think that teachers sure have a big job with being a huge source to educate our children.
Chicken Soup has a book in honor of teachers: Chicken Soup for the Soul Teacher Tales.
"Too often we underestimate the power of a touch, a smile, a kind word, a listening ear, an honest compliment, or the smallest act of caring, all of which have the potential to turn a life around." ~Leo Buscaglia
This is such a powerful and true statement (I think). Teachers have such influence and impact on their students. The stories in the Teacher Tales is overflowing with stories from students whose lives have been greatly touched by their teachers. This book shares stories from when teachers first start out, their first years, all the way to retirement. Story after story Teacher Tales reveals the reasons people choose to teach, what teachers learn from their students, and embarrasing stories. It is a great book to laugh and cry with, and one that may bring you back to your schooling years.
Teacher Tales, from Chicken Soup for the Soul, makes a great gift for a Teacher who has touched your life~ or your child's life.

***Enter to WIN IT!***
Chicken Soup for the Soul has offered to sponsor a giveaway! There will be two winners. This contest is open to bloggers and non-bloggers of the United States. Contest is open until June 15th, 2010. To enter, leave a comment about a favorite teacher you had, and why they were your favorite. (or a story of your child's teacher).
**For extra chances you can: blog this contest, add my button to your site, subscribe to my blog, twitter and/or become a fan on facebook, and/or visit everyday and add another friendly comment about memories from a favorite teacher. Lots of chances to win! Don't forget to put the extra comments for the "extra" work. Good luck!**

This review was provided from Chicken Soup for the Soul. They have provided me with a book to review and information to share with my readers. I am sponsored to offer 2 giveaway books to giveaway to my readers through this review. I was given the product for my personal opinion and option to share with my readers. I was not compensated for my time or written review.

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Thanks DAD (Review and 2 Giveaways)

Father's Day is coming up and it is the perfect time to say, "Thanks Dad!" Chicken Soup for the Soul has come out with a book to honor Dads. Dad's are celebrated and honored everywhere, and this Chicken Soup for the Soul book is filled with stories highlighting Dad.
Dad's have their children's best interests at heart. I loved the story in the Chicken Soup for the Soul: Thanks Dad called Words of Wisdom. This story is from a girl whose father was her protector....from age four to adult. I love the quote at the top, "A father is always making his baby into a little woman. And when she is a woman he turns her back again." ~Enid Bagnold
Fathers do so much for their children, and they deserve so much gratitude! I love this Chicken Soup for the Soul book, because children of all ages share their heartfelt words of thanks and loving memories in this collection of 101 new stories. This book covers how Dad's say "I love you," lessons learned and taught in life, Dad's as rescue heroes, being a Dad to teens, going through all the ups and downs in parenting, being a Dad, commitments and loyalties, heroism, moments in memories, and Grandfathering. This book is a real Father-treasure! The stories will warm Father's hearts, be stories to relate to, and Dad's will see that their kids may be listening to their words of wisdom!

Thanks Dad makes for a great Father's Day gift, or for any occasion. Share this book with your Father, or another Father you know!

***Enter to WIN IT!***
Chicken Soup for the Soul has offered to sponsor a giveaway! There will be two winners. This contest is open to bloggers and non-bloggers of the United States. Contest is open until June 12th, 2010. To enter, leave a comment about your father (or your husband as a father).

**For extra chances you can: blog this contest, add my button to your site, subscribe to my blog, twitter and/or become a fan on facebook, and/or visit everyday and add another friendly comment about memories with your Dad. Lots of chances to win! Don't forget to put the extra comments for the "extra" work. Good luck!**

This review was provided from Chicken Soup for the Soul. They have provided me with a book to review and information to share with my readers. I am sponsored to offer 2 giveaway books to giveaway to my readers through this review. I was given the product for my personal opinion and option to share with my readers. I was not compensated for my time or written review.

Candlewick Press Books (Review & 2 GIVEAWAYS)

Children's books are so fun and our family loves to read! I think Candlewick Press offers such a great selection of children's books! I received some books to review, and we have had such fun reading them over and over. I am so excited to share these books with you! I highly recommend these books to your family! These books make great gifts, too!
Did you read Mother Goose books when you were younger? I did, and I loved when my Mom & Dad read me the stories. I grew up with the original "real" Mother Goose stories.
Candlewick Press has The Very Best Mother Goose Book Tower, which is a collection of four mini board books.
I love these little books, because they are perfect size for little hands. I love seeing my toddler holding the books in his hands, trying to read them. The illustrations, by Rosemary Wells, in these books are adorable!
Each book has a title to it: Wee Willie Winkie, Jack and Jill, Pussy Cat Pussy Cat and Pat-a-cake, Pat-a-cake; however, each book is filled with the Mother Goose nursery rhymes. Each book has about ten nursery rhymes, as well. These books fit great in a diaper bag or purse, to help your child pass time, and possibly get a few giggles. These books make for fun reading, and fun stacking!
The Very Best Mother Goose Book Tower $9.99 U.S./$13.00 CANADA
My daughter loves Polly's Pink Pajamas, by Vivian French. Polly loves her pink pajamas and wears them all the time. She knows she can't wear them to her friend's house for a party, so she seeks out help from her friends to get her outfit for the party. After visiting with her friends, and borrowing the items needed to wear: dress, a sweater, socks and shoes, Polly realizes that it just wasn't right at all.
Will Polly be able to go to the party after all? It is fun to see what the ending is. I am not going to tell you what happens with Polly and her Pajamas...because this is a great book to add to your collection. Great book about friendships, favorites, and decisions.

Polly's Pink Pajamas $14.99 U.S./$18.00 CANADA
Cats are great animals (in my opinion) and I think they make great pets. Children can often think their cats can do amazing things, and be certain things. In The Best Cat, Jeff thinks his cat is a football star, a clown, ballerina, and more. Ginny, Jeff's sister, is not in agreement with her brother. They do agree in the end that Bootsy, the family pet, is the best cat in the world, though. We liked finding out all the things that Bootsy would be, according to Jeff. My kids giggled with this book.

The Best Cat $15.99 U.S./$20.00 CANADA

Being a home schooling Mom, I love teaching my kids about the four seasons. Plus, with living in Minnesota, we definitely experience the seasons fully. I really enjoyed how All Around the Seasons described what happens during each season. Currently, Minnesota is in Spring season, and in All Around the Seasons, "Hiding and seeking, slip down a slide. Springtime's for flying, playing outside." This is a fun book, and the descriptions are very entertaining.

This part of the book is talking about Springtime, too...rainbows, chalk, wagons, climbing trees, and grass-stained knees.

All Around the Seasons $11.99 U.S./$15.00 CANADA

We laughed so much while reading Me Hungry, by Jeremy Tankard. This is such a fun book about a little caveman boy who is hungry. His parents are too busy to help him out, so he goes out to search for food. Will he eat a rabbit, porcupine, tiger, or something else? Will anyone help him get something to eat? What happens in the end? Our family really enjoys this book, and laugh every time we read it. It is a book with few words, which is great for even the youngest age group.

Me Hungry! $7.99 U.S. /$10.00 CANADA

The Guess How Much I Love You books are sweet books about the love between a parent and child. These books are so much fun to read with my kids, and it is fun when they say some of the phrases back to me. Guess How Much I Love You-All Year Round- is about the four seasons with four stories included. Spring is about the growth of things like trees, tadpoles and butterflies after winter. Summer is about all the colors like blue in the sky, reds like poppies and ladybugs, and yellows like flowers. Which is your favorite? Is it Nutbrown like Big Nutbrown's favorite? We liked talking about the four seasons with this book.

Guess How Much I Love You (Sweetheart edition: little red book) is the original Guess How Much I Love You book, just in a small book form and in red color. This would make a great Father's Day gift from your child. This book is a sweet story about Big Nutbrown Hare and Little Nutbrown Hare talking about how much they love each other, and who loves more. My kids and I play this game all the time, and it is so sweet.

Guess How Much I Love You -All Year Round- $16.99 U.S./$20.00 CANADA

Guess How Much I Love You $12.00 U.S./$14.00 CANADA

I think Leslie Patricelli writes great books that describe young toddlers very well. She has authored quite a few books, and her newest, The Birthday Box, is about a toddler loving his gift: a box! The Birthday Box tells all about the adventures this baby has with his box, and what he found in his box~ a doggy!

The boy and his doggy sail a ship and he is the captain, they fly an airplane, and he becomes a robot. We had some great laughs from reading about this little boy's adventures with his box. It is so true that kids love the boxes their gifts come in, and the boxes can liven their imaginations!

The Birthday Box $6.99 U.S./$9.00 CANADA

Quack! and Hop! are adorable books about baby animals and the fun things they do. Quack! is a story about newly hatched ducklings. "Ducklings waddle. Ducklings trip. Ducklings wings go flip flap flip!" I love the rhyming words in these books. Hop! is about little baby bunnies, their whiskers wiggling, nose twitching, jumping and thumping.

Quack! and Hop! are sold separately for the retail price $5.99 U.S./$7.00 CANADA

Flanimals (a pop-up book) has got to be one of the coolest pop-up books I have ever seen! Quite frankly, it is the most unique and interesting pop-up, too! Flanimals is a book about
From the unique mind of comic master Ricky Gervais comes... 3-D Flanimals! The ghastly stars of a wildly popular book series are about to pop up everywhere!

You will learn very many facts about these strange beasts, and be amazed with the information you read about them! Each page has a great pop-up, and there are little flaps to open to reveal new creatures, or information you need to know.

My oldest son (age 11) loved this book! All my kids loved it, but he was especially interested in the crazy creatures and what they are all about. I was amazed at the great attention to detail with the pop-up! This isn't a book I will let my little ones get their hands on, because I don't want them to destroy it; however, I love showing them the book and every time they are amazed. This is definitely a very creative book!

Flanimals $19.99 U.S./$25.00 CANADA

ENTER TO WIN!!

Candlewick Press has offered to sponsor a giveaway of Guess How Much I Love You -All Around The Seasons- and the Guess How Much I Love You (Sweetheart Edition)! There will be two winners, and each winner will receive both books! This contest is open to bloggers and non-bloggers of the United States, and the contest is open until midnight June 11th, 2010. To enter, go to the Candlewick Press website and check out all the books. Comment here about which ones sound interesting to you.

**For extra chances you can: blog this contest, add my button to your site, subscribe to my blog, twitter and/or become a fan on facebook, and/or visit everyday and add another friendly comment about something you found over at Candlewick Press. Lots of chances to win! Don't forget to put the extra comments for the "extra" work. Good luck!**

This review was provided from Candlewick Press. They have provided me with books to review and information to share with my readers. I am sponsored to offer a giveaway for my readers through this review. I was given the product for my personal opinion and option to share with my readers. I was not compensated for my time or written review.

“Draw Your Own Sun” art contest: 8th Continental Soy Milk (Review & Giveaway)

I am not usually a Soy milk drinker, but I had the opportunity recently to try out the new 8th Continent Soy Milk. I have to say that this Soy Milk is much better tasting than other brands I have tried. It must be because the 8th Continent Soymilk is made from United States grown soybeans. It really makes the difference in quality of products when they are made with better ingredients. My daughter really likes the Soy milk, and prefers it over our other brand milk. Maybe I will make a switch to Soy, especially if it seems to be better for her digestive track and immunity system.
About 8th Continent Soymilk
·8th Continent soymilk is made from U.S.-grown soybeans, and is an excellent source of calcium.
·It is the only American Heart Association-certified soymilk with less than 3 grams of fat.
·8th Continent soymilk is available in four different varieties: complete, regular, light, and fat free.
·All 8th Continent soymilks are lactose free, vegan, and Kosher U certified.

8th Continent sent me an art kit to help promote the new art contest going on.

From now until June 12, 2010, kids ages 5 and up can design a sun to possibly be the art displayed on the 8th Continent soy milk carton. Each day kids can enter to win, either online with an interactive drawing tool, or send in their drawings via snail mail. Here are the rules:
“Draw Your Own Sun” Art Contest
·Children five years and older can submit their own sun-inspired artwork at 8thContinent.com

·Entries can also be created online through an interactive drawing tool at 8thContinent.com
·Contest participants can submit one artwork entry per day through 11:59 pm EST on June 12, 2010
·All design submissions will be featured on 8thContinent.com in an online gallery where the public can vote for their favorite work of art.
·The number of public votes in the online gallery will determine 50 contest winners and a panel of judges selected by Stremicks Heritage Food will determine an additional 50 winners
·The 100 winners will each be recognized with $1,000 in art supplies for their school art programs – for a grand total of $100,000!
·Winning designs may also be featured on 8th Continent soymilk cartons beginning this fall!

***ENTER TO WIN***

8th Continent has offered to sponsor a giveaway for an "art kit" to a Sassyfrazz reader. Included in this kit is a pad of drawing paper, crayons, colored pencils, bowls, cereal, coupons and a coupon for a free carton of 8th Continent Soy milk. With this kit you can draw your own inspired sun shine to enter into the contest! This contest is open to bloggers and non-bloggers of the United States. Contest ends on June 2, 2010. To enter, tell me what your favorite breakfast item is. Also, what kind of dairy/non- dairy product does your family drink?

**For more extra chances you can: blog this contest, add my button to your site, subscribe to my blog, twitter and/or become a fan on facebook, and/or visit everyday and add another friendly comment about what you have for breakfast! Don't forget to put the extra comments for the "extra" work. Good luck!**

I was contacted directly from 8th Continent Soy Milk to review and share information about their products. I received the “Art Kit” for review to facilitate this review. 8th Continent will be giving away the same kit to the winner on this post for a prize.

Seventh Generation works great & is SAFER!! (Review & Giveaway)

I am all for replacing harsh chemical cleaners with safe, non-toxic cleaners....that are not only safer for my family, but safer for the environment. Seventh Generation’s products are non-toxic, environmentally friendly, safe and they work fantastic! Leading the “responsible cleaning” charge for the past twenty years, Seventh Generation has tapped into the disinfecting power of the herb thyme, to introduce an EPA registered line of disinfecting sprays and wipes that kill germs naturally! The new line of botanical disinfectant cleaners includes a multi-surface cleaning spray, bathroom cleaning spray and wipes.
Seventh Generation’s disinfectants contain thymol, a component of the herb thyme, and can be used on hard surfaces including counter tops, plastic cutting boards, highchair trays as well as children’s toys. Best of all, they kill over 99.99 percent of germs naturally and are effective against the Influenza A Virus, including H1N1.
Seventh Generation has partnered with eco-lifestyle consultant and author, Alexandra Zissu, whose new book, The Conscious Kitchen, discusses what’s good for your health, what’s good for the planet and what tastes great, to share her tips on maintaining a healthy kitchen. Her tips include:
·Change is Good
Choosing cleaning products without indoor air pollutants like volatile organic compounds, or VOCs, is a simple and effective way to reduce your indoor air pollution. If you’re not prepared to switch everything overnight, start by swapping out the one product you use the most, and moving forward from there.
·Think before you spray
Residues from cleaning products can last on a surface for longer than we we’d like to know and travel to areas that we sometimes don’t intend them to. Don’t contaminate your food by prepping it on a surface that may contain harsh chemical residues - rinse cleaning products from food preparation surfaces carefully or use botanical disinfecting cleaners that do not require a rinse step.
·Home is Where the Clean Is
Your standard cleaners are good for removing soils and dirt from kitchen surfaces, but to tackle germs you need a cleaner that is effective against microbes like bacteria and viruses. Many cleaners contain ingredients that have antimicrobial properties such as vinegar or hydrogen peroxide, but the germ killing power of these is not necessarily guaranteed. To be sure you are killing germs, use an EPA registered disinfectant. Seventh Generation tapped into the disinfecting power of the common garden herb thyme to provide a disinfecting cleaner that kills germs* naturally.
·Make the Old New Again
Think twice about the items that you’re using to clean and dry your kitchen equipment and dishes. Use rags (like old t-shirts and washcloths) instead of paper towels. If you aren’t prepared to kick your paper towel addiction just yet, use only recycled versions that are unbleached or haven’t been whitened with chemicals containing chlorine and see how long you can make a roll last.
·The Writing is on the … Sponge
Be sure to read the fine print on sponges and only purchase those that do not contain antimicrobial pesticides. Remember to store sponges in a dry place and frequently clean them by zapping plastic sponges wet in a microwave for two minutes or boiling sponges for three minutes in water.
·Mom Was Right, Wash Your Hands
Wash your hands with soap and water before and after prepping food, and always before eating. So much of what can be potentially harmful in a kitchen can be reduced by this simple act that doesn’t require any harsh chemicals whatsoever.

I was sent the new disinfectant line from Seventh Generation cleaning products, including a disinfecting multi-surface cleaner, bathroom cleaner, wipes and 100% recycled, unbleached paper towels. I love the ease of the multi-surface cleaner! I like that with a few squirts of the cleaner, a quick wipe with the paper towels, and I have a clean surface free of germs. That is something to feel great over! I never really thought of paper towels having bleach in them, and why they have that. Really? Bleach to make them white? Is that necessary? So, when we wipe our face, or our children's face with other brand paper towels, are we essentially putting bleach on their face? Something to think about. I am much happier with the 100% recycled, non-bleached towels from Seventh Generation...even though they are brown.

The bathroom cleaner is great, too. The smell of the Seventh Generation is pleasant, and after using it, my bathroom sparkles. I simply cannot express how great it is knowing the germs are being killed with this cleaner, yet it is non-toxic and safer for the environment! The disinfecting wipes are great for a quick clean up, as well!
I recommend Seventh Generation to you, and I am happy to share this product with you. Seventh Generation has offered to sponsor a generous giveaway for my readers, as well!

****ENTER TO WIN****

You can enter to win the "Disinfection Cleaning Kit," which includes the multi-surface cleaner, bathroom cleaner, a roll of unbleached paper towels, wipes, and a cleaning caddy/bag to hold it all! To enter: Comment on this post about something YOU'VE done for the environment this year? (required for initial entry). Contest ends June10th, 2010.
**For more extra chances you can: blog this contest, add my button to your site, subscribe to my blog, twitter and/or become a fan on facebook, and/or visit everyday and add another friendly comment about something you found out on the Seventh Generation's website! Don't forget to put the extra comments for the "extra" work. Good luck!**
I was contacted directly from Seventh Generation to review and share information about their products. I received the “Disinfecting Cleaning Kit” for review to facilitate this review. Seventh Generation will be giving away the same kit to the winner on this post for a prize.

Enter to win a $5,000 green home makeover! ~ Seventh Generation Review & Giveaway!!

Seventh Generation, a product line of natural cleaning products, is hosting a "Search for Mother Nature contest" which you will have the opportunity to win a $5,000 green home makeover!!
The contest, which runs from now until May 31, asks you to nominate your “Mother Nature,” a person that has been inspirational to you by making their home, community and/or environment safer and healthier. The grand prize winner will be awarded a $5,000 green home makeover and both the nominated “Mother Nature” and the grand prize winner will receive a year's supply of Seventh Generation products. IN addition, a $2,500 donation will be made in our “Mother Nature's” name to an organization working to make the world a safer place. Six finalists will also receive a year's worth of Seventh Generation products to help them protect their planet home.
To enter the contest, visit SeventhGeneration.com/mothernature and write in 1000 characters or less about the person who’s inspired you to protect your own Planet Home. Share their story and how they’ve led by example and shown you the way to a safer family and healthier planet. Seventh Generation’s own Mother Nature inspiration, Ivette Melendez of Women’s Action to Gain Economic Security (WAGES), will be a judge of the contest.

Ivette Melendez has Five Golden Rules of Cleaning:
Rule 1: Go Top-to-Bottom. Whether it's a room or a bookcase, clean from the top to the bottom and you won't have to go back and pick up any stray dirt or errant dust that falls as you go.
Rule 2: Go Back to Front. Always clean from back to front for similar reasons. If it's a room, start in a rear corner and work toward the door. If it's a cabinet, begin in the back and clean out toward the edge.
Rule 3: Work Clockwise. Pick a starting spot and work in a steady clockwise direction. Working systematically in this way will ensure that you don’t forget anything and won’t have to spend any time thinking about it!
Rule 4: Don't Use or Do More Than You Need To. Always start with a small amount of cleaning product and use more as necessary for tough spots and other challenges. Using more than you need to start only creates more work when it's time to rinse everything off!
Rule 5: Look Before You Leap. If you're cleaning something you've never cleaned before and/or using a product for the first time, you'll save a lot of premature hair loss by always testing things first to make sure you won't cause any damage.
Five Cleaning Hot Spots
As a cleaning expert, Ivette knows how to handle the greatest challenges without harm. Here's how she protects the top five hot spots on Planet Home:
The Oven.

Oven cleaners are among the most hazardous available, and heat intensifies their toxicity. Make ovens sparkle by first wiping them down to remove loose material. Spray on Seventh Generation Natural All Purpose Cleaner and add a light sprinkling of baking soda if you've got serious baked-on grime. Wipe everything clean after a 5-minute soak, and use a final vinegar wipe to make it all gleam. Watch the expert at work! Plus, I love that Seventh Generation products don't have horrible smells, and their products are not toxic.
The Microwave. Toxic cleaner residues in the microwave can contaminate any foods that follow. Clean yours with Seventh Generation Natural All Purpose Cleaner and rinse with vinegar to keep these hazards off the menu. Watch the expert at work!
The Cutting Board. Wooden cutting boards often harbor dangerous bacteria, but did you know that they can also absorb the chemicals from conventional cleaning products? In order to keep toxic ingredients away from food surfaces, clean your cutting board naturally with Seventh Generation Natural Dish Liquid and follow up with a vinegar rinse.
Stainless Steel. Skip the specialized products and clean stainless steel surfaces by applying Seventh Generation Natural All-Purpose Cleaner to a microfiber cloth. Use the cloth to scrub then wipe with the grain in one steady direction. Watch the expert at work!
Windows. Make short work of this housekeeping headache by first removing spots, grease, and stickers (moisten with Seventh Generation Natural All-Purpose Cleaner and scrape off stickers with a spatula). When dry, spray on Seventh Generation Natural Glass & Surface Cleaner. Wipe in one direction only with a rag, microfiber cloth or recycled paper towel—not newspaper (it's better to recycle the newspaper!). Watch the expert at work!
Ivette’s Cleaning Solutions
1. Suave: a multipurpose cleaner. Mix 12 ounces of water with 5 drops of Seventh Generation natural dish liquid
2. Fuerte: for heavy duty jobs. Mix 12 ounces of water with 15 drops of Seventh Generation natural dish liquid
Here are three of Ivette’s favorite tools:
1) Let vinegar become your elixir of happiness. Mix 1 part white vinegar to 3 parts water.
a. Shine a hardwood floor. For large areas, dip your mop. For smaller surfaces, apply from a spray bottle.
b. Bring shine to wood furniture. Spray a cotton or microfiber cloth and rub along the grain. For occasional conditioning try a mineral or olive oil rub.
c. Remove smudges from glass. Spray the mixture onto a cloth. Wipe in just one direction. Cloth-dry for extra shine.
2) Get a grip on your flat head screwdriver.
a. Get into appliance crevices. Cover the tip with a cloth. Slide in one direction.
b. Reach nooks and crannies of shower frames or fridge seals. Cover the tip with a cloth. Inch the cloth to a clean spot after each wipe.
c. Remove faucets and light switch panels. For a deep cleaning, use the screwdriver to remove small fixtures. Always keep the screwdriver dry.
d. Lift gum or stickers. Wet what’s stuck. With even strokes, carefully scrape one direction using a spatula or screwdriver. Uneven pressure may result in scratches.
3) Let your baking soda do the talking.
a. Maintain troublesome drains weekly. Remove hair or blockages. Pour in 1 cup baking soda. Add 1 cup vinegar. Watch for happy bubbles. Rinse with hot water. Repeat if necessary.
b. Clean the oven. Wipe out loose detritus. Lightly dampen the entire area with a soapy water spray (if it’s too wet, it won’t work). Lightly sprinkle the entire surface with baking soda. Leave for 7 minutes. Scrape with a metal spatula from side to side. Then scrub soap and water using a plastic scouring pad or brush. For a clean smell and a nice shine, wipe the oven with the 1:3 vinegar solution.
c. Rub out rust. Make a paste of soda with a few drops of soap and leave for a few minutes. Apply it to a dry rusty spot. Rub in small circles with a wet pumice stone. Repeat if necessary.

I was so surprised at some of these tips~ how easy they are and how naturally we can clean our homes! I was really excited to get this information from Seventh Generation, and share them with my readers. I think that using more natural products to clean our home is not only safer but more economical! Seventh Generation products are natural, and safe to our health!
I am also hosting a giveaway through this blog posting!! Seventh Generation sent me a kit of their products to test out some of Ivette's cleaning tips.
I got some great products to get me started, and these include:
-Ivette’s top three cleaning tools (pocket scraper, microfiber rag and scouring pad)
-Seventh Generation disinfecting wipes
-Seventh Generation Natural all-purpose spray
-Seventh Generation Natural dish liquid
-Seventh Generation Recycled paper towels
I can't wait to clean my oven. I don't know if other people let that appliance go a long time without cleaning it, but it does get neglected in our home. The main reason I don't clean it that often, is because the cleaner is so toxic smelling and I can't clean it with my children around. Well, using the Seventh Generation all-purpose spray, vinegar and baking soda will make my home a lot safer for breathing, and the chemicals are not harsh on my appliances. The Seventh Generation all-purpose spray is great for so many different surfaces and uses...it really is great all-over in general. I love the Seventh Generation paper towels, 100% recycled...and safe. I also really like the dish liquid from Seventh Generation, it cleans great, and it gentle on my sensitive skin. I like using the disinfecting wipes for cleaning off toys, chairs, tables, and surfaces. I like knowing I am wiping off germs and bacteria, and not leaving behind poisons.
ENTER TO WIN A SPECIAL SEVENTH GENERATION CLEANING KIT:
You can enter to win the kit that I got to review: Ivette's top cleaning tools, Seventh Generations: disinfecting wipes, all-purpose spray, dish liquid, and paper towels. To qualify, go to Seventh Generation's website, and enter to win the $5,000 green home makeover (and comment about it). This contest is open to non-bloggers and bloggers of the United States and will end on May 27th, 2010.
**For extra chances you can: blog this contest, add my button to your site, subscribe to my blog, twitter and/or become a fan on facebook, and/or visit everyday and add another friendly comment about Seventh Generation and their awesome products! Don't forget to put the extra comments for the "extra" work. Good luck!**

ABOUT SEVENTH GENERATION
Seventh Generation is committed to being the most trusted brand of household and personal-care products for your living home. Our products are healthy and safe for the air, the surfaces, the fabrics, the pets, and the people within your home -- and for the community and environment outside of it. Seventh Generation also offers products for baby that are safe for your children and the planet.
For information on Seventh Generation cleaning, paper, baby and feminine personal care products, to find store locations, and explore the company's website visit: SeventhGeneration.com.

I was contacted directly from Seventh Generation to do a product review of their select products. They sent me free product in return for a review and promotion. I was also able to host a giveaway for my readers, sponsored from Seventh Generation. I was not compensated for my time or written review.

Winners~

Here are the new winners! Congratulations to those who won! Thanks for visiting my site, and entering the contests! Thanks so much to the sponsors who provide the giveaway prizes!

Energizer's Keep Going Hall of Fame~ Nominate someone....PLUS a GIVEAWAY! : Lakeside love

KidsCraft Playhouses : Review & Giveaway!! : Chris

National Geographic Little Kids Magazine (REVIEW & GIVEAWAY) : Joyful Noise

Horizon Organic Chocolate Milk with DHA-Omega 3 ~ 3 giveaways!! : Jackie, andrea v, Aileen

Energizer Weather Preparedness Tool Kit Review & Giveaway : jgos

I will be sending an email to the winners and requesting their contact information. Winners have three days to claim their prize, otherwise I have the option to pick a new winner. I can't guarantee shipment of prizes when they are sent from the sponsor.

More contests coming up soon! Don't forget to enter these two current giveaways!

Enter to win a Smart Charger! (and help kids get involved with charities)

Vistaprint Giveaway!! ($50 value photo book)

Vistaprint Giveaway!! ($50 value photo book)

I love taking pictures of my kids and loading them on my computer. I also love sharing them with my family and friends online. However, it is really great to have a photo book to show your family and friends when they come to visit, and you have a book to take with you or pass on. Vistaprint offers great Photo Books for keeping your photos together in a customized book. Vistaprint has 3 different styles of books to choose from, Leather, hard cover, and linen covers. Each book has 26 pages to fill up and they can be arranged in several layout and design options.

I would love to put together a photo book for each of my kids. I think it would make a great graduation or wedding gift someday. With graduation and wedding "season" coming up, I thought this would be a great opportunity to spread the word about the Vistaprint photo books. With Vistaprint, there is free 14 day shipping, too, so there is time to put your personalized book together and have it ready for graduation, or that special wedding coming up.

***WIN IT***

Vistaprint is offering to sponsor a giveaway for one of my readers to win a personalized, 12 X 12 Photo Book. The winner can choose from hard cover, leather cover or linen cover. It includes 26 pages and a variety of layout and design options and free 14-day shipping. The value of the giveaway is over $50!!

To Enter, go to Vistaprint's website and check out their great products that they offer, such as

Birthday Invitations, Custom T-shirts, and Personalized Mugs. Comment here about some of the products you found. This contest is open to those in the United States (bloggers and non-bloggers) and will end on May12th, 2010.

**For extra chances you can: blog this contest, add my button to your site, subscribe to my blog, twitter and/or become a fan on facebook, and/or visit everyday and add another friendly comment about Vistaprint and their awesome products! Don't forget to put the extra comments for the "extra" work. Good luck!**

You can get additional entries for following Vistaprint on Twitter and becoming a fan of Vistaprint on Facebook.

I am a member of Team mom and I was asked for my participation in posting this information. Vistaprint offered this giveaway for my readers, in return for my posting of this information and links. I was not compensated for my time or written review.

Enter to win a Smart Charger! (and help kids get involved with charities)

Energizer launched a new campaign this year to help raise money for charity, and kids are the ones helping to raise the funds! This campaign, Kids Take Charge, is a video campaign where kids can let others know what happens when their favorite toys/games don't have the "power" (a.k.a. battery juice) in them anymore.
Kids(with their parent’s help) can submit a video of them explaining what happens – what mischief they get into - when their toys run out of power. Creativity is very important with these videos, and the top ten finalists will be asked to pick a charity. Then Energizer will post their video at Energizer.com/recharge along with their charity name and the more “likes” their video gets the bigger portion of a $10,000 donation their charity receives. The parents, of course, will have to submit the videos – it’s the rules – but the first 250 will get a free Smart Charger!
So film them explaining the monkey business that can ensue……and why the Smart Charger is the smart solution. If it’s as funny or as cute as the clips you can view here, you could be one of 10 that will win a cash donation for your favorite charity.
HOW TO ENTER
Film a video – 60 seconds or less – of your child explaining what happens when their toy runs out of battery power (have fun with it!)
Include why the Smart Charger is a good way to keep batteries charged and toys working, or show a “Take Charge or Else” sign like the one in the video (download it here or get creative and make one yourself)
Upload your video to www.youtube.com and include #recharge in the title
Click on the ENTER HERE and enter the required information
***Win It!!***
PLUS, If you leave a comment on this posting, You could enter to win a Smart Charger here as well! Energizer has offered to sponsor a giveaway for my readers!
To enter:
1. Leave a comment about which video at www.energizer.com/recharge is your favorite within the YouTube Comment section and comment here about what you commented on.
And/Or…
2. Tweet the following: First 250 to submit a video in the Kids Take Charge contest get a free @Energizer #Recharge Smart Charger: www.energizer.com/recharge
For five extra entries:
1. Submit a video to the Energizer Kids Take Charge contest and post your link within my comment section!
This contest will end on May 5th, 2010...and this contest is open to bloggers/non-bloggers of the United States.

I was contacted directly by Energizer, who asked me for my participation in posting this information. I was sent a Smart Charger for in exchange for posting a review, and offered this giveaway for my readers as mentioned above. I was not compensated for my time or written review.

Energizer Weather Preparedness Tool Kit Review & Giveaway

Spring is in the air, flowers blooming, trees budding...and bad weather could be lurking around the corner. It is important to be prepared when you face bad weather and your power goes out, or you are in your basement due to tornado/storm warnings.
Energizer, the International Association of Fire Chiefs (IAFC) and the American Meteorological Society (AMS) are working together to help families prepare for whatever weather situations spring, summer and hurricane seasons might bring their way. A key reminder in preparedness is to use flashlights instead of candles if a storm knocks out the power. Many home fires are started by burning candles left unattended, with an average of 15,000 home fires caused each year.* I was sent the Energizer Tool Kit to review! I love this kit! It is packed with the essentials needed to prepare you for bad weather. The recommended emergency power kit includes a flashlight for each member of the family, a battery-powered radio for weather updates, a battery-powered cell phone charger to stay connected to loved ones and extra batteries, including those for critical devices such as insulin pumps, hearing aids and blood pressure monitors.
The Energizer Weatheready flashlight has posted on it an important check list mentioning the important things to have ready for a storm or severe conditions. It is a very helpful check list. I really like the super bright LED light in the flashlight.
The battery-powered radio included in the tool kit is so helpful, too. I think it gets great reception, considering it's size. I think that the mini radio is perfect to get information to the weather, but small enough to not be a burden.
This kit also has plenty of extra batteries. Energizer Ultimate Lithium and Energizer MAX batteries (AA, and D) provide long-lasting power before, during and after the storm. Lithium batteries have a long storage life, perform well in extreme temperatures and are perfect for use in LED flashlights and other high-tech devices, while Energizer MAX batteries are an ideal power source for standard flashlights and lanterns.
The battery-powered cell phone charger is a must in today's society. Most people have cell phones, and those phones are great because you don't need a land line. So, to have a battery powered cell phone charger, is extremely helpful. I love that this charger will just keep charging up to 500 times!
***WIN IT!!***
Energizer is sponsoring a giveaway for my readers!
You can enter to win the Energizer Weather Preparedness Tool Kit! The kit comes in a red bag and contains the types of items to think about including in a back-up power kit: battery-operated radio, flashlight, cell phone charger and extra batteries. To enter, just comment about something you like to have when you are facing a storm or power outage. This contest is open to those in the USA, bloggers and non-bloggers and will end on April 30th, 2010 at midnight.
**For extra chances you can: blog this contest, add my button to your site, subscribe to my blog, twitter and/or become a fan on facebook, and/or visit everyday and add another friendly comment about Energizer and their awesome products!
Don't forget to put the extra comments for the "extra" work. Good luck!**

I was contacted directly by Energizer, who asked me for my participation in posting this information. I was sent a sample tool kit for posting a review, and offered this giveaway for my readers as mentioned above. I was not compensated for my time or written review.

Horizon Organic Chocolate Milk with DHA-Omega 3 ~ 3 giveaways!!

Horizon Organic lowfat Chocolate Milk with DHA Omega-3 provides a great tasting and easy way to add calcium and DHA to your family’s diet. DHA Omega-3 is an important nutrient that helps support heart, brain and eye health, and it’s available in lowfat half gallons.

In addition to the great taste, DHA Omega-3 is a natural building block that supports brain development and function throughout life. It’s good for the whole family, but is especially valuable for young children to support their rapid growth. Many kids love chocolate milk, so it is great that Horizon Organic offers Chocolate milk with the DHA-Omega 3 for kids to enjoy and get what they need.

***WIN IT!!***
Horizon Organic Milk is sponsoring a giveaway for my readers! Here is what three random commenter's will win:

Each winner will be receiving 2 free coupons for a half gallon and 2 coupons for $1.00 off. One of the 3 contestants, however, will win a red Horizon Organic branded Chico Bag and a branded Rubik’s Cube key chain.
This contest is open to those in the United States (bloggers or non-bloggers). To enter, leave a comment about what you like to drink milk with...cookies? Have you ever had Horizon Organic milk? You can comment about your experiences, too.

Contest will end on April 27th at midnight.
**For extra chances you can: blog this contest, add my button to your site, subscribe to my blog, twitter and/or become a fan on facebook, and/or visit everyday and add another friendly comment Horizon Organic Milk. You can find Horizon Organic Milk on Facebook, too. Lots of chances to win! Don't forget to put the extra comments for the "extra" work. Good luck!**

I was contacted directly by Horizon, who asked me for my participation in posting this information. I was sent two coupons for my posting review, and offered this giveaway for my readers as mentioned above. I was not compensated for my time or written review.

KidsCraft Playhouses : Review & Giveaway!!

When my kids can use their imagination with play, and step into creativity...I am all for it! I was recently sent a really fun Playhouse for my kids to explore, decorate, color/marker, and make their own. (I helped a little) KidsCraft Playhouses: made from 100% recycled materials, are cardboard playhouses that fit 2-3 kids. I was sent the Shuttle Imagination to review, and my kids were thrilled! The Shuttle came in one large box, and the set up only took a little while. I like how the cardboard is sturdy...because my kids are busy, and they need something that will hold up to their test.
Here is a picture of my little guy, Cole age 1, entering the spaceship. Cole was so excited about going inside to be with his sister. He loved just going in and out.
As you can see, my daughter loved the Shuttle Imagination, too! She was so excited and could barely wait for me to put it together. She loved looking through the holes, which were designed like space shapes: circles, stars, flying rocks, etc.
Easily the Shuttle Imagination holds 2-3 kids comfortably. I love that the KidsCraft Playhouses are built for more than one child, because kids love to play together.
Peek-a-boo Madelyn! She loved looking out at her brothers. Isn't she cute?
Here is Caleb looking out, he loved this new playhouse, too. Here is his design around his face that he decorated. I think that the KidsCraft Playhouse is a great place for kids to let out their creativity and draw all over something (that is OK) and they can make it their own. I also love that this playhouse is already ready for kids to play in, you just need to assemble it for them. I have made many play houses out of card board boxes, and it is tough getting scissors through the card board, and it doesn't always look that great. However, the KidsCraft Playhouses are designed with saving the parent's time in mind (in my opinion).
The kids all had a great time coloring, thinking, drawing, and picking just the right colors for their Shuttle. It was fun to see them so hard at work.
I love Caleb's person on the side of the Shuttle. :) It is just precious to me...
I highly recommend the KidsCraft Shuttle Imagination to you. I was thrilled with this product, and my kids absolutely love it. This makes for a great indoor project when it is raining or snowing out...and my kids have so much fun in it all the time. (especially when I am making dinner).

*KidsCraft offers two designs: Shuttle Imagination ($69.95) and Creation Cottage ($59.95).
The Shuttle Imagination measures 39”L x 34”W x 72”H. Fin attachments are 12” long.

About the creators:
Two dads and a grandfather from Atlanta got a first hand look at how the cardboard box captures a child’s way of thinking. While packing up their financial services business, moving from one office to another, their kids tagged along. Although the fathers brought along playthings like coloring books and crayons for the 3 to 7 year olds, it was the empty boxes that captivated the youngsters. The dads saw the sparks of a business and KidsCraft Playhouses was born.


***WIN IT!!***
KidsCraft Playhouses is generously sponsoring to give a playhouse away (winner's choice of style: Creation Cottage or Shuttle Imagination)!! This contest is open to those in the United States (bloggers or non-bloggers). To enter, you need to go to the KidsCraft website and find out one interesting thing about the company. Contest will end on April 27th at midnight.
**For extra chances you can: become a fan of KidsCraft on Facebook, follow KidsCraft on Twitter, blog this contest, add my button to your site, subscribe to my blog, twitter and/or become a fan on facebook, and/or visit everyday and add another friendly comment KidsCraft company and the use of their playhouses. Lots of chances to win! Don't forget to put the extra comments for the "extra" work. Good luck!**

This post was written for KidsCraft.com, who supplied a playhouse for me to review. I was also offered a chance for my readers to enter a giveaway with the sponsorship from KidsCraft. I was not compensated for my time or written review.