California Pizza Kitchen :: Newly Remodeled Arden Fair Mall Location & Gluten-Free Options

 I received a complimentary meal & gift card for review purposes. All opinions are 100% my own.

California Pizza Kitchen at the Arden Fair Mall in Sacramento, California recently unveiled a complete remodel along with enhanced menu offerings. With this in mind, I was thrilled with the invitation to experience this newly re-imagined CPK location with my family last Saturday. 

The newly designed restaurant features reclaimed wood on the interior and exterior, creating an elevated yet casual appeal. I felt very comfortable inside and I enjoyed the large windows, allowing in plenty of natural light. There is lots of seating, and even a bar area too.

Since going gluten-free over a year ago, eating out has been a struggle. I've had restaurants tell me certain menu items were gluten-free, only to discover that cross-contamination was not only a huge possibility, but a guarantee. Fries cooked in the same oil used for battered and fried chicken are not gluten-free, for example. I've been "glutened" more times than I'd like to admit.

Thankfully, there are some restaurants that actually know what it means to make every effort to offer menu items that are really gluten-free. CPK is one of those, however, they go even further by partnering with the Gluten Intolerance Group (GIG) for their four delicious gluten-free pizza options.

CPK's four gluten-free pizzas are The Original BBQ Chicken Pizza, Pepperoni, Mushroom Pepperoni Sausage, and Margherita. Although any of CPK's pizzas can be made on their gluten-free crust for an additional $2, these four pizzas are the ones that can be prepared using the strict procedures approved by GIG as outlined here:

• Using a certified gluten-free crust and other ingredients verified by California Pizza Kitchen’s suppliers as gluten-free.
• Sanitizing prep areas.
• Washing hands thoroughly and wearing designated gloves during preparation.
• Using separate and designated equipment, such as separate pizza peel, spatula, pizza wheel, utensils, plates etc.
• Cooking the pizzas in a separate foil pan.

CPK also partners with GIG to perform unannounced restaurant site visits to check that GIG’s strict procedures are being followed. The gluten-free pizza menu also displays the Gluten Free Food Service (GFFS) certification logo to indicate the independent verification of quality, integrity and purity of food preparation policies, education and standards at CPK. It's important to understand that cross-contamination is always possible when you're talking about a gluten-filled restaurant, but it's comforting to know that every effort is being made to prepare and cook my pizza without coming into contact with gluten.

 

Before our pizza arrived, I enjoyed my salad! The menu has several gluten-free options to choose from, including this delicious Caramelized Peach salad. The combination of peaches, cranberries, red onions, toasted pecans and Gorgonzola was lovely, and their simple housemade white balsamic vinaigrette seemed to really bring out the intensity of all the flavors. I loved it, and will definitely be ordering this same salad next time.


We ordered two gluten-free pizzas that are designated as gluten-free on their menu. This the Mushroom Pepperoni Sausage. It's perfectly spicy and reminiscent of a meat-lovers style pizza from my former gluten-filled days.


We also ordered the gluten-free Original BBQ Chicken Pizza. This iconic pizza is what CPK is really known for. The BBQ sauce is one of the best I've ever had, I just wish there was more of it! Next time I'll be asking for a side of BBQ sauce so I get more in each bite. I'm definitely a sucker for BBQ.

Both of these gluten-free pizzas were absolutely delicious. The crust wasn't at all similar to cardboard, or overly gummy either. It was crispy and just like a normal thin crust pizza. Hubby ordered a regular pizza also, and he didn't notice any difference between his pizza and the gluten-free pizzas, except for the obvious puffy outer crust on his regular pizza. I definitely didn't feel as though I was missing out on real pizza, and really found it these to be quite satisfying.

The outstanding service from our waiter, the CPK manager, and the rest of the staff at CPK was definitely memorable. Everyone was very attentive, drinks were always refilled without asking, food was brought out timely, and there is nothing poor I can really make note of. We had a very pleasant experience.

California Pizza Kitchen is concerned about food allergies and sensitivities. Check the CPK menu for links to their allergen menu, gluten-free menu, vegetarian and vegan menu, and nutrition guide. It's so exciting to see a company recognize the need for gluten-free regulations especially. With GIG's strict procedures in place, I can eat at CPK and actually enjoy my meal without fear of what I might feel like later. I'm excited to try some other gluten-free menu items next time we stop in at CPK.

Holiday Gift Guide 2013 :: Baltic Amber Jewelry from Spark of Amber {Giveaway - Ends 12/7}

 I received complimentary product for review purposes. All opinions are 100% my own.

Are you giving jewelry to a loved one this Christmas? Consider a naturally beautiful and healing jewelry option like authentic Baltic Amber from Spark of Amber.

Authentic Baltic Amber is well known in many areas of the world for it's 100% natural anti-inflammatory, pain relieving, and calming properties thanks to the Succinic Acid that it releases. This fossilized resin contains 3-8% of Succinic Acid on the external layer of the Baltic Amber, so it's readily available for absorption against warm skin. Used as a natural home remedy, many have achieved positive results from using Baltic Amber with their teething or irritable babies. Baltic Amber is also a beautiful, effective way for adults to help treat headaches, skin irritations, bronchial conditions, and other inflammatory conditions.

Spark of Amber obtains their Baltic Amber beads directly from Lithuania and the Baltic region, where the finest Baltic Amber in the world is found. They offer teething necklaces and bracelets for babies, and earrings, pendants, bracelets, anklets and rings for adults. Their jewelry is professionally tested for authenticity, so you can be sure you are buying real Baltic Amber from Spark of Amber.

Spark of Amber sent me "The Meadow" Luxury Green Baltic Amber 18" Necklace & Stretch Bracelet Set to review for them. I was immediately attracted to the unique green tones of this Baltic Amber jewelry set, so I couldn't wait for them to arrive.

The necklace is strung on a black cord with knots between each Baltic Amber bead. It has a screw clasp that looks just like Baltic Amber, although it is not. The bracelet is stretchy so therefore easier to put on and take off. This necklace and bracelet can be purchased separately, or together as a set for the best deal. Both are very light weight, and easy to wear with just about everything.

I love the unique shape and color of each bead. This set has been really interesting as far as the coloring goes especially. Depending on the light source the green amber can appear to be a deep golden yellow, olive green, or even a golden brown. The dark green flecks just intensify the colors. It's such a unique and rare Baltic Amber!

I already own a couple pieces of Baltic Amber jewelry. At one point I was wearing a Baltic Amber necklace religiously almost 24/7, and I did in fact notice improvement with my psoriasis on the back of my neck and scalp line. From personal experience, I can tell you that Baltic Amber did reduce the inflammation of my condition. Since Baltic Amber lasts practically forever if cared for properly, it's a very inexpensive investment considering the huge potential to help with a multitude of inflammatory conditions. I'm looking forward to wearing this set often to experience the full, powerful benefits of Baltic Amber.

Baltic Amber jewelry is not only beautiful, but healing. Give a natural gift this year from Spark of Amber. There's always free First Class shipping!

Price: "The Meadow" Luxury Green Baltic Amber 18" Necklace & Stretch Bracelet Set - $42.99

Win It!

One winner will receive the "The Meadow" - Luxury Green Baltic Amber 18" Necklace! {$29.99 RV}

Holiday Gift Guide 2013 :: Gourmet Gift Baskets from California Delicious {Giveaway - Ends 12/6}

 I received complimentary product for review purposes. All opinions are 100% my own.

For the person who has everything, gourmet food is a great option this holiday season. From gifts filled with gourmet foods, chocolate and coffee to wine and cheese, deliver a taste of California with a lovely gift basket from California Delicious. They believe that life is an occasion worthy of celebration, and I wholeheartedly agree.

California Delicious designs exclusive gift collections for all sorts of festive occasions and holidays, including birthdays, baby showers and everything in between. Looking for the perfect gift for your boss or teacher? How about old friends and new ones too? California Delicious has you covered. They also specialize in California-themed gifts and gift baskets (of course!), so say hello to unique flavors and foods only California can bring! 

Since I'm a California girl myself, I totally understand the California vibe they've created with their gift baskets. Their buyers are always on the hunt for new wine or gourmet food options to include in their new gift baskets. I'm completely astounded with the huge selection too. It's so hard to choose a favorite gift basket, but at the same time I think it's hard to go wrong with any of them. Each item in hand-selected and carefully paired to ensure a well-rounded assortment in each basket.

With all the many gourmet food gift basket options, I was very happy to see that there are several gluten-free options for folks like me! The Gluten Free Gourmet Gift Basket struck my fancy and arrived in just one day (they ship out of California). I really appreciate the inclusion of organic snacks, which tends to add a bit to the gourmet feel of this gift basket. The red basket itself is absolutely darling by the way, and I'm still deciding on the best place to put it so it will get lots of use.

Ah yes, gluten-free goodness at it's finest. I can actually ENJOY everything inside this gift basket!

• Jovial - Organic Chocolate Cream Cookies
• Glutino - Chocolate Covered Pretzels
• Lundberg - Organic Popcorn Rice Cakes
• Mediterranean Snacks - Baked Lentil Chips
• Enjoy Life - Chocolate Chip Cookies
• Kind - Fruit & Nut Bar
• Ernest Hemingway Highland Select - Tea
• Mary's Gone Crackers - Organic Crackers

The Gluten Free Gourmet Gift Basket is full of recognized gluten-free brands, some of which I had tried before. The Enjoy Life cookies, chocolate covered pretzels, lentil chips, and this particular brand of tea were new for me. The chocolate covered pretzels and Jovial cookies were probably my favorites (hmm, chocolate....no way!), but everything was really quite good. With my passion for yummy food, and being gluten-free myself, I can tell you this is an excellent assortment of goodies. My family and I have enjoyed everything inside this gift basket. This particular gift basket would be an amazing gift to give to someone you know that eats gluten-free.
 
Surprise someone special this holiday season with a amazing gift basket from California Delicious. It's hard to choose just one, so send several and cross off a few names at once!

Price:  Gluten Free Gourmet Gift Basket- $59.99

 

Win It!

One winner will receive a $50 gift certificate to California Delicious!

Best Buy :: Your Holiday Shopping Destination {PLUS 2 Special Offers}

The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free. All opinions are 100% my own.

Best Buy is the authority and destination for all your technology and appliance product gifting needs this holiday season! Featuring more than 100 products sold only at Best Buy this year, they offer a market-leading selection of the hottest tablets, smartphones, gaming consoles and titles, wearable technology, health and fitness gear, mobile accessories and much more. I know Hubby has several tech gadgets on his wishlist this year so I'll definitely be shopping at Best Buy for him!

Best Buy's Blue Shirts and Geek Squad Agents are passionate, highly trained, knowledgeable and impartial so they can help ensure you get the perfect gifts for your family and friends…and yourself. They know price is important to us, and frankly it’s important to them too. Their Low Price Guarantee will ensure you’re getting the most competitive price possible.

The combination of bestbuy.com and their 1,400 stores offers the ultimate showroom to touch, test, try and buy the latest technology. Technology is evolving quickly and becoming increasingly complex- Best Buy is here to help make it easy for your to choose the products and services that work best for you. 

 

• Phones: At Best Buy you can see and try all of the phones, carriers, plans and accessories under one roof with industry-leading trade-in options
  
• Tablets: Best Buy is the only place in America where customers can see all of the latest and greatest tablets.
  
• Computing: Best Buy features the best selection, advise, services and support in computing. They help set the market by working with the industry's tech leaders to develop a highly specialized and innovative assortment of laptops, many of which are only available at Best Buy.
  
• Mobile Accessories: Best Buy has one of the largest selections of accessories and wearables this holiday. Bluetooth speakers, smartwatches, health & fitness gear and headphones will truly rule holiday.
  
• Home Theater: Best Buy offers the world's newest technology, best assortment and service in home theater.
  
• Appliances: Best Buy is better positioned than ever to bring the latest small appliances and special deals to you.
  
• Gaming: Best Buy is THE destination for gaming this holiday. Not only dodo they have the latest Xbox and PlayStation consoles, but the hottest game releases and everything else you need for a great gaming experience.
  
• Music/Movies/Musical Instruments: Best Buy offers terrific deals on the best entertainment stocking stuffers.
  
• Digital Imaging: Best Buy features the newest selection of cameras, accessories and advise so you can find the perfect gift or capture your own holiday memories.
  
• Tech Services: Best Buy is home of the Geek Squad for help installing, repairing, troubleshooting, optimizing and offering all sorts of technical advice from every Best Buy store, in-home, online and by phone

TWO Special Offers From Best Buy!
 
Take 15% off Health & Fitness, Fisher Price and Mattel Toys-----> GET COUPON

Take 10% off Headphones & Portable Speakers (excludes beats, bose and Sony) -----> GET COUPON

 {Please note, these offers are effective from 12/1/13 - 1/18/14}

 
Need some gift ideas?

Gifts for the Kids:

• Digital Barbie Makeover Kit
• Fisher Price Little People Apptivity Barnyard
  
  Gifts for Everyone:
  
• Misfit Shine
• Fitbit
• Jawbone Up
• Logitech Headphones & Speakers

Check out the Best Buy Gift Center for even more gift ideas!


Who are you shopping for at Best Buy this year?

 

Holiday Gift Guide 2013 :: Green Toys & More at Wild Dill {Giveaway - Ends 12/5}

 I received complimentary product for review purposes. All opinions are 100% my own.

My passion for natural, eco-friendly products is stronger than ever as my family and I continue seeking ways to live healthier. Lately, I've been continuously finding online stores that just make me squeal with excitement as I discover awesome new natural and organic toys and kids products! Today I share one of those online stores with you as you begin looking for those perfect gifts for Christmas.

Wild Dill is all about unique products that are organic, fair trade, or natural. Featuring over 50 brands that they love, and truly believe in, you'll clothing, toys, bedding and furniture for babies and and young children. When you're picky about products like I am, you learn to quickly recognize a gem among the masses, and Wild Dill is certainly one of those gems.

Some of my favorite natural brands that can be found at Wild Dill include Under the Nile, Sprig Toys, MiYim, Plan Toys, Kate Quinn Organics, ImagiPLAY and of course, Green Toys. From classic wooden blocks and made in the USA toys to organic baby clothing and bedding, Wild Dill is a safe haven for those wanting to browse only safe products for their little ones. Wild Dill's product selection certainly reflects their desire live and breath their high standards for healthy, green living.

Wild Dill kindly sent me my product of choice, which ended up being the Green Toys Recycling Truck for Buddy. Green Toys is an award-winning company that is now very well known in the natural community. Their signature-style toys are made from safe plastic that is BPA-, Phthalate- and lead-free and any moving parts don't contain metal axels. I love their minimal packaging and their commitment to the planet is admirable.

Movable recycling bed
Open/shut rear door with no metal axels
Made in California
Safe plastic with no phthalates, BPA and lead - See more at: http://www.wilddill.com/item/Green_Toys_Recycle_Truck_/365#sthash.yI7rIGvR.dpuf

Kids get to have fun and learn about recycling with this eco-friendly sturdy Recycle Truck.
Features:
Movable recycling bed
Open/shut rear door with no metal axels
Made in California
Safe plastic with no phthalates, BPA and lead
- See more at: http://www.wilddill.com/item/Green_Toys_Recycle_Truck_/365#sthash.yI7rIGvR.dpuf

Kids get to have fun and learn about recycling with this eco-friendly sturdy Recycle Truck.
Features:
Movable recycling bed
Open/shut rear door with no metal axels
Made in California
Safe plastic with no phthalates, BPA and lead
- See more at: http://www.wilddill.com/item/Green_Toys_Recycle_Truck_/365#sthash.yI7rIGvR.dpuf

Kids get to have fun and learn about recycling with this eco-friendly sturdy Recycle Truck.
Features:
Movable recycling bed
Open/shut rear door with no metal axels
Made in California
Safe plastic with no phthalates, BPA and lead
- See more at: http://www.wilddill.com/item/Green_Toys_Recycle_Truck_/365#sthash.yI7rIGvR.dpuf

We are HUGE fans of Green Toys at our house. Buddy has several large vehicles of this size and a few of their bath toys too. He's been telling me for months that he really, really wants the Recycling Truck, so this is getting all wrapped up for Christmas morning! I did open the box (again, the simple packaging is brilliant) to check out the features of this truck a bit more. The three recycling slots on the side actually go down into the large bin area inside that can be accessed on the back of the truck. The back of the box has several squares that picture plastic, metal, and paper. You can cut these out to play with and use with the truck's three recycling slots.

I love that Green Toys are made in California out of 100% recycled plastic milk containers. As always, they're powered by YOU, and not batteries. I honestly hate most noisy toys anyway! We've never had any issues with our Green Toys, and I'm happy to see Wild Dill support and carry this delightful brand.

This Christmas, bring back the classic, natural toys that are healthier for your kids, and the planet. Check out WildDill.com to shop today. Don't forget that you'll receive free shipping on your order of $65 or more!

Price: Green Toys Recycling Truck - $36

 

Win It!

One winner will receive a $40 gift certificate to Wild Dill!

Holiday Gift Guide 2013 :: Acorn Sheepskin Moxie Mocs & More from PlanetShoes.com {Giveaway - Ends 12/4}

Complimentary product was given for review purposes. All opinions are 100% my own.

Hey everyone! I'm Chelsea, The Reynolds Mom's sister, and I'm really excited to bring you my first-ever guest review. My husband is in the Coast Guard and we are currently stationed in Kodiak, Alaska. Quite the change from California, huh? Our first snow arrived last week, so I was thrilled when my new pair of warm slippers and socks finally came from PlanetShoes.

With snowy weather conditions underway and a new puppy that requires potty break supervision outside, I knew I would need a good pair of slippers that can handle the outdoors. Changing into my snow boots each time is not my idea of fun. So, here enters the slippers that saved my sanity.

The Acorn Sheepskin Moxie Moc slippers are not only incredibly warm, but also quite the fashion statement. These feature a water repellant stone suede upper with creme stitching, authentic sheepskin, and adding to the moccasin styling is a rawhide rusty brown tie. The skid-resistant rubber sole, which makes these appropriate for indoor and outdoor usage, is even a lime green color! With the moccasin look and exposed sheepskin, you can't help but love them.

With Alaskan weather, warm slippers are a must. I'm sure we won't get down too far, but these slippers can insulate in temperatures up to -30 degrees. Real sheepskin is clearly no joke. At the same time, my feet aren't overheating indoors either. There's also a comfy inner insole that cushions and supports the foot, so I'm not just walking on a bunch of fluff. This style is available in six beautiful colors, so there's something for everyone.

These are most definitely my favorite slippers I've ever owned, and with the quality I'm certain they will last for a long time. I can easily wear slippers year round here, so long-lasting footwear is a must up here.


PlanetShoes also sent me a pair of SmartWool Basic Knee High socks. Made of 73% merino wool, 23% nylon, and 4% spandex, they are plenty warm and a great basic around the house with or without my slippers, and even with my snow boots. Since they're not too bulky and made with wool, I don't need to worry about sweating in my snow boots. Wool is naturally temperature regulating and wicks moisture away quite well. I also love that these are made in the USA. Supporting our country where ever possible is so important. These come in brown and chocolate also.

Help PlanetShoes Give to Toys for Tots
Give a Toy, Get Rewarded! PlanetShoes is giving customers the opportunity to donate a $10 toy to Toys for Tots on your behalf this holiday season. In return for your donation, PlanetShoes will reward YOU with 200 Planet Rewards points, which is worth $10 off your next purchase What an easy way to give back! Hurry, this wonderful campaign ends December 15th. Give a toy now.



PlanetShoes.com is a really fun online shoe store, and I'll definitely be back. There isn't much in the way of shopping up here in Kodiak, Alaska, so browsing away on my laptop in my new cozy slippers is how we do things up here!

When shopping for gifts this season, consider choosing PlanetShoes. Combining style, comfort, value, and Eco-conscious ethics, they're a shoe and accessory retailer that cares about their customers, and the planet too. Remember, orders over $49 receive free shipping, and free returns too! You can feel-good about shopping at PlanetShoes.

Price: Acorn Sheepskin Moxie Moc - $115, Smartwool Basic Knee High - $22

 

Win It!

One winner will receive ANY pair of in-stock Acorn slippers!

Saving & Making Money with CampusBookRentals.com & RentBack.com

This is a sponsored article written by me on behalf of CampusBookRentals.com. All opinions are 100% my own.

Buying your college textbooks can often cost as much as tuition. Or at least that was the case for me years ago in community college! Instead, you could choose to rent your textbooks and save yourself a lot of money.

CampusBookRentals.com is your textbook alternative when spring semester rolls around. As one of the pioneers of the textbook rental movement, they are an established, trusted source for renting your textbooks. Perhaps you're already enrolled for classes next semester and know what books you need. Here are several of the many perks to renting your textbooks from CampusBookRentals.com:

-save 40-90% off of bookstore prices
-free shipping both ways
-can highlight in the textbooks
-flexible renting periods
-Operation Smile donation with each textbook rented -Live Customer Support
-Trusted source since 2007
-Largest selection in the nation
-Drop your class? 30-day window for full returns

Making a Difference

CampusBookRentals.com is also giving back through their partnership with Operation Smile. With each textbook rented, a portion of the proceeds goes to Operation Smile which translates to over 1,000 life-saving cleft lip surgeries a year for children in need!

Already have a few piles of textbooks that you own, but are reluctant to sell because you won't get much for them? Now you can rent out YOUR textbooks to other students using RentBack.com. You can make 2-4 times MORE money by renting out your textbooks than just selling them. Be sure to watch this YouTube video for more information.

 

Holiday Gift Guide 2013 :: Soothe Your Skin with The Eczema Company {Giveaway - Ends 12/1}

 This article was written by me on behalf of The Eczema Company. All opinions are 100% my own.

The gifts I remember most are those that are thoughtful and relevant. Do you, your child, or loved one deal with skin issues? When shopping this holiday season, remember to pamper a loved one that suffers from eczema, sensitive skin, or dry skin with natural remedies and products that soothe.

The Eczema Company was founded by Jennifer and her family as a way to help others with the daily trials of eczema management. Mom to two adorable kiddos, Jennifer also chronicles her family's journey with eczema, allergies, and asthma on her blog, Itchy Little World.

The Eczema Company features natural remedies, skincare and treatments for eczema and related skin issues. You'll find all-natural creams, ointments, oils, soaps, hazelwood jewelry, and much more for primarily eczema sufferers. Several products are based on Chinese herbs and homeopathy. You can also find gentle clothing for children to prevent scratching, and wet wrapping garments for more intensive treatments.

Jennifer recognizes that a product may work well for one person, but will not necessarily work for someone else. Everyone's skin is different. With this in mind, she's selected products that have the best chance of truly making a difference. Her personal experiences with her son's severe eczema has clearly influenced her fantastic product line-up. I've browsed her store extensively and love that she trusts natural, gentle ingredients for soothing itchy, irritated skin.

The Eczema Company also has products specifically for psoriasis too. My skin condition is actually considered psoriasis (I believed it was eczema for years), and I'm currently working on getting down to the root cause to try to heal myself. But on the way through that journey, natural relief is needed for the symptoms associated with psoriasis so I'm happy to see that Jennifer has expanded to serve the specific needs of psoriasis sufferers also.

Although not eczema, I've noticed that I get major psoriasis flare-ups with excessive stress or sugar intake, and also when I'm up too late and/or not sleeping soundly because I'm scratching. It's certainly a vicious cycle, just like eczema. I've been there, I'm still there, and I know it's a constant battle. For the eczema sufferer in your life this Christmas, help moisturize and soothe their skin with a lovely gift from The Eczema Company.

Win It!

One winner will receive a Sensitive Skin/Eczema Gift Set {$48 RV}! What a great gift for a child or adult suffering from eczema, sensitive or dry skin. This set includes one of each of the following:

Unrefined Shea Butter
Pure Moroccan Argan Oil - Roll On
Oatmeal Bath Soak – 1oz
Olive Oil Nablus Soap

Vote NOW for Your Favorite Finalist :: 2013 Maytag Dependable Leader Award

I participated in a campaign on behalf of Mom Central Consulting (#MC) for Maytag. I received a promotional item as a thank you for participating.

It's time to vote and help Maytag decide on the best candidate for the 2013 Maytag Dependable Leader Award! This award gives recognition to someone committed to making a difference in the lives of youth. Through November 29th, visit www.bgca.org/Maytag to learn about all five finalists and the wonderful work they do in their respective communities to help make a difference. 

You can vote once a day for your favorite nominee! These finalists bring a passion for helping youth through their involvement with Boys & Girls Club of America. 
 
Albert Hernandez – Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena
Ethan Harris – Boys & Girls Club of Bryant
Nate Ford – Boys & Girls Clubs of San Francisco
Ricky Gallon – Boys & Girls Clubs of Tampa Bay
Steve Hixson – Boys & Girls Clubs of Cleveland

The winner will join 24 of this year’s other Dependable Leaders across the country and receive a $20,000 financial grant to help his Club continue to improve its impact in its community. The Maytag Dependable Leader Award gives back to Boys & Girls Clubs of America’s professionals and volunteers who continuously give their days to help better the world of youth with whom they work. America’s Vote is an extension of the Awards, inviting Americans to select the final Maytag Dependable Leader Award winner in 2013 by voting online at www.bgca.org/Maytag.

 

Holiday Gift Guide 2013 :: Thomas & Friends®: 3-Movie Pack {Giveaway Ends 11/30}

 I received complimentary product for review purposes. All opinions are 100% my own.

The fun keeps on coming with all these wonderful Thomas & Friends DVD releases! Just in time for your Thomas & Friends fan this Christmas, the Thomas & Friends®: 3-Movie Pack is now available as a DVD set.

Of all the Thomas & Friends DVD's we've had the pleasure of reviewing, this set is Buddy's favorite. He's particularly fond of Blue Mountain Mystery, and as a result has the little green train, Luke, and also Victor on his Christmas list. I'm pretty sure he intends to recreate the story when he finally has them!

Day of the Diesels offers important lessons on friendship, and also touches on the subject of dishonesty with the mischievous Diesel 10. Misty Island Rescue is another favorite of Buddy's, as it introduces Bash, Dash and Ferdinand. He never seems to get bored of this one, or any of them for that matter!

This set would be a wonderful stocking stuffer, or perfect as part of a Christmas Eve gift if you have a pajama and movie tradition like we do.

The 3-DVD Movie Pack includes:

Thomas & Friends: Blue Mountain Mystery – The Movie
When trouble strikes at Blue Mountain Quarry, Thomas is sent to help. There he discovers a little green engine hiding in the tunnels. Thomas is determined to get to the bottom of the mystery but discovering the truth is harder than he imagined! Will he be able to help his friend or will the little engine be sent away from Sodor forever? Find out in Thomas’ most mysterious adventure yet, a movie the whole family will love!

Thomas & Friends: Day of the Diesels – The Movie
See the Steamies and the Diesels face off in this action-packed movie adventure! There’s a fire on Sodor and two new firefighting engines – Flynn and Belle – arrive to help Thomas and Percy save the day! When Thomas starts spending all of his time with Sodor’s newest heroes, Percy is drawn to the Dieselworks, where he is made to feel special by the master of mischief himself, Diesel 10! But Percy doesn’t know that he is part of Diesel 10’s master plan to take over the Steamworks.

Thomas & Friends: Misty Island Rescue – The Movie
The engines are hard at work to build a new Search and Rescue Center. When Thomas helps a friend in need, he is rewarded with an exciting trip to the mainland. Along the way, he gets lost at sea and finds himself on the mysterious Misty Island, where he meets new friends Bash, Dash and Ferdinand. Together they discover the secrets of Misty Island and help Thomas find his way home. Will Sir Topham Hatt's search party ever find Thomas? Find out in this action-packed movie adventure the whole family will enjoy!

Thomas & Friends^®: 3-Movie Pack is available as a DVD set with an SRP of $19.98.

Win It!

One winner will receive the Thomas & Friends^®: 3-Movie Pack courtesy of Lionsgate and HIT Entertainment!

Holiday Gift Guide 2013 :: 100% Merino Wool Sleepwear from Simply Merino {Giveaway Ends 11/29}

 I received complimentary product for review purposes. All opinions are 100% my own.

Perhaps you happen to remember Simply Merino in my gift guide last year. Well, we've had such a fantastic experience with our Simply Merino PJ's that we decided to recommend them as a top favorite this year too! A top-notch product deserves recognition, and this is one you shouldn't pass up when shopping for gifts this holiday season.

Simply Merino is very passionate about their sleepwear. And rightfully so! Their simple line of 100% Merino Wool sleepwear is made in New Zealand. They offer several products for babies and PJ's and thermal layers for kids up to size 12. Merino wool not only gives your child a breathable, natural material for sleeping, but it's also naturally fire resistant and not treated with flame retardants like most PJ's.

Buddy still technically fits in his size 5 Simply Merino PJ's, but with his crazy rate of growth this year I figured it would be smart to size up. So, this time we received the gorgeous Blue Night color in a size 6. Simply Merino has six colors to choose from for their two-piece PJ's. They arrived in a white organza bag, making easy to give as a gift.
These PJ's last a very long time. Buddy's pair from last year still look great, with very few signs of wear. There's no pilling or thinning of the merino wool material, and they've been washed and dried with regular laundry each time. I've also noticed that they don't carry odors or stains, which is another awesome feature of Merino wool. These are all indicators of a beautiful, quality product, and one than can easily last through a couple kids as hand-me-downs.

Merino wool has a little bit of stretch to it, so despite fitting snug they are still very cozy since they seem to move with you. It is also a very soft material too, and feels similar to a combed cotton. For those with sensitive skin, the natural Merino wool and soft texture is a great combination for sleepwear. The cuffs at the wrists and ankles are a major plus for a proper fit.

Buddy is a hot sleeper, just like hubby. He's the kid that is suddenly down to underwear in our chilly house because "he's hot". His Simply Merino PJ's are my favorite since he doesn't seem to get overly warm in them at night. They're great at regulating his temperature whether we have the heater on over night, or it's super cold. He keeps his covers on, and doesn't end up waking up early because he threw his covers off.

It's important for parents to experience peace of mind when saying goodnight to their children. With Simply Merino you can rest assured your child is sleeping comfortably, and in a safe pair of natural Merino wool PJ's. This Christmas, give a gift that keeps on giving like Simply Merino PJ's.

Price: PJ's (size 4T to 6 yrs) - $59.99

Buy It: Check out SimplyMerino.com to order today!

 

Win It!

One winner will receive their choice of PJs, Sleep Dress, Infant Gown or Sleeper from Simply Merino!

Holiday Gift Guide 2013 :: Wall Decals from Cozy Wall Art {Giveaway - Ends 11/29}

 This article was written by me on behalf of Cozy Wall Art. All opinions are 100% my own.

Decorating empty wall space is simpler than ever with original wall decals from Cozy Wall Art. Each vinyl wall decal is made to order in their creative studio in Texas. Colors and sizes are often customizable too.

Vinyl wall art is an affordable option for home décor, and especially perfect for that indecisive decorator that wants something totally new in a few months. Cozy Wall Art wall decals are essentially stickers that are easily installed on your wall in just a matter of minutes. They can be removed from walls without leaving residue or damage too. Can you say PERFECT for apartment walls?

I particularly love this damask design. This will be perfect for my office once we're finished painting it a light aqua with white accents!

I'm starting to think my bathroom walls are neglected. What a beautiful way to incorporate a theme and make a statement!

I have just the spot for this one. :)

How 'bout this adorable little owl family? I love the green color too.

I think this Cherry Blosson Triptych Wall Decal is gorgeous! I'd even consider mounting each third to stained wood panels for an even more intense dimensional feel.

Once our whole home is painted, I'm excited to choose a few wall decals to spruce up my walls. I tend to be very drawn to floral designs, and found Cozy Wall Art's article on nature-inspired wall decals to be particularly inspiring.

One of my favorite things about Cozy Wall Art is that they are a small family-owned company that handcrafts their decals here in the USA. With this comes a more personal experience with your purchase, and a bit of flexibility if you're looking for a custom size or special order color for your wall art.

For the hard-to-buy-for this Christmas, Cozy Wall Art wall decals are great! Each design is pretty modern and trendy, so you really can't go wrong with giving a fun wall decal. It's a unique gift that can be enjoyed everyday.

{Special Holiday Discount}
Use code HolidayCheer15 at checkout to receive 15% off at CozyWallArt.com. Code expires December 15, 2013.

 

Win It!

One winner will receive a $60 coupon code to Cozy Wall Art (includes free shipping)!