Tuesday, May 29, 2012

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Remember Me

Jane's old nemesis, serial killer Charles Hoyt, just won't seem to go away. After a young man is killed in a jail bathroom, Hoyt claims to have clues about the murder just a day before his release. Hoyt continuously taunts Jane and in this episode, the relationship is finally put to rest. Have you ever experienced a past relationship with someone that you wanted to bring to a close but it just kept creeping back?

Watch out....I used to be a Hoyt LOL! 

Seeing I moved far from home not that many past relationships keep creeping back into my life.  The only one that does pop into my mind is actually a friend.  I actually feel like a bad friend in a way because I do not call my friend that much.  Life got busy and long distance friendships are hard to keep up with, especially when one person doesn't use social media.  I think many of us do feel the "creeping" back when I do go back home, and visit with my friend.  She got pretty dramatic the last time we visited and it was hard to want to stay around.  That is why I feel so bad.  She isn't a bad friend, but sometimes friendships aren't necessarily healthy.  I feel like I should be there more for this friend, but at the same time I have so much going on in my life that it is hard to deal with that much drama. 

So I guess to keep my mind off all that drama I will just stay busy by watching one of my favorite shows, Rizzoli & Isles.  Season 2 was awesome and had tons of drama itself...and you can catch up by getting it on DVD!  You definitely don't want to miss any as season three premieres Tuesday, June 5th 9/8c on TNT!!!  I can't wait.....how about you?  Will you be checking it out to compare your own life's drama to Rizzoli & Isles?

Disclosure:  I have been hired by Warner Bros. WBWord division to promote Rizzoli & Isles Season 2 on DVD.

Thursday, May 24, 2012

Moppy by Natural House Probiotic Cleaners (review and giveaway)

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We are learning  that probiotics are out there to help us stay healthy in so many ways.  Well did you know you can get probiotic household cleaners?  Natural House's line of probiotic cleaning products help keep your home germ free after you are done cleaning. 

In the past I reviewed some of their products and just recently got to try out Moppy

Moppy Probiotic Cleaning packet is a concentrated, professional-strength, all-natural floor cleaner. Powerful, plant derived scrubbing agents cut through dirt and lift grime from the floor. Moppy’s probiotics remain on the surface to help maintain a germ-free and odor-free household. Moppy is safe to use on multiple surfaces including high-gloss surfaces, terrazzo, marble, slate, vinyl, tile, and finished hardwood surfaces. Use weekly to promote a healthy and safe home!
Moppy was very easy to use.  Simply drop a packet into the  mop water, and quickly the packet dissolves into foam and is ready to use.  While it was designed to with regular mops, you can use it in refillable bottles for the spraying type moping systems like Swiffer.  I used it in a bucket of water that I dip my mop into.  I liked that it was a foamy type of system, versus bubbly.  It seemed like it lasted longer over all where as the bubbly type of solution seems to wear off after just a few dips.  I also liked that the first few swipes with the mop were not all soap.  One thing I think it could use is a bit of scent.  I really like having scented mop water.  I did not notice a scent at all....which would be good for those that do not like the scented solutions.  I personally like to still smell that I mopped the floor for a while afterwards.  I think the scrubbing power was pretty much equal to cleaners that I typically use like Pinesol, Lysol and Mr. Clean. 

 I do however like that Moppy is a probiotic and to know that it is still working to fight germs.  This is a plus where you have children that are crawling on the floors a lot and putting things in their mouths that have fallen on the floor.  I also like that it is all natural and to know that my child is not touching a surface that has a lot of chemicals on it. 

Moppy comes in a bag with four convenient foaming water soluble pouches.  By using one pouch weekly the bag will last 30 days and can promote a healthy and safe home. You can purchase Natural House products directly on their website: http://www.naturalhouse.com/products/ -- Or if you are like me and like to take advantage of the amazon perks like "free super saver shipping" or "Amazon Prime"  you can also find Natural House cleaning products on Amazon : http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=bl_sr_hpc?_encoding=UTF8&node=3760901&field-brandtextbin=Natural%20House 

Be sure to follow Natural House on facebook and twitter for current promotions and specials. 

Giveaway:  One lucky reader can win a 30 day supply of Moppy!  (US only) To enter:  Leave a comment telling me why you would like to win this.

Extra entries:
Follow Moppy on facebook or twitter (1 entry for each)
Follow me on facebook, twitter, google plus, pinterest or subscribe by email (1 entry for each)
Share this giveaway post using any of the buttons at the top of the post (1 entry per share)

This giveaway is open to US only.  Please leave a separate comment for each entry.  This giveaway will end on June 4 and the winner will be chosen by random.org

Disclosure:  I recieved the product free for review.  These are my personal opinions.

Tuesday, May 22, 2012

Preventative Care for my cat

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A couple weeks ago we made sure to get some flea and tick drops for our dog seeing we had to pull a tick off of him.  We quickly got the drops, hoping to prevent more from climbing on him.  So far we have been good.  I think it is going to be a year of all the pesky creatures crawling on our animals.

Although my cat is an indoor cat we thought it would be good to at least do some flea prevention for her too.  I read positive reviews for Advantage flea control and decided to give that a try.  I think with this on her she should be safe from getting fleas for the most part. 


The Advantage II for cats was very easy to apply.  I however do think I got it a bit too far to one side (supposed to apply to back of neck area so your cat can't lick the area).  I didn't actually see her lick it, but she came running over towards me after about 5 minutes of applying.  Her mouth was salivating and she was annoyed, shaking her head a couple times.  She did settle down after I brushed her on her lower back area.  She had a little drink and snack, and now she is all settled back down.  Just gotta remember next month to make sure I get it centered better and maybe a bit higher, so she can not lick that spot. 

I am hoping by treating both animals it will keep my house clean and we will not have to deal with any of the pesky creatures that just need to stay outdoors! 

Disclosure:  I received the advantage II for free for review.  These are my personal opinions.

Worlds Best Cat Litter (review and giveaway)

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House full of animals?  Yes I surely do.  One thing I do not like is all the upkeep their is with all the animals.  You want to buy the best products you can find and ones that make your own life easier too.  I recently got to try out World's Best Cat Litter in my home.

I pretty much always buy the multiple cat scoopable cat litter, even though I only have one cat.  I have a very small area where the litter box is, so I like that the multiple cat litter seems to keep a fresher scent longer than regular cat litter.  The World's Best Cat Litter did a good job keeping the odor away. 

The thing I loved the best, was unlike the clay cat litter I typically use, there was no dust while pouring or while my cat was using the litter box.  I hate breathing in all the silica dust, and having a cover on my cat's litter box I am sure she likes not having all the dust too. 

I also liked that there was much less litter tracked outside of the litter box.....and when I say less, I would estimate that World's Best Cat Litter was at least 75% less tracked than the clay cat litter!  It was so easy to clean up.  I did not need to sweep my bathroom floor everyday like I do with the clay cat litter.  It was easy to clean the litter box too.  It scooped really well and had a lot of litter left to be reused.    They estimate that one 7lb bag of  World's Best Cat Litter can last one cat around 30 days. 

World's Best Cat Litter is pet, people and planet friendly!  It is made from all natural ingredients, and no added chemicals that makes it safe for your cat (or your nosey dog) and yourself.  It is milled from whole kernel corn with makes it planet friendly.

World's Best Cat Litter comes in three styles:  Clumping formula, Multiple Cat Clumping, and Scented Multiple Cat Clumping.  I personally did not like the scent of the scented formula but did like the Multiple Cat formula  better than any cat litter I have ever used.  Which would make the Multiple Cat Clumping formula the World's Best Cat Litter in my book!

You can purchase World's Best Cat Litter online and in many stores nationwide (like Petco and Target).  *I see if you like them on facebook you can get a free bag rebate. (this may not still be current when you check, I am not positive how long this will last)

Win it!
One lucky reader can win a bag of World's Best Cat Litter.   To enter:  Head on over and follow World's Best Cat Litter on Facebook or Twitter.  Do both for an extra entry.

Extra entries:
Share this giveaway using the buttons at the top of the post. (1 entry for each share)
Follow my blog using any of the follow links in my sidebar (1 entry for each)

This giveaway is open to US and Canada only.  Please leave a separate comment for each entry.  This giveaway will end on June 4 and the winner will be chosen by random.org

Disclosure:  I received the product for free for review.  These are my personal opinions.

Monday, May 21, 2012

Rizzoli & Isles friendship tested this season?

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How many Rizzoli & Isles fans do we have here???  My stepdaughters and myself love the show and can not wait to see Season 3, which starts very soon!

In the final episode of Season 2, Burning Down the House, fans were left with a cliffhanger after everything came to a head at the end of the episode. Spoiler here if you haven't yet seen it......

Doyle (Maura's father) arrives on the scene just in time to save his daughter from the would-be killer, but he evades arrest and starts shooting at the cops. Jane shoots back and ends up killing Maura's father. As deep as the friendship is between Jane and Maura, it's going to be a rough road for their relationship to overcome the situation. How do you think Jane and Maura's friendship will play out in the third season?

I was completely shocked that Doyle was actually killed.  I would have loved to see more of a relationship built there, but at the same time this incident sure will make season 3 start out with lots of drama!  I can see it be a hard one for Maura to really get over, but I do think overall she sees her father as a criminal and knows there really wasn't much Jane could have done in the situation.  I think Jane will have a very hard time dealing with this herself.  So I can see each other actually leaning on the other over this instead of it pulling each other apart.

How about you?  Leave a comment and let me know what your thoughts are.  How do you think their relationship will play out in season 3.  Are you going to be like me and have your TV tuned into TNT to watch  Rizzoli & Isles Tuesday June 5th, 9/8c?

If you haven't had a chance to watch all of Rizzoli & Isles Season 2 you are in luck....get it now on DVD! 


Rizzoli & Isles Season Two on DVD by thewbdotcom



I have been hired by Warner Bros. WBWord division to promote Rizzoli & Isles Season Two on DVD.

Preorder the DVD, available 5/22!


We are once again excited to be spending a Day Out with Thomas (giveaway)

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 (pic from last years tour)

Day Out with Thomas: Mystery on the Rails Tour 2012 has already kicked off and will be coming near us very soon!  There is a new mystery this year and we can not wait to help solve it!


Help our favorite No. 1 engine find the clues and solve the mystery! Thomas the Tank Engine™ is pulling into the National Railroad Museum for Day Out With Thomas™: Mystery On The Rails Tour 2012, presented by HIT Entertainment, a worldwide leader in children’s entertainment, and sponsored by MEGA Brands, a leading toy company. This fun-filled event offers little engineers and their families the opportunity to take a ride with a 15-ton replica of Thomas the Tank Engine, star of the popular Thomas & Friends™ series. Children will take a ride along with their favorite engine friend on his latest adventure and participate in Thomas-themed activities. The tour, now in its 17th year, will make stops in more than 45 US cities and is expected to welcome more than one million passengers in 2012.



We will be reporting from Green Bay's National Railroad Museum on June 13th.  Be sure to follow Thomas the Tank Engine as he shares ours and other families Day Out with Thomas  news reports through his Twitter feed-- http://twitter.com/trueblueengine.

We had a blast last year...and are just as excited this year.  They had many fun activities and loved riding on Thomas!  If you are not local be sure to check to see if he will be pulling into a station near you!  To learn more about the event please visit http://events.hitentertainment.com/us/day-out-with-thomas/index.asp.

Giveaway:
To help kick off this fun tour we are giving away a Thomas the Tank Engine Wistle to two lucky readers.  To enter:  Let us know if you will be going or have gone to Day Out with Thomas.

Extra entries:
Share this post using any of the buttons at the top of the post.  (1 entry for each)
Follow Thomas the Tank engine on twitter.
Follow my blog on twitter, facebook, google plus, or pinterest or subscribe by email (links in sidebar.  1 entry for each)

This giveaway is open to US only.  Please leave a seperate comment for each entry.  This giveaway will end on 5/28 and the winners will be chosen by random.org

Disclosure:  I will be receiving complimentary tickets to attend the tour in exchange for sharing our experiences.

Saturday, May 12, 2012

pretty.......annoying little bird

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This looks so pretty right? 





UNTIL it will not leave you alone!

 front window

CONSTANTLY trying to get in ....luckily it just goes to the windows that don't open.
 back window


Oh little birdy....its time to build a nest and visit with the other birdies instead of driving my cat and dog crazy!

Wednesday, May 9, 2012

The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Antigingivitis rinse (review and giveaway)

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Are you seeing "pink in the sink"?   Hopefully not, but for so many like myself we do too often.  Bleeding gums is a symptom of gingivitis, and it is a warning sign that your gums need serious attention.

Dentists estimate that 80% of us develop gum disease in our lifetimes, ranging from mild gingivitis to severe periodontitis. If left untreated, however, gum disease may progress to other oral health issues, including tooth loss (it’s the #1 reason for adult tooth loss!). Other studies and experts, including Dr. Oz, have also linked gum disease to heart disease, stroke, breast cancer and respiratory diseases, such as COPD.





I have tried other antigingivitis rinses before and have liked them.  I was intrigued to try The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums rinse as it contains no alcohol or artificial flavors or colors. 

The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Mouth Rinse is clinically proven to:
  • Reduce and prevent bleeding gums
  • Protects against gingivitis
  • Kill germs
  • Reduces plaque
  • Freshens breath
  • Contains Aloe Vera gel as its active ingredient to help prevent bleeding gums
  • Also contains other natural medicinal components such as Echinacea, goldenseal, calendula, and grapefruit seed extract that help calm gum inflammation
My results:
I did see improvement using The Natural Dentist Healthy Gum Rinse.  With daily use I saw less and less bleeding while brushing and flossing.  I do feel like you have to use it everyday, otherwise I would see some bleeding.  Typically after a few days it stopped (until I stopped using it).  One thing many may like is it does not have a strong, hot flavor.  I tried the peppermint twist flavor.  It was minty, but to me it actually was a bit sweet.  It was nice having a rinse that I felt was safe to keep around the kids.  Not having the alcohol, or harsh flavor I would let my children use this rinse (although they do sell a child's rinse too). 

The Natural Dentist Healthy Gums Rinse is available at all several major retailers nationwide including Walgreens, Rite Aid, Whole Foods and more for an average retail price of $7.49. To see a complete list of stores and the entire line of The Natural Dentist products, visit http://www.stopbleedingnaturally.com.  *I see they have a coupon link on their site for $2 off

Giveaway:
One lucky reader can win a bottle (US only).  To enter:  Leave a comment telling me you would like this.

Extra entries:
Follow Natural Dentist on facebook.
Follow me on facebook, twitter, google plus, pinterest, or subscribe (links in sidebar.  One entry for each)
Share this giveaway post.  (you can use the buttons at the top of the post, one entry for each share)

This giveaway is open to US only.  Please leave a seperate comment for each entry.  This giveaway will end on May 22 and the winner will be chosen by random.org.

Disclosure:  I received the product for free to review.  These are my personal opinions.

peeping Tom

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LoL...I was just sitting here working on a review post.  I kept hearing a funny tapping noise.  Look behind and this little bird was peeping in my window...and kept tapping on the glass.  Wonder if it will be back.  A couple years ago we had a bird that would come back everyday for a couple of weeks and sit outside the window and pecking at the window.


OH as I am typing I hear the tapping again......this time it is over on the other side of the window (which I have my sofa in front of) tapping away.

Special Exposure Wednesday- Hammock Swing fun

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Tuesday, May 8, 2012

High School Reunion, Rizzoli & Isles style?

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In Seventeen Ain't So Sweet, Jane heads to her high school reunion and brings along Maura. The fun is cut short after a series of murders take place all involving fellow students. Jane is forced to focus on the past to help solve the case when she realizes that everyone in her class is a potential suspect. Have you ever experienced a time or situation when you called upon your past to better your future and solve a problem?

This summer is my high school reunion.....I surely hope there will not be excitement like Rizzoli & Isles!  I actually haven't seen many of my high school classmates since graduation, but I unfortunately most likely will not be able to attend my reunion.  Having a child with serious medical conditions makes it difficult to travel long distances.  When I think about my past, living out east and then my present I really think the past has helped me so much in the present.

After graduating college I took a job working as a caregiver.  I took care of ladies with developmental disabilities, as well as seizures.  At first I was scared and nervous a lot.  I really had not worked with anyone with special needs before this.  Shortly I became very comfortable with my job, and felt very close to the residents at the home.  It taught me a lot.

There are so many times that I think I was meant to have that job, to teach me and get me ready to have children with similar needs.  My past has surely helped me solve some issues in my present...and my future, as I have learned ways to help my child become an adult. 

My life isn't as dramatic as Rizzoli & Isles, but I like it that way.  I would much rather be able to sit with my older children and catch up on Season 2 of Rizzoli & Isles on DVD (preoder the DVD which will be available 5/22), while we anticipate the third season premier!  My stepdaughters and I love this show and we can not wait for it to start up again!  It wont be long either Season 3 starts Tuesday, June 5th at 9/8c on TNT! 


Disclosure: I have been hired by Warner Bros. WBWord division to promote Rizzoli & Isles Season Two on DVD.

Monday, May 7, 2012

#Mamavation Monday- Time to catch the wagon again

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Well today starts a new schedule for me....my first night going back to work.  I have primarily been a stay at home mom for the last 7 years.  It has kept me busy, taking the kids to tons of appointments.  I know times might get stressful having a job, but hopefully things will work out.  I am only working part time mostly evenings and weekends.  One problem is this is when I like to work out.  So now I have to figure out a new schedule and get fitting in those workouts. 

I actually haven't done any for the last couple months.  I get stressed out, and just gave up.  I figure today I am starting a new schedule so it is time to figure in the workouts and eat better to go with it.  On top of it besides the lifting I do at home, I will be doing more being a caregiver.  So I really need to get exercising more to get my back in shape so I dont injure myself.  I have already been feeling the pulls here and there, so its time to get it together. 

So good luck to the new Mamavation Moms on your new journey....I will be starting mine too!

Sunday, May 6, 2012

Chicken Soup for the Soul- Food and Love

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101 Stories Celebrating Special Times with Family and Friends... and Recipes Too!


Food is an expression of love — both the romantic kind and the comforting kind between family and friends. With its savory, sweet, and sometimes spicy stories, this delightful collection will sprinkle in laughs, warm hearts of readers, and stir up memories that certain aromas and tastes always bring. Readers will relish the stories on how love and food together played a flavorful part in life. Some recipes included too!

Giveaway:
Three lucky readers can win a copy of this book.  To enter, leave a comment telling me why you would like this book.

Extra entries:
Share this giveaway (you can use the buttons at the top of the post, 1 comment for each share)
Follow me with Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, Pinterest, or subscribe (1 entry for each)

This giveaway is open to US and Canada only.  Please leave a seperate comment for each entry.  This giveaway will end on May 18 and the winners will be chosen by random.org.

Disclosure:  I received a copy of this book to feature. 

Thursday, May 3, 2012

Chicken Soup for the Soul- The Magic of Mothers & Daughters (#giveaway)

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101 Inspirational and Entertaining Stories about That Special Bond


Mothers and daughters. They are, at the same time, very similar and completely unique. This relationship — through birth, childhood, teen years, adulthood, grandchildren, aging, and every step in between — can be the best, the hardest, and the sweetest. Moms and daughters will laugh, cry, and find inspiration in this collection of entertaining, poignant, and heartwarming stories that remind them of their shared love, appreciation and special bond. A great gift for Mother's Day.

Today is my Mom's birthday and I couldn't think of a better day to post this giveaway.  I am really looking forward to reading this book all about Mothers and Daughters.  Coming from a family of all girls I am sure this will be one that I will be able to relate to well.  My mother has been one of my closest friends over the years and our relationship is truely magical!

Win it!
Three lucky readers can win a copy of this book.  To enter: leave a comment telling me why you want to win this book.

Extra entries:
Share this giveaway (you can use the buttons at the top of this post. 1 entry for each way you share)
Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Pinterest, Google plus, or subscribe ( 1 entry for each)

This giveaway is open to US and Canada only.  Please leave a  seperate comment for each entry.  This giveaway will end on May 17 and the winners will be chosen by random.org

Disclosure:  I received a free copy of this book to feature on my blog.

Wednesday, May 2, 2012

Chicken Soup for the Soul - Family Caregivers (#giveaway)

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101 Stories of Love, Sacrifice and Bonding


Do you have a family member who requires constant care? You are not alone. This collection offers support and encouragement in its 101 stories for family caregivers of all ages, including the "sandwich" generation caring for a family member while raising their children. With stories by those on the receiving end of the care too. These stories of love, sacrifice, and lessons will inspire and uplift family members making sacrifices to make sure their loved ones are well cared for, whether in their own homes or elsewhere.

Many of my family members have had to take care of another family member at one time or another.  For myself I know I will have a lifetime of being considered not just a mom but a family caregiver.  While I have not had a chance to read this book yet, I think it will be a good one for me and for so many others.  I can read stories of other caregivers, as well as those being taken care of.  Yesterday I also started a new job as a caregiver.  While I have done this for several years in the past, it has been several years that I have not worked outside of the home.  I hope this book will bring some reflection to help me with my new job.

Win it!  Giveaway closed: Congrats Glogirl and PMJ!
Three lucky readers can win a copy of this book.  To enter leave a comment telling me why you would like this book.

Extra entries:
Share this giveaway using any of the share buttons above (1 entry for each)
Follow me on Facebook, Twitter, Google Plus, Pinterest, or subscribe (1 entry for each...you can find these in the sidebar under followers)

This giveaway is open to US and Canada only.  Please leave a seperate comment for each entry.  The giveaway will end on May 15 and the winners will be chosen by random.org.

Disclosure:  I received a copy of this book for free to feature on my blog.  These are my personal opinions.

Special Exposure Wednesday

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"mom....Im taller than the house"