Sambucol Review & Giveaway

With DS in daycare it seems like he's always bringing something home. Most times he doesn't get sick, however I do. It's strange. It's like he carries the germs home on his clothes. Since my pregnancy with DS it seems like I lost half my immune system. It's not as strong as it once was. I'm sure it's probably stress...or at least that's my answer at this point. I was intrigued to try out these products in hopes that maybe I'd see some type of improvement. Getting sick like every month no matter what season it is really blows I was offered a chance to review Sambucol's Black Elderberry immune system support, cold and flu relief tablets and the immune support for kids. I wanted to take some time on this review because I didn't really think a week would really show anything.


Sambucol® with natural black elderberry is trusted by millions of people worldwide. It is the original black elderberry dietary supplement developed by a virologist and researched and tested in published clinical trials showing it to help support the immune system. Sambucol® black elderberry extract is recommended by numerous nationally-recognized health experts, including Andrew Weil, M.D., in his popular book, Natural Health, Natural Medicine (Houghton Mifflin, 1995), to be taken if you get the flu. The brand is unique in that it is the only black elderberry extract used in published clinical trials and is manufactured using a proprietary method of extraction: Sambucol’s unique formulation and extraction process preserves and maximizes the naturally-occurring health benefits of the berry. A potent antioxidant, black elderberries have been used to traditionally combat illness since ancient times and have twice the natural antioxidant capacity of blueberries and almost twice that of cranberries. Sambucol® can be taken every day to help support the immune system.


The Black Elderberry immune system support is a dietary supplement containing natural black elderberry that says it can boost immunity. This clinically tested, great-tasting syrup was developed by a scientist and can help support a healthy immune system. Both my son and I tried this for a whole month. Now before I tell you anything please know that I am not endorsing this as a magic syrup. I am not going to make any far fetched claims. However, I am going to tell you how we reacted to it. I was surprised on it's taste. I was preparing myself for a cough syrup taste. However it didn't taste bad. It wouldn't be my drink of choice, but it wasn't bad.

We had been taking the Black Elderberry Immune System Support for about two weeks before DH got sick. He had a cold. I started sweating it because I really wanted the Sambucol® to work. Bravely, I told DH to hang all over me, breath on me, and I even *swallows* ate after him. I can't believe I put myself in that line of fire for a review. Surprisingly enough though, neither DS or I got sick. Boy, did I dodge a bullet there!

As soon as DH got sick I gave him the Black Elderberry Cold and Flu Relief Tablets. These tablets are a formulation containing natural black elderberry and zinc. The Sambucol® Cold and Flu Relief tablets quickly dissolve in the mouth without water for fast-acting relief. DH really liked this because he hates taking any type of medicine. DH claimed that the taste was not bad. Usually DH's colds last a little over a week. While taking the Sambucol®, he started feeling better in about 3 days. Believe me, this was great because DH is a complete pain when he's sick!

Overall, I would give the Sambucol®products a thumbs up. Anything that can keep me from being sick or lessen the blow and of being sick is a definite plus!

The Sambucol® line of products is available nationwide at major retailers, including health food stores including Vitamin Shoppe, pharmacy chains, including Rite Aid, Walgreens and CVS, independent drug stores, and online at drugstore.com. Go to www.sambucol.com for complete store availability.

Win a Sambucol® “immunity boosting basket”:

I have one “Immune Boosting Gift Set” from Sambucol® to giveaway. It will include the following (total value $45):

* Sambucol® Original Formula - $14.99 for 4 ounce bottle
* Sambucol® For Kids 2yrs-12yrs. - $14.99 for 4 ounce bottle.
* Sambucol® Original Formula Chewable Tablets - $14.99 for 30 tablets

FIRST, Check out Sambucol® 's Website and tell me if you think would help you the most.

After initial entry you make take advantage of the following for Extra Entries. You may (Leave a comment for each action):

• Follow My Blog
• Stumble my blog via the "share" button at the bottom of this post (Leave a comment saying you did so with Stumble user name)
• Subscribe to My Email Feed (leave a comment saying you did)
  
• Add this Giveaway to a Mr. Linky, Blog Carnival, Sweepstakes site, forum etc. (Leave the link) (1 entry per submission)
• Grab My Button and place on your blog (leave a comment with blog address)
• Follow me on Twitter (copperbrickroad) (leave a comment with your Twitter name)
  
• ReTweet this contest on Twitter (@copperbrickroad)(Once per day)

**Make sure to leave a separate comment for each entry to maximize chances of winning.**

One winner will be selected randomly using Random.org.

This contest starts today and will end on 7/14 at 11:59pm EST

----------------------------

There was no monetary compensation received for this review.
I received a set of Sambucol products for the sake of completing this review.
Receipt of these did not sway my opinion.

---------------------------

Kmart Clearance Sale Great Deals for Kids Clothes

I just wanted to make you aware that Kmart currently has a great clearance sale going on! They are having their clothing clearance which is up to 50% off of clothing for the whole family. Click HERE to check it out. I took advantage of the sale to get some extra summer clothing for my son in addition to summer clothing for him for next year.

I got:

(4) Polo Shirt / Short Sets @ $4.20 ea


(5) 2 Pack of Cargo Short Sets - Totals 10 pairs of shorts @ $5.40 ea set (1 set was $4.80)

With shipping and taxes my total was only $54 for 14 pairs of shorts and 4 shirts. My son sits through pants like you wouldn't believe!

If you have small children you know they can't have too many clothes! At this price, it's a deal! You can't find clothing sets that cheap! At least go ahead and buy a size bigger and stock up for next summer.

Check this sale out soon because the inventory will move fast!

Car Seat Couture Shopping Cart Cover Winner

Congratulations to Danielle! She won her choice of shopping cart cover in the Wild Child print from Car Seat Couture!



Thank you to everyone who participated! If you didn't win, no worries! I have several giveaways currently running and several in the works!

Espirt Stroller Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to Wanda B. She won the Espirt Stroller from Stroller.com.





Thank you to everyone who played! If you didn't win, no worries! I have several giveaways currently running and several in the works!

My Tot Clock Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to Flying Giggles and Lollipops! She won the My Tot Clock!




Thank you to all who played! If you didn't win, no worries! I have several giveaways currently running with several in the works!

Free Quart of Paint From Glidden

Glidden is giving away 1 Quart of paint in your choice of color during the Glidden National Paint Giveaway. Well technically it's a free quart of Eggshell finish Glidden paint. Just select your preferred color on their website. Order your free paint online or by phone, 1-800-454-3336.

The offer is valid through July 2, 2009, or while supplies last. Limit one free quart per household in the continental U.S. only.

Win A Year Of Kraft Macaroni & Cheese

I know for my household, Kraft Macaroni & Cheese is a real staple. It's easy, it's cheap, and it's sooooo good! My motto is "if in doubt, make some mac & cheese"!

Kraft has introduced a new website: www.ShareALittleComfort.com . Now, with the simple click of a mouse, anyone who visits can contribute a box of Kraft Macaroni & Cheese to Feeding America, the largest domestic hunger relief organization. Feeding America, formerly America’s Second Harvest, is the nation’s leading domestic hunger relief charity. Each year, the Feeding America network provides food assistance to more than 25 million low-income people facing hunger in the United States, securing and distributing more than 2 billion pounds of donated food and grocery products annually.

Whenever you visit www.ShareALittleComfort.com, every click means that one box of Kraft Macaroni & Cheese will help feed the hungry … up to one million boxes! Kraft will also be donating $100,000 in cash to the organization. In addition to the website, Kraft Foods is offering another way to share a little comfort. Every “Tweet” on Twitter.com that uses the Share a Little Comfort hash tag (#BlueBox) will count toward the up to one million boxes donation. How cool is that?! So make sure when you tweet you add on the hash tag at the end!

Help the hungry without leaving your chair!

In celebration of this great program, Kraft as been kind enough to offer one of my lucky readers (US Residents only) ONE YEAR WORTH OF MAC & CHEESE! Want to enter? Here's how!

FIRST, leave a comment telling me what your/your family's favorite way to enjoy Mac & Cheese is.

After initial entry you make take advantage of the following for Extra Entries. You may (Leave a comment for each action):

• Follow My Blog

• Stumble my blog via the "share" button at the bottom of this post (Leave a comment saying you did so with Stumble user name)
• Subscribe to My Email Feed (leave a comment saying you did)
  
• Add this Giveaway to a Mr. Linky, Blog Carnival, Sweepstakes site, forum etc. (Leave the link) (1 entry per submission)
• Grab My Button and place on your blog (leave a comment with blog address)
• Follow me on Twitter (copperbrickroad) (leave a comment with your Twitter name)
  
• ReTweet this contest on Twitter (@copperbrickroad)MUST USE #BLUEBOX HASH TAG(Once per day)

**Make sure to leave a separate comment for each entry to maximize chances of winning.**

One winner will be selected randomly using Random.org.

Contest Ends 7/10 at 11:59pm EST

Cloud B Twilight Turtle Review & Giveaway

Here lately my son has been having sleeping issues. I'm not 100% sure what it is but he has mentioned "monster" a couple of times. When it is time for bed he will go, but later on he will get up and try to come sleep with us. I was trying to figure out what may help him because I was not going to get him in a habit of sleeping with us. I had a chance to review the Twilight Turtle from Cloud B. It couldn't have happened at a better time.

So let me give you a little bit of background on Cloud B. Cloud B sells several different products to help ease the senses to sleep. Cloud B provides these products because they are dedicated to helping children of all ages sleep better. They believe that every child deserves a good nights sleep for healthy development. In order to make all of this happen Cloud B has an Advisory Board made of Pediatricians and Specialists with one single focus in mind: "to achieve a better, safer sleep for your child." Through their hard work, they have helped develop award-winning products.


The Twilight Turtle is sooo awesome! We all love it. It is such a neat concept! The Twilight Turtle is actually the first plush constellation nightlight ever created. The turtle's plastic shell, projects a constellation of stars onto the bedroom ceiling and walls in three soothing color options transforming any room into a starry night sky to help comfort children to sleep. The Twilight Turtles shell illuminates like a nightlight to help ease children's fear of the dark.


The Twilight Turtle Features:

* Full night sky projection on ceiling and walls
* Three color options: Bright Blue, Bright Green and Soft Amber
* 8 different constellations
* Shell illuminates for a calming nightlight effect
* Auto shut-off — 45 minute sleep timer
* Star Guide to help identify constellations
* Twilight Turtle story and adoption certificate
* Three AAA batteries included
* Dimensions: 14" long, 5" tall
* Ideal for ages 2 to adult

Once I took the Twilight Turtle out of the box, my son ran off with it. It was so cute. I was trying to explain to him how it worked, but he had already turned it on and was trying to shine it on the wall standing 5 inches away. The sun was still out so he couldn't see it well and got disapointed. Laughing, I took him into our hall bathroom (has no windows) and turned it on. "Oooooh. Mommy, dares staws". Even though I promised he could have the Twilight Turtle in his room he still insisted on carrying it around with him.

The real test came when it was time for bed. I placed the Twilight Turtle in the middle of his room and turned it on. I went through the colors until he told me stop. We said our night nights, and I left. I waited and I waited to see if he was going to get up. I heard nothing from him until I woke him in the morning. It was a miracle! He didn't get up! Every night since then has been the same too! Oh thank you Twilight Turtle!

I'm not going to lie to you. The Twilight Turtle is so cool that I want one for my room. The turtle's shell projects the stars not only on the ceiling but the walls too. It is seriously the coolest looking thing. It gives somewhat of a peaceful setting to be among the stars. I can understand why my son loves it so much!

The Twilight Turtle can be purchased from Cloud B HERE for $34. However, my readers can use this promo code CBR-0609 which will get you 15% off your order. Hurry and order because this offer expires 7/17! I tell you for as easy as it's made life on me and my son, it's worth every penny!

Cloud B has been kind enough to offer one of my lucky readers (US Residents only) a Twilight Turtle! Want to enter? Here's how!

FIRST, check out Cloud B's Website and tell me what product you'd pick out for your child

After initial entry you make take advantage of the following for Extra Entries. You may (Leave a comment for each action):

• Become a fan of Cloud B on Facebook (Click HERE)
  
• Follow My Blog
• Stumble my blog via the "share" button at the bottom of this post (Leave a comment saying you did so with Stumble user name)
• Subscribe to My Email Feed (leave a comment saying you did)
  
• Add this Giveaway to a Mr. Linky, Blog Carnival, Sweepstakes site, forum etc. (Leave the link) (1 entry per submission)
• Grab My Button and place on your blog (leave a comment with blog address)
• Follow me on Twitter (copperbrickroad) (leave a comment with your Twitter name)
  
• ReTweet this contest on Twitter (@copperbrickroad)(Once per day)

**Make sure to leave a separate comment for each entry to maximize chances of winning.**

One winner will be selected randomly using Random.org.

Contest Ends 7/10 at 11:59pm EST

Myself Belt Winner

Congratulations to Coriwestphal! Coriwestphal won a Myself Belt for her son!



Thank you to everyone who played! If you didn't win, no worries! I have several giveaways currently running and several in the works!

Little Journeys Baby World Tooth Fairy Pillow & Giveaway

As we all know the Tooth Fairy (for the most part) is just as much a part of children's lives as the Easter Bunny or Santa Claus. After the first visit from the Tooth Fairy...your child is never the same. Once they notice a loose tooth, they can't get it out fast enough to get it under their pillow. I know you know what I'm talking about because you were probably the same way as a child! I couldn't think of a cuter way to present a tooth to the Tooth Fairy than in a Little Journeys Baby World's Tooth Fairy Pillow!

Little Journeys Baby World sells sooo many cute handmade products! I was offered a chance to review the adorable Tooth Fairy Pillow. It is a small, tight stitched white pillow with the cutest fairy embroidered on it. I loved that the fairy even had sparkly wings! Beside the fairy is a pocket covered in lace. Little Journeys Baby World offers name embroidery as well (for an additional fee).

Your child will love putting a tooth in their own Tooth Fairy Pillow. It adds a special element to this course of growing up! Of course you can rest assured that the Tooth Fairy will be able to find your child's tooth a lot easier too! My son loved getting his pillow. He loves anything that has his name on it. Of course I know the Tooth Fairy will be happy he did. We try to make life easier on the gift givers! :P I also loved the fact that when he is older, he will be able to show this pillow to his kids! These pillows make such great keepsakes!

Little Journeys Baby World sells these Tooth Fairy pillows for $13 with an additional fee to embroider your child's name. There's a great coupon code just for my readers! Through 7/4 you can receive 15% off your order with coupon code CBR2009

You can follow Little Journeys Baby World through the following links:

• Twitter @littlejourneys
• Little Journeys Baby World Blog (Word Press)
  
• Little Journeys Baby World Blog (Blogspot)
• Myspace
• Facebook

Little Journeys Baby World has been kind enough to offer one of my lucky readers (US Residents only) a How To Make A Diaper Cake Kit (includes 3 tier diaper cake cylinder) Check out You Tube Video HERE. Want to enter? Here's how!

FIRST, check out the Little Journeys Baby World website and tell me what product you like the most.

After initial entry you make take advantage of the following for Extra Entries. You may (Leave a comment for each action):

• Follow Little Journeys Baby World on Twitter @LittleJourneys
  
• Follow My Blog
• Stumble my blog via the "share" button at the bottom of this post (Leave a comment saying you did so with Stumble user name)
• Subscribe to My Email Feed (leave a comment saying you did)
  
• Add this Giveaway to a Mr. Linky, Blog Carnival, Sweepstakes site, forum etc. (Leave the link) (1 entry per submission)
• Grab My Button and place on your blog (leave a comment with blog address)
• Follow me on Twitter (copperbrickroad) (leave a comment with your Twitter name)
  
• ReTweet this contest on Twitter (@copperbrickroad)(Once per day)

**Make sure to leave a separate comment for each entry to maximize chances of winning.**

One winner will be selected randomly using Random.org.

Contest Ends 7/9 at 11:59pm EST

The FlameDisk Review & Giveaway

I am about to introduce to you, the revolution to grilling. Now, there's always been a feud as to which could provide a better taste, more thorough cooking...ect between gas and charcoal. I know you've heard this, possibly between your husband and his friends. Well now there's a new kid on the block and it's name is FlameDisk.



If you would like the simple explanation of what the FlameDisk is....it is merely a disk that you place in your grill instead of charcoal. Once lit, the FlameDisk becomes your fire/heat source. Thus cooking whatever it is you're grilling. The FlameDisk uses an eco-friendly ethanol. This ethanol is made from corn making it a renewable biofuel. So as you can see, it's a good "green" choice over charcoal or propane.

You will love the FlameDisk because it takes no time at all to get hot! Not only that but it requires only a match to get started! You just place it in the grill and light it. That's it! You can't say that about charcoal! It only took about 3-4 minutes for ours to get hot enough to put the meat on and it burnt out in about an hour! Plenty of time to get your food cooked! Oh and shall I mention how easy clean up is? No more cleaning out charcoal or soot! Once cooled (cools fast), you just simply take out the FlameDisk and throw away. Recycle it if you can!

If you frequent camp grounds or parks often you know what a pain those free standing grills can be to clean. Do you tailgate? How easy would it be to bring the FlameDisk along to cook your food? Then you wouldn't have to worry about discarding the charcoal or having charcoal hands going into the game! Fabulous right?!

My husband LOVED cooking with the FlameDisk. We had burgers that tasted great! Yup that's what I said. No funky aftertastes! It simply tastes like you had it cooked on a gas grill. I loved the easy clean up! Whenever you have a small child, especially after eatting, you do not have tons of time to clean up. Not only that, but I love being "green" without changing my lifestyle nor spending tons of money! FlameDisk can be bought online. They sell 3 for $19.99 (includes s/h) or the best deal, 5 for $25.99 (includes s/h) These prices are comparable to bags of charcoal but don't include the hassle! If you cook out, the FlameDisk is surely something you need to look into!

FlameDisk has been kind enough to offer TEN of my lucky readers (US Residents only) a FlameDisk !Want to enter? Here's how!

FIRST, check out the video of the FlameDisk in action and leave a comment telling me how the FlameDisk would make things easier for you

After initial entry you make take advantage of the following for Extra Entries. You may (Leave a comment for each action):

• Follow My Blog
• Stumble my blog via the "share" button at the bottom of this post (Leave a comment saying you did so with Stumble user name)
• Subscribe to My Email Feed (leave a comment saying you did)
  
• Add this Giveaway to a Mr. Linky, Blog Carnival, Sweepstakes site, forum etc. (Leave the link) (1 entry per submission)
• Grab My Button and place on your blog (leave a comment with blog address)
• Follow me on Twitter (copperbrickroad) (leave a comment with your Twitter name)
  
• ReTweet this contest on Twitter (@copperbrickroad)(Once per day)

**Make sure to leave a separate comment for each entry to maximize chances of winning.**

One winner will be selected randomly using Random.org.

Contest Ends 7/9 at 11:59pm EST

----------------------------

There was no monetary compensation received for this review.
I received a FlameDisk for the sake of completing this review.
Receipt of this did not sway my opinion.

---------------------------

Fruit2Day Review

Do you find it hard to get your serving of fruit in everyday? Heck, do you even notice that you're not getting your fruit in everyday? 90% of Americans don’t meet their recommended daily fruit and vegetable requirements. So you're not alone. I know as busy moms, it can be very easy for us to fall off the boat and totally not think about what should be a necessary part of our diet. I know I'm guilty of that. I was so glad I got a chance to review the Fruit2Day fruit drinks. Talk about yummy and healthy!

Fruit2Day drinks are a mixture of all natural fruit juices, purees, and little chunks of fruit. They are 110-120 calories each and have no sugars added. One bottle gives you two servings of fruit. The USDA says that an ideal intake of fruit for an adult would be four servings a day. That would only be two Fruit2Days.

So how does Fruit2Day do it?
According to the USDA Dietary Guidelines, one serving of fruit is equal to one half cup.¹⁸ This measurement is based on fresh fruit cut in typical slices or chunks. Of course, by cutting the fruit into small bits like we do in Fruit2day, we can fit the equivalent of a full serving into a smaller space. That’s why even though a bottle of Fruit2day is only 6.75 fluid ounces, it still contains two complete servings of natural fruit goodness.

Neat huh?

I actually drink Fruit2Day as a snack. I love the little chunks of fruit because it fills me up. I love it because all you have to do is open and drink. By doing simply that, you're getting in the antioxidants, potassium, fiber and various vitamins such as A and C that your body needs! Seems like a no brainer to me! Lisa Drayer, M.A, RD says "It’s always a good idea to mix it up when you’re choosing produce – the body benefits from a diverse supply of nutrients, plus you’ll avoid boredom and be more inclined to sustain healthy habits." So there you go. Fruit2Day is a great way to get your fruit in without getting bored. Thus, leading to healthier habits! Seems like a good deal to me.

You can find Fruit2Day at your local grocery store in the refrigerated juice section.

----------------------------

There was no monetary compensation received for this review.
I received a coupons for Fruit2Day for the sake of completing this review.
Receipt of these did not sway my opinion.

---------------------------

The BabyBam Collection Towel & Soap Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to Dana! She won the BabyBam Collection Towel Set and Soap!


Thank you to everyone who played! If you didn't win, no worries! I have several giveaways going on now. I also have several in the works!

Mom's Plan It Calendars Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to Egare! Egare won the Mom's Plan It Calendars!


Thank you to everyone who played! If you didn't win, no worries! I have several giveaways going on now with several in the works!

Youth Sports - A Great Way To Get Children Active for not Much Money

So my son is getting ready to start organized Tee Ball this fall. I was really shocked that they started this young. However, my son LOVES playing baseball in the backyard with his dad. Sometimes I come out and play too. I'm usually catcher because my batting skills are horrible. I am totally excited for my son because we don't have neighbors with kids his age (shame on us, I know). I think this will be a great way to get him out there with other kids and get him active to boot. For only $50 for the season, I think it's a great deal.

Growing up both my husband and I were involved in sports. Baseball and Football were my husband's games while Basketball was my game. It kept me busy and it kept me fit. Oh and I guess I should mention, it kept me out of trouble (for the most part). Those basketball games are some of my fondest memories. I can remember making my first foul shot. It was so funny too because I remember making the shot and then when it went in, I threw my hands up and just got so excited. You would've thought that shot was worth a million points rather than just one.

As a parent that has reaped the benefits of youth sports I will be encouraging my son on the basis of achievement and of course the fun of it all. I know my son will have moments like my first foul shot....where nothing at that moment can compare. The excitement of that achievement that your child will bring up again and again. "Hey Mom, you remember when I made that shot?!" I see this now in the backyard and he's only three. Once he's hits the ball and runs the bases, he is just so excited. After every home run he scores, it's almost like he's won the World Series. Of course Mom and Dad hooping and hollering may help this a little bit. These evenings out in the backyard reinforce the positivity of the game. My son is a big boy, he did it all by himself and the gratification in that is priceless.

Including your children in sports is a great inexpensive way to help them grow! Aside from exercising they will learn good sportsmanship, respect, playing well with others, and so much more! You should check out your local leisure services. They have the best deals!

If you're looking into getting your children started, you should check out Liberty Mutual’s Responsible Sports program. It educates parents and coaches about the positive influence sports play in children's lives. Summer and sports are a winning combo for kids who swap school books for bats and balls, as they take part in summer camps and sports leagues.

What are your thoughts? Leave me a comment!

Affordable Ice Cream Cakes

Who doesn't love ice cream?! Especially from Baskin Robbins! They have affordable ice cream cakes starting at $9.99! These make great hassle free desserts for your next cookout or party. Cake and Ice Cream together! What a concept!

Having a cookout this 4th of July?! Check out the Brownie a la Mode cakes! They're sure to be a yummy hit!

Homemade Hot Pockets

Do you eat Hot Pockets? I love them but I have two problems with them. One, they're considered a convenience food and cost more than I want to pay for them. And two, they don't fill me up. Usually, the only ones that fit my taste are the three cheese pizza ones. As much as a pig I am, I always find myself having to eat two just to be satisfied. Either that, or add a salad to one. I've been thinking about it and just knew there had to be a better way. Then it came to me.

The Hot Pocket concept is a simple one. What can be daunting is what you want to put in it. You can put whatever you'd like into these pockets. Just make sure if you use any meats or frozen veggies, that they are cooked through before you add them to the pocket. You'll only be cooking these for about ten minutes. That's only enough time to cook the dough and melt any cheese you're putting in there.

For me, I wanted to make something more hearty. This would solve my hunger issue. In addition to that, if it's more hearty, you can use it for an easy dinner! For this example, I decided to go the pizza route. You could of course do broccoli and cheese, or ham and potato, meatballs, ect. Let your imagination take over! Ok, so for these pockets I used ground turkey, green peppers, onions, pizza sauce, and mozzarella cheese.

1. I browned the turkey with some pizza seasoning along with the green peppers and onions.

2. Once browned, I unrolled some canned store bought crescent roll dough. (I haven't mastered making the dough just yet). Once you roll it out you will put two triangles together and seal their edges together making one large rectangle. You should get four large rectangles from a can.

Now the next directions will vary depending on what you use. If using your own mix, pick up on # 7.

3. I put a spoon full (just eye it) of pizza sauce on each crescent roll.

4. I then put mozzarella cheese on top of that (as much as you like)

5. I then put my turkey, onion, green pepper mixture on top of there. (eye it)

6. I topped the mixture again with more cheese and sauce.

7. I folded over the other side of the dough so that the ends meet. I then took a fork and pressed it down around the edges to seal it.

8. Follow the directions on your crescent roll can....it's usually bake on 375 for 10 minutes.

Now, you can make your own Hot Pockets in any flavor you want! Of course I'm sure yours will be prettier!

SodaStream Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to theronin. He won the SodaStream.



Thank you to all who played. If you didn't win, no worries! I have several giveaways currently running and several in the works.

CVS on a $10 Budget (6/22/09)

Here's Juanita from The Frugalicious Mommy with her CVS deals on a $10 budget:

Today I decided to use my card and my husband's because I had $5.oo ECB on his card and a $5 off $25 on mine. Plus I wanted to take advantage of the Soy Joy on both cards, since he doesn't have the patience to do multiple transactions.

Trans #1

2-Monitors $9.99 ea (2/$9.99 Q's)

12- Soy Joy Bars 4/$4 (2/$1 Q's)

Total $31.98

-$5 off $25

=$26.98

-Q's $21.98

=$5.00 OOP

Earned $12 ECB

Trans #2

1- Almay $13.99 ($1 Q)

Total $13.99

-Q $1.00

=$12.99

-$12.00 ECB from Trans #1

= .99 + tax .08= $1.07 OOP

Earned $10 ECB

Trans #3

2-Thermacare $2.49 ea (2/$1 Q's)
8-Soy Joy Bars 4/$4

Total $12.98

-Q's $2.00

=$10.98

-$10 ECB from trans #2

=.98 OOP

Earned $12.98 ECB

Trans #4

1-Almay $13.99 ($1 Q)

Total $13.99

-Q $1

=$12.99

-$12.98 ECB from trans #3
=.01 OOP

Earned $10.00 ECB

Trans #5

2- Tresemme $5.19 ea

Total $10.38

-$10.00 ECB from trans #4

= .38 + .03 tax = .41 OOP

Earned $5.00 ECB

Trans #6

4-Sobe Waters $1.59 ea (2/BOGO Q + BOGO ad)

1-Cherrios $1.00

1-Dad's Mug $3.99 (for my hubby, it fits him so well)

1-Honey Nut Bar .89

Total $12.24

-Q's and Ad

=$5.88

-$5.00 ECB from trans #5

=.88 OOP

Trans #7

2-Sobe Water $1.59 ea (BOGO)

2-Thermacare $2.49 ea (2/$1 Q's)

1-Ring Pop .69

Total $8.85

-Q's and ad

=$5.26

-$5.00 ECB from Hubbies card

=.26 + .02 tax = .28 OOP

Earned $4.98 OOP

Trans #8

4-Soy Joy 4/$4

2-Sobe Water $1.59 ea (BOGO)

Total $7.18

-ad

=$5.59

-$4.98 ECB from trans #7

=.61 OOP

Trans 9-10-11-12 (where the same I just rolled over the $4 ECB for Soy Joy)

Totals $16.00

-ECB's
=0 OOP

Earned $4.00 LEFT OVER for next time

Totals for the day

Total Purchases-$127.59

Total OOP $9.24

$4.00 ECB left

ENVIROSAX Review & Father's Day Giveaway

HAPPY FATHER'S DAY!!

Since I started shopping at Aldi the need for reusable bags in our household has grown. If you've never shopped at an Aldi, they don't offer you bags. Well, they do, but you have to pay .10 each for the plastic bags....and then you bag your own groceries. Of course, I don't mind because it's saving me money. Also, I love how I'm doing my part to help the environment without making a drastic lifestyle change! Since getting reuseable bags, I have found a million and one more uses aside from grocery shopping. They make great overnight bags as well!

I was recently offered the chance to review ENVIROSAX. Let me just say I LOVE ENVIROSAX! Aside from being green, they are the most fashionable bags! Who knew?!

ENVIROSAX bags are soooo easy to carry with you. When folded they only measure 4" x 1.5" diameter. I mean, that fits right in the palm of your hand! You won't miss any room in your purse by having one always with you. When it's unfolded it measures 19.5" x 16.5" so it's big enough to carry a lot. I LOVE how strong these bad boys are. One bag will carry 2 plastic bags worth of groceries comfortably. Actually they have been tested to carry up to 44 lbs. That's more than my son. Niiiiiice.

There are SOOO many prints that you can pick from! At only $8.50 you can afford to pick out a couple! Aside from their standard more "feminine" styles, they have introduced more "masculine" lines . There's the Oxford Series and the Retro Graphic Series. You can click HERE to see the lines. So now that dad is included, there's no reason not to use these reusable bags!

In honor of Father's Day, ENVIROSAX has been kind enough to give one of my lucky readers (US Residents only) an ENVIROSAX for dad from the Oxford Series (the print below). Want to win!? Here's how!

FIRST, Check out the ENVIROSAX website and look at the Oxford Series and the Retro Graphic Series. Tell me which print is your favorite.

After initial entry you make take advantage of the following for Extra Entries. You may (Leave a comment for each action):

• Follow My Blog
• Stumble my blog via the "share" button at the bottom of this post (Leave a comment saying you did so with Stumble user name)
• Subscribe to My Email Feed (leave a comment saying you did)
  
• Add this Giveaway to a Mr. Linky, Blog Carnival, Sweepstakes site, forum etc. (Leave the link) (1 entry per submission)
• Grab My Button and place on your blog (leave a comment with blog address)
• Follow me on Twitter (copperbrickroad) (leave a comment with your Twitter name)
  
• ReTweet this contest on Twitter (@copperbrickroad)(Once per day)

**Make sure to leave a separate comment for each entry to maximize chances of winning.**

One winner will be selected randomly using Random.org.

This contest starts today and will end on 7/7 at 11:59pm EST

Douglas Stuffed Animal Giveaway Winner

Congratulations to The Angel Forever! She won her choice of Mildred Moose!

Thank you to everyone who played! If you didn't win, no worries! I have several giveaways currently running and more in the works!

Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion + SPF 15 Review & Giveaway

I have to admit, I really am a lotion snob. I do not feel that all lotions are created the same. I have tried A LOT of lotions over time from dollar store random brands, to Victoria Secret, to Bath and Body Works. I'm funny about my lotions though. Sometimes, I like a lot of perfume (i.e. Bath & Body Works) however some brands just don't cut it on the fragrance and it smells cheap and gives me a headache. Sometimes, I like the ones that don't really have a smell but almost smell clean, if you know what I mean.....but sometimes those that try to smell clean, smell like a doctor's office. Of course, don't get me started on the lotions that are too greasy or too watery. Bleh, both of those just gross me out. As far as lotions go, yes I am very high maintenance and I do have high standards.


Skin MD sent me their Natural Shielding Lotion plus SPF 15 to try. I really like it. The lotion meets all of my required criteria. Of course, if it meets those strenuous standards, I'm sure you'll like it too. It isn't greasy, it's not too watery, yet it's not too heavy. It feels very nice going on and it just makes my skin feel so soft! I also love how it has SPF 15. I am fair skinned and I love having the protection without going out of my way to put on a sunscreen. I also love how it's not sticky and smelly like most sunscreens are. It's just a simple feeling lotion.

So I guess you may be curious as to what's a shielding lotion is. Dr. Lisa Benest, a board certified dermatologist of Burbank, CA explains:

"A conventional lotion is not formulated to protect the skin like a shielding lotion does. Conventional lotions only add surface moisture to temporarily alleviate dry skin or itching. Shielding lotions stay on because they bond with the skin and protect it for long periods of time. With this protection in place your skin keeps its own moisture in and has a chance to use this natural moisture in the deep layers of the skin to heal itself"

I have tried some of this Natural Shielding Lotion on my son who has very bad eczema. I don't use it on him really for the sunscreen but rather the healing benefits. I have noticed somewhat of an improvement in his visible itching. Also, his legs don't feel like sandpaper. If you have skin issues, Skin MD's Natural Shielding Lotion +SPF 15 is definitely worth trying. If you're concerned with ingredients, they have the most transparent ingredient disclosure in the industry, so you will know exactly what you're putting into your body.

Skin MD is so sure that you'll like their skin care products that they offer an unconditional guarantee. So what are you waiting for?

You can find Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion + SPF at most pharmacies or you can purchase online HERE

Oh and I should also mention that Skin MD's products are not tested on animals, are dermatology tested, fragrance and color free, hypoallergenic, paraben free, and non-comedogenic!

Skin MD has been kind enough to give one of my lucky readers (US Residents only) their own bottle of the fabulous Skin MD Natural Shielding Lotion + SPF! Want to win!? Here's how!

FIRST, tell me why you would need this lotion (dry skin? ecezma? ect)

After initial entry you make take advantage of the following for Extra Entries. You may (Leave a comment for each action):

• Follow My Blog
• Stumble my blog via the "share" button at the bottom of this post (Leave a comment saying you did so with Stumble user name)
• Subscribe to My Email Feed (leave a comment saying you did)
  
• Add this Giveaway to a Mr. Linky, Blog Carnival, Sweepstakes site, forum etc. (Leave the link) (1 entry per submission)
• Grab My Button and place on your blog (leave a comment with blog address)
• Follow me on Twitter (copperbrickroad) (leave a comment with your Twitter name)
  
• ReTweet this contest on Twitter (@copperbrickroad)(Once per day)

**Make sure to leave a separate comment for each entry to maximize chances of winning.**

One winner will be selected randomly using Random.org.

This contest starts today and will end on 7/7 at 11:59pm EST

----------------------------

There was no monetary compensation received for this review.
I received a bottle of Skin MD for the sake of completing this review.
Receipt of this did not sway my opinion.

---------------------------

Fruitables Dog Treats Review and Giveaway

I know for most of us (myself included) that our dogs are our family. They're considered our children. Just like our children, we want to make sure that they're healthy and taken care of. That includes what they eat. I came across the Fruitables® dog treat line and was amazed! These 100% natural treats are deliciously healthy!


Fruitables® dog treats are made by VetScience and are absolutely amazing. I had concerns over how much my dogs were eating. Even though they are smaller dogs, they eat a lot. Aside from it being a financial issue, I was especially concerned about their health and overeating. I could just take their bowls away in between meals, but my youngest starts chewing up things and then it becomes a discipline issue. These treats worked well as in between meal snacks. I also used the Pumpkin & Cinnamon filler in their food. I'm still training my 6 month old and my 3 year old always has room to brush up so I used these treats to 1, keep them from eating between meals, and 2 to use as rewards to obeying commands. I have never had my dogs listen to me better. They love them! I guess they felt like they were truly getting a treat. Of course they should because these babies are a treat! I loved how healthy these Fruitables® treats are!

A little about Vetscience:

Vetscience was created by people with a passion for innovation and advanced nutrition with a primary focus on natural and harvest fresh ingredients. We believe deeply in proven efficacy, a commitment to research and animal health, and actively support major university studies, which have included significant breakthroughs in companion animal obesity and satiety research. One of our founders, John E. Bauer, Ph.D., D.V.M., Dipl. ACVN is Professor of Small Animal Clinical Sciences and holder of the Mark L. Morris Professorship of Clinical Nutrition in the College of Veterinary Medicine at Texas A&M University. He is a past Chair and current member of the Intercollegiate Graduate Faculty of Nutrition at Texas A&M. Bauer's areas of specialization are lipid biochemistry, disorders of lipid metabolism, and comparative biomedicine and nutrition. His studies have included lipoprotein and fatty acid metabolism of domestic and exotic animals as well as animal models of hypercholesterolemia and atherogenesis of humans. He has written over 230 peer-reviewed and other publications, is the recipient of numerous grants, awards and honors and is listed in American Men and Women of Science and Who's Who in Veterinary Science and Medicine.

Fruitables® are 100% natural! They use selected organic ingridents all of which are human grade. Fruitables are preservative free and they include CalorieSmart®! What's CalorieSmart® you ask?? Well CalorieSmart® is a patent pending concept in pet nutrition. The concept utilizes harvest fresh fruits and vegetables to balance palatability (great taste), advanced nutrition, calorie control, and satiety (fullness) to ensure a happy and healthy life for your pet. This concept was developed by the VetScience founder and one of the leading Ph.D.s in pet nutrition and academia.

Fruitables® uses all organic ingredients like Organic Oatmeal, Organic Molasses, and Organic Graham to create an natural flavor and efficacy in all of their products. All of their treats are also baked in an Organic Certified bakery. In addition, these Fruitables pet treats also use fruits and veggies rich in antioxidants, vitamins A, C, and E. The fruits and veggies they use are chosen on purporse for their advanced nutritional benefits as well as their taste. These selections can help your dog live a healthier, fitter, and longer life.

Let's go over what Fruitables offers: (You can click each picture to see larger and read nutrition facts)

Pumpkin & Cranberry -Cranberries - another nutritional superstar with amazing flavor. Rich in key nutrients, cranberries are a great addition and a smart choice for health conscious pet parents.

Pumpkin & Apple - A healthy and all-natural treat that smells as good as it tastes. The addition of Apple builds on nutrition of Pumpkin by adding Vitamin C, fiber and potassium. And you know what they say about an apple a day!

Pumpkin & Banana - An all-natural treat with a hint of banana in the pumpkin muffin aroma. Rich in Vitamin B6 which aids in red blood cell function and immune response, plus manganese and potassium, which aid in digestive function and cell growth. It’s the treat you dog will go Ape over!

Pumpkin & Blueberry - A healthy and aromatic all natural treat that smells as good as it tastes. Pumpkin nutrition is enhanced with the antioxidant power of blueberries. A great source of Vitamin C, Vitamin K, and Manganese, blueberries are also a delicious source of fiber. The best of nature’s superfoods for your superdog.

Pumpkin & Cinnamon Mixer - Stop between meal hunger and begging before it starts! This ultra low calorie indulgence made with harvest fresh pumpkin tastes like a favorite holiday pie. Fortified with L-Carnitine, Taurine, and Choline, this naturally high fiber mixer is part of a complete and balanced meal and is proven in university studies to reduce hunger between meals. The hunger buster your dog will love!

As you can see, Fruitables® are definitely a good alternative to other "empty" treats. If you're concerned about what your dog eats or how much he eats, Fruitables® should be high on your list! You can purchase online HERE. If your vet or local pet store doesn't see Fruitables®, tell them to! Your dogs will thank you!

Fruitables® has been kind enough to give FOUR of my lucky readers (US Residents only) a Fruitables® prize pack with treats for your dog! Want to win!? Here's how!

FIRST, Check out the Fruitables® website and tell me a "fun fact" about Fruitables®

After initial entry you make take advantage of the following for Extra Entries. You may (Leave a comment for each action):

• Follow My Blog
• Stumble my blog via the "share" button at the bottom of this post (Leave a comment saying you did so with Stumble user name)
• Subscribe to My Email Feed (leave a comment saying you did)
  
• Add this Giveaway to a Mr. Linky, Blog Carnival, Sweepstakes site, forum etc. (Leave the link) (1 entry per submission)
• Grab My Button and place on your blog (leave a comment with blog address)
• Follow me on Twitter (copperbrickroad) (leave a comment with your Twitter name)
  
• ReTweet this contest on Twitter (@copperbrickroad)(Once per day)

**Make sure to leave a separate comment for each entry to maximize chances of winning.**

One winner will be selected randomly using Random.org.

This contest starts today and will end on 7/5 at 11:59pm EST

----------------------------

There was no monetary compensation received for this review.
I received a variety of Fruitables for the sake of completing this review.
Receipt of these did not sway my opinion.

---------------------------

PUR Flavor Options Water Filter Pitcher Review & Giveaway

Hi everyone. My name is Rebecca and I'm a sodaholic. It's really quite sad. Everyday I have at least two sodas. Aside from the money we spend (even though we buy them on sale) it's just not good for us. I've tried the water deal, but I'm not big on plain water. 'm not really big on water tasting like nothing. Bottled water too can get expensive and I really don't trust out local water. I've also seen the investigative reports, most bottled waters are not any better than what comes out of the tap. I was so glad I got the chance to review the PUR Flavor Options Water Filter Pitcher system. What a way to kill all those birds with one stone!

I absolutely love the PUR Flavor Options Water Filter Pitcher system! Simply put, it's a water pitcher that filters out the nasty stuff out of your water and offers you a chance to add just a bit of flavor to your water. PUR Flavor Options is the only filter on the market that lets you add a touch of sugar-free, calorie-free fruit flavoring to your water and comes in lemon, raspberry, grape and strawberry. In 2009 it won Product of the Year in the Household category by Product of the Year USA. This was great for me because like I mentioned, I love sodas. Having just a little bit of flavor to my water made it so much better for me to drink! It really does provide a great way to ween us soda junkies. If you're someone who's ok with water The PUR system is a great way to get clean water as well as a refreshing taste. Of course it should be noted that the flavor only comes out while you're pouring if you push the little button. The more you push the button, the more flavor that comes out into your cup. The water inside the pitcher is not flavored. So, no worries if you and your family don't agree on flavors. You can actually open several flavors at a time and store them in the fridge when they're not in use. That way when you use the pitcher you can change out the flavors to your liking! How convenient!?

Do you know what may be in your drinking water? I checked out PUR's website on this and it's kind of disturbing. Of course all of this will probably depend on where you live but it gives you an idea. I'll start out with stuff you probably already had an idea about. There's chlorine. Of course we know that chlorine is put in to somewhat clean the water. And then there's sediment (rust). This can be runoff or simply from your pipes if you live in an old house. Let's go into what you might not have known. There could be agricultural pollutants. This is runoff from herbicides and insectasides that enter the water. There also could be microbial cysts. These come from both human or animal fecal matter. There's the possiblity of lead. This, again, can come from old pipes. Industrial pollutants can come from discharge from factories and chemical plants. And I saved the most grounding for last. I could, but couldn't believe there was the possibility of this being in our drinking water. It's pharmasuticals. In March 2008, the Associated Press published a report that found various pharmasutical compounds in the water of 24 metropolitan areas across the US. Scary enough, most water treatment plants can remove these from the water.

I'll let you marinate on those facts from PUR for a minute. Thank goodness this PUR pitcher will help filter out that grossness! This pitcher will actually reduce 96% of the pharmasutical crap. So that in itself should give you piece of mind.

Let's discuss the money issue here. If you buy bottled water for your family, think about how much you spend. Now look at this, the PUR Water Filtration together with a refillable bottle saves up to $600 per person annually. So if you're a family of 4, that's $2,400. Think about what you could do with $2,400! Also, on the green side, this will save 3,200 plastic water bottles from the world every single year!

It should also make you feel good that with each purchase of a PUR filter, a donation is made to Children’s Safe Drinking Water which has, to date, provided over 1 billion liters of clean water to needy children and their families around the world. So, PUR is helping ensure every person can have a clean glass of water to drink.

I absolutely love this concept! Of course if it saves money, you know I'm all for it!

Walmart sells the PUR Flavor Options Water Filter Pitcher system for $29.44 and the 2-pack flavor cartridges are $9.97. Each cartridge gives 75 servings. If you would like to save up to $7 on the system ($5 on the pitcher $2 on the cartridges) click HERE and have PUR mail you the coupons!

PUR has been kind enough to give one of my lucky readers (US Residents only) PUR Flavor Options Water Filter Pitcher system. Want to win!? Here's how!

FIRST, Check out PUR Flavor Options Website and tell me what flavor you think you'd like the most.

After initial entry you make take advantage of the following for Extra Entries. You may (Leave a comment for each action):

• Follow My Blog
• Stumble my blog via the "share" button at the bottom of this post (Leave a comment saying you did so with Stumble user name)
• Subscribe to My Email Feed (leave a comment saying you did)
  
• Add this Giveaway to a Mr. Linky, Blog Carnival, Sweepstakes site, forum etc. (Leave the link) (1 entry per submission)
• Grab My Button and place on your blog (leave a comment with blog address)
• Follow me on Twitter (copperbrickroad) (leave a comment with your Twitter name)
  
• ReTweet this contest on Twitter (@copperbrickroad)(Once per day)

**Make sure to leave a separate comment for each entry to maximize chances of winning.**

One winner will be selected randomly using Random.org.

This contest starts today and will end on 7/5 at 11:59pm EST

----------------------------

There was no monetary compensation received for this review.
I received a PUR Flavor Options Pitcher for the sake of completing this review.
Receipt of this did not sway my opinion.

---------------------------