Single Parent Retreat

Monday Blog Hop!

2012-01-29T21:00:00.000-05:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!Have a great day!

Not so Extreme Couponing.

2012-01-28T16:30:00.000-05:00

With my impending layoff coming up in just over a month, I am on a mission to find a way to decrease a lot of my bills. Grocery bill is one of them. I am hearing of all these people who save upwards of 50% - 100% on their groceries and I want to do that! I want to go on a grocery trip that my average savings is minimum 60%. How am I going to do this?

I've been talking with friends and had a great afternoon with a friend yesterday who's biggest savings with coupons alone was just over $92. Seriously?? I've apparently missed this bandwagon and I am going to start running after it full hilt to jump on! I've clipped coupons and just let them expire while I am out there buying things I could get cheaper. Can we say wasteful? Ugh. I'm a smart woman, but, I definitely was not showing any kind of common sense in this scenario. I think it was pure laziness, to be honest. But no more! I am going to start doing the following:

- Newspapers - Buy more newspapers when they have great coupons. One newspaper isn't going to cut it if you are also trying to build up a stockpile to make sure you are good in case of no money coming in! This will include asking friends for their coupons that they aren't using.
- Support - Get my daughter involved. She loves to clip coupons and is always on me about saving money.
- Double Deals - Buy things, (unless absolutely needed) when they are on sale only. Double up on those deals!!
- Reduce waste - Call local newspaper and yell at them about not letting customers come in to stores and take coupons from Sunday paper's that they don't sell. I understand they want to sell their papers, but, if someone buys a minimum amount of newspapers, they should be able to be given a ticket saying it is ok for them to come in and get the ads. That is a complete waste of paper in my opinion.

I know I'm not stating anything new for those of you who do this on a regular basis, but, for someone like me, a novice couponer, I'm extremely excited and motivated. I yelled at my friend for getting me into this, lol. I did go and buy a binder and inserts to put coupons in. I got those free with gift cards I had to use, so, figured, why not?

How much do you normally save with your coupons and deals? Do you use coupons regularly? I look forward to hearing your stories!

Tide Coldwater Laundry Detergent Review

2012-01-24T22:05:00.000-05:00

Recently I was asked to do a review of the Tide Coldwater Laundry Detergent by SheSpeaks. I love Tide products anyway, so, why not, right? They certainly did not let me down! I had my daughter go outside with one of her shirts and dirty it up. What kid doesn't like getting things dirty, right? Check out this first video showing the shirt before:

After the laundry was done, I transferred everything to the dryer but the one shirt. See what happened:

As stated in the video, the dirt was really ground in. My daughter had a little too much fun with that! lol. The spots that were left, I didn't rub the detergent in deep enough I don't think. But, for what it did? Got the dirt out very well in my opinion. Want to know one of the best things of using Coldwater when doing laundry? I'm sure you all know the answer to this, money savings! You aren't using hot water which will add up in your savings.Overall, my opinion? It's a great detergent. Tide has never failed me and I have been using them for years.

Please note that I have received a full sized bottle of Tide Coldwater and will also receive a gift card for this post. However, please note that all opinions are my own.

Monday Blog Hop

2012-01-22T22:03:00.001-05:00

eBay's new Green site! Enter for Chance to Win $1,000 eBay Gift Card!

2012-01-19T20:16:00.000-05:00

Have you heard the news?!?!?! eBay is going Green! No, this isn't like the Blackout we had recently, it's all about living a better life and not always depending on new materials to sustain us.

This post is more of an educational tool as to what we say going "green" is. It is not having to depend on new materials in products that we buy. Buying on eBay, items that people have used and are selling because they no longer need them is a way of going green. You are using products that are already in use. This can be anything from clothing, electronics to automobile's. Now, granted, a car from the 60's? Probably not so green!

eBay Green site offers some really great features! On their home page link that you can click to the left there, you can hover over the PLUS sign next to the product for it to tell you information about it and how it can be considered "green":

They also have a pretty cool calculator if you would like to try and determine how much you can sell your items for:

The $.01 you see is what a bid starts out at. I love also seeing them include how many listings sold for this in the past three weeks.

Also, want to upgrade your electronics? Check out the following image! eBay has an option for you to do an instant sell with them! They have a list of popular items that are brought to them to be sold, but, you can also try manually inputting your electronic:

If you choose to accept what they are offering, just click that link right there to "Accept this offer". Easy Peasy right? For a fully functional phone, as described above, they are willing to buy it for $200. Only need $100 more to buy that upgraded iPhone 4s. Not too shabby I think!

Now, my favorite with this site? The new lists! This option allows you to actually promote multiple items from your listings! Umm, how awesome is that??? I love this feature because some bidders may not want to look at your listings by clicking the link that is offered, but, if they see other pictures of what you are offering, I'm thinking they will be happier clicking those because they know they may be interested. Check out the image below:

eBay is offering a phenomenal contest right now. You can enter for a chance to win a $1000 eBay gift card! They will be giving away a prize of $1000 to two random users who submit a Greener Alternative or Eco-Shopping list. One prize in each category. Here is a link to the rules: if you are interested in reading through them. More info about how to enter can also be found here on their Facebook page.

But seriously! Go to their NEW SITE and check it out! I promise, if you are looking into a greener, or already live a greener lifestyle, you will love, love, love this page!

Disclaimer: I am an eBay Parent Panel member and this is a sponsored post. However, all opinions are my own.

Shampoo and Conditioner's - The Needed and Not Needed

2012-01-19T00:01:00.001-05:00

I love washing my hair. I love the softness after the shower and letting it air dry. So, I am constantly trying different Shampoo and Conditioners to find what works for my hair. I have long, thick hair, so, it tends to be difficult!

So, I thought I'd share here what my favorite shampoo and conditioners are, as well as the one's I can do without!

I Love It:

Pureology - It is perfect for my color treated hair. This is my all time favorite!
Pantene - I've been using this one for years. As they have added new ones, I've tried them too. Have never been disappointed with them.
Garnier Fructis - Love the smell and fell of MOST of their products. See below for the one that didn't make the cut. Garnier is another brand that I adore, and have used for years. The silky feel of my hair is wonderful after a wash and condition.

Surya Brasil - This is a new shampoo and conditioner that I was recently sent to review. I was very pleased with it. The only thing I didn't like was with the shampoo, it was really thin and when I squeezed the bottle, quite a bit shot off my hand. But, it cleans and conditions my hair wonderfully when I got it on there!
Biolage - Come on. Who doesn't love Biolage. This shampoo is my favorite smelling. It's subtle, but, still has a wonderful smell. My child would laugh at me because I will just sit on the couch watching TV, or on my computer and smelling my hair, lol.
Herbal Essence - LOVE LOVE Hello Hydration! #ThatIsAll

I Love It Not:

Garnier Fructis - Unfortunately, Garnier made both the lists! The only one from this brand that I didn't like was the Pure Clean. It made my hair feel rough by the end of the shower and brushing it? OMG. I would end up with a huge knot at the ends. Over all, I really would not recommend it. Unless, it only is this way with long thick hair? But, either way, I am not too happy with that purchase. I will finish using it because I paid for it, but, I only use it once a week and use my favorites the rest of the time.

Thermasilk Shampoo and Conditioner - I could find no link to them. But, they are on this list because my hair never really felt clean after the shower. I'm not sure why to be honest. It is quite possible because I don't blowdry my hair after my shower. I do it only enough to get it from being soaked, to damp. But, this brand didn't seem to work for me!

Disclosure: Please note that I was sent Surya Brasil recently to review. All opinions on the Shampoo and Conditioner's are my own.

SOPA and PIPA Blackout

2012-01-17T22:28:00.002-05:00

Hi all! Wanted to let you know that I am not going to be online tomorrow due to being against SOPA and PIPA. I really don't think the US Government should have this kind of power! While my blog may not be blacked out, I will not be here. I will not be on here at all on Wednesday the 19th for 12 hours.

Google, Wikipedia and Reddit are a few that are blacking out their sites to show their support of being against SOPA and PIPA. To understand these acts a little more, check out the following links:

Sign HERE to show the Politicians you are against this.

Click HERE to read more about the SOPA Strike.

Read HERE for the facts on SOPA and PIPA from PC World.

Check out this VIDEO on YouTube for a verbal explanation of what SOPA and PIPA are.

So. Have a wonderful day tomorrow and I'll be back on Thursday!

xoxoxo,
Jacqui

AcornPoints to help families get Organized

2012-01-09T22:27:00.001-05:00

Families are always looking for ways to organized their schedules brought on by our busy lifestyles. Trying to stay organized and on track is key to a less chaotic life. AcornPoints which will be a part of the new AboutOne, will be available Spring 2012. AcornPoints is the fast, easy way to organize your busy life.
Supercharges your existing calendar and contact tools to make your household information work for you. Features of AccornPoints:

Calendar-based, online organizer
Online filing cabinet
Completely private with
bank-level security
Guides you on the path to organization
Full mobile access
Instantly formats your information when and how you need it

Here is more information about AcornPoints:

AboutOne, the fast easy way to organize your busy life, has partnered with Microsoft and Suze Orman (IDSafe) to launch a brand new version of its online organizer. Along with other exciting new features, AboutOne will now include the AcornPoints rewards program that pays you to use AboutOne to get organized. Based on feedback from our current customers and designed to make getting organized virtually effortless for the user, AboutOne with AcornPoints will:

• Save time by syncing with customers' existing Google, iCal, or Outlook calendar/contact tools to make them more useful.

• Pay customers in gift cards from their favorite sites for achieving their organization goals.

• Give customers peace of mind with third party privacy audits and bank-level security.

As I am on my phone a majority of the day with not only my work, and pleasure, I am also trying to keep my daughters schedule on track. With her about to go into a new level of school, I know that there are going to be a lot more entries in my calendar for her between assignments and extra-curricular activities of sports as well as band. AcornPoints is fully Mobile Accessible. YES!!!

Even though AcornPoints is not going to be available until Springtime, they are taking signups now for you to be notified when it is available for use. All you have to do is click the icon below and sign up. And even more incentive? If you refer a friend, you both will be entered for a chance to split the prize of $10,000. Who can't use that kind of prize money, right? So? What are we waiting for?? Click the picture :) You won't regret it, I promise!

Now, take a look at the following slideshow. It gives you a great visual of what AcornPoints is all about:

With different events that I may go to throughout the year, being able to save receipts on this program is awesome. I also love the feature of being able to update medical records right there in the Dr's office. And, especially those households with little ones? AcornPoints offers household inventory and you will receive notification of any product recalls. Can it get any easier?

Do you use any programs to help keep you and your family organized? After looking at the features About One offers, what are you looking forward to?

Monday Blog Hop!

2012-01-08T21:00:00.003-05:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

Fun Bites Review and Giveaway

2012-01-03T22:19:00.001-05:00

Recently I had the opportunity to try a fun new product called Fun Bites! This is a great tool that is set to help you make eating fun with the kiddo's! Here is a little about Fun Bites from their site:

FunBites creates bite-sized magic featuring a cutter that quickly cuts food into small bites, curved blades that make cutting simple and a matching popper that instantly pops! out fun-shaped bite-sized pieces - so hands are clean, food is untouched. FunBites is BPA free and made of a strong plastic that bridges plastic and metal… It’s no cookie cutter; it’s tough! It works on any kid-friendly food from pancakes, waffles, cheese to quesadillas, deli sandwiches and veggie/ turkey burgers and more!

How much fun will the kid's have? My daughter loves pancakes and has used it on them as well as her Cheese Quesadillas.

Fun Bites only launched 10 weeks ago and they are already a household name! They have been featured on CBS Morning News as the perfect gift for anyone with children aged 3 - 10. My daughter just turned 11 and she loves them. So lets change those ages to 3 - 11 :). They have also been featured on Parenting.com as a must have for families with kids and are being sold in Boutique retailers in NY and CT.

There are 3 easy steps. Step 1: Place on food. Step 2: Rock firmly back & forth. Step 3: Pop out bite-sized pieces! Easy Peasy right? Right!

FunBites is offering one of my readers within the US the chance to win one of these FunBites! Yaayy!

To enter:

Mandatory -

- Follow my blog

- Tell me what you would use FunBites for

Addt'l -

- Follow me on Twitter

- Follow FunBites on Twitter

- You got it! Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweets allowed. You can use "@SnglPrntRetreat and @FunBites are offering 1 reader chance to win FunBites Food cutter for children! ends 1/25 http://ow.ly/8hr9v"

- Subscribe above

- Follow me on NetworkedBlogs

- Add my button to your blog

Make sure to leave a comment for each action taken as well as an email address to reach you if you are the winner :) This giveaway will end on 1/25 and is open to US Residents only.

Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

Monday Blog Hop!

2012-01-01T21:00:00.002-05:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

My goals for 2012

2011-12-29T21:43:00.000-05:00

As we all know, the first day of the new year, everyone makes resolutions. Resolutions in my opinion are completely useless. I am SO over making resolutions. In the past I've made resolutions to lose weight, do better in my personal life, blah, blah, blah. Yes, I said blah, blah, blah, lol. That's how I feel!

This year I am going to make a resolution. You know it! I am going to lose weight. But, I am not going to lose weight by year. I am going to set a goal of X amount of pounds per quarter. I not only need to do this, I WANT to do this. I am not happy with myself. At all! I used to be on the Weight Watchers plan and lost 50 lbs. As we all know, life happens. There were a number of things that happened in 2008 and I gained all of the weight back, plus some.

I am going to come back here on a quarterly basis and let you all know how I am doing with my goal. I will be honest and you will see a weight tracker showing my progress!

What goals are you setting for yourself this coming year? I would love to hear them!

Happy New Year!

xoxoxo,
Jacqui

Monday Blog Hop!

2011-12-25T21:00:00.001-05:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! I hope you all had a wonderful Christmas! It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!

2011-12-24T22:42:00.000-05:00

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays to all of my readers! I hope you are having a wonderful Holiday and enjoying your time with Family and Friends! This season, look back and count your blessings for everything this past year. Don't regret anything as they happened for a reason. Even if it doesn't or didn't feel that way at the time. Coming into 2012, it's a fresh new year, fresh new starts, right?

xoxoxoxo

Jacqui

Health Talk Post of the Month - You and Your Hormones

2011-12-19T23:00:00.000-05:00

Ok, we are stepping away from my normal type of posts here. Why you ask? Well, because I look at my birth year and realize, I'm not getting any younger. This means, if I'm not getting any younger, well, neither are my readers! There are many different reasons that you may already experience, or, EGADS! will experience them in the future!

I will admit, I am not at the stage in my life that I am suffering perimenopause, or menopausal symptoms. YET.... I just turned 39 last month. I know it's coming and I won't be able to hide much longer. No matter how much of a wimp I want to be and go cry in a corner. Wait, no, that is not a symptom I'm feeling! I've watched some women go through this and I'll be honest, it scares the bejezus outta me! The mood swings I've seen are enough to make me think of the exorcist. You really just have to slowly back away. Yes, back away, do NOT turn your back on these women. You never know what can happen! These are your nearest and dearest and while you show them you love them, it's ok to fear them, lol.

Recently, I discovered BodyLogicMD. They believe in not only treating the issue as most pharmaceutical companies do, which, of course, there is nothing wrong with, but, they take the holistic route. They want to figure out what the underlying issue is. What causes some people to act one way, and others to act another way? Homeopathic medications can get to the source of the underlying problem to reverse conditions without the risk of serious side effects.

Sometimes, being a woman, just plain stinks! All the hormones that crash down on us? Doesn't always seem fair! Would totally love to see how a man deals with what we will have to go through, or, what some of you are already or have experienced. According to BodyLogicMD, Hot flashes, night sweats, trouble sleeping and weight gain are the most common symptoms of hormonal imbalance as a woman ages. Sounds fun eh? BodyLogicMD goes on to state:

The good news is that hormone losses and imbalances are correctible. Through the use of bioidentical hormones, women can not only be relieved of the symptoms, but also effectively protect themselves against osteoporosis and heart disease. And through supervised treatment, natural hormone replacement therapy can make women feel healthier, and younger than they have in years.

Feel healthier and younger than we have in years? Sign me up! Make sure to read up on BodyLogicMD information in the news.

If you have experienced menopause already, or are going through it now, are you taking the holistic approach? If so, what are your opinions?

Please note that this is a sponsored post and I have not yet tried BodyLogicMD. This post is my opinion after reading and researching what BodyLogicMD offers. All opinions are my own, and no one elses.

Monday Blog Hop!

2011-12-18T21:00:00.001-05:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

Brother's All Natural Freeze Dried Fruits

2011-12-17T23:40:00.001-05:00

Recently my daughter was given the opportunity to review all the fruit flavors that Brother's All Natural Freeze Dried Fruit. These dried fruits are fantastic! They have two levels of fruit. You have the Toddler version, which is the Disney Fruit Crisps of Cars, Princess, Mickey Mouse and Toy Story themes. About the Disney Holiday Apple Fruits from their site:

DISNEY HOLIDAY APPLE Fruit Crisps are 100% Fruit and Nothing Else! No preservatives, no added sugar, no colorings, and no flavor enhancers! Just the best fruit from around the world. A delicious, healthy, and convenient fruit snack - The one Mother Nature would eat!

The Disney fruits have a great crisp to it when you bite into it. The taste just bursts on your tongue. The younger kiddo's will LOVE these. My daughter is older and she and I both loved the taste.

For the older kid's, they have the fruit crisps that have just a bit more flavoring than what the younger kids have on the Disney fruits. About these fruit crisps from their site:

We start with the most luscious fruits from the greatest growing regions in the world and bring them to our state-of-the-art freeze drying facility. At our facilities, we gently remove over 95% of the water from the fruit, which transforms the fruit into a light, flavorful, crisp fruit snack.

Unlike other dried fruits, Brothers-All-Natural Fruit Crisps retain all of the nutrients of the fresh fruit with absolutely no added sugar, preservatives or artificial coloring. Our uniquely designed bags keep Brothers-All-Natural Fruit Crisps fresh for up to 1 year.

Brothers-All-Natural Fruit Crisps are peanut/tree nut free, gluten free, soy free, dairy free, vegan and OU kosher certified.

My favorite, (yes, I had to sneak some from my girl! lol) was the Apple Cinnamon Fruit Crisps.

These flavors really just burst in your mouth. They taste great and you almost feel like you are eating candy. Theat's really the only way I can describe it.

Brother's All Natural is offering one of my readers the chance to win a 24 pack of all the flavors of these crisps. Yumm! I can guarantee your little ones will love them. Both levels of these crisps can be eaten by toddler's and adults alike :).

To enter:

Mandatory -

- Follow my Blog

Addt'l -

- Follow me on Twitter
- Follow Brother's All Natural on Twitter
- And of course! Tweet Tweet! You can use "@SnglPrntRetreat and @BAN_News are offering 1 reader chance to win 24 pack of Dried Fruit Crisps! Enter at http://ow.ly/82R3c. Ends 1/12"
- Add my blog to your blog roll
- Add my button to your blog
- Subscribe above
- Follow me on Networked Blogs

Please make sure to leave a comment with each action taken and the URL of where you added blog/button to your blog. Also, please make sure that I have a means of contacting you if you are the winner!

This giveaway is for US Residents only and will end on January 12th.

Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

Mighty Leaf Review and Giveaway

2011-12-17T21:42:00.002-05:00

My caffeine of choice, has always been Tea. I definitely appreciate the smooth taste of it over coffee any day! Flavored Tea's in my opinion are even better! Recently, I had the opportunity to do a review for Mighty Leaf Tea. They are so easy to make. All you have to do is pour 170 degree water over the teabag into a pitcher. Let it steep for a few minutes, put some ice in it and then pour it over ice in your glass. How easy is that?

While I am not much of a black tea type of gal, I loved the Sunburst Green Tea! It had a nice taste to it and it went down smoothly. It was very refreshing!

They also sent a Ginger Peach, and while I'm not nuts about Peaches, (can you tell I'm picky? lol) I love Ginger. This was a very nice combination!

Mighty Leaf is offering one of my readers, within the US a chance to win their Summer Brewing Kit. The winner will receive a box of each of their new teas, as well as the Bodum Iced Tea Pitcher which makes fresh iced tea in minutes. How awesome is that??

To Enter:

Mandatory:

- Follow my blog
- Visit Mighty Leaf and tell me your favorite flavor that they offer.

Addt'l:

- Follow me on Twitter
- Follow Mighty Leaf on Twitter
- You know it! Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweets allowed. You can use "I just entered 4 chance 2 win a Summer Tea Kit @ @SnglPrntRetreat from @mightyleaf! Enter 4 ur chance @ ow.ly/82P9n, ends 1/4"
- Add my blog to your blogroll
- Add my button to your blog

Also, while this is not an entry for the giveaway, make sure to check us both out on Facebook for updates! My link is off to the side and you can see Mighty Leaf HERE.

Please make sure to comment for each action taken and that I am able to contact you if you are the winner. Please leave URL's as well, to verify. This giveaway will end on January 4th and is open to US residents only.

Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

Good Luck!

This weeks winners!

2011-12-17T21:20:00.000-05:00

SpiritHoods:

Bunny B said... 52
blog follower - bunnyb
I love the Grey Wolf

Silk Milk

andrea v said... 10
https://twitter.com/vickers2622/status/142046312194510848

Mott's Prize Pack:

andrea v said... 5
https://twitter.com/vickers2622/status/138580608220798977

eclairre said... 6
I would love to try the breakfast bread pudding. I follow, email is in my profile.

Blender Bottle:

@nola727 said... 32
- Add my button to your blog--I did here

http://thebigolblogpage.blogspot.com/

eBay Gift Card:

The Sleepy Dreamer said... 13
12/6 tweet
https://twitter.com/#!/lnb1191/status/144192078874816513

Starbucks Gift Card:

Katja said... 1
Zaarly is so cool! Plus I'd love to win a $10 Starbucks card :)

A Candy Store:

shala_darkstone said... 22
Hi, I follow your blog publicly via Google Friend Connect as shala_darkstone. I signed up for the ACandyStore newsletter. I'd choose the Sugar Free Almond Butter Toffee.

Playing Online Bingo, almost like the real thing!

2011-12-15T21:14:00.000-05:00

When my mom was alive, she LOVED going to Bingo. When I tell you that she loved it, I mean, every week, 2 or 3 times a week loved it. When I called to tell her I was engaged, she was at Bingo. When I called to tell her I was Pregnant, she was at Bingo. Even when she said that she wasn't going to Bingo? We knew she was going, lol. So, recently, I went to Bingo and won a Coach purse. Kinda got the bug of playing again. Found this really cool site that you can play online bingo games, either for free or with money. Had my mom known about this? She would have learned how to use the computer! She was never into technology, however, anytime we gave her a gift that had to do with Bingo, she was super excited!

Finding free time is definitely a challenge, but, having free time to get online and play is always fun. Just to have a little bit of time to unwind from a busy hectic day is nice. Where you have that moment that you can actually call your own! I know you all know what I'm referencing. I always had a great time hanging out with my mom, and watching her run 72, yes, that's right, 72 cards. Even when she went to the restroom, she would know what was called and what she needed. I was with her one night when they called a number and she was just leaving the restroom and shouted out BINGO! Everyone's head just whipped around and looked at her in stunned disbelief. How in the world did she do that? I definitely need to take a page from her book and enjoy myself playing games more. There is nothing wrong with take a bit of time away from work to play. Even if it's at home on your computer.

So, with that said, take time to yell BINGO!

California Wine Club Review

2011-12-14T22:09:00.001-05:00

I can't believe it's already been three months! The California Wine Club has been sending me some of their most delish wine's and I am going to be sad to see it go! It's been fun receiving it in the mail. My daughter got a kick out of that as well. Almost like it was our secret. Laughed when telling me that I couldn't leave it out at her Birthday Party so the parents wouldn't think I was giving them wine! If the last few sentences didn't give enough of a clue, I don't drink much around my kiddo. Just because of being a single parent, I like to keep my head clear when she is with me. And being a lightweight with alcohol? Better to wait until she is at her dad's.

With all that being said! The wines this month were Tulip Hill 2009 Reserve Chardonnay and Tulip Hill 2009 Cabepulciano.

About the Reserve Chardonnay:

Blended from 17 barrels of 100% MLF Chardonnay, our Reserve Chardonnay is crisp with distinctive aromas and flavors of tropical fruits and apples with a hint of spice. The undertones of butter and oak lend to a mouth feel that is rich and balanced leading to a creamy finish with a light punch of acid to extend the flavors across the palate. Enjoy with your favorite soft cheese, pasta in a light cream sauce and company.

About the Cabepulciano:

As, I am not usually a big wine drinker. Only recently have I discovered or acquired the taste for it! I've never heard of the Cabepulciano Wine. So, as with all the new wine I've received in the last three months, I was excited to try it! The Cabepulciano has the richness of a Cabernet with the flavor of Montepulciano, which is a wonderful tasting variety of grape. The Cabepulciano retails for $28.00 at Tulip Hill Winery and certainly higher at restaurants, but you can get it from The California Wine Club for only $13.99. Love that The California Wine Club has wonderful deals on wines that tend to cost more going directly with the makers.

My favorite wine in the past three months has actually been the Chardonnay we tried this month. I am more of a fruit person and it definitely had a great taste to it that I think you will love!

The California Wine Club has a great wine of the month club. But, they also make WONDERFUL gifts! And this time of year? Hello!!! Christmas gifts! To avoid expedited shipping costs, make sure to get your order in today to send to that special someone in your life. Although, even with expedited shipping, the gift will be well received and the bottles opened for dinner Christmas night.

The California Wine Club is also offering ALL of my readers a 10% discount! Just use the code parentretreat to get your discount :)

Have you ordered wine through the mail before? What was your experience? I personally have had a great experience and a fun time with this review. Can't go wrong with The California Wine Club!

Monday Blog Hop!

2011-12-11T21:00:00.002-05:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

Everki Laptop Case Review and Giveaway

2011-12-10T15:53:00.000-05:00

Last month, I organized an event here in Delaware at the Christiana Hilton, to bring awareness to DE as a venue for Seminars and Conferences. When going to these events, Bloggers and Social Media Consultants around the world bring one thing and everything else is put the wayside. What is this one thing you ask? Our Laptops of course! As long as we have that and the clothes on our backs, we are good, lol. Everki has a lot of great products, but, especially their Laptop cases! Each of us Bloggers were sent one of the Everki Agile Slim Laptop Bags.

I love this bag, because it is compact and you don't feel that you are carrying around a huge bag. The Agile Slim Laptop Bag holds up to 16" laptops. There are side pockets that you can put cards in, whether they are your credit/debit cards, or business cards to hand out when you are at Networking events. About the Laptop Bag from the Everki website:

Designed to be your hassle free companion, the Agile is our slimmest bag yet. With a separate laptop compartment and two quick access pockets front and back, this briefcase is the choice for those who prefer to grab-and-go.

The front quick-access pocket is filled with a generous assortment of multifunction pockets, as well as a zippered accessory pocket, ideally suited for power adapters. The back quick-access pocket is designed to carry files and magazines, and is also equipped with a trolley strap for easy traveling.
The non-slip shoulder strap comfortably distributes weight by intuitively contouring to your shoulder; fine adjustments to the strap length can be made manually.

In the center section, where the laptop goes, it is soft and furry to keep your laptop nicely cushioned:

This bag retails at $49.99 at different locations online such as Newegg.com to name one online store.

Everki had generously sent a few extra bags to do giveaways for. How lucky are you guys?!?!?! So, for the next few months, I will be doing giveaways of these cool bags! So, how do you enter?

Mandatory:

- Follow my blog

Addt'l:

- Follow me on Twitter
- Follow Everki on Twitter
- You got it! Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweets are allowed. You can use "@SnglPrntRetreat and @Everki are offering one lucky winner a chance to win the Agile Slim Laptop Bag. Enter at . Ends 1/2"
- Subscribe above
- Follow me on NetworkedBlogs
- Add my blog to your blogroll

Please make sure to leave a comment for each action taken and include the URL to where you added my blog to your blogroll. Make sure I have access to contact you if you are the winner. I've have to go to 2nd place winners recently due to not having an email address for the first picked winners.

This giveaway is to US residents only and will end on 1/2.

Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

Monday Blog Hop!

2011-12-04T21:09:00.001-05:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

Steve Spangler Strobe Light Review

2011-12-04T21:03:00.000-05:00

My daughter is all about Science and Math. She adores it. Not entirely sure where she got that from! But, we go with it, lol. Recently we were asked to do a review for a Strobe Light from Steve Spangler Science. As soon as I told her what was in the package, she tore into it. Had it opened before I could start dinner and wanting to get it open to put the batteries in. Here is more information about the Strobe Light from the Steve Spangler website:

Sometimes the most innovative toys of the future are inspired by the past. That's definitely true with the Strobotop Strobe Light Animator. This enthralling new toy combines the retro simplicity of a spinning top with a contemporary LED strobe light to bring pictures to life and create stunning optical illusions. It's as simple as spinning the top and adjusting the speed of the strobing light.

Spin the top with one of the 18 interchangeable Strobodisks included and watch as animals run, children play, and patterns of colors dance, swirl, and twist in the strobe light. Six of the Strobodisks are yours to alter and design as you wish by coloring shapes, tracing over animation guides, or starting from scratch. Adjust the speed of the strobe to make the pictures move faster or slower, forward and backward, and sometimes completely alter the entire image.

The Strobotop and its included strobe light are constructed of durable plastic and are perfect for kids of any age. If you are worried about having your young scientists shine the strobe light in another's eyes, don't be. The strobe light has a safety feature that only allows it to turn on when pointed downward.

WARNING: Individuals who are extremely sensitive to flashing lights and rapidly changing colors or patterns should exercise caution when playing with this toy.

My daughter had a great time playing with it, speeding it up and slowing it down to figuring out how to alter the image and what it looks like. She likes the unusual things and while this is definitely an oldie, it's still a goody! The age on it was 6 - 7 years, but, even at almost 11, she really enjoyed the creative aspect of it.

The Steve Spangler Science website is a great site to visit for some great Science kits for your Science minded child. Did you know? The US used to be #1 in Science? That is no longer the case sadly. I love this site because it has great items that helps make Science not only more interesting, but, fun at the same time!

How about your kiddo's? Do they like Science? What do you do to make it more interesting for them?

SpiritHoods Review and Giveaway

2011-12-03T14:57:00.003-05:00

I have to say, I've seen them on TV and thought they were pretty cool! Then my daughter got one and they are wonderful! SpiritHoods are one of the hottest items out there right now. They are a hood with great and cute features. My daughter got the Grey Wolf SpiritHood to review. About the Spirithood from their site:

Product Details - Made in Los Angeles
Faux fur: 100% Acrylic,
Lining: 50% Linen 50% Rayon.
Inner cap size 17 inches.
Scarf Length: 21 inches".
One size fits all.
Suggested for ages 4 - 12.

They also come with meanings of the animals:

Loyal » Social » Teacher
Those with the Wolf spirit are very devoted and loyal.

They are social animals, often traveling in a pack, and work well in groups.

Wolves are also great teachers, always sharing their knowledge and wisdom with their tribes.

This description fit my daughter to a T. Especially the Social part!

The SpiritHood is great for the winter and if your hands are cold? Bundle up in the paws that are attached to the scarf. I may have to think about getting one for myself, they are that awesome! They keep her head and hands nice and toasty and looks cute. For someone who is a self-proclaimed Tomboy and cannot stand anything girly? I was so excited with this find! And you want to know the best part? They are made right here in the good ole USofA!!!! Loving this!

They have hoods for Adult men and women as well as boys and girls. They also have a cool Muppet line!

SpiritHood has generously offered one of my readers the chance to win one of these SpiritHoods! Woohoo! You can choose from either the Adult or Children's line. To enter:

Mandatory:

- Follow my blog

- Go to SpiritHood and tell me which kid hood you would want if you won.

Addt'l:

- Follow me on Twitter

- Follow SpiritHoods on Twitter
- You know it! Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweets allowed. You can use: "@SnglPrntRetreat and @SpiritHoods is offering 1 SpiritHood to 1 lucky person! Enter at http://ow.ly/7NBHT. Ends 12/15 "

- Add my button to your blog

- Add my blog to your blogroll

- Subscribe above

- Follow on NetworkedBlogs

While this is not an eligible entry, you can find Adult SpiritHoods on Facebook and Kids SpiritHoods on Facebook too!

Please make sure to leave a comment for each action taken. Include the URL's where you tweeted, and added my button/blog. This giveaway will end on 12/15 and is open to everyone! Hopefully in time to get to you by Christmas! But, cannot guarantee it!

Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

Monday Blog Hop!

2011-12-01T21:00:00.000-05:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

eBay MoneyMakers Video Series. How Selling on eBay can Impact the Life of a Family - And $25 eBay Gift Code

2011-12-01T10:30:00.003-05:00

eBay is coming out with a new video series. This series will highlight a family's story on how they turned to selling on eBay to make ends meet. This is an exciting thing, especially in today's economy. Many people are out of work and need to find ways to make ends meet. Just because the job isn't there, doesn't mean the bills disappear, right?

Who is this family? Well, they are the O'Brien's of Westfield, IN. The O'Brien's had recently relocated their lives for a job, which was unexpectedly eliminated soon after they moved. They had a new baby, and went from two incomes to no income. They started selling off their household items on eBay, just to fund their day-to-day expenses. Once they became more proficient as sellers, they turned to clearance and vintage items to bring in additional income. You can check out his blog at The eBay Entrepreneur. Tristan is now working again, but, they continue to sell on eBay to help fund extra things, such as a trip to Disney. Check out their inspiring video below:

I am in the process of losing my job, myself. I've already turned to eBay to start selling to earn income for the Holidays, and then going forward, I will start putting money in savings to plan ahead in case I don't have a job lined up right away. In the economy right now, we really cannot take any chances. We have to protect ourselves and our families.

Have any of you sold on eBay? What made you decide to start selling if you are? How has this changed your lives? I strongly suggest that you start looking in your house for items to sell. You just may be sitting on a gold mine!

Now, to get you started, or to get you looking again! We are offering you a $25 Gift Card to eBay. With the great deals they have there? This is great!

To enter:

Mandatory -

- Follow my blog for more great eBay tips and insider secrets!
- Leave a comment on what you have in your house that you can sell on eBay to help fund either your emergency fund, or vacation fund, or holiday shopping fund.

Addt'l:

- Send a Tweet out! Daily Tweets allowed. You can use "@SnglPrntRetreat is offering a $25 eBay Gift Code. Check it out at http://tinyurl.com/75bd2mk! ends 12/15 #eBaymoney"

Make sure to leave a comment for each action to qualify for all entries! Giveaway ends 12/15.

Disclosure: Please note that I am a Parent Panel Member for eBay and this is a sponsored post. However, all opinions are my own.

Zaarly - Your go to place for local buyers and sellers

2011-11-30T23:16:00.005-05:00

Do you like online local buying communities such as eBay Local? Things are being made easy again with Zaarly. Zaarly is a great resource for those who are looking for anything and everything people within your community are offering. Looking for a service such as house cleaning, tech support or someone looking for Junk Cars for parts. Zaarly has people offering services or selling products.

Also, Congrats to Zaarly for being featured in the Wall Street Journal!

The Zaarly website went up and live earlier this year. About Zaarly from their page:

Zaarly enables people to ask for anything from people nearby. A simple idea; but when it takes root in a community, the impact is profound. Buyers decide what they want and the price they want to pay and someone from the community makes it happen, creating a job and keeping money local. Zaarly helps anyone invest directly into their local economy.

How does Zaarly work?

Sign up for Zaarly HERE. It's free to sign up! Then you can list what you are looking for, when you want it and how much you are willing to pay for it. Easy peasy, right?

What can you find on Zaarly? I was looking at Zaarly and found people looking for others to help clean out their home. I think I could definitely use that! There are people looking to sell iPads and other electronics. Others are looking for dog/pet sitters and even selling/buying sports tickets. There is certainly a variety.

Zaarly is currently in higher populated locations and looking to spread the word! Make sure you sign up at the link provided above and start listing for your area! Get the word out there in your community. You can download the app right to your cell phone. Can it get any easier?

Also, for each person that signs up, Zaarly will donate $1.00 to Feeding America. This charity helps to try and make sure no kid goes hungry. An excellent cause, don't you think?

Giveaway:

Make sure to leave a comment below that you signed up and a winner will be randomly selected to win a $10 Starbucks Gift Card. Yumm! This giveaway will end on 12/16.

Disclosure: Please note that I was compensated for this post. However, all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Roma Rain Boots Review and Charity Information

2011-11-30T21:38:00.000-05:00

This year has been off the hook! We have had snow, we have had rain. Really? If I wanted all the precipitation we have had this year? I would move to Seattle! Nothing wrong with Seattle of course! One of the places I plan to visit. However, they get rain. Lots and lots of rain. Well, the Mid-Atlantic was the East Coast version of Washington. I've never owned rain boots. Ever... Now? You bet I do!

Roma sent me a pair of their boots to review. I received a pair of their brown adult boots.

These boots are so comfortable! They were easy to walk in and I didn't feel that my feet were being squished. And the best part? My feet stayed dry! I know. I'm easy to please! lol. More about the boot from their site:

Roma boots are the perfect choice for style and comfort. In Matte Brown, our all-weather rain boot is naturally stunning and modern.
Outsole: Traditional natural rubber sole
Made from 100% Natural Rubber
Lining: Quick dry knitted cotton lining
Footbed: Multi-layer cushioned insole
Height: 38 cm, 1" heel, Rounded Toe
(Size down for half size)

I did have to size down for the half size and they fit perfectly!

Now, Roma Boots serve double duty. One, yes, they keep your feet dry! Two, they are all for charity! While their product is sold in the US, they have a company, Roma for all, which aims to make sure children living in poverty, in wet climates, have the appropriate footwear. From their website:

Providing proper footwear is the first step to helping this underserved population of children. Our broader plan is to empower these children to break out of the cycle of poverty by getting them back into the education system where they can learn to take care of themselves.

How awesome is that? I love this service that they provide to those in need. Check out this video:

For every purchase you make, a pair of boots will be donated to those in need. Have you purchased a pair of Roma boots yet? What were your thoughts?

Cyber Week Selling on eBay

2011-11-27T22:17:00.001-05:00

The week after Thanksgiving is the best week to get great deals online. Hence, the start of the week called Cyber Monday! With the Holidays upon us and the need to bring in additional money for gifts, I personally have already started clearing out. This past weekend, I cleaned out my living room closet and put 10 things up on eBay. Check out this list from FedEx about online selling trends. The list they provided gives some great tips on getting started!

Have big items that you no longer need and can't afford to offer free shipping, you have the option of offering local sales only. So, there no matter what you want to sell, you have many different options on shipping or delivery and/or pick-up sales.

If you are in need for more money this holiday season, I would highly recommend clearing out, like I did this weekend. Get your piles going. You know the ones! Trash, donate, eBay and keep. My daughter is also jumping on the selling bandwagon as she wants to earn money as well, whether for Christmas shopping for others, or, saving for the cruise she is going on over Spring break. She is planning on taking a box at both our home and her home with her dad, and filling it up only with toys that she wants to keep and what doesn't fit, goes! She will have the same piles I recommended previously. What goes into the Trash, what she wants to donate and what she will be putting on eBay.

If you aren't sure if something will sell? Research it. Look on eBay for the item and make sure to click the link for Advanced Search and check the box for Completed Listings. This will tell you if the item sold and if so, how much it sold for. There may be a variation in the end prices. You will need to determine your start prices based on the shape of your item. If you choose to start at a lower price, but, don't want to accept too low a price, you can select a reserve price, which is the minimum that you will accept. Buyers will not see what this amount is.

If you are a buyer looking for great Cyber Monday deals? eBay has just about anything you may be looking for. You can definitely find some great deals for holiday shopping here. To share, I went shopping on eBay this past week and purchased accessories for my new iPhone that includes screen protectors, case and car charger. This seller offered free shipping, so, I was able to purchase all that for less than $9.00. I also want to bake more varieties of treats this year, and went on a search for a mini muffin pan. I found one that I got for only $5.50 plus shipping of $5.65. I was super excited about that because I am ready to get baking! The prices in the stores were a little higher than what I budgeted to spend, so, this was great timing to find this pan :)

What rooms can you clear out to bring in additional holiday money?

Disclaimer: I am an eBay parent panel member and this post is sponsored. My opinions and thoughts are my own.

Monday Blog Hop!

2011-11-27T21:00:00.001-05:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

Silk Milk Review and Giveaway!

2011-11-25T21:31:00.002-05:00

Recently my daughter discovered the great taste of Silk Milk. She actually now refuses to drink regular milk. From the Silk Milk website:

Gain nothing but goodness. Along with the wholesome feeling of strength that comes from nourishing your body with Nature's Perfect Protein, Silk Lights are naturally sweetened with no-calorie stevia by PureCircle.

We're committed to making the world a healthier place—not just for the people who drink our soymilk, but for everyone. That's one of the reasons we're a leader in responsible soybean sourcing.

· With amazing flavors you just can't find in ordinary milk, the

smooth and creamy taste of Silk will make your favorite cereal more

delicious than ever. Fact is, most people prefer the taste of Silk Vanilla

in their cereal over typical dairy milk.* What's more, Silk also brings an

extra boost of nutrition -- with 50% more calcium than typical dairy milk.**

So if you want to get more taste and nutrition in your morning cereal, then

you¹re ready to try Silk today.

· Most people prefer the taste of Silk Vanilla to typical dairy milk

on their cereal

· Switch to Silk and start every morning with a good-for-you breakfast

that tastes delicious too. Try it with your family.

When my daughter came to me, telling me that she wanted to start drinking Silk, I thought she was insane, lol. However, after drinking it, I was pleasantly surprised by the taste. It's a smooth drink and is great with cereal. Silk sent us a few coupons to get Silk and not only did we get the regular Vanilla Silk milk, we also got the light Chocolate milk. Both are great! Think we may have to try the Coconut next! Silk also has a longer lasting expiration date, so, I don't have the problem anymore of wasting milk when my girl spends her time at her dad's. I'm not a milk drinker, but, I think I will be making the choice to switch over!

Silk is offering one of my readers the opportunity to win their own Silk bowl with a freezer cup to keep your milk cold if you have to take it on the go. To enter:

Mandatory:

- Follow my blog

- Go to the Silk website and tell me which milk you would get if you won the giveaway

Addt'l Entries:

- Follow me on Twitter

- Follow Silk on Twitter

- You know it! Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweets allowed! You can use "@SnglPrntRetreat & @LoveMySilk r offrng 1 rder coupons 4 free Silk milk, travel bowl & Silk Chico Bag. Enter http://ow.ly/7Fu8r. Ends 12/3"

- Subscribe above

- Follow me on NetworkedBlogs

Please make sure to leave a comment for each action taken. This giveaway is open to US residents only and will end on 12/3. Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

Good Luck!

Blender Bottle Review and Giveaway

2011-11-21T21:00:00.001-05:00

Recently I had the opportunity to review the Classic Blender Bottle from BlenderBottle and let me tell you. It is so easy to use. Just mix all your liquid ingredients and shake them up. What is the BlenderBottle you ask? Well, from their site:

The BlenderBottle® Classic™ shaker is the original - the one that redefined the category. Trusted by millions, the the BlenderBottle Classic has quickly become the #1 best-selling portable mixer.

The reason for its unprecedented success? It works. The patented BlenderBall® wire whisk makes light work of your mixing needs, bringing power and portability to your demanding lifestyle. No batteries, no cord, no hassle!

And, it does work! I've used it from making scrambled eggs and pancakes, to mixing up dressings for Pasta Salads.

About the BlenderBall:

The patented BlenderBall wire whisk is the secret behind the BlenderBottle's power. Add your ingredients, drop in the BlenderBall, and shake. The BlenderBall whips around inside the bottle, mixing your drinks to a smooth and light consistency every time.
Made of 316 surgical-grade stainless steel, the BlenderBall is designed to remain in the bottle until you've enjoyed it's contents. Just drinking water? Feel free to leave the ball inside - it'll never rust, chip, or peel.

This is a must have kitchen accessory. I am going to be using it more to make smoothies as they suggest and can't wait to try it! What would you think to try this Bottle to make?

They also have a pretty cool insulated sling that you can put the bottle in if you use it for taking drinks on the go with you. The sling will keep the drink nice and cool for you :) Their recipe book? Great ideas for you to try your Bottle with! There are 101 recipes that they have concocted for you to try with your BlenderBottle. The recipe book is a low price of $12.99 and the BlenderBottle is a great price of $8.99. For all the uses you get out of it? That's a great deal.

BlenderBottle has generously offered one of my readers within the US and Canada, the chance to win the BlenderBottle and an insulated sling.

To Enter:

Mandatory:

- Follow my blog

Addt'l Entries:

- Follow me on Twitter
- Follow BlenderBottle on Twitter
- You got it! Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweets ok. You can use: @SnglPrntRetreat & @BlenderBottle are offering 1 reader in US/Canada chance 2 win BlenderBottle and Sling at http://ow.ly/7B6jk. Ends 12/4
- Subscribe above
- Add my button to your blog
- Add my blog to your blogroll

Please make sure to leave a comment for each action taken to get all of your eligible entries! Make sure to leave the URL for where you tweeted, added my blog or button to your blog.

This giveaway is for US and Canada residents and will end on 12/4. Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

Mott's Review and Giveaway!

2011-11-20T21:14:00.002-05:00

Recently Mott's sent a pack of the different flavors Applesauce that included, Snack & Go – Strawberry, Snack & Go – Natural, Medleys Snack – Cherry Berry, Medleys Snack – Peach Apple. My daughter LOVED them. She loves Applesauce to begin with, but, just loved the flavored ones as well!

The snack and go was her favorite though. Mostly because of the convenience of being able to leave the house without the spoon and essentially drinking the applesauce. I did try some of it and the flavors just sit in your mouth and truly tastes great!

Mott's has offered two readers within the US a sample pack of 1 each of what I received listed above. Your kiddo, or, even you, will love them!

To enter this giveaway:

Mandatory:

- Follow my blog

- Go to the Mott's Website and tell me what recipe you would like to try. Mine is the Apple Pasta Salad.

Addt'l Entries

- Follow me on Twitter

- Follow Mott's on Twitter

- You got it! Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweets allowed. You can use "@SnglPrntRetreat & @Motts r offering 2 readers smpl pk of Motts Applesce Snack & Go & Medleys Snack. Enter @ http://ow.ly/7zO8A. Ends 12/3

- Subscribe above

- Add my button to your blog

- Add my blog to your blog list

This giveaway is to US Residents only and will end on December 3rd. Please make sure to leave a comment for each action taken to get all of your eligible entries.

Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

Monday Blog Hop!

2011-11-20T21:00:00.002-05:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

This weeks winners!

2011-11-20T20:25:00.001-05:00

Hexbug Nano!
Lindsey said... 18
Tweet

http://twitter.com/lindseygalvez/statuses/122650927839707136

Learning Resources!

Kelly Tillotson said... 9

i follow LR on twitter

{gimmiegiveaways}

Pretzel Crisps!

Delco Deal Diva said... 36

Blog follower

GelaSkins!

tawndam said... 5

tawndam Follow GelaSkins on Twitter

Nuts About Granola!

andrea v said... 12

https://twitter.com/vickers2622/status/131687715308699648

Tropical Traditions Coconut Oil!

56Jane Suzy Pickett ToneyTweet About the Giveaway

M-Edge!

@nola727 said... 34

https://twitter.com/#!/nola727/status/131941072233435137

Tweeted today!

ACandyStore!

*Brittany Choleva* said... 13

I Follow ACandyStore on Twitter - @BrittanyCholeva

Kalso Earth Boots!
Courtney B said... 469
11/16 tweet 2

http://twitter.com/#!/MeandBells/status/136984224803721216

Congratulations to all the winners this week!

Delaware Event at the Christiana Hilton

2011-11-17T21:08:00.001-05:00

This past weekend myself and four other blogging mom's brought our family for a fun night at the Christiana Hilton, in Newark, DE with our families.

Did you know? Christiana Hilton took on the theme of it's surroundings here in the Brandywine Valley. All of their rooms, guest, meeting and ball rooms, have murals and decor of the area. Christiana Hilton has 266 guest rooms, more than enough to host gatherings of any sort. Yes, this includes Social Media and Blogging Conferences and Seminars! The Christiana Hilton offers 12 meeting rooms that can accommodate groups of 10 to 180 persons in a variety of styles and settings. They have been hosting some of the most important corporate and social events in Delaware for over 20 years now.

The reason for this event was to bring awareness to Delaware as a venue for Seminars and Conferences. We are in a prime location, in the middle of New York, Philadelphia, Baltimore and D.C.. Delaware is a great place to hold events. Christiana Hilton is one of the best examples of what we have here for use.

We also have, for larger events, the Chase Riverfront Arts Center. I can personally vouch for the size of this location as I had my College Graduation Ceremony there.

Along with our families, we were given a tour of the hotel. The tour included the restaurant and bar area of the hotel, along with the La Chameleon Room:

This room was actually set up for another meeting that was scheduled. They even had, outlets set up for the attendees. This is a huge bonus! There are so many meetings or conferences that you may attend, and there are not enough outlets. We asked our tour guide about it and he said that they always make sure this feature is set up if they are aware of the need. Our tour guide, by the way? Totally rocked! He was well versed of the ins and outs of the hotel. He, himself has been there for over 20 years. I should mention, the Christiana Hilton was named one of the top work places in Delaware. They have 141 employees and they were all so friendly and courteous. My niece and daughter enjoyed walking around the hotel in their socks, to get the lay of the land, so to speak, and they said that the employees just laughed and smiled at seeing how much fun they were having.

During the tour as well, we got to go down to the pond to see the ducks and the Royal Swans:

How cute! Every night at 5:30, someone goes down and opens the fence, rings the bell and they all come up for their dinner. This is something the guests can come and watch. The children will love it!

The Hotel has two sides. One the weekends, they have their Social side. Weddings, fun social gatherings, yes, that includes Blogging events! Can you tell I'm excited about that? Then, on Sunday night, they switch to their business side and get ready for all the meetings and corporate employees who stay there. They have a fourth floor that you can only access by key for the Exec's. On this floor as well, they have an Executive Lounge that has a Board Table that you can gather around and get down to business. This lounge also has a seating area, a kitchen, a fireplace and a great view of their courtyard! Although, if you look out at the Courtyard, you may not want to get any work done. It is a gorgeous view.

After the tour, some of us headed back to our rooms, and others walked around on their own. My niece, daughter and I got the meeting room that we were in, set up for dinner and a movie. The Hilton had generously loaned us a TV and DVD player for the evening. When we got down there, they had fruit and cookies for us already. The kids were lucky and got some awesome cars to build from RideMakerz. They had different one's from the movie Cars!

This goes into the many wonderful Sponsors we had for the DE Blogging Event. Do Tell Family Game, offered each family that came to the event a game of their own! They also received Zippies, the pals that hang around! As I did a review on this game before, I can tell you, this is a fun, tell all game! Snacks were generously provided by DoleFoods, Fruit Crisp, Popchips and Pretzel Crisps.

DayTimer provided us with great Mom Day Planners. Yes, as busy as we are, Day Planners are an essential part of our day! CarolinaPad sent us pens to make sure we were able to get all our important notes down! Everki know that where bloggers are? Our laptops are sure to follow! They sent out their Agile Slim Laptop Case to lug our laptops around to the many events we attend. The Laptop Case provides space to put cards, whether business or financial, papers that you collect from meetings you may attend as well.

SheSpeaks sent Toddy Computer screen wipes to remove any lint that may accumulate. And to keep our hands nice and clean? Prefense provided us with Hand Sanitizer pumps and wipes. Wish I had those before I got the seasonal cold two weeks ago!

As busy as we tend to get, it is nice to have some pamper time! EOS has these wonderful lip balm smooth spheres that are sold in stores such as CVS and Walmart. For nights out we can take care of our hair with Redken's Extreme CAT and Remington has the 4 in 1 Ultimate Stylist. This fantastic tool lets you go with straight hair, curly or wavy. And in our nicely styled hair? We can add Bling! Then, after all the planning and events wind down, we are able to refresh our eyes with Eye Candy Coolers. BraBarrette sent some of their accessories that can be used to keep straps in alignment and not falling off our shoulders.

And, last, but, certainly not least, so I didn't have to throw these thank you gifts at my mom bloggers, Snapsac and Reuseit sent bags for the children's and bloggers swag gifts.

Hubby and I

2011-11-15T23:09:00.001-05:00

Guest post from: Jerald Hammond

My husband and I recently moved into a new house and we’ve spent the last few months making it our own. Weekends were all about hanging picturesand weeding the garden and painting the kitchen – nothing all that fun but things that had to be done to make the house great. Anyway, I wanted to do something special for him since he’d been such a big help with all the renovations so I got him direct TV for his “man cave” so he could watch all his movies with the boys. He was pretty much the most excited I think I’ve ever seen him. I love that he’s so easy to please – I know I’m hard to buy gifts for so I guess I should take a lesson out of his playbook! I should be a little easier to please but if I was to be honest, we wouldn’t be in this position with this giant house we’re remodeling in the first place! That’s what got us in this mess from the get go!

Organica Pure Review - Holiday Gift Guide Suggestion!

2011-11-15T22:34:00.000-05:00

Recently I was given the opportunity to review Cocoa and Honey shower gel and body lotion from Organica Pure. First, these smell SO good! I absolutely love them! They both come in a pump bottle that you can lock to keep accidental pumps from getting on your floor or furniture :). Yes, I have curious kiddo's on the brain!

and

With the Holidays coming up, Organica Pure provides some great gifts for those on your list!

About the product I reviewed from the Organica Pure site:

Cocoa and honey work together in our body wash to gently cleanse, nourish, and moisturize your skin. Cocoa softens and rejuvenates skin, while protecting skin's elastin and collagen from free radical damage. Honey contains antioxidants that provide antibacterial protection. A natural humectant, honey also moisturizes your skin without leaving an oily residue. Both cocoa and honey stimulate cell rejuvenation and give your skin a clean, healthy glow.

When you visit the Organica Pure website, I would love to hear what your favorite scent is! Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this review.

California Wine Club Review

2011-11-15T22:22:00.001-05:00

I recently received the 2nd shipment of wine from the three month Wine Club Membership I was provided to review of their Premier Club. This months wine that I was super excited to receive was Gewurztraminer and Pinot Noir.

From The California Wine Club site about the Gewurztraminer:

Aromas of jasmine and ginger lead to lush, tropical fruit flavors. Like Gewürztraminer in France, where the grape originated, this bottling has lots of nice fruity character.

Castoro’s Gewürz is made in such small quantities that the winery has never submitted it for review or competitions.

The final blend was 77% Gewürztraminer, 15% Viognier and 8% Muscat Canelli. This Gewürz is a terrific aperitif and great with salads, Japanese or Thai cuisine. Serve chilled.

And about the Blind Faith Pinot Noir:

Savor the concentrated fruit aromas that are a hallmark of Castoro’s “Blind Faith” Pinot Noir. On the palate, you’ll find black cherry and tea notes, toasty, smoky flavors and every reason to take another sip!

This wine was just released, so no awards or reviews are available, but expect some great kudos. Pedigree: the ’09 won two Gold Medals, three Silver and two Bronze.

Enjoy now or hold up to five years. Serve with lighter meats like poultry as well as pork chops, ham, and a Castoro favorite, grilled salmon.

With Thanksgiving and Christmas coming up, these wines would be a great gift for host/hostess of parties that you may be attending. Or heck, even your own party! Who doesn't appreciate a good wine as a gift? The California Wine Club allows you to order online and have your gift shipped anywhere, except Utah, in the US as a gift to someone you won't be able to see personally! All, without having to go out and fight those other hands on shoppers this holiday. Make this, your online year! I've been doing my Holiday Shopping online for the past 11 years. Love it!

The California Wine Company is offering 10% off any of your gift orders and if you choose to do a membership, the discount will apply there as well! The discount code is parentretreat.

A bit about the Premier Club Membership:

California Wine Premier Club allows members to receive a monthly shipment of two bottles of California wines. Try reds and whites from around the state. Access new, hard-to-find wines
Re-order your favorites and save.
Full-color wine magazine included

Editor's Rating: 4 / 5

Monday Blog Hop!

2011-11-13T21:00:00.002-05:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

Monday Blog Hop!

2011-11-06T21:00:00.004-05:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

Let's get this party started! Holiday Gift Guide and a late Birthday Gift from Me to You! $10 Amazon Gift Code Giveaway

2011-11-03T22:39:00.001-04:00

During the month of November, I am going to be running my Holiday Gift Guide. I hope you like what we show! Here are some of the sponsors:

SpiritHoods
The Ultimate Green Store
Organica Pure

Just to name a few! Stay tuned for more as the month goes on!

But, to start things off, I had a Birthday on November 1st! Happy Birthday to me! I am giving away one gift code for $10 to Amazon.com. This giveaway is for all of my readers. US and International.

Mandatory Entry:

- Follow my blog

Addt'l Entry:

- Follow me on Twitter and Tweet! Daily Tweets allowed. You can use - "Happy Birthday to @SnglPrntRetreat! She is giving one reader a chance to win $10 GC to #Amazon. Enter at . Ends 11/20"

Please note that I was not given compensation for the Amazon Gift Code. I am personally paying for this prize.

True Labor and Birth Stories! In honor of my birthday!

2011-10-31T23:06:00.000-04:00

November 1st, All Saint's Day. My mom never had the chance to figure out how I was born on that day of all days. Well, I'm here to tell you all, I've figured it out!

I have two older sisters and an older brother. I am the youngest by 9 years. They went out Trick or Treating and each had two bags FULL of candy. Yes, you counted correctly. 6 bags of candy between them all. Any kind of candy, you name it, they most likely had it! Well, they all went to bed, dreaming of all the sugary sweets they were going to eat the next morning. Yeah, sorry siblings, mom had other dreams. She ate ALL six bags of candy. Yep. All six bags. Do you know what six bags of candy will do to a pregnant woman? Well, as I've already told you my birthday, you can use math skills and say, it will put her into labor! So, sisters and brother go to bed dreaming of candy and wake up to a baby sister coming into the world. I don't think they saw that as a fair trade!

So, I had to ask some other moms. How/what put you into labor? Or put your mom into labor with you? The responses I got? Will show how you can go into labor with just about anything happening to you!

Heat and Summer Fun - Lolli at Better in Bulk was sitting pool side one day in June. Later in the day, her 2nd daughter decided to make her entrance into the world. 10 days early! Was it the heat or a coincidence? I think I'll agree with Lolli. The heat can work in mysterious ways. Baby girl probably wanted to join in on the fun! Lolli was not at all disappointed that it happened early. In that heat? I'd want to be a bit more comfy too!

Tea - Shannan wasn't feeling well the night she went into labor! No, no! Not labor sickness! She was feeling nauseous and fixed a cup of tea to help settle her stomach. She choked on the sip and bam! Here comes baby! Tea is the cure to everything, don't you think?

Castor Oil - Christine from From Dates to Diapers and mom of 7 used Castor Oil with two pregnancies successfully. I have heard of that method, but, I'm a wimp and wouldn't try it with my girl! She says with one of her children, they were born in 45 minutes. 45 minutes? I was in labor with my girl for almost 20 hours. What did I do wrong?

Stress - Yes, stress! There was another anonymous mom who had a very stressful day! She was carrying twins that she was a surrogate mother for. She was on bed rest and had a Dr's appt. She told the intended couple that on the way to the appointment, she needed them to stop and pick up her daughter. The soon to be mom said she couldn't because she didn't have the time. Wow. I didn't even know what to say there! So, of course, the surrogate mother was upset, having to worry about how to get her own child home. She went into labor in the middle of the night, seven weeks early.

No epidural - Ever heard of the movie, The Exorcist? Jessica was on bed rest for 6 weeks in a hospital. She advises, "Do not go into labor on the weekends when there are only med students around!" The Med Student didn't believe she was in labor because she was only 1 centimeter dialated. Only a few minutes later she was nine! Too late for the epidural! Jessica's husband said as soon as she heard that, overdrive kicked in and after four pushes, baby came to join the partay!

Nurse's Insensitivity - Nurses are supposed to be compassionate and caring right? Apparently one Nurse didn't get that memo! Candice said that her mom labored fast. Older brother came into the world only four hours after Labor started. Candice, only three hours later after her labor started. The Nurse yelled at Candice's mom for coming in too soon. After the explanation of quick birth's the Nurse said, that's what they all say. Well, needless to say, said Nurse came in eating humble pie and apologized.

Candice tried arguing with her Nurse when she realized that twinges in her leg were actually contractions. In her leg? I know, I think I'd prefer that over stomach or back! She was arguing that she needed to go home to finish packing for the hospital. The Nurse showed no pity and said let the hubby do it. Walk him through it if he can't find everything!

Brother in Law Insensitivity - Kadi had her mom and both sisters in the room with her. One of the sister's new husband kept calling the room asking Kadi to tell her sister to go home. Yes! While she was having contractions! Plus, the sister had also had her wisdom teeth pulled out. Too much going on! Word to all Brother in Laws, never, I repeat, never! call your Sister in Law while she is having contractions. Definitely not a way to get a child named after you!

Nesting - This is a sure sign of impending birth! Lisa was up all night Christmas Eve, doing the best job ever making presents look pretty to be opened the next day. How is she repaid? She felt horrible Christmas Day! That night, fever came on her. Fever and pregnancy, not a great combination! After waiting in the ER to be seen and found that she did not have strep, they sent her over to L&D. Baby's heart rate was up and Lisa's water started to break. After 7 hours on pitosin, because they had to induce her, baby and mama were not doing so well. They recommended a C-Section. On the 27th, baby was born and Lisa decided going forward, no late nights wrapping gifts again! She still wraps on Christmas Eve, but, they are not as perfect as they were that night!

Reading some of these stories, I saw so many similar situations between my own daughters birth. 19 1/2 hours, epidural didn't work, demoral only put me to sleep, but, I woke up at height of contractions, pitosin because the birth wasn't progressing much. I developed toxemia, so was put on Magnesium Sulfate for that. Ended up having a C-Section because my blood pressure sky rocketed up to 180 over 122. They were afraid I was going to have a stroke. High Risk for 24 hours after birth. When I woke up after I was put in a regular room, I was all smiles. Nurse was like, after all that, how are you still smiling?? Well duh! My baby girl is here!

There are many, many reasons and stories behind the births in the world. If you are interested in sharing yours, feel free! I would love to hear it!

Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Happy Halloween

2011-10-30T21:00:00.000-04:00

Happy Halloween!!! It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

M-Edge Review and Giveaway

2011-10-29T15:26:00.003-04:00

Recently I had the opportunity to do a review for M-Edge. They sent me their Latitude Jacket for Kindle to review, in purple. This is a really great product. It zips fully around to close in the Kindle and also has an outside zipper to put the charger in and zip up. They also have a little pocket on the back side of the jacket to attach a light to read so you don't have to keep anyone up if you are reading in bed. I really love this jacket. It's a great product. It has soft material on the inside, so, you don't have to worry about scratching the screen with a harder case.

From M-Edge website:

Features

Lightweight jacket with nylon canvas exterior and grey polar fleece interior
Compatible with M-Edge e-Luminator Touch booklight (sold separately)
Four point mounting system holds device securely in place
Internal structural core material provides generous screen and device protection
Front zipper pocket allows for storage of charger and extra accessories
Double closure zipper allows access to charging port without removing Kindle or Kobo from jacket

I believe this case is perfect and easy to store when you put it in your pocketbook to head out the door. They have a lot of other great cases as well for other electronics. You should definitely take a look to see what they have.

M-Edge is offering one of my readers the chance to win the SuperShell for iPad2 valued at $29.99. This would be a great accessory to have for protection. Especially if the kiddo's love to play with your toys instead of their own!

To enter:

Mandatory -

- Follow my blog

Addt'l entries:

- Follow me on Twitter

- Follow M-Edge on Twitter

- You got it! Tweet Tweet. Daily Tweets allowed. You can use "@SnglPrntRetreat and @medgestore are offering 1 reader within US a chance to win iPad SuperShell. Enter at http://ow.ly/7cZni. ends 11/16."

- Add my button to your blog

- Add my blog to your blogroll

- Subscribe above

- Follow me on NetworkedBlogs

While this is not an entry, we would love it if you stopped by our Facebook pages to say hi! You can click the link to mine in the sidebar ----->. M-Edge can be found HERE.

This giveaway is open to US residents only and will end on Nov 16th. Make sure to leave a comment for each action taken to be eligible for all entries you are allowed. Leave the URL for where you tweeted and added my button/blog to your page.

Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

Nuts About Granola Review and Giveaway

2011-10-29T12:58:00.001-04:00

Recently I had the opportunity to review some yummy granola from Nuts About Granola. The granola was soft and moist and easy to pick up and clump together in your fingers. I was sent the Plain Jane Peanut Butter Granola. From their site:

Our peanut butter granola started it all. Its unique peanutty flavor is like no other granola you have ever tried. By sweetening the granola with honey, its peanut butter flavor is accentuated, not masked. Our granola has an extraordinary texture that can only be achieved with quality ingredients and care.

And guess what? Their Plain Jane Granola is now Gluten Free! They have specialty blends such as Johnny Appleseed as well as seasonal such as Smores for the summertime!

Nuts about Granola is offering one of my readers the chance to win their sampler pack:

To enter:

Mandatory:

- Follow my blog

- Visit Nuts About Granola and tell me your favorite flavor

Addt'l Entries:

- Follow me on Twitter

- Follow Nuts About Granola on Twitter

- You got it! Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweets allowed. You can use "@SnglPrntRetreat and @NutsAboutGranol are offering granola sampler pack to 1 reader! Enter at http://ow.ly/7cUC4. Ends 11/14."

- Add my button to your blog

- Add my blog to your blog roll

- Subscribe above

- Follow me on NetworkedBlogs

And, while this is not an entry, we would both love it if you would stop over at our Facebook pages to say hi! Mine is off to the side ------>. And Nuts About Granola is HERE.

This giveaway is for the continental US residents only and will end on 11/14. Please make sure to leave a comment for each action taken to get all of your eligible entries. Make sure to leave the URL to where you tweeted and added my button or blog.

Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

Udi's Gluten Free Cookies Review and Giveaway

2011-10-27T23:06:00.001-04:00

Recently I was contacted to do a review for Udi's Gluten Free Cookies. I received the Chocolate Chip, Oatmeal Raisin, and Snickerdoodle Cookies to review. These cookies are Gluten Free, Soy Free and Nut Free. And they were delish! In my opinion, they seemed sweeter than other Cookies that I've had. And as I love cookies? I've had quite a few different brands of cookies!

From Udi's Site about them:

We’d like to introduce you to Udi. Growing up on an Israeli farm full of naturally grown foods, Udi Bar-On discovered the value of high-quality ingredients. These experiences instilled his passion for finding, making and sharing great food with others. For years Udi’s family was making the best bread in Denver, one day a friend posed a new challenge – create gluten-free bread that actually tastes good.

Inspired by the request, Master Baker Chadwick White and his team of skilled bakers used their craft, applied artisan baking techniques and ultimately created the secret recipe for Udi's Gluten Free Foods.

I think they definitely created a great recipe that everyone will enjoy. Check out their Nutrition Label:

Udi's is giving one of my readers a chance to win a container of each of these cookies. Yummy! I can promise, you will love these cookies. And if your diet requires Gluten Free, these would be a great item to add to your grocery list!

To enter this giveaway -

Mandatory:

- Follow my blog
- Visit Udi's and tell me what cookie is your favorite

Addt'l entries:

- Follow me on Twitter
- Follow Udi's on Twitter
- You know it! Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweet's allowed. You can use "@SnglPrntRetreat and @udisglutenfree are offering 1 reader 3 containers of cookies! Enter at http://ow.ly/7bv6n. Ends 11/20."
- Subscribe above

While this is not an entry, we would love for you to check out our Facebook pages! Mine is to the side and Udi's is HERE.

Please make sure to comment for each action taken to get all of your eligible entries. Make sure to leave the URL for where you tweeted in your comments.

This giveaway is to US Residents only and will end on Nov 20th. Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

This weeks winners!

2011-10-27T21:18:00.001-04:00

Lunchopolis Lunchbag:
jcwega27 said... 23

gfc

Mom Daily Planner:

Susan Said What?! said... 8

I follow you on Twitter. My Twitter handle is SusanMcNeill

Student Daily Planner:

*Brittany Choleva* said... 6

I follow you on Network Blogs!

CA Wine - One Month Membership:

MommyNerak said... 31

Your button is on my blog.

Congrats!

ACandyStore Review and Giveaway

2011-10-26T21:51:00.002-04:00

I have to say, I am a candie junkie. I love sweets and my dentist loves me! Recently I was given the chance to review the offers that ACandyStore have. They have a great selection of bulk candy that you have to check out! When I was younger, my favorite chocolate candy was Sixlets. Did you know? They are Glutten Free! Who knew I was eating healthy candy back then! I blamed my mom for my Chocolate Addiction. I was born on Nov 1st. After she ate all six bags of my brother and sisters Halloween Candy. The siblings went to bed dreaming of their Halloween loot and wake up to a sister. Not sure they liked the trade off! lol.

So, when I got the chance to pick candy from ACandyStore, I chose, of course, Sixlets, as well as Swedish Fish and Reception Stick Candy. These were all at very reasonable prices I think.

They have the candy sorted by categories to make it easy for you to find what you want. You can sort by Color, Weddings, Flavor, Shape, Themes and Brands. They have just about all Brands that you can think of, from M&M's to Jelly Belly's. They even have bulk candy bars for less than you would purchase in the stores. So, this would be great for parties that you may have for the holidays. The site is very user friendly and they offer a flat rate shipping of $9.95.

From ACandyStore's site:

ACandyStore offers candy of all shapes, sizes, colors from all over the world. Need to match your wedding candywith the colors of the bridesmaids dresses? No problem, visit our Candy by Color page. Need some fancy gourmet truffles for a dinner party? The Gourmet Chocolates page will take care of that! Visit our Candy by Categories page and find the exact type of candy you're looking for. Our goal is to cater to everyone's tastes and needs. Looking for sweet Valentine's Day candy? Stop by the Holidays / Events page. We also try, when able, to find items not listed on the site. If you want it and it exists we will do our best to bring it to you.

ACandyStore has generously offered one of my readers the opportunity the chance to receive candy valued up to $50. With Holiday Parties coming up? Here's your chance to get your choice!

To enter:

Mandatory:

- Follow my Blog
- Visit ACandyStore to sign up for their Newsletter and tell me which candy you would choose if you won. Yes, I'm nosy! lol

Addt'l Entries:

- Follow me on Twitter
- Follow ACandyStore on Twitter
- You know it! Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweets allowed. You can use @SnglPrntRetreat and @WeddingCandy is offering ur sweet tooth a chance to win up to $50 in candy! Enter at http://ow.ly/7aeGd. Ends 11/18"
- Add my button to your blog - It's cute, don't you think?
- Add my blog to your blog roll
- Follow me on NetworkedBlogs
- Subscribe above

Please make sure to leave a comment for each action taken so you get all of your eligible entries. Leave the URL's to where you Tweeted, added my button and/or blog to your site.

Also, while this is not an eligible entry, we would love it if you would visit our Facebook pages. My link is off to the side. ACandyStore can be found HERE.

This giveaway is for US Residents only and will end 11/18. Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

MyEducation helps you ComeAlive!

2011-10-24T21:19:00.001-04:00

I sat back and watched Zoey the Zombie on MyEducation.com, it almost reminded me how I was feeling. I was in my 30's and still in an entry level position. I knew I wanted more out of my life and what I had to do was go back to school for a better life for my daughter and I. Watching this commercial, while it was very entertaining it is most likely how thousands of people around the country feel. Stuck in their jobs with no way out. This is not a good feeling and can affect not only your personality, but, your health.

Zoey says that she never thought she'd be like everyone else, stuck in a dead end job. If you feel this way too, then, you may want to reconsider the path that your career path is on. To do that, it will be easier if you went back to school for new training. What will a new degree help you with? You will be able to gain better opportunities career wise. Your health will improve because you will be more happy doing what you enjoy and not feeling like you are trapped. Being happy can make the world go round, don't you think?

MyEducation wants to help make a better life for yourself. If you find yourself comparing yourself to Zoey, it is time to take control. All you have to do is upload a video to MyEducation for a chance to win $2,500 in their "Come Alive" contest. That amount would be a great help to get you started with your education. Make sure you are your most creative and be original! Have a blast with this video. Show them you are the winner they are looking for :).

Monday Hop Along Blog Hop!

2011-10-23T21:00:00.000-04:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

Picaboo Holiday Card Review and Promo Code

2011-10-22T21:23:00.001-04:00

Yes, it's that time again! The Holidays are upon us and it is time to start thinking about getting your holiday cards ready to be mailed out the end of November or beginning of December. I usually have my holiday cards done by Thanksgiving and mailed out the day after Thanksgiving.

Picaboo currently has their Holiday line up and running and they are ready to ship when you place your order. Throughout this post, you will see my favorite designs and I hope you will share with me in your comments, which one you picked with the promo code you will be given!

The types of cards they have are Folded, Flat and Landscape designs. Picaboo offers a program that you will need to download and then simply upload your picture(s) to the cards of your choice to share with your family and friends of happenings from the past year. If you have any questions on what to do, all you have to do is take a look at their Tutorials

Just in case not everyone on your card list celebrates Christmas, they also offer Seasons Greetings to share with your thoughts with them. They offer Hanukkah cards and Party invites as well. There is a great collection and I know there is one that everyone of you will find meets your satisfaction.

Picaboo offers you a selection cardstock. They have Signature Stationary, which is a smooth surface, but, not glossy. The Premium and Classic Cardstock are semi-glossy. Their Photographic Paper is available in both Matte and glossy.

Picaboo is offering my readers a Promo Code of GREAT-JS that you can use for your Holiday Card purchase. If you buy 25, you will get 25 free. If you buy 50, you will get 50 free. How awesome is that? You have great cards to send to those on your list and you can double it to send to more for lower cost. Please note that this code can be used twice and it will expire on December 1st. So, make sure not to waste the opportunity!

You can also connect with Picaboo on Facebook and Twitter.

Happy Holidays!

Hexbug Halloween Party

2011-10-21T23:30:00.000-04:00

Recently I was selected to host one of the Hexbug Halloween hosts! Not only was I excited to be chosen, my daughter was beyond ecstatic when she found out! I think she held her excitement in, don't you think?:

Love those cheesy grins when they are ready to play! However, I was the mean mom. I made her wait until the Hexbug Party! I know! I am such a horrible mom! lol. She was so disappointed! But, it all worked out. She was able to open the packages with the other party goers and that was better. Unfortunately, we didn't have too many participants due to conflicts in schedules and as I have my girl every other weekend, I had to plan for when she was with me :)

The Hexbug kit that we were sent had SO much in it, that they all walked away with something. There were three kits. One 50 piece kit and two 10 piece kits. We also received 12 skull nano's in coffins, which was fun! as well as 15 other nano's. This does not include the nano's that came in the kits as well. They put all their kits together into one huge track.

Check out the video here:

Wasn't that fun? The lines on the tracks are all glow in the dark. As stated in the video, my camera wasn't picking it up. But, it was pretty cool looking! One thing to warn, when you put about 35 nano's together and they are constantly running into each other, the skulls do sometimes come off. As they are removable, I didn't find that too surprising.

The very next day, my girl spent a lot of time playing with her Hexbugs and designing the tracks different ways. It's a great way to spend a rainy day in! They are just a blast to play with, especially when you have multiple nano's racing around. I think this is a definite must have for kids of any age! Boys and Girls. As you saw, even my niece, who is 17, had fun playing with it :).

Do you have have Hexbugs of your own? Have you seen the commercials? I'd love to hear your stories!

Have a Happy and Safe Halloween!

Out with the old and in with the new! eBay style :)

2011-10-19T22:19:00.004-04:00

Every year, we always go out and get our kiddo's Halloween outfits. But, because, it's the only costume they will EVER wear at that particular age, we just have to keep it! You all know what I'm talking about. Don't go looking around at other people like you have NO clue that I am talking to YOU! Yes, I will admit, I was talking to myself once upon a time about this too! I used to keep all of my daughter's Halloween costumes because I had no idea if I'd ever need it again. Yep, because we know that 3T will fit your 7 year old, right? lol.

That large number was as of 10:35 ET when I just searched under halloween. This is for costumes, decorations and accessories. How can you go wrong?

So, even though I've been an eBay member since 2003, I've never sold her costumes on eBay. And they have a great selection! Check the listings out HERE.

They are saying Halloween is the gearing up to be the new Holiday that you have to decorate for. Stats show that consumer spending will rise more than 9% on Halloween this year. You have to admit! It's fun having those tombstones out front. Make people wonder what you've been up to, right?

So, if you are part of that 9%, you best start making room in your house for all the cool new decorations you are going to purchase. I've got to get a few costumes up there myself I think. Need to make that extra money to spookify my house, right?

Soooo, tell me your story. Have you sold your costumes, or your children's costumes on eBay? What's your success story?

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

I am part of the eBay Parent Panel and am compensated for my participation in the program. All opinions expressed in my posts about eBay are my own as a seller and buyer for over 10 years now.

Why is eCommerce so important to Small Businesses

2011-10-17T22:40:00.000-04:00

Why is eCommerce important to Small Businesses? Anyone who starts a business always has a grand plan. They want their product to be the best seller out there. Unfortunately, that will not always happen. However, with eCommerce, your business has a better chance of survival than it would in a local brick and mortar building, or, your garage.

So, the question is, what is eCommerce? eCommerce is the practice of selling your product or services over electronic communications. Namely, your computer. Build a website, list your products and there you go. You are now an eCommerce site. Easy as pie, right? Wrong. You have your product listed and ready for your customers to buy. You now have a new question to answer.

Where do you get your customers? Right! We cannot forget the most important part. You have to have customers to purchase your product. So, where do you get them? You have to get yourself out there Networking with people. Let everyone know what you do. You are selling your product. Let them know your website address and get them coming to you. This is called eCommerce Marketing. Get yourself active on Social Networking sites. You have Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn, YouTube and many more sites that you can get your business name out there. And these are all available from low to no marketing costs to you. How much more can you ask for?
Let them see who you are and what you do. A vast majority of your potential customers are going to be on these sites. People do their research. They want to see reviews from other customers. They want to see you interacting with your customers online. Show them you know your stuff. This will build their confidence in you and they will want to work with you and trust the products that they buy from you. Building the respect of your customers is very important to any business.

So, what do you want to do? Start your business; build your reputation with customers. This is done primarily by social networking sites that are offered to you and low to no costs to your Marketing budget. Make sure to interact with your customers. Even though this is an eCommerce business, they want to know that there is someone there behind the computer who cares about what they want and will do what they can to make it happen.

This post is part of my application to enter the contest with Vendio.com and ECommerceWriter.com. I feel that I am a great choice because I love to interact with my friends here at Single Parent Retreat. I enjoy writing in any format, be it casual or more formal.

Kalso Earth Shoe Review and Giveaway

2011-10-17T20:18:00.003-04:00

I've been on a boot kick lately, so, when I was contacted by the awesome Leah with an opportunity to do a review for Kalso Earth, I was SO excited! I was able to select my top three favorites for them to send me.

My top pick, was actually the Pike Boot. LOVE, LOVE this boot. It is soft fur inside, out and for the bottom. This pair of boots retails at $190. However, for the great benefits it offers you? Completely worth it! You can go buy multiple pairs for that price, yes, but, how long will they last? How comfortable are they really? At the end of the day, quality is priceless. My daughter keeps trying to steal them for herself because they feel so comfortable!

Click HERE for the story behind Kalso Earth.

I loved these boots because you are able to adjust with the ribbon how wide the top is, to keep it comfortable. You can wear them around Jeans, just as well as you can around leggings. They look and feel great! While I said that I've been on a boot kick, in recent years, you would normally only catch me in Sneakers or Flip Flops. I am getting myself to get out there and try different types of shoes. I always went for what was the most comfortable and easy to put on :). Let me assure you, these boots are stylish and comfortable! Best of both worlds! However, I do wish I upped my size from my 9.5 to a 10 to give me a little more moveable room for my toes. So, the winner here, (more later!) I would recommend that you do that! It's not bad, but, tends to have a little squished feeling after about 4 hours of wearing them. My fault completely!

It did take me a little bit to get used to when I wore them this weekend. That is because of the negative heel. This, per their site, mimics the feeling of walking in the sand. From the Kalso Earth site:

- original “negative heel” design sets heel slightly lower than the toes
- mimics walking barefoot in sand by naturally positioning body over the frame
- better walking motion helps improve posture and reduce joint stress

Overall? 2 thumbs up on these boots! And the exciting part? Kalso has generously offered one of my readers the chance to win a pair of these boots! Woohoo! To enter, please do the following:

Mandatory:
- Follow my blog
- Go to Kalso and tell me which shoe, other than these boots, that you may consider trying as, if these boots are not available, we may be able to get you your second choice in your size.

Addt'l:
- Follow Kalso Earth on Twitter
- Follow me on Twitter
- You know it! Tweet Tweet! Daily tweets allowed. Three max per day. You can use: "@SnglPrntRetreat & @KalsoEarthShoes are offering a pr of Pike Boots to 1 lucky reader in the US. Enter at http://ow.ly/70i6y. ends 11/17."

This giveaway is open to US Residents within the 48 contiguous states and will end on November 17th. Please leave a comment for each action taken to be eligible for all entries you are qualified for.

Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

Tropical Traditions Coconut Oil Review and Giveaway

2011-10-16T22:32:00.000-04:00

Recently I received the Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil to review. I have to admit. I have never heard of Coconut Oil before. I've heard of all the rest of course, but, for some reason, never Coconut. So, when I came across it, I couldn't pass up the opportunity to see about reviewing it. I of course, did research to see what the benefits are and what it can be used for. Now, to comply with the FDA, I am not going to list everything I've read here. But, I would recommend that you google Coconut Oil benefits and take from it what you will. Sorry to be so vague, I don't like doing that, however, I don't want to get in trouble with the FDA!

I don't do a lot of cooking with Oil. Usually with Chicken only. So, I took a look through Tropical Traditions website for some suggestions. I love my Pasta, so, when I came across the Penne Pasta Salad Recipe, I knew I had to try it! Can we say yummmm? It had a great taste to it! They have a lot of wonderful recipes that you can use with the Coconut Oil. One thing also that is good to know. The coconut will go solid. You only need to scoop it out and it will cook just as well as liquid form!

From the Tropical Traditions website:

This Tropical Traditions Gold Label Virgin Coconut Oil is a truly unrefined coconut oil. This coconut oil is made on Mt. Banahaw and surrounding areas from organic coconuts. Coconuts are used fresh (within 24-48 hours of harvest) from small family farms on Mt. Banahaw and other rural places in Quezon Province, the coconut capital of the Philippines. Only the highest quality coconuts are hand-picked from each harvest. The volcanic soil of Mt. Banahaw makes these organic coconuts some of the most nutritionally rich coconuts in the world!

Virgin Coconut Oil is a food, and is one of the best cooking oils you can use. It has been a staple cooking oil for thousands of years in tropical climates. As a cooking oil, its chemical structure is kept in tact and therefore is resistant to mutations of fatty acid chains even when used in higher cooking temperatures, unlike most vegetable oils.

Tropical Traditions has generously offered one of my readers the chance to win this 32 oz jar of Coconut Oil. How awesome is that?

Make sure to leave a comment with the URL's where you added my button, blog to your blog roll and tweeted. This giveaway is open to US and Canadian Residents and will end on Nov 16th.

Disclaimer: Tropical Traditions provided me with a free sample of this product to review, and I was under no obligation to review it if I so chose. Nor was I under any obligation to write a positive review or sponsor a product giveaway in return for the free product.

Monday Hop Along Blog Hop!

2011-10-16T21:00:00.000-04:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

This weeks winners!

2011-10-15T20:36:00.000-04:00

Congrats to

@nola727 said... 23
- Add my button to your blog

http://thebigolblogpage.blogspot.com/

For winning Dr's Remedy's Nail Polish!

Kleenex is ready for back to school!

2011-10-12T22:34:00.006-04:00

Every year there is always germs spreading around and it drives me nuts! Simple ways of preventing colds this year are to sneeze/cough into your elbow, use tissues, and of course, wash your hands frequently throughout the day.

Kleenex makes it easy for you with their easy to go packs for tissues. About their new line:

NEW!! Kleenex brand on-the-go formats:

The Kleenex brand is adding a new line of on-the-go packs with Sneeze Shield this back to school season to make it easy to help keep stuff off kids’ hands in the classroom, on field trips, at home or wherever kids go.

The on-the-go packages include:

- The wallet pack. It is thin and sleek, so you can always keep a tissue on hand. - - - Their trendy design and convenient size make it the perfect accessory for hip tweens and teens.
- The auto pack. It fits perfectly in the car door or glove compartment – no need to lug around a box of tissue or fumble in a purse for a tissue while driving.
- The new and improved pocket pack. A long-time favorite has been improved to feature three-ply tissue.
- The new line of Kleenex brand on-the-go products were made available in the facial tissue aisle at retailers nationwide starting this July.

They even offer a new product called cool touch. This is to help you with your overly sensitive noses that hurt after all the unwanted attention you have to pay to it. See more about this new product HERE.

New Kleenex Cool Touch tissues are the only tissues that release a cool sensation to soothe a sore nose on contact while providing all the softness you expect from Kleenex brand.

Starting on October 1st, Kleenex started a new program that you can get yourself free product just by sending some to someone you care about. Or, if you send to military overseas, this would be a great idea to pack and earn something for yourself. You can seem more about this program HERE. Here is an excerpt:

Starting October 1, Kleenex brand will give consumers a chance to try the new Kleenex Cool Touch tissues for free when they sign up to send a Share Package to a friend or family member. The promotion is a continuation of last year’s highly successful “Softness Worth Sharing” campaign, in which a million people jumped at the opportunity to send a free miniature Kleenex Share Package to a friend or loved one. Because of the overwhelming response, Kleenex brand decided to bring the program back. The Share Packages were designed to encourage easy delivery anywhere in the country. This year, Kleenex brand will send a free sample of Kleenex Cool Touch tissue to anyone who sends a Share Package.

My daughter, due to seasonal allergies, as well as cold germs passed her way, always has a small pack of tissues with her. We loved the packs that we received in the to-go pack to review for this program. They are easy to use and ready to, well, go! She puts it in her backpack and can also leave it on her desk in class. This way, she doesn't have a bulky box sitting on her desk.

$100 GC to Restaurant of your choice from SpeedDate.com

2011-10-12T21:30:00.003-04:00

Recently I became a contributing writer for SpeedDate.com's blog. I had previously become a member with SpeedDate but, have not pursued the online avenue of dating because I've been so busy with other things. Heck, I haven't done a whole lot of real life dating lately either! Time to get myself back out there!

Well, one of my lucky readers is being offered the opportunity to win a $100 GC to a restaurant of their choice in their area, courtesy of SpeedDate.com. How awesome is that???

About SpeedDate:

SpeedDate.com™ is the world’s first online speed dating website. SpeedDate’s™ patented system allows singles to meet each other through 5-minute online speed dates from the comfort of home. In under an hour on SpeedDate™, you can meet up to 15 people using live video and instant messaging. Since we launched in late 2007, SpeedDate™ has hosted millions of online SpeedDates™.

Unlike other online dating options, SpeedDate.com™ allows singles to immediately determine if they have chemistry before taking the time to meet in person. SpeedDate™ works because you get a much better sense of your connection to another person when your first meeting is a live interaction.

Enough about us… you could be on a date right now. Give SpeedDate™ a try!

To enter this giveaway, please do the following:

Mandatory:

- Follow my Blog
- Tell me, how did you meet your significant other? Hopefully not like this, Single Mom Dating: Better Luck Next Time article.

Addt'l Entries:

- Follow me on Twitter
- Follow SpeedDate.com on Twitter
- And of course! Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweets allowed. You can use "@SnglPrntRetreat and @SpeedDate are offering 1 reader a $100 GC to local restaurant. Enter at http://ow.ly/6VJZu. Ends 11/15."
- Follow me on NetworkedBlogs
- Add my button to your blog
- Add my blog to your bloglist
- Subscribe above
- If you are single, fill out this survey! Mobile Dating - 3 entries

Please make sure to leave a comment for each action taken to get credit for each entry. Please leave the URL for where you tweeted, added my button and blog to your page.

Impact Signs. The start of your business, a note of your past.

2011-10-12T19:37:00.002-04:00

With the way the economy is and layoffs that are occurring, many people are taking the chance and striking out on their own. New businesses are cropping up all around the nations. Some at home businesses and others the brick and mortar route. Impact Signs is a great resource for signs for your business.

They offer all types of signs, not just announcing the grand opening of your office, but that even include plaques for memorials. Do you have a founding owner that you want to celebrate? Or, did you move into a building with a lot of history and you want to share that with your customers? What better way to do it? Signs are a very important part of your business. Share with your customers who you are and where you've been.

Have you used Impact Signs? What was your experience?

GelaSkins Review and Giveaway

2011-10-11T22:15:00.004-04:00

I am all about decorating electronics up, lol. I recently had the opportunity to work with GelaSkins to review their product. I chose to review skins for my Kindle and my girls iPad Touch. Loved them! For my Kindle, I chose to receive The World skin, designed by National Geographic. From their website:

Customize and protect your Amazon Kindle (3rd Gen)

- Our Kindle skins cover the front and back of the Kindle
- 3M technology for easy application and clean removal
- Super-thin (less than 1mm) tough scratch protection
- Avoid the bulk of other Kindle cases with GelaSkins
- Compatible with other Kindle covers and accessories
- Includes full access to the GelaSkins Wallpaper Gallery

I love the way my Kindle looks. The colors are nice and muted, but, stands out too. Check it out here in my case:

I wasn't able to get a picture of my girls iPod. But, she got the chance to review the Cauldron I. She loved it! It goes great with her Peace Sign Case with the same colors.

They have a lot of great designs and I think most people would have a hard time choosing from their selection.

GelaSkins has generously offered 2 of my readers the chance to win a $25 gift code to their site! How cool! This is open to my worldwide readers. Please note that the shipping and handling is to be covered with the GC as well.

To Enter:

Mandatory:

- Follow my blog

Addt'l Entries:

- Follow me on Twitter
- Follow GelaSkins on Twitter
- You know it! Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweets allowed. You can use: "@SnglPrntRetreat and @GelaSkins is offering 2 readers each a $25 GC to GelaSkins site. Enter at http://ow.ly/6UzYN. Ends 11/11.
- Follow me on NetworkedBlogs
- Add my button to your page
- Add my blog to your blog list

Please note that while this is not an entry, GelaSkins and I would love for you to stop over at our pages and say hi on Facebook!

Please leave a comment for each action taken to make sure you are eligible for all the entries you acted upon. Leave the URL for where you Tweeted, added Button and Blog to your page and list. Winner will be selected on Nov 11th.

My Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

Good Luck!

Pretzel Crisps review and giveaway - Breast Cancer Awareness

2011-10-10T21:40:00.002-04:00

Recently I was given the opportunity to work with Snack Factory and review their Pretzel Crisps. Let me tell you. I adore them! I like pretzels in general, but, with the flavors that Pretzel Crisps packs on theirs? YUMMMM! I had the chance to review the Original, Everything, Sesame, Garlic Parmesan and Buffalo Wing. While I loved them all, I absolutely had to go out and buy more of the Buffalo Wing. My daughter and I both LOVED LOVED LOVED them! They are low in fat and not a bad price. When I went out to buy a bag, I think I paid $2.50? I would highly recommend that you add these to your snacking menu. From Pretzel Crisps website:

Pretzel Crisps®: Excellent Food for Healthy Eating

As a Registered Dietitian and Certified Diabetes Educator, I am always looking for great portable snack ideas for my clients to help them maintain or achieve a healthy lifestyle. Pretzels Crisps® are a great alternative to potato chips and other snack foods. They contain 110 calories per serving and no fat (10-11 crisps) compared with 150 calories and 10 gram of fat (1 g saturated) per one ounce serving for potato chips.

Snack Factory is also running a wonderful program for the Susan G Komen Breast Cancer Awareness. They have specially marked bags of 14oz bags of Original Flavor Pretzel Crisps. Starting June 1, 2011 and ending May 31, 2012, they will support the organization through those sals. They have pledged to donate a minimum of $112,500 to Komen. Umm, how awesome is that??? So, make sure to get out there and get your bag to help support the cause as well. They are sold at Retailers Nationwide.

Snack Factory has generously offered one of my readers the chance to win Pretzel Crisps for themselves! This is for US Residents only and the giveaway will end on Nov 7th.

To Enter

Mandatory:

- Follow my blog

Addt’l Entries:

- Follow me on Twitter
- Follow Snack Factory on Twitter
- You know it! Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweets allowed. You can use “@SnglPrntRetreat & @PretzelCrisps are offering 1 winner chance to win Pretzel Crisps! Enter at http://ow.ly/6Tfmv. Ends 11/7 to US Res Only.
- Add my button to your blog
- Add my blog to your blogroll
- Follow me on NetworkedBlogs
- Subscribe above

Please make sure to leave a comment for each action taken to get all of your eligible entries. Please leave the URL to where you tweeted, added my button/blog.

Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

Monday Hop Along Blog Hop!

2011-10-09T21:00:00.000-04:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

California Wine Club Review and Giveaway

2011-10-06T19:56:00.008-04:00

What better way to end a rough day with a good glass of wine? Recently I was contacted by California Wine Club to do a review of the Wine Club. Ummm, yes please! As I have only recently gone over to the dark side of drinking a glass of wine here and there, I was ecstatic! I was given a 3-Month membership of having wine shipped to me to enjoy in the privacy of my own home. Yumm. After the several rough days I was having, that wine was the saving grace at the end of the day. Made the day relatively worthwhile!

I actually was home sick the day I received the wine shipment. It came via FedEx and I had to sign for it personally for the FedEx guy to verify I was 21. I've never had alcohol shipped to me before, so, this was a new experience and I was super excited! So, once I realized what it was, tore open the box, I jumped online to see if wine would be good with how I was feeling. Well, it has antioxidants in it, I was told. Good enough for me!

I haven't had the chance yet to have friends over to share with me because I've been so busy, but, I've definitely been enjoying the glasses at the end of the day. They are a great way to relax. I had received the Chardonnay and the Zinfadel They were both great and smooth tasting.

California Wine Club has generously offered one of my readers the chance to win a one month membership. How awesome is that? This is open to US Residents only. Sorry Utah! They are not allowed to ship to you :(. You must be 21 to enter this giveaway. Remember what I stated above! The FedEx Delivery guys are instructed to make sure you are 21. If you don't look it, they will ask you for i.d.

To enter:

Mandatory:
- Follow my blog

Addt'l Entries:

- Follow me on Twitter
- Follow The California Wine Club on Twitter California Wine Club and Boring Wine Guy
- Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweets allowed. You can use "@SnglPrntRetreat & @cawineclub offring 1 month membership to 1 person in US, UT excl, mst b 21. Enter at http://ow.ly/6PZJT Ends 10/21"
- Add my button to you blog
- Add my blog to your bloglist
- Subscribe above
- Follow me on NetworkedBlogs

Make sure to leave a comment for each action taken to make sure you are eligible for all entries.

They are also offering a 10% discount to all of my readers. You can use the Promo code of parentretreat. This code is good for any gifts you send out. You can also use this code if you decide to sign up for their Wine Club. And, not only will they give you the 10% discount, they will also send you an extra bottle of wine in your first shipment as a special joining offer for being one of my readers :). I'll say it now. You are welcome! LOL. Also, there is no obligation to continue past the first month if for some reason you choose not to. Although, I really don't know why you wouldn't!

Good luck and happy tasting! Make sure to invite your friends over for a wine tasting event at your house if you are the winner :).

Single Parent Dating Do's and Don'ts

2011-10-05T21:34:00.003-04:00

Here is an article that I wrote for SpeedDate, and I wanted to share it here as well!

Dating can be a hard task. Throw in being a single parent? Make that about 10 times harder. There are many things you have to take into consideration either dating AS a single parent, and dating a single parent. Here are some things you should be aware of…

As a Single Parent, dating do’s and don’ts:

Do:

1 – Accept recommendations from friends, families and co-workers. This is a great source of connections. The potential dating partner has already been pre-screened.

2 – Keep an open mind. Even if the potential dating partner lives at home with the parents, in today’s economy, if they have that option, may be the smarter thing.

3 – Listen to your friends. They are your friends for a reason and will have your back.

4 – Go slow. You have your children to consider.

Don’t:

1 – Don’t meet in an unpopulated area. You cannot be too cautious.

2 – Don’t introduce your children right away. They attend to form attachments easily.

3 – Don’t act like someone else. Be yourself! They wanted to go out with you for a reason. Let the real you shine.

4 – Don’t ignore red flags. If something feels off, it usually is.
When Dating a Single Parent:

Do:

1 – Be patient. There are going to be times a date will have to be cancelled due to something coming up with the children.

2 – Be honest. If you feel that you cannot handle being second or third in someone’s life, let them know right away. Dating someone with children is a package deal.

3 – Do be kind. If you get to the point you are introduced to the children, be kind to the children and interact with them slowly at first.

Don’t:

1 – Don’t like kids? Don’t date the parent. The children will not be going anywhere. They will win every time. As they should.

2 – Don’t do sleepovers if the children are with the parent you are dating. Unless of course you are engaged to be married. Children are very impressionable, and after being told from the time they’ve had the “talk” not to sleep with someone unless you are married, this sends mixed signals.

3 – Don’t ignore the other parent. This can be either a short term/long term relationship killer with the child. Never bad mouth the other parent, no matter how much you don’t like them. That is their parent and may seem just as bad as talking bad about the child.

Once you go over these Do’s and Don’ts, you should be prepared as a single parent to jump in the dating pool. Just remember to stay true to yourself and everything will work out they way they should.

Learning Resources Review and Giveaway

2011-10-03T22:15:00.006-04:00

Recently my daughter had the opportunity to review Talk Point, Set of 5 from Learning Resources. As she has ADHD, she prefers to have anything she can to help her stay focused in the morning on what she needs to do. These Talk Point recorders are perfect for her. They allow 10 second recordings. What she also loves about this is when she turns it off, it doesn't lose her recording.

From the Learning Resources website:

Ideal for simple activity instructions, daily reminders, word or sound practice and more!

Ages 3-14

Simple buttons record and replay up to 10 seconds of clear sound. Use for activity instructions, reminder messages, word or sound practice, math fact exercises, speech therapy and more. Provide immediate self-assessment. Record and re-record instantly, or flip the switch to lock. Five bright colors. Measures 1 3/4" in diameter. Grades PreK+

- Can be heard in a busy classroom
- Designed for preschool and elementary students, and busy teachers
- Adapts easily to any situation
- Is child friendly — ideal for simple activity instructions, phonics, speech and language therapy, intervention, self-assessment, treasure hunts and more
- Lasts and lasts since the battery is replaceable
- Fits perfectly in little hands
- Mount alongside bulletin boards, tuck into pocket charts or student's backpacks, or place on the corner of a student's desk
- Allows for color-coded uses

Learning Resources has generously offered one of my readers the chance to win one of these for your little one. How awesome is that?!

To enter:

Mandatory:

- Follow my blog

Addt'l Entries:

- Follow me on Twitter
- Follow Learning Resources on Twitter
- You got it! Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweets allowed. You can use "@SnglPrntRetreat and @LearningHandsOn are offering 1 winner chance to win TalkPoint Set of 5 recorders at http://ow.ly/6MuUy. Ends 11/2
- Add my button to your blog
- Add my blog to your blog list
- Subscribe Above - 3 entries
- Follow me on NetworkedBlogs

While this is not an entry, we would love it if you stopped on our Facebook pages to say hi! My link is over -------> and you can visit Learning Resources at Facebook and enter there for a chance to win a $50 Gift Certificate with them.

Please make sure to leave a comment for each action taken to get all of your eligible entries for this giveaway. This giveaway is for US Residents only and will end on 11/2.

Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

It's a National Food Fight!

2011-10-03T21:43:00.004-04:00

But, a virtual one! Don't go throwing food at your neighbors. Well, unless you want to, but, I wouldn't recommend it!

Aetna Healthy Food Fight in cahoots with SheSpeaks is currently going on in different area's around the Country. It started on October 1st in Ponoma, CA. Check out HERE for the dates and where. Everyone is invited to participate! From Aetna's page:

EVERYONE'S INVITED TO OUR REGIONAL COOK-OFFS
Come down to watch our semi-finalists bake, broil and grill their way to a spot in the finals. There willl also be healthy cooking demonstrations, sweepstakes and giveaways.

Sounds like a fun time around the country! I think I may have to see about stopping in and seeing the one in Philly in November.

Have a healthy recipe that your family that sounds like "I scream, you scream, we all scream, for more!" then make sure to get your recipe entered HERE for a chance to win the grand prize of $10,000! Who can't do with that kind of dough? Yes, that pun was totally intended!

Good luck!! Let me know if you've entered! I'd love to check your recipes out. I know I could definitely use more healthy eating habits in my household.

Monday Hop Along Blog Hop!

2011-10-02T21:26:00.001-04:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

Teamotions review and Discount Code

2011-10-02T13:29:00.006-04:00

I love my Tea! Recently I had the opportunity to review Tea from Teamotions Tea and it was great tasting! I had received the Find Strength and I loved it. From the Teamotions site:

FLAVOR PROFILE Refreshing, floral and fruity.

INGREDIENTS Jasmine Green Tea, Jiaogulan, Jasmine Flowers, Cornflowers, Natural Flavors.

EMOTIONAL BENEFIT Restores inner strength and self-confidence.

DID YOU KNOW? Green tea is a natural anti-depressant and is mildly stimulating to the body and mind. Jasmine flower calms and centers the body, mind and soul, fosters confidence, and opens up emotional pathways. Jiaogulan increases strength, stamina and vitality in the body, boosts immunity and balances all body systems.

I could definitely use all the Inner Strength I can get! lol.

Teamotions is offering my readers 15% off of your purchase of $25 or more! You can use this code from now until October 31st. If you have a tee lover in your life, this would be a great gift idea for either Birthdays or Christmas.

You can use the code PARENT15.

Hexbug Review and Giveaway

2011-10-01T21:16:00.005-04:00

My daughter loves anything fun and unusual. Put them together? Even better! Recently she was sent a Hexbug Nano Glow in the Dark Starter set. She LOVED LOVED LOVED it! She played with it the day she got it and just had to take it to her Dad's as well to play. She got the biggest kick out of the Nano because it tickled the palm of her hand. Have to admit, it felt funny! This nano just sped around the starter kit and it was very fun to watch! Take a look:

She was also sent the crab, which only goes sideways, but, it entertainment when the cat is around and jumping around it! Read more info about it here:

Hexbug is definitely a great source of entertainment and the more you attach to it, the more fun the kiddo's will have. About Hexbug from their site:

By leveraging our robotics expertise, we entered the toy industry in 2007 with the launch of the HEXBUG Micro Robotic Creatures product line. HEXBUG was designed to give children a positive experience with robotics at a young age. Our passion for robotics, as demonstrated by our VEX Robotics program, was the main catalyst fueling HEXBUG's inception. Hence, the brand was born! People are drawn to the HEXBUG brand for our products’ fascinating behavior, intelligent bug-like attributes and eye-catching packaging. Some of the products are so animated, they even fool cats, dogs and some humans into thinking they are alive!

Hexbug has offered one of my readers within the US only, a chance to win one of their Nano's. This will provide a lot of fun for your child as they chase after it once they let it go!

To enter:

Mandatory:

- Follow my blog

Additional:

- Follow me on Twitter
- Follow Hexbug on Twitter
- You know it! Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweets allowed. You can use: "@SnglPrntRetreat and @HEXBUG is offering one reader in the US a chance to win a Nano. Enter at http://ow.ly/6KFni. Ends 10/30.
- Place my button on your blog
- Add my blog to your blog roll

Please make sure to leave a comment for each action taken to be counted for all eligible entries. Also leave the URL for where you tweeted, added my button or blog to your page.

Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

This weeks winners!

2011-10-01T00:43:00.002-04:00

Congrats to Dee on winning the $10 GC to Starbucks!

Congrats to Rondah on winning the Eye Candy Coolers!

Congrats to SnkMommy on winning the TruKids Pack!

Thank you everyone for your entries! Stay tuned for more great giveaways coming up! I'm a little behind on posting, so, you will see quite a few coming up in the next two weeks!

Have a great weekend!

Soberlink Review. Trusting your Teen on the roads

2011-09-30T22:50:00.006-04:00

As adults, we all know what it is like to be a teenager. You want to go and hang out and have fun with your friends. Yes, we know that also includes as they are older, the possibility of drinking. I admit it, I went to some parties when I was a teen that had alcohol. You know you all did it too! No lies here amongst friends! Lol. I may not have been one of the drinking teens, unless we were staying put for the night, but, many friends were. Alcohol is certainly a dangerous combination with a teen who thinks they are the ONE person, it won’t affect. It scares me to know that most likely, in just a few short years, my own daughter will be attending these parties as well. I would love to just wrap her up in a stay young forever bubble wrap, but, we all know that would never happen! I have to trust that she is going to make sound judgments and not get sucked into the whole peer pressure thing that teens feel the need push on others.

This is where Soberlink comes to the rescue. What is Soberlink? From the Soberlink website: Soberlink is the very first device that remotely monitors a person's blood alcohol level without being physically present. Soberlink compiles a sobriety report that transmits from one person's smart phone to any other phone or email address in the world. Take a look at the video here on how Soberlink works:

Some parents may frown upon this, and view it as an invasion of their child’s privacy. I am one of the parents who remember what it was like being a teen and things I did. And per my own mama? There is no privacy until the teen is out of the house and living on their own. Young adult or not. They are considered a minor until the age of 18 and therefore the parent’s responsibility.

This device is small enough to fit right in pockets and pocketbooks. It is discreet enough that the teen can go right into the bathroom and take it. And for those parents who don't want to put restrictions on their child, that is definitely their choice, but, with the GPS location on this, the parent can go and pick up the teen so they are not out on the road driving. This is definitely a device I will consider when my daughter is old enough to start going to those parties. I trust her completely, however, that put aside? Again, I was a teen once, I know how it is. When it comes to my girl, my head won't be in the sand.

What are your thoughts on this topic? Do you have a teen that may have had some drinks at a party with friends? Do you feel this is an invasion of trust? Or a compromise to ensure safety?

Disclosure: This is a paid sponsored post. All opinions are my own on this product and service.

Day-Timer Mom and Student Planner Review and Giveaway!

2011-09-28T21:16:00.007-04:00

Ahhh! Day Planners. A way to the heart of any busy mom! I love my Day Planner from Day-Timer. I love having my writing assignments and reviews listed in one location. No guessing on what needs to be done and when.

Recently, I was sent a Mom Planner from Day-Timer to review. It is a nice notebook size planner that gives you plenty of room to put everything you have to do in your everyday busy life. I know mine gets filled up! At times, wish I saw more white than ink! lol. The Mom Planner has weekly pages as well as monthly pages to fit in your information. I use the monthly pages to briefly write what needs to be done and the weekly pages for more description as to what my to-do list entails.

These day planners come in Green, Blue and Purple and have a cute embossed design on them.

From the Day-Timer website:

Because a mom's busy day doesn't end when she leaves the office

With the Mom Notebook Planner, even the busiest mom can enjoy an organized life. Open style refill gives you a quick view of your weekly schedule. Includes a year of 2-Page-Per-Month Calendar Tabs dated July through June, shopping lists, and pages to manage information that a mom needs like caregiver contacts and medical information. Wrap-around cover in your choice of three colors with floral deboss. Features interior vinyl pocket to store notes, receipts, and small supplies.

Features:

Designed for today's busy working moms
Printed on 90% recycled paper
NOTEBOOK Wire-bound page size is 8-1/2" x 11" (216 x 280mm)

Day-Timer also offers HomeLife, the Free online calendar and organizer for your entire family. Check it out HERE. They also offer their customers a pretty cool website/blog called EnoughTime. This site is designed to help you tame and organize your busy lifestyles.

I also received a Student planner to review. This is great for your teen who has their own busy schedules! Get them started young! From the Day-Timer site about the Student Planner:

Ideal for managing a more detailed student schedule.

Includes a full year of 2-Page-Per-Week pages with Monday - Friday 7 AM - 6 PM timelines as well as monthly calendars. Reduced space for weekend plans. Open planning pages have space for appointments, assignments, and action list. Monthly calendars for long-term planning. Includes additional pages for class schedule, grades, and extra notes. Unique textured vinyl overlay with foiled generic collegiate logo printed on interior cover sheet. Slim profile fits in any backpack, so it's always available for notes and planning

Features:
Vinyl slash pocket for storage
Printed on 90% recycled paper
3 1/2" x 6" (89 x 152mm) Wire-bound pages

I am doing a giveaway for one of these Planners, in Green. The giveaway will end on October 20th. To enter, please do the following:

Mandatory:

- Follow my Blog and tell me which planner you would like to win. If you want to try to win one or both, make sure to leave a comment for both.

Addt'l entries:

- Follow me on Twitter
- Follow DayTimer on Twitter
- You know it! Tweet Tweet! Daily Tweets allowed. You can use: "@SnglPrntRetreat is offering a Planner from @Daytimerpage. Enter to win at http://ow.ly/6I00V. Ends 10/20.
- Add my button to your blog
- Add my blog to your page
- Subscribe above
- Follow me on NetworkedBlogs

While this is not an entry, I'd love for you to stop over at my Facebook Page and tell me why you love your day planner!

Please leave a comment for each action taken to get all of your eligible entries in. This giveaway is for US Residents only.

Please note that my Disclosure Notice is in effect for this giveaway.

Monday Hop Along Blog Hop!

2011-09-25T21:00:00.000-04:00

It's Monday! Woohoo! Yeah, ok, that was a stretch, even for me, lol. Well, how about this? It's my Monday Hop Along Blog Hop! Yaaayyyy!!!! Yes. MUCH better! Why? Because this is going to help us get our Monday moving along a little faster. Who can say they don't what that to happen???

When entering your link, please make sure to follow my blog. If you do not see my friends box, please refresh your browser. This is an issue with Blogger. Thank you! Links directly to your site only please. Not to another blog hop. Make sure to follow at least two other blogs on the list :) Also, leave a comment as I do follow back!

Have a great day!

Disney's Spooky Buddies are back! Giveaway for a Combo Pack DVD/BluRay

2011-09-22T17:31:00.005-04:00

Disney's irresistible talking Buddies are back in an all-new movie that takes them for a spooky new adventure. With the help of some unexpected new friends -- Pip, Zelda, Rodney, and Skip, the buddies must stop Warwick the Warlock and save the world from his dastardly deeds.

We've seen all the commercials on Disney Channel for the Spooky Buddies. How cute are they? My daughter has really been wanting to get this movie because she just adores animals and this was right up her alley.

For the giveaway, all you have to do is:

- leave a comment on my Facebook page
- or mention me in a Tweet which Buddy is your favorite! In the Tweet, you can use: "@SnglPrntRetreat, My favorite #DisneyBuddy is _______. Looking to win the DVD/BluRay Combo pack at http://ow.ly/6CiRs. ends 9/29."

Then come back here and comment why that Buddy is your fave! Also, please make sure to follow my blog!

Leave a comment for each. Only one Facebook entry, but multiple Tweets are allowed. This is a fast giveaway. Will end on 9/29 and is open to US and Canadian Residents!

Good Luck!