Kamis, 30 Mei 2013
Rabu, 29 Mei 2013
Selasa, 28 Mei 2013
Jumat, 24 Mei 2013
Get Your Wellbeing in a Bottle with Rooibee Red Tea
Food Fridays:
I received product for the purposes of this review. However, all the comments and information here are mine.
I’m always on the hunt for something good to drink.
While I enjoy my wines and cocktails, sometimes I prefer a great recipe for healthy juice for my kids, a fun water alternative or tea.
Oh, yes – me and my tea fixation. I chalk it all up to be southern and the fact that I worked at a Chicken Express in high school and they have delicious sweet tea (and yes, I still eat there.)
Anyhow, as I get older I can’t go through four glasses of sweet tea a day. Besides the fact it isn’t healthy, I just don’t want that amount of sweetness. I want something with a hint, but not like a whole bag of cane sugar got dumped into my glass. So I was stoked to find some new BOTTLED teas that were just the right amount of sweet and healthy.
Now before we get into all the coolness of why you should try this tea, I have to preface this with: I don’t like bottled tea. At all. Like I send it back at restaurants if it’s not freshly brewed, so I’m a total snob about the taste of my tea. And now that I have kids, I am becoming a snob about the things I put in my body and theirs.
Enter Rooibee Red Tea, a family-friendly USDA-certified organic bottled rooibos tea. This tea is made with pure waters, organic ingredients and is available in five flavors including Watermelon Mint, Peach, Unsweetened, Cranberry Pomegranate and Vanilla Chai.
If you’re not familiar with rooibos, it is a bush that grows only in South Africa. Tea made from rooibos has been enjoyed by South Africans for generations and has recently gained popularity in other parts of the world, including the US, because of its health benefits and inherently sweet character. All Rooibee Red Tea varieties are USDA organic, high in antioxidants, naturally caffeine free, gluten free and low in calories.
Best thing about Rooibee Red Tea? Those behind the company are moms and dads, sons and daughters, sisters and brothers who want to live right and take care of their families, community and the planet. They created this family-friendly, caffeine free tea as a healthy alternative to high-sugar juices and sodas that rejuvenates without stimulants and refreshes without anything artificial.
Gotta love that.
Rooibee Red Tea is available at local DFW Whole Foods Market.
For more information about Rooibee Red Tea, check their website and Facebook.
I received product for the purposes of this review. However, all the comments and information here are mine.
I’m always on the hunt for something good to drink.
While I enjoy my wines and cocktails, sometimes I prefer a great recipe for healthy juice for my kids, a fun water alternative or tea.
Oh, yes – me and my tea fixation. I chalk it all up to be southern and the fact that I worked at a Chicken Express in high school and they have delicious sweet tea (and yes, I still eat there.)
Anyhow, as I get older I can’t go through four glasses of sweet tea a day. Besides the fact it isn’t healthy, I just don’t want that amount of sweetness. I want something with a hint, but not like a whole bag of cane sugar got dumped into my glass. So I was stoked to find some new BOTTLED teas that were just the right amount of sweet and healthy.
Now before we get into all the coolness of why you should try this tea, I have to preface this with: I don’t like bottled tea. At all. Like I send it back at restaurants if it’s not freshly brewed, so I’m a total snob about the taste of my tea. And now that I have kids, I am becoming a snob about the things I put in my body and theirs.
Enter Rooibee Red Tea, a family-friendly USDA-certified organic bottled rooibos tea. This tea is made with pure waters, organic ingredients and is available in five flavors including Watermelon Mint, Peach, Unsweetened, Cranberry Pomegranate and Vanilla Chai.
If you’re not familiar with rooibos, it is a bush that grows only in South Africa. Tea made from rooibos has been enjoyed by South Africans for generations and has recently gained popularity in other parts of the world, including the US, because of its health benefits and inherently sweet character. All Rooibee Red Tea varieties are USDA organic, high in antioxidants, naturally caffeine free, gluten free and low in calories.
 |
| Thanks, Wikipedia for this lovely shot of Rooibos. |
Best thing about Rooibee Red Tea? Those behind the company are moms and dads, sons and daughters, sisters and brothers who want to live right and take care of their families, community and the planet. They created this family-friendly, caffeine free tea as a healthy alternative to high-sugar juices and sodas that rejuvenates without stimulants and refreshes without anything artificial.
Gotta love that.
Rooibee Red Tea is available at local DFW Whole Foods Market.
For more information about Rooibee Red Tea, check their website and Facebook.
Kamis, 23 Mei 2013
The Clear Choice: Don't Call Me Brace Face {Spon}
Want-it Wednesdays:
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post on the behalf of Invisalign. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Everyone (except maybe Heidi Klum) has had their ugly duckling period.
Normally it is also the time puberty kicks in around junior high and to make your self-esteem really go downhill, your parents decide this is the right time for braces. Then thankfully about your senior year of high school you get your braces removed just in time to show your new perfectly straightened pearly whites for graduation photos.
I wasn’t that lucky. Although I was so glad to get braces, I didn’t get mine “installed” UNTIL the end of my junior year of high school. To make it even more fun, I got my first pair of glasses the following week. While my top row were “clear” ceramic braces, my bottom set were the traditional metal braces, my graduation photos would definitely have me and my braces and so would my first year of college…
Super. (That’s not what I said at the time, but you can imagine what I was thinking, right?)
While I wasn’t happy to be “Braceface” and “Four Eyes” all of a sudden, I didn’t mind it near as much as the pain I had when my wires needed adjusting and started poking me in the sides of my mouth. I can still remember the feeling now as well as the huge amounts of wax I just kept sticking into my braces so it would stop hurting just for a little bit. During the first four months I had those babies on I ate nothing but egg drop soup because it hurt to much to eat and/or would probably get stuck in my teeth anyhow.
Thankfully technology has changed and made days of throbbing teeth, ugly graduation photos and wondering "what’s stuck in my teeth” a thing of the past. For instance with Invisalign, patients can watch their winning smile evolve instead of waiting to see the final result when the traditional metal brackets come off. Invisalign patients can start to see improvements and progress in as little as 90 days.
And best of all, no more wires and brackets required – Invisalign is the clear alternative to metal braces that uses a series of virtually invisible and removable aligners that gradually move teeth over time. The benefits include no food restrictions, ability to easily maintain healthy dental brushing habits, minimal interference with sports or other activities, and teeth get straightened without most people knowing you are in treatment.
When compared to metal or even ceramic wire bracket braces like I had, a clear aligner option like Invisalign has many advantages. Although the cost is roughly about the same as traditional braces, the Invisalign treatment usually requires fewer office visits, shorter appointments and no “emergency” visits for broken wires or brackets.
Oh, if I could only do it over again. Oh wait, I get to – in just about 8 years with my kids. At least they’ll have Invisalign.
Have you or someone you've known used Invisalign? What did you think?
Learn more about Invisalign on Facebook and Twitter.
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post.
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post on the behalf of Invisalign. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
Everyone (except maybe Heidi Klum) has had their ugly duckling period.
Normally it is also the time puberty kicks in around junior high and to make your self-esteem really go downhill, your parents decide this is the right time for braces. Then thankfully about your senior year of high school you get your braces removed just in time to show your new perfectly straightened pearly whites for graduation photos.
I wasn’t that lucky. Although I was so glad to get braces, I didn’t get mine “installed” UNTIL the end of my junior year of high school. To make it even more fun, I got my first pair of glasses the following week. While my top row were “clear” ceramic braces, my bottom set were the traditional metal braces, my graduation photos would definitely have me and my braces and so would my first year of college…
Super. (That’s not what I said at the time, but you can imagine what I was thinking, right?)
While I wasn’t happy to be “Braceface” and “Four Eyes” all of a sudden, I didn’t mind it near as much as the pain I had when my wires needed adjusting and started poking me in the sides of my mouth. I can still remember the feeling now as well as the huge amounts of wax I just kept sticking into my braces so it would stop hurting just for a little bit. During the first four months I had those babies on I ate nothing but egg drop soup because it hurt to much to eat and/or would probably get stuck in my teeth anyhow.
Thankfully technology has changed and made days of throbbing teeth, ugly graduation photos and wondering "what’s stuck in my teeth” a thing of the past. For instance with Invisalign, patients can watch their winning smile evolve instead of waiting to see the final result when the traditional metal brackets come off. Invisalign patients can start to see improvements and progress in as little as 90 days.
And best of all, no more wires and brackets required – Invisalign is the clear alternative to metal braces that uses a series of virtually invisible and removable aligners that gradually move teeth over time. The benefits include no food restrictions, ability to easily maintain healthy dental brushing habits, minimal interference with sports or other activities, and teeth get straightened without most people knowing you are in treatment.
When compared to metal or even ceramic wire bracket braces like I had, a clear aligner option like Invisalign has many advantages. Although the cost is roughly about the same as traditional braces, the Invisalign treatment usually requires fewer office visits, shorter appointments and no “emergency” visits for broken wires or brackets.
Oh, if I could only do it over again. Oh wait, I get to – in just about 8 years with my kids. At least they’ll have Invisalign.
Have you or someone you've known used Invisalign? What did you think?
Learn more about Invisalign on Facebook and Twitter.
Disclaimer: This is a sponsored post.
Rabu, 22 Mei 2013
Soothe Baby Eczema with Aveeno Eczema Therapy Kit {Giveaway}
Want-it Tuesdays:
I received product for the purpose of this review. However, all the information and comments are my own.
A few months ago my beautiful little girl's perfectly peach and unmarked skin became red, whelped and dry all over her poor little, chubby legs. Since she didn't complain and thinking she just had a reaction to being out in a field of bluebonnets (a spring Texas requirement), I let it go for more than a week without doing much than amp up her lotion use. It was only after her school became scared the condition may be contagious and it wasn't going away, I realized it might be eczema. But just in case, I needed to take her to the pediatrician.
Comfirmed by her pediatrician, we decided it was time to take her for a dip in an oatmeal bath and slather on the lotion. Why oatmeal? As a skin protectant active ingredient, oatmeal can help restore skin's normal pH and aid in the maintenance of skin's moisture barrier to prevent and protect dry skin.
Of course, that meant only one brand would do - Aveeno. Since both my husband and I had our own issues with eczema, we already were big fans of their products. But for our little girl we wondered if the treatments might be too intense for her tender skin.
While I loved that there was a kit including the lotion and treatment, I still needed a wash to clean her body when we didn't have time for a bath. Thankfully there was a solution for that too...the Aveeno Baby Cleansing Theraphy Moisturizing Wash. awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. Best of all everything we needed was purchased at our local grocery store, didn't need a prescription and didn't break the bank.
And neither will you with this special giveaway from Aveeno!
Are you looking for a nighttime ritual to From AVEENO®, the leader in ACTIVE NATURALS® ingredients and recommended by Pediatricians for over 60 years, comes the AVEENO® Baby Bathtime Solutions Gift Set, which includes products to nurture baby's skin and pamper mom!
One lucky reader will win the AVEENO® BABY BATHTIME SOLUTIONS GIFT SET (great gift for you or a great baby shower gift) with:
I received product for the purpose of this review. However, all the information and comments are my own.
A few months ago my beautiful little girl's perfectly peach and unmarked skin became red, whelped and dry all over her poor little, chubby legs. Since she didn't complain and thinking she just had a reaction to being out in a field of bluebonnets (a spring Texas requirement), I let it go for more than a week without doing much than amp up her lotion use. It was only after her school became scared the condition may be contagious and it wasn't going away, I realized it might be eczema. But just in case, I needed to take her to the pediatrician.
Comfirmed by her pediatrician, we decided it was time to take her for a dip in an oatmeal bath and slather on the lotion. Why oatmeal? As a skin protectant active ingredient, oatmeal can help restore skin's normal pH and aid in the maintenance of skin's moisture barrier to prevent and protect dry skin.
Of course, that meant only one brand would do - Aveeno. Since both my husband and I had our own issues with eczema, we already were big fans of their products. But for our little girl we wondered if the treatments might be too intense for her tender skin.
The Aveeno Baby Eczema Therapy Care Kit is a two-step regimen formulated with colloidal oatmeal to help soothe eczema-prone skin. Eczema Therapy Bath Treatment gently cleanses and relieves irritation due to eczema. The convenient kit helps to improve the four symptoms of eczema—itchiness, dryness, irritation and rough skin. When dispersed in water, the hypoallergenic powder forms a tear-free milky bath that soothes as it naturally cleanses without soap. After bathing, baby's skin is softer and smoother, and dry, irritated, sensitive skin is relieved.
While I loved that there was a kit including the lotion and treatment, I still needed a wash to clean her body when we didn't have time for a bath. Thankfully there was a solution for that too...the Aveeno Baby Cleansing Theraphy Moisturizing Wash. awarded the National Eczema Association Seal of Acceptance. Best of all everything we needed was purchased at our local grocery store, didn't need a prescription and didn't break the bank.
And neither will you with this special giveaway from Aveeno!
Are you looking for a nighttime ritual to From AVEENO®, the leader in ACTIVE NATURALS® ingredients and recommended by Pediatricians for over 60 years, comes the AVEENO® Baby Bathtime Solutions Gift Set, which includes products to nurture baby's skin and pamper mom!
One lucky reader will win the AVEENO® BABY BATHTIME SOLUTIONS GIFT SET (great gift for you or a great baby shower gift) with:
- Baby Wash & Shampoo: blends natural oat extract into a rich, lathering, soap-free cleanser that cleans without drying
- Baby Daily Moisture Lotion: non-greasy formula contains natural colloidal oatmeal to help soothe baby's delicate, dry skin
- Baby Calming Comfort Bath: tear-free, soap free cleanser contains soothing scents of lavender and relaxing vanilla
- Stress Relief Body Wash: formulated with natural colloidal oatmeal to clean and moisturize skin, and scented with lavender, essential chamomile and ylang-ylang oils to help calm and relax you in the shower
Selasa, 21 Mei 2013
Family Movie Night Happens With Netflix {Spon}
Try-it Tuesdays:
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of NETFLIX. However, all the comments here are my own.
When I was a kid I waited all week long until Saturday mornings so I could get my cartoon fix.
Now fast forward to today: my kids never have to wait for cartoons to come on one day away because NETFLIX gives them the accessibility to watch what they want, when they want. All mama has to do is turn them on whatever device makes sense like my iPad, computer and of course, the TV. Gotta love streaming video, right? All I have to do is hit up the dedicated kids section (designed by Common Sense Media for kids ages 2- 12) on NETFLIX and press play.
Happy kids means a happy mama.
In the mornings to get the kids ready for school they request always ask for Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Road Rally. When they get home and we have snack time, it's always a little Jake and the Never Land Pirates for both of little sweeties. The four-year-old boy dominates the watching choices for both of them - at least until the 20-month girl can talk. And then it's all over! Until then she seems to enjoy Cars Toons: Mater’s Tall Takes although her brother "lets her watch" Tinker Bell and the Great Fairy Rescue - even though I know he secretly likes it, too!
But the favorite show of both of them is without a doubt Thomas & Friends: Go Go Thomas. We are definitely a "Thomas" family since everything from my son's room, all his toys, even his lunch box are all Thomas. So no doubt we treat Thomas like a special occasion everytime we watch it. His presence on the screen is like Friday night at the movies. And until my kids get a little older, Netflix makes it possible to have Family Movie Night without paying an arm and a leg. And of course, begin the movie at 6 pm so we can still make bedtime AND bathroom breaks WITHOUT missing the movie!
What are you watching on TV with your family? Netflix has family favorites from Disney, Disney Jr., Hasbro, Cartoon Network and Dreamworks that are available to stream anytime, anywhere.
And streaming is easier than you think! Download the free app on your iPad, click on the Netflix app on any gaming device, go to the website on your computer – and you’re in business. Check it out here!
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of NETFLIX.
This article also posted on Star-Telegram.com/Moms.
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of NETFLIX. However, all the comments here are my own.
When I was a kid I waited all week long until Saturday mornings so I could get my cartoon fix.
Now fast forward to today: my kids never have to wait for cartoons to come on one day away because NETFLIX gives them the accessibility to watch what they want, when they want. All mama has to do is turn them on whatever device makes sense like my iPad, computer and of course, the TV. Gotta love streaming video, right? All I have to do is hit up the dedicated kids section (designed by Common Sense Media for kids ages 2- 12) on NETFLIX and press play.
Happy kids means a happy mama.
In the mornings to get the kids ready for school they request always ask for Mickey Mouse Clubhouse: Road Rally. When they get home and we have snack time, it's always a little Jake and the Never Land Pirates for both of little sweeties. The four-year-old boy dominates the watching choices for both of them - at least until the 20-month girl can talk. And then it's all over! Until then she seems to enjoy Cars Toons: Mater’s Tall Takes although her brother "lets her watch" Tinker Bell and the Great Fairy Rescue - even though I know he secretly likes it, too!
But the favorite show of both of them is without a doubt Thomas & Friends: Go Go Thomas. We are definitely a "Thomas" family since everything from my son's room, all his toys, even his lunch box are all Thomas. So no doubt we treat Thomas like a special occasion everytime we watch it. His presence on the screen is like Friday night at the movies. And until my kids get a little older, Netflix makes it possible to have Family Movie Night without paying an arm and a leg. And of course, begin the movie at 6 pm so we can still make bedtime AND bathroom breaks WITHOUT missing the movie!
What are you watching on TV with your family? Netflix has family favorites from Disney, Disney Jr., Hasbro, Cartoon Network and Dreamworks that are available to stream anytime, anywhere.
And streaming is easier than you think! Download the free app on your iPad, click on the Netflix app on any gaming device, go to the website on your computer – and you’re in business. Check it out here!
This is a sponsored post written by me on behalf of NETFLIX.
This article also posted on Star-Telegram.com/Moms.
Senin, 20 Mei 2013
Get Pretty Muddy at New Women Only Run, June 1 + Discount {Spon}
Me Mondays:
This is a sponsored post. I've received a gift card as an incentive for writing this post. However, the opinions stated here are all my own.
I. HATE. TO. RUN.
However, when I get finally get passed that first 10 minutes (or longer) of running and self-doubt, I hit my runner's high and remember why it's so effective to create a more healthy me. I've tried so many things, but when I lost 35 lbs. before I was married it was totally due to a good diet and a lot of running. And nothing has been as successful since. I just have to get passed that first part to get going...
Funny enough, Dallas has been full of fun ways to get motivated this spring. From zombies to zebras, there's been a run for everything, but there's one more you need to add to your list: The Pretty Muddy. (Bet you can figure out what happens at this one, right?) The Pretty Muddy on June 1 in Dallas is a 5k adventurous obstacle course mud run for any woman who wants to get outside, spend time with friends and have fun. Still a little uncertain about how a mud run? Check out this video.
Best of all, post race women will be treated to a fashion show by Old Navy showcasing the latest in the active wear fashion trends. (Which is going to really make you want them since you'll be covered in mud.)
Since I'm already a huge fan of Old Navy Active Collection, I can't wait to see the show. From personal experience, I know if you don't like what you are wearing to work out, you won't put it on and if you don't put it on...well, then you don't do much exercising. But that's not the only reason to keep your mouse on "click" - this wear makes you look skinnier while you're trying to get skinnier!
The Old Navy Active Collection offers an assortment of styles and colors at affordable prices including the Compression line that features everything from solid color leggings to color block capris, sports bras, tanks, shorts and jackets, and offers performance fit for added support and a slimmer silhouette. Made with cotton, spandex and GoDry Fabric it helps to keep you dry and comfortable. Best of all Old Navy Active pants offer fuss-free storage of keys, iPods and all that other necessary stuff you need on you!
Pretty Muddy 5K Obstacle Course Mud Run
June 1, 2013
Skyline Ranch
1801 E Wheatland Rd Dallas, TX 75241
$ 69.50 – Get $10 off with CODE: BLOGON for $59.50 registration
Website
Get More Muddy:
Facebook
Twitter
Instagram
Pinterest
YouTube
#GetActivewithON
This is a sponsored post. I've received a gift card as an incentive for writing this post. However, the opinions stated here are all my own.
I. HATE. TO. RUN.
However, when I get finally get passed that first 10 minutes (or longer) of running and self-doubt, I hit my runner's high and remember why it's so effective to create a more healthy me. I've tried so many things, but when I lost 35 lbs. before I was married it was totally due to a good diet and a lot of running. And nothing has been as successful since. I just have to get passed that first part to get going...
Funny enough, Dallas has been full of fun ways to get motivated this spring. From zombies to zebras, there's been a run for everything, but there's one more you need to add to your list: The Pretty Muddy. (Bet you can figure out what happens at this one, right?) The Pretty Muddy on June 1 in Dallas is a 5k adventurous obstacle course mud run for any woman who wants to get outside, spend time with friends and have fun. Still a little uncertain about how a mud run? Check out this video.
Best of all, post race women will be treated to a fashion show by Old Navy showcasing the latest in the active wear fashion trends. (Which is going to really make you want them since you'll be covered in mud.)
Since I'm already a huge fan of Old Navy Active Collection, I can't wait to see the show. From personal experience, I know if you don't like what you are wearing to work out, you won't put it on and if you don't put it on...well, then you don't do much exercising. But that's not the only reason to keep your mouse on "click" - this wear makes you look skinnier while you're trying to get skinnier!
The Old Navy Active Collection offers an assortment of styles and colors at affordable prices including the Compression line that features everything from solid color leggings to color block capris, sports bras, tanks, shorts and jackets, and offers performance fit for added support and a slimmer silhouette. Made with cotton, spandex and GoDry Fabric it helps to keep you dry and comfortable. Best of all Old Navy Active pants offer fuss-free storage of keys, iPods and all that other necessary stuff you need on you!
Pretty Muddy 5K Obstacle Course Mud Run
June 1, 2013
Skyline Ranch
1801 E Wheatland Rd Dallas, TX 75241
$ 69.50 – Get $10 off with CODE: BLOGON for $59.50 registration
Website
Get More Muddy:
YouTube
#GetActivewithON
Jumat, 17 Mei 2013
Tasty Treats from my iPhone {Food Porn}
Food Fridays:
One of the great parts of my job is working with food - a lot.
And once a year I'm privileged to promote one of the best Dallas food events - Taste Addison. So as I gear up for a 3-day weekend of more than 70 restaurants making more than 300 entrees for more than 75,000 people in Addison Circle Park, I thought I'd share what the last couple of days worth of Iphone photos revealed as I revved up for Taste Addison.
I'm a lucky girl, right? If spending some up-close-and-personal food space with the likes of Kent Rathbun, Tre Wilcox, Lan Nickens, Bob Stephenson and some of the most educated folks on BBQ across the country from Dickeys, then consider me your golden girl!
A little disclaimer: a few of these photos are also from the other-food minded things I've been up to this week including Keller's FnG Eats new menu items, a get -together with my blogging buddies, a case of tea delivered for a review AND a coping mechanism for one of my more stressful days.
Yes, I like food. And apparently drinks too. And if you do, you should come out to Taste Addison. (A PR girl's work is never done.)
One of the great parts of my job is working with food - a lot.
And once a year I'm privileged to promote one of the best Dallas food events - Taste Addison. So as I gear up for a 3-day weekend of more than 70 restaurants making more than 300 entrees for more than 75,000 people in Addison Circle Park, I thought I'd share what the last couple of days worth of Iphone photos revealed as I revved up for Taste Addison.
I'm a lucky girl, right? If spending some up-close-and-personal food space with the likes of Kent Rathbun, Tre Wilcox, Lan Nickens, Bob Stephenson and some of the most educated folks on BBQ across the country from Dickeys, then consider me your golden girl!
A little disclaimer: a few of these photos are also from the other-food minded things I've been up to this week including Keller's FnG Eats new menu items, a get -together with my blogging buddies, a case of tea delivered for a review AND a coping mechanism for one of my more stressful days.
Yes, I like food. And apparently drinks too. And if you do, you should come out to Taste Addison. (A PR girl's work is never done.)
Do you like food ? Then make sure to follow me on Instagram and Pinterest. I take lots of foodporn. I mean a lot.
And come see me this weekend. Come hungry.
Taste Addison
May 17-19, 2013
Addison Circle Park
Kamis, 16 Mei 2013
You're Invited to Learn the Hottest Looks for Texas' Hottest Season with Summer Style Soiree TONIGHT
To-Do Thursdays:
While North Texans just changed out our winter wear for our tank tops and flip flops, it’ll be just as soon that those mercuries will reach the 100s. (Try to hold back the excitement.)
However there's no excuse why you can’t look hot while you are hot – that’s where Jenny Davis, Indulge Magazine's Fashion & Beauty Editor comes in. (Consider her your own Rachel Zoe.)
Tonight treat yourself to an evening of all things summer chic with a special preview of the season’s hottest fashions from Grand Prairie Premium Outlets®, including Bloomingdale’s The Outlet Store (one of only two in Texas) and beauty trends from Daireds Salon & Spa Pangéa — all hand-selected by the fabulous fashion & beauty editor for Indulge Magazine,Jenny Davis. Enjoy a complimentary mini-service, VIP goodie bags, decadent treats, giveaways and much more.
I’ll see you there – if I can find something to wear…
Daireds Salon & Spa Pangéa Host Summer Style Soirée
Thursday, May 16, 5 p.m. - 8 p.m.
Grand Prairie Premium Outlets®
2950 W. Interstate 20, Grand Prairie (Exit at Great Southwest Parkway)
Free (To secure your complimentary mini-service, please RSVP to guestservice@daireds.com. Spaces are limited. Choose from a mini manicure, chair massage or a makeup application.)
ABOUT DAIREDS SALON & SPA PANGÉA
Daireds Salon & Spa Pangéa is a luxury salon, spa and med spa located in the heart of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The Daireds staff consists of the top trained beauty experts in hair, skin and nails — including several Vidal Sassoon trained stylists. Daireds has been featured in various local and national media outlets, and has an impressive celeb clientele list, including: Kelly Clarkson, Miley Cyrus, Selena Gomez, Chris Bosh and his family, famous home-run hitter Jim Thome, baseball legend Nolan Ryan, as well as several Texas Rangers and Dallas Cowboys players. For more information, please visit www.daireds.com or www.facebook.com/daireds
ABOUT GRAND PRAIRIE PREMIUM OUTLETS®
Grand Prairie Premium Outlets®, which opened in August 2012, brings upscale outlet shopping to the area. With 110 stores, this shopper’s paradise offers an impressive collection of designer labels and leading brands at savings of 25% to 65% every day. One of its largest stores is Bloomingdale’s The Outlet Store, which offers a range of apparel and accessories, including: women's ready-to-wear, men's, children's, women's shoes, fashion accessories, jewelry, handbags and intimate apparel. For more information, please visit http://www.premiumoutlets.com/outlets/outlet.asp?id=106.
Selasa, 14 Mei 2013
Time to UNclean: Are Your Cleaning Habits Making Your Kitchen Even Dirtier?
Try-It Tuesdays:
This is a sponsored post written by me on the behalf of Bounty DuraTowel. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
When you clean up your kitchen do you use a:
A) Sponge
B) Dish Rag
C) Paper Towel
If you said A or B, you might be in for a big surprise. Some cleaning habits may actually be making your kitchen dirtier and more harmful for your family.
Bounty DuraTowel is challenging you to to re-examine the way you tackle your cleaning. While many moms work hard at scrubbing, organizing and wiping their way to a seemingly “cleaner” home for their family, there may still be a few messes lurking behind.
So, how clean is the average consumer’s kitchen? The CDC estimates each year roughly 1 in 6 Americans (48 million people) get sick from a foodborne illness. To help stop the spread of germs, stick with the six tips below and kitchen surfaces will soon have a few less germs hanging around.
1. The dishcloth has a dirty little secret: One of the germiest places in the kitchen rests in the palm of your hand. A dishcloth can harbor millions of germs after just one day’s use. Don’t spread bacteria around your kitchen!
2. The gift that keeps on giving: The E. coli bacteria can survive for days, even months on kitchen surfaces like countertops and cutting boards. Be sure to use separate cutting boards for meat, vegetables and fish and disinfect them regularly.
3. Cut the crap: The average cutting board has 200% more fecal bacteria than the average toilet seat. That’s more than enough reason to disinfect regularly.
4. Just nuke it? Studies show in order to keep your sponge germ-free, you have to nuke it in the microwave for at least 2 minutes after each use, which is just more work. By using a disposable paper towel like DuraTowel, the surface is left three times cleaner than a dishcloth.
The kitchen is a source of hidden germs: Did you miss a spot? According to a recent NSF International study, the Top 5 Germiest Areas in the kitchen include:
This post also appears on the Star-Telegram's Mom2Momdfw.com.
This is a sponsored post written by me on the behalf of Bounty DuraTowel. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.
When you clean up your kitchen do you use a:
A) Sponge
B) Dish Rag
C) Paper Towel
If you said A or B, you might be in for a big surprise. Some cleaning habits may actually be making your kitchen dirtier and more harmful for your family.
Bounty DuraTowel is challenging you to to re-examine the way you tackle your cleaning. While many moms work hard at scrubbing, organizing and wiping their way to a seemingly “cleaner” home for their family, there may still be a few messes lurking behind.
So, how clean is the average consumer’s kitchen? The CDC estimates each year roughly 1 in 6 Americans (48 million people) get sick from a foodborne illness. To help stop the spread of germs, stick with the six tips below and kitchen surfaces will soon have a few less germs hanging around.
1. The dishcloth has a dirty little secret: One of the germiest places in the kitchen rests in the palm of your hand. A dishcloth can harbor millions of germs after just one day’s use. Don’t spread bacteria around your kitchen!
2. The gift that keeps on giving: The E. coli bacteria can survive for days, even months on kitchen surfaces like countertops and cutting boards. Be sure to use separate cutting boards for meat, vegetables and fish and disinfect them regularly.
3. Cut the crap: The average cutting board has 200% more fecal bacteria than the average toilet seat. That’s more than enough reason to disinfect regularly.
4. Just nuke it? Studies show in order to keep your sponge germ-free, you have to nuke it in the microwave for at least 2 minutes after each use, which is just more work. By using a disposable paper towel like DuraTowel, the surface is left three times cleaner than a dishcloth.
The kitchen is a source of hidden germs: Did you miss a spot? According to a recent NSF International study, the Top 5 Germiest Areas in the kitchen include:
- Refrigerator vegetable compartment: Salmonella, Listeria, yeast & mold.
- Refrigerator meat compartment: Salmonella, E. coli, yeast and mold.
- Blender gasket: Salmonella, E. coli, yeast and mold.
- Can opener: Salmonella, E. coli, yeast and mold.
- Rubber spatula: E. coli, yeast and mold.
“To use a paper towel to clean up messes and then to throw it away, especially on surfaces in your kitchen where you’ve been preparing food is the ideal thing to do,” said Dr. Elizabeth Scott, founder and co-director of the Simmons Center for Hygiene and Community Settings at Simmons College in Boston. “Dishcloths should be not be used for wiping up surfaces to cut down on the potential for cross contamination.”Bounty’s newest paper towel product, DuraTowel, a cloth-like paper towel designed to replace germy dishcloths. Thick and strong, even when wet, a single sheet of Bounty DuraTowel is durable enough to tackle tough jobs like cleaning countertops, sinks and even small appliances, making it the go-to tool for spring cleaning. Thanks to its fiber-rich design, Bounty DuraTowel offers consumers a cloth-like experience without compromising on clean. Bounty DuraTowel helps leaves your kitchen surfaces cleaner than a germy dishcloth.
“Many people think that their family’s kitchen is clean after wiping up with a dishcloth, but surfaces may be hiding a dirty little secret, said Gregg Weaver, Procter & Gamble research and development engineer for Bounty. “In P&G lab demonstrations, black lights reveal that even after rinsing, used dishcloths can still harbor germs and drag them around. Grabbing a sheet of Bounty DuraTowel gives a cleaner alternative to a used dishcloth.”Bounty DuraTowel retails for $3.19 and is available at food and grocery as well as mass retailers nationwide. More information on DuraTowel as well as the entire Bounty product family can be found at www.bountytowels.com.
This post also appears on the Star-Telegram's Mom2Momdfw.com.
Senin, 13 Mei 2013
Mad Men Moms: 50 Shades of Don {Recipe}
Mad Men Monday:
It's time for another Mad Men Moms roundup of last night's Mad Men.
While it may have been Mother's Day, the show definitely went to a new whole new level of whoa. See what we had to say about an even deeper level of Don. (Oh, my!)
But before you settle into our chair, make sure you get your Mad Men cocktail ready...this time we are making up a Vodka Gimlet (aka vodka and limes in a cup.)
Vodka Gimlet
1½ oz vodka
¾ oz lime juice
3-4 lime slices
Pour vodka and lime juice into mixing glass. Shake and strain into martini glass. Add 3 to 4 slices of lime.
It's time for another Mad Men Moms roundup of last night's Mad Men.
While it may have been Mother's Day, the show definitely went to a new whole new level of whoa. See what we had to say about an even deeper level of Don. (Oh, my!)
But before you settle into our chair, make sure you get your Mad Men cocktail ready...this time we are making up a Vodka Gimlet (aka vodka and limes in a cup.)
Vodka Gimlet
1½ oz vodka
¾ oz lime juice
3-4 lime slices
Pour vodka and lime juice into mixing glass. Shake and strain into martini glass. Add 3 to 4 slices of lime.
 |
| Recipe and photo from AMC's official Mad Men. |
Now settle in and let us know what you think of this episode of Mad Men!
And if you missed other episodes of Mad Men Moms, make sure you get the whole scoop:
Minggu, 12 Mei 2013
The Cost of Being a Mom
Happy Mother's Day!
Hopefully you're enjoying Mother's Day with brunch, relaxation and a little mommy love. However, but as moms we know that being a mom is normally not a glamourous or rewarding job, but it's someone's got to do it. (And when you see your babies' faces, then you know exactly why you do it!
Kamis, 09 Mei 2013
Get Back to the Good Days with Fort Worth's New Coyote Drive-in
To-Do Thursdays:
When I was growing up in Graham (about 90 minutes west of Fort Worth), we always had a drive-in. In fact since 1955, most the time in Graham, there has always been the Graham Drive-in to look forward to on summer nights. You went with your family, you went with your friends and later, most of us probably had a date night under the stars, watching films like Grease, Indiana Jones and many others that I can't seem to remember now in much older years, but meant a lot to me at the time.
It wasn't until I "moved to the big city" that I realized that a drive-in was a pretty unique attraction. Especially since many of the ones in other cities and towns across Texas were drying up and turning into nothing but a pasture of old memories and old technology from a time of yesterday when people didn't have smartphones to stay close to watch their favorite films at leisure. Nowadays at a flick of switch we can watch what we want, when we want and how we want. Technology is great, but all this social media has instead made us anti-social. You just don't make time hanging with your friends, watching a film, munching on popcorn and just enjoying the art of doing nothing.
Thankfully, I'm not alone in this nostalgic feeling for getting back to the good 'ole days. A collaboration of the Tarrant Regional Water District, Trinity River Vision Authority, the City of Fort Worth and many others folks, the Coyote Drive-in is now open along the Trinity River near the Panther Island Pavilion in Fort Worth. This three-screen wonder with outdoor, covered patio areas and a great menu, adds to the additional community vibe the city has been trying to build along this area.
When I was growing up in Graham (about 90 minutes west of Fort Worth), we always had a drive-in. In fact since 1955, most the time in Graham, there has always been the Graham Drive-in to look forward to on summer nights. You went with your family, you went with your friends and later, most of us probably had a date night under the stars, watching films like Grease, Indiana Jones and many others that I can't seem to remember now in much older years, but meant a lot to me at the time.
 |
| The Graham Drive-in has been showing movies since 1955. (Photo courtesy of Facebook.) |
It wasn't until I "moved to the big city" that I realized that a drive-in was a pretty unique attraction. Especially since many of the ones in other cities and towns across Texas were drying up and turning into nothing but a pasture of old memories and old technology from a time of yesterday when people didn't have smartphones to stay close to watch their favorite films at leisure. Nowadays at a flick of switch we can watch what we want, when we want and how we want. Technology is great, but all this social media has instead made us anti-social. You just don't make time hanging with your friends, watching a film, munching on popcorn and just enjoying the art of doing nothing.
Thankfully, I'm not alone in this nostalgic feeling for getting back to the good 'ole days. A collaboration of the Tarrant Regional Water District, Trinity River Vision Authority, the City of Fort Worth and many others folks, the Coyote Drive-in is now open along the Trinity River near the Panther Island Pavilion in Fort Worth. This three-screen wonder with outdoor, covered patio areas and a great menu, adds to the additional community vibe the city has been trying to build along this area.
 |
| The brand new Coyote Drive-in in Fort Worth is definitely an upgrade, but still takes you back to the same old drive-in movie experience of yesteryear. (Photo courtesy of Facebook.) |
For more about the Coyote Drive-in read the
Rabu, 08 Mei 2013
Mama's Prom Dress
Want it Wednesdays:
A few weeks ago I went Prom dress shopping with my neice. It was lots of fun, but I realized about half-way through zipping up her 304th dress choice, I never actually went prom dress shopping. While I was lucky to have a gifted and talented mother to create the prom dress of my dreams at the time (something that's necessary when you have as boobs as big as mine at the time), I missed out a a rite of passage.
Then I realized since I was married on the beach in Mexico, I didn't go wedding dress shopping, but rather found several beach dresses online (it's hard to find a white beach dress in December in store) then jetted off with much thought about my wedding dress. So that meant I didn't have that "this is the dress" moment either.
The whole moment-I-missed-a-moment made me kinda sad.
So I decided to go prom dress shopping, but in the way that suits me now, that wasn't available back in the day when I was young - on the internet.
Here are a few of my favorites.
What do you think?
Is there ever a moment now as a mom you would go back and redo if you could?
A few weeks ago I went Prom dress shopping with my neice. It was lots of fun, but I realized about half-way through zipping up her 304th dress choice, I never actually went prom dress shopping. While I was lucky to have a gifted and talented mother to create the prom dress of my dreams at the time (something that's necessary when you have as boobs as big as mine at the time), I missed out a a rite of passage.
 |
| Here's the one my neice chose. So cute, but not for me. |
The whole moment-I-missed-a-moment made me kinda sad.
So I decided to go prom dress shopping, but in the way that suits me now, that wasn't available back in the day when I was young - on the internet.
Here are a few of my favorites.
What do you think?
Is there ever a moment now as a mom you would go back and redo if you could?
Selasa, 07 Mei 2013
Pizza Can Make You Skinny? {Recipe + Offer}
Try-it Tuesdays:
Sometimes this girl discovers the newest fitness routine, sometimes she eats the newest dish, either way she's still trying it out for the sake of her readers, right? At least that's what I keep telling myself.
This time I was able to try out one of the coolest things to hit the fast-food scene in a while - Sbarro's Skinny Slice™.
I love that restaurants are now offering healthier options that aren't just salads, but the things you actually want to indulge in (and pizza is ALWAYS at the top of my list.) And the"skinny" slice didn't taste like anything was missing at all, especially with roasted red and green bell peppers, portobello mushrooms and sweet, caramelized onions topped with a sprinkling of mozzarella and pecorino romano cheeses. Did I mention that it was only 270 calories? That's AMORE!
Back in March I got to get my hands on a piece for a special sampling at Blissdom. I mean LITERALLY I got to put my hands on the crust and throw it in the air like real Italian style (well maybe it was a reproduction of pizza crust, but I tried.) Don't believe me? I have the photos to prove it.
But don't just take my word for it, go ahead and try it yourself with this special offer from Sbarro for a free slice of the Sbarro Skinny Slice™.
Download the coupon!
Too hungry to wait until the next time you go to Sbarro? Don't worry, they even shared a recipe for an at-home version of the Sbarro Skinny Slice™.
Sometimes this girl discovers the newest fitness routine, sometimes she eats the newest dish, either way she's still trying it out for the sake of her readers, right? At least that's what I keep telling myself.
This time I was able to try out one of the coolest things to hit the fast-food scene in a while - Sbarro's Skinny Slice™.
I love that restaurants are now offering healthier options that aren't just salads, but the things you actually want to indulge in (and pizza is ALWAYS at the top of my list.) And the"skinny" slice didn't taste like anything was missing at all, especially with roasted red and green bell peppers, portobello mushrooms and sweet, caramelized onions topped with a sprinkling of mozzarella and pecorino romano cheeses. Did I mention that it was only 270 calories? That's AMORE!
Back in March I got to get my hands on a piece for a special sampling at Blissdom. I mean LITERALLY I got to put my hands on the crust and throw it in the air like real Italian style (well maybe it was a reproduction of pizza crust, but I tried.) Don't believe me? I have the photos to prove it.
But don't just take my word for it, go ahead and try it yourself with this special offer from Sbarro for a free slice of the Sbarro Skinny Slice™.
Download the coupon!
Too hungry to wait until the next time you go to Sbarro? Don't worry, they even shared a recipe for an at-home version of the Sbarro Skinny Slice™.
Sbarro Skinny Slice Pizza at Home
Prep Time: 20 minutes
Cook Time: 10 minutes
Servings: 8
1 yellow onion, thinly sliced
1 tablespoon olive oil
1 package prepared pizza dough or crust
1/2 jar tomato pizza sauce (approximately 10-12 ounces)
2 1/2 cups fresh portobello mushrooms, sliced
1/4 cup roasted green bell peppers (packed in water), drain and julienne
1/4 cup red bell peppers (packed in water), drain and julienne
1 cup shredded mozzarella cheese
1 tablespoon grated Pecorino Romano cheese
To caramelize onions, sauté in a pan with olive oil over medium heat for 15 to 20 minutes until slightly browned. Do not burn.
Preheat oven to 425°F.
Roll out pizza dough on a 17-inch round pizza stone.
Spread tomato sauce evenly across the dough. Sprinkle mushroom pieces over the dough, and then evenly spread onions, green and red peppers. Top with cheeses.
Bake for 10 to 12 minutes, or until crust is golden brown and crispy and cheese is melted. Cool for 1 minute. Cut into 8 slices and serve.
To skip the work and find a Sbarro eatery near you, visit www.sbarro.com.
Minggu, 05 Mei 2013
Mad Men Moms: Say WHOA and Mojitos
Mad Men Monday:
So get out some mint to mix up for the mojitos will be drinking tonight and get ready for a good one! (You'll get the recipe over on milkandcuddles.com! )
It's another episode of Mad Men Moms and we definitely needed a drink (or two) to make it through this one!
And if you missed other episodes of Mad Men Moms, make sure you get the whole scoop:
Jumat, 03 Mei 2013
5 Things to Do with Your Strawberries Before You Throw Them Out {Recipes}
Food Fridays:
Are you one of those people that starts off every grocery trip with putting a pint of strawberries in your basket then only to find you throwing them out (AGAIN) because you never ate them before they went bad?
Yes, me too. Our family LOVES strawberries and in the spring time I love to buy them. But unfortunately sometimes good ideas don't always get executed and I can tell you from personal experience brown strawberries don't make them taste sweeter. :) However, I really hate throwing those strawberries away because no one took the time to cut them up and enjoy them. At least with bananas when they get old you can throw those babies in the freezer and whip up banana bread, banana shakes and anything else banana you want.
So it got me thinking - why can't you do the same thing for strawberries? Why can't you just have a few recipes that you know you can use those strawberries before you send them to the bottom of your trash can?
Dang Good Strawberry Cake
This cake doesn't just take lots of strawberries, but everything else you have in your refrigerator. I can't believe how easy it was and it was THAT good. I made this for my Mother-in-Law for her birthday cake last year, but I'm pretty sure we didn't send it home with her. We kept it and ate every bite.
Are you one of those people that starts off every grocery trip with putting a pint of strawberries in your basket then only to find you throwing them out (AGAIN) because you never ate them before they went bad?
Yes, me too. Our family LOVES strawberries and in the spring time I love to buy them. But unfortunately sometimes good ideas don't always get executed and I can tell you from personal experience brown strawberries don't make them taste sweeter. :) However, I really hate throwing those strawberries away because no one took the time to cut them up and enjoy them. At least with bananas when they get old you can throw those babies in the freezer and whip up banana bread, banana shakes and anything else banana you want.
So it got me thinking - why can't you do the same thing for strawberries? Why can't you just have a few recipes that you know you can use those strawberries before you send them to the bottom of your trash can?
Dang Good Strawberry Cake
This cake doesn't just take lots of strawberries, but everything else you have in your refrigerator. I can't believe how easy it was and it was THAT good. I made this for my Mother-in-Law for her birthday cake last year, but I'm pretty sure we didn't send it home with her. We kept it and ate every bite.
Here's also a couple I found on Pinterest as well!
Canned Strawberries
No Cook Strawberry Freezer Jam
Strawberry Salsa with Cinnamon Chips
Hippie Juice
Hope you find some great alternative ways to enjoy those strawberries!
Canned Strawberries
No Cook Strawberry Freezer Jam
Strawberry Salsa with Cinnamon Chips
Hippie Juice
Hope you find some great alternative ways to enjoy those strawberries!
Kamis, 02 Mei 2013
To-Do Thursdays: Mayfest, Derby Days, Cinco de Mayo, Mother's Day and Kenny Chesney
To-Do Thursdays:
If you haven't felt the lovely brisk air outside yet, make sure you don't forget your jacket - you're gonna need it, especially with all the great events happening this weekend!
Here's my picks:
May 2 - 5: Starting today make Mayfest in Fort Worth part of your list this weekend (goes to support several great causes like the Junior League of Fort Worth!)
May 4: Do it Derby Style for the Kentucky Derby at Lone Star Park (don't forget your hat!)
May 4: Celebrate Cinco de Mayo on a grand scale with Cinco de Mayo in the City!
And remember, Mother's Day is NEXT WEEKEND, so that means buy your gifts, send your cards and make those reservations, so you don't forget!
If mom is a big Kenny Chesney fan, Eric Church or Eli Young Band (like me!) then you should enter this contest on Not-So-Average Mama to win tickets to his May 11 concert at Cowboys Stadium! (She'll love you for that!)
If you haven't felt the lovely brisk air outside yet, make sure you don't forget your jacket - you're gonna need it, especially with all the great events happening this weekend!
Here's my picks:
May 2 - 5: Starting today make Mayfest in Fort Worth part of your list this weekend (goes to support several great causes like the Junior League of Fort Worth!)
May 4: Do it Derby Style for the Kentucky Derby at Lone Star Park (don't forget your hat!)
May 4: Celebrate Cinco de Mayo on a grand scale with Cinco de Mayo in the City!
And remember, Mother's Day is NEXT WEEKEND, so that means buy your gifts, send your cards and make those reservations, so you don't forget!
If mom is a big Kenny Chesney fan, Eric Church or Eli Young Band (like me!) then you should enter this contest on Not-So-Average Mama to win tickets to his May 11 concert at Cowboys Stadium! (She'll love you for that!)
Rabu, 01 Mei 2013
Want-it Wednesday: Give Your Bedroom a Facelift with $500 Upgrade {Giveaway}
Want-it Wednesdays:
Do you ever just feel like if you changed up the look of a room it would change everything? You would feel less stress and more together if your room, especially your bedroom, looked like it came straight from the Pottery Barn catalog or photos from Pinterest?
Yes, me too.
Actually I designed our bedroom and I still like it, but after seven years, it’s worn on me and a need a fresh breathe of air. Unfortunately, my pocketbook doesn’t need to see the light of day.
Do you ever just feel like if you changed up the look of a room it would change everything? You would feel less stress and more together if your room, especially your bedroom, looked like it came straight from the Pottery Barn catalog or photos from Pinterest?
Yes, me too.
Actually I designed our bedroom and I still like it, but after seven years, it’s worn on me and a need a fresh breathe of air. Unfortunately, my pocketbook doesn’t need to see the light of day.
Thank goodness for giveaways.
Ready for your bedroom to go from weak to chic? Enter the UGallery / Crane & Canopy “Bedroom Makeover” Contest by May 6 for a chance to win a $250 credit to UGallery and a $250 credit to Crane & Canopy. That’s a combined $500 for new art, new bedding and a brand-new bedroom look!
UGallery is a unique online art gallery offering affordable art for sale from the nation's most talented mid-career and emerging artists. UGallery’s team of art experts carefully select and curate each artist and piece that’s exhibited so that you can purchase artwork online with real confidence.
What UGallery does with art, Crane & Canopy does with bedding. They’re an innovative online home goods company, offering beautifully designed, high-quality bedding without the department store mark-up.
Enter the UGallery and Crane & Canopy contest to upgrade your bedroom and sleep in style!
Never to be one not prepared, I’ve prepicked my favorites in case I win or you win and want to donate your gift card to a friend in need (i.e. me.)
And while this one doesn't match, I have to include this artist because her name is Autumn Rose.
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| Acylic painting, "Scarlet" by Autumn Rose |
I'd love to see what you'd pick out if you won!
Remember to enter by May 6 for the UGallery / Crane & Canopy “Bedroom Makeover” Contest for a chance to win a $250 credit to UGallery and a $250 credit to Crane & Canopy.
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