SOCIAL MEDIA

Saturday, July 31, 2010

MyBlogSpark.com Gluten-Free Chex Review and Giveaway

I'm a big fan of cereal. I like it with milk or without. I try to stick with healthier cereals nowadays even though I'd rather eat Reese's Puffs or even Frosted Flakes.

There's been a new introduction of gluten free cereals to the Chex lineup. Rice Chex, Corn Chex, Honey Nut Chex, Chocolate Chex, and Cinnamon Chex have been reformulated to be gluten free and offer a great tasting, crunchy morning breakfast option. This is very important because it provides another food option for individuals who have gluten free diets.

MyBlogSpark.com graciously sent me a coupon for a free box of gluten free chex, a microwavable bowl, a Chex gluten-free recipe card and measuring spoons and cups.


While I don't have a gluten free diet myself, I know people who do. I think having a diet free of gluten is an individual's choice, whether it's for medical or personal reasons. I think individuals will be happy to expand their gluten free palates with these cereals. I thought the cereal tasted great though. I didn't notice too much of a difference from the normal Chex that I am used to eating.

The recipe booklet I was sent has really great looking desserts in it. There are recipes for chocolate pizza, Mexican chocolate brownies, triple berry mini cheesecakes, chex apple-almondb ars, and fruiti sushi (which is adorable!) I want to try the Mexican chocolate brownies, YUM!

The microwavable bowl, measuring cups and spoons will always come in handy too.


GIVEAWAY RULES:
I will be picking one (1) winner to win the same Chex prize pack that I received.
1. YOU MUST DO THIS FIRST or all other entries will be DELETED! Please tell me why you want to win this prize pack. (1 entry)

BONUS ENTRIES

2. Subscribe by Email and Confirm that Subscription (1 entry)

3. Subscribe to Sammi's Blog of Life in a Reader (1 entry)

4. Follow Me on Blogger (1 entry)

5. Follow ME on Twitter (www.twitter.com/pinkice88) (1 entry)

6. Leave a Tweet and the direct link to that tweet (1 entry) (You can do this daily)

7. FOR 5 EXTRA ENTRIES - Blog about this giveaway with a link to my blog and come back and leave the link to your blog post. Post FIVE separate comments that you've blogged about this.

9. Add my main button to your sidebar (if it's already there, let me know that! Leave link to your blog.) (1 entry)

9. Add Sammi's Blog of Life to your blogroll (using my URL), with a link back to me! (1 entry)

10. Follow me on Facebook for 1 entry.

Winner will be chosen on August 15, 2010 at 10 pm and then will be emailed.
One entry per day.
Alternate winner will be chosen if winner does not respond after 48 hours. Thank you and good luck!
Disclaimer-
I was provided a product in exchange for my review.
You can read more about my blog policies in my disclaimer.
Sammi's Blog Of Life Follows All New FTC & Facebook Laws for Reviews & Giveaways.
IF YOU DO NOT CORRECTLY ANSWER MY CONTEST QUESTION, YOUR COMMENT WILL BE IMMEDIATELY REJECTED.





Thursday, July 29, 2010

SoftLips Pure Naturals Review

Not too long ago I did a review of SoftLips lipbalms. The products were great and to this day I still use them! They keep my lips soft and hydrated. I always have one in my purse, one in my medicine cabinet, and one in my nightstand drawer.

I contacted SoftLips again because I saw that they had a new line of products out called Pure Naturals. I was thrilled when they said yes, and sent me their entire new line!

I received 3 sheer lipglosses in shell pink, natural honesty, and coral charm. I was also sent a vanilla berry lip butter, two sheer lip tints/conditioner in also coral charm and shell pink. Lastly, I also got something which I know I will need come winter time. It is a organic coconut and sugar lip polish.



The lip tints and lip glosses all smell really good! That was the first thing that I noticed when I tried them on. My favorite thing is that these products contain SPF 15. It's been brutually hot in NYC lately, and I need all the sun protection I can get! The coral charm color gloss is my favorite. The shell pink is a little too pale for me and washes me out. I am pale enough already haha.

The lip butter is great. It really hydrates my lips and keeps them moisturized and soft. My lips very easily get chapped, especially in the winter and it's not a fun feeling. I am glad I will have something on hand to protect me from the harsh winter air. The lip polish is very easy to use too. It is designed to exfoliate your lips with organic coconut flakes and exfoliating sugar crystals to rid your lips of dry, flaky skin. It was very easy to use and my lips definately felt better after.

I love these products and would recommend them to anyone!


Wonder Hangers and Total Pillow Review and Giveaway

I love Infomericals. I get sucked into watching them on TV all the time. The jingles and familiarity of the commercial stay with you long after the product isn't shown on TV anymore. The infomericials are wonderful at making you think you need every product that's for sale, when you really don't! I even did my senior college thesis on infomercials. I have never bought any of the products, but am always tempted to.

I was very excited when I got the chance to review two very popular as seen on tv products.

Total Pillow:
This product is an amazing pillow which is versatile and changes shape in seconds for perfect support. It supports your neck, knees, back, or anywhere you need total comfort. You can customize and lock your pillow into any position. It has an ergonomic design, and is also great for lumbar support.



Please watch this video to see how great the total pillow is:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dsf-883l14o

I think this product is wonderful. While I don't have neck or back pain usually, if I sit in the same position at my desk while using the computer for long enough, my back will hurt. This pillow easily twists into virtually any position you could potentially want. Neck pain, shoulder pain, knee pain? Check, check, and check! Just twist the pillow to fit under any body part that is giving you trouble. This is also great for travel to keep you comfortable on those long plane and car rides. The pillow is soft and flexible, but firm when you need it to be. It's very reasonably priced too at only $15. I used the pillow when I was sitting at my desk, I just twisted and put it behind my lower back where I normally have pain from sitting too long. I had no pain for this, and I could sit for long periods of time comfortably!

Wonder Hangers:
The Wonder Hanger is a cascading hanger-organizer that increases closet space by enabling clothes to be stacked vertically. Each Wonder hanger holds 5 wood, metal or plastic hangers and supports up to 20 pounds. The unique design of the hanger stacks clothes vertically, keeps clothes wrinkle-free and allows easy removal and organization. The Wonder Hanger® holds up to 5 garments on each one, making organizing your closet easier than ever before. Bid farewell to the days of cramped closet space and wrinkled clothing! The incredible Wonder Hanger® makes your life smoother and more efficient… one garment at a time!

What are some benefits of using Wonder Hangers?
• Fits All Kinds of Hangers
• Easy to Hang & Release Clothes
• Use It for Purses, Belts & Scarves Too
• Great for Dorm Rooms & Apartments



Here is a video about Wonder Hangers:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a2Cyvt7KD-A

I think this is a fantastic product. Being that I live in New York City, my closet is ridiculously small. I can only hang so many shirts or dresses up before it starts to get cramped in there. This product will make my closet look so much neater and organized, I love it! I like that the hangers drop down so that they can be pushed aside to make room for another set of hangers that could hold purses, scarves, or even belts. Purses are the worst to hang because they are big and bulky and take up room. When your purses are on the wonder hanger they are easy to maintain. I am so glad I have this product, never again will I have to worry about how my closet looks! I've gained so much space with this too.

GIVEAWAY RULES:
I will be picking one (1) winner to win a Total Pillow and Wonder Hangers
1. YOU MUST DO THIS FIRST or all other entries will be DELETED! Please tell me why you want to win these products. (1 entry)

BONUS ENTRIES

2. Subscribe by Email and Confirm that Subscription (1 entry)

3. Subscribe to Sammi's Blog of Life in a Reader (1 entry)

4. Follow Me on Blogger (1 entry)

5. Follow ME on Twitter (www.twitter.com/pinkice88) (1 entry)

6. Leave a Tweet and the direct link to that tweet (1 entry) (You can do this daily)

7. FOR 5 EXTRA ENTRIES - Blog about this giveaway with a link to my blog and come back and leave the link to your blog post. Post FIVE separate comments that you've blogged about this.

9. Add my main button to your sidebar (if it's already there, let me know that! Leave link to your blog.) (1 entry)

9. Add Sammi's Blog of Life to your blogroll (using my URL), with a link back to me! (1 entry)

10. Follow me on Facebook for 1 entry.

Winner will be chosen on August 12, 2010 at 10 pm and then will be emailed.
One entry per day.
Alternate winner will be chosen if winner does not respond after 48 hours. Thank you and good luck!
Disclaimer-
I was provided a product in exchange for my review.
You can read more about my blog policies in my disclaimer.
Sammi's Blog Of Life Follows All New FTC & Facebook Laws for Reviews & Giveaways.
IF YOU DO NOT CORRECTLY ANSWER MY CONTEST QUESTION, YOUR COMMENT WILL BE IMMEDIATELY REJECTED.



Wednesday, July 28, 2010

JustGano Review

I love jewelry and I never leave my house without earrings, rings, (and sometimes a necklace) on. I always like to wear earrings that match my outfits too. Jewelry is so fun and is perfect for expressing yourself with it.

JustGano is an online jewelry website which specializes in "chic fashion jewelry at manufacturer direct prices." This website is a little unique because you can't just buy a piece of jewelry, you have to join the membership part of the site. Once you join (depending on which membership package you pick) you can receive anywhere from 1-6 pieces of jewelry a month. JustGano has rings, bracelets, earrings, and necklaces of many types and styles. You pick your desired jewelry and save it to a wishlist, and the next piece ships accordingly from the list.

A complimentary membership was given to me, and I was allowed to pick out one piece of jewelry. JustGano has very cute jewelry and it was hard to pick just one thing that I liked. I chose the "Floating Pave Heart Diamond Necklace."


I think this necklace is so cute. Some fake diamond necklaces look very fake and gaudy, but this doesn't. Granted, it's not real it doesn't seem overly fake or cheap. It is great for night or day wear or dressed up or down. It sparkles nicely and isn't too long or short either. It's the perfect length. I am very satisfied with this necklace and can't wait to wear it!



Tribest Review

I have noticed that my tupperware lately is getting a little bit more flimsier than normal. I think I've been using and washing it too much. I mean, it is only plastic!

I received a surprise package yesterday from Tribest products that couldn't have come at a better time! It was a 4 piece airtight glass container set from GlaStor. I was very excited because these hold more than my tupperware, they are glass and are extremely durable, and stack inside each other!



Product Details: (taken from website)
Store your favorite foods and ingredients with Glastor airtight food storage containers. Glastor storage container lids feature a unique airtight silicone seal and snap-to-lock lids that prevent air from entering the container during storage allowing food to stay fresher longer, stopping drips from spilling and odors from escaping. With Glastor, storing soups, salads, poultry, fruits and aromatic ingredients have never been easier.

Since Glastor containers were designed for everyday use and are made of clean heavy-duty tempered glass that is lightweight yet strong and durable, identifying what's stored is no longer left to guessing, making organization easier and prepartion faster. Additionally, Glastor's storage lids are BPA free.

Glastor's amazing nest design saves important cupboard space and tucks away nicely and neatly during non-usage. Glastor is also perfect for trasnportation yet attractively inviting to serve guests pre-made dishes.

Features:
Convenient - Glastor containers neatly nest into one another with their lids attached for optimum convenience and organization.
Durable - Glastor containers are made of heavy-duty stain resistant tempered glass that is lightweight yet strong and durable
Safe - Glastor's plastic snap locking lids with silicone seals are made of BPA free materials.

I think these containers are great. I really like that they stack into each other because it's more convenient for me. I have a small kitchen that can't hold a ton, and this makes my life a lot more easier. It's also great that the containers have a special airtight silicone seal because now I don't have to throw my food out because it went bad before I had the chance to eat it. I think these containers will save me money in the long run! I know I will be using these from now on instead of my normal tupperware containers.



Sunday, July 25, 2010

Nature's Notebook Review

I know I've struggled sometimes with knowing what to give someone as a gift, or picking out something I know they will love.

Nature's Notebook is a wonderfully creative website that specializes in "sand art." Basically, Courtney Noelle (who is the artist) creates whatever you want her to write in the sandy beaches of California! You can choose from a black and white or color print. She's very talented and her work comes out amazing.

I chose an 8x10 color print that I gave to my boyfriend as a gift. I had Sammi <3 Jay written. She even dotted the i in my name with a starfish!

(The picture isn't the greatest because I took a picture of a picture, instead of scanning it in.)
I bought a frame for it and it's now hanging on my wall. It looks great! I love the concept of this business. So creative and fun! It's a gorgeous picture and I love that there's a slight rainbow in the background. I can see this picture being a great conversation starter too. This would be a great wedding, birthday, anniversary, or a just thinking of you gift!

Online School Solutions Review

Today's students, known as the "iGeneration", are the first to crave and benefit from education "on demand" - or the option to choose where, when and how they want to learn.

To put it in context, the "iGeneration" has never known life without the Internet, being mobile, using avatars, IMing or choosing and watching content whether they are at home, in the car, at a football game or shopping at the mall. To reach them in their high-tech, high-touch world, many parents and educators are looking at how to rewire schools to match how the iGeneration learns.

Taking classes online is one way to give middle and high school students (and their school districts) new options to learn using preferred tools in a familiar environment, and even experience enhanced, one-on-one relationships with educators. Whether they're in need of more assistance, looking for wider range of classes or simply prefer to learn in a medium that they have grown up with, online learning can be a great way to fit your child's needs.

I think this is a great program because many students today depend on the computer. They have the advantage of going to school online, and finishing their assignments on their own time, instead of following a strict school schedule of when assignments are due. I think students would like the freedom that online classes allow, rather than regular schooling.

Covermate Review and Giveaway

I have a zillion pieces of tupperware but I find myself always misplacing the lid for the specific one. Or I have too little food to put in too big of a tupperware container, etc. Covermate solves all of your problems because they stretch to fit ANY size food covers!!

CoverMate® Food Covers, now available in a new Variety Pack at supermarkets and mass merchant retailers nationwide, provide a solution to these and other common food storage, preparation and serving challenges. These new food covers stretch-to-fit any size or shape plate, bowl, or containers, are reusable, and are microwavable and dishwasher safe. The covers eliminate the hassle of searching for the correct size food container lid, and take the guess work and struggle out of using plastic wrap or aluminum foil. The CoverMate Variety Pack contains a selection of four sizes perfect for covering everything in the kitchen from small cans and food storage containers, to casserole dishes and even large party platters.

I was sent the variety pack to review.

I think this product is great. Never again will I have to struggle with finding the right lid, Covermate makes my life so much easier! I like that this product has different sized food covers for any type and size dish you would need. I also like that the covers are reusable, and dishwasher and microwave safe. You can use them again and again with no problem! I covered a large salad bowl and I didn't notice any kind of ripping or tearing when I put the cover on. These are high quality and designed to last. I know I will be using these to keep my food fresh from now on!
GIVEAWAY RULES:
I will be picking one (1) winner to win a Covermate Variety Pack.
1. YOU MUST DO THIS FIRST or all other entries will be DELETED! Please tell me why you want to win this product. (1 entry)

BONUS ENTRIES

2. Subscribe by Email and Confirm that Subscription (1 entry)

3. Subscribe to Sammi's Blog of Life in a Reader (1 entry)

4. Follow Me on Blogger (1 entry)

5. Follow ME on Twitter (www.twitter.com/pinkice88) (1 entry)

6. Leave a Tweet and the direct link to that tweet (1 entry) (You can do this daily)

7. FOR 5 EXTRA ENTRIES - Blog about this giveaway with a link to my blog and come back and leave the link to your blog post. Post FIVE separate comments that you've blogged about this.

9. Add my main button to your sidebar (if it's already there, let me know that! Leave link to your blog.) (1 entry)

9. Add Sammi's Blog of Life to your blogroll (using my URL), with a link back to me! (1 entry)

10. Follow me on Facebook for 1 entry.

11. Follow CoverMate on Facebook and Twitter for one additional entry.

Winner will be chosen on August 6, 2010 at 10 pm and then will be emailed.
One entry per day.
Alternate winner will be chosen if winner does not respond after 48 hours. Thank you and good luck!
Disclaimer-
I was provided a product in exchange for my review.
You can read more about my blog policies in my disclaimer.
Sammi's Blog Of Life Follows All New FTC & Facebook Laws for Reviews & Giveaways.
IF YOU DO NOT CORRECTLY ANSWER MY CONTEST QUESTION, YOUR COMMENT WILL BE IMMEDIATELY REJECTED.
Saturday, July 24, 2010

Giveaway Scout

My blog is now featured on Giveaway Scout! How exciting! :)
Thursday, July 22, 2010

Cuisipro Review and Giveaway

I LOVE to bake. I have been cooking and baking more than ever in recent months, and it's something I really enjoy. I am getting better each time, which I think is great!

Cuisipro is a fabulous company that specializes in cooking and bakeware products. I love everything that they sell. They also have a lot of handy cooking tools.

Cuisipro sent me the Cupcake Corer Decorating Set.
Here are some stats about it:
Everything you need to create and decorate the perfect filled cupcakes.

* Set includes exclusive Cuisipro Cupcake Corer, 2 decorating squeeze bottles with tips and an offset spatula.
* Cupcake Corer creates a perfect hole in the center of the cupcake for filling with icing or hiding edible treasures.
* Easy grip squeeze bottles are simple for small hands to fill and decorate cupcakes. Flower collar is the perfect hold spot. Easy to fill and large capacity (approximately 1 cup (250 ml)).
* Round tip for writing and drawing patterns. Floral tip for designs and filling.
* Flexible offset spatula provides exceptional control and makes smooth spreading of frosting or icings.
* Dishwasher safe – top shelf


I think this is the coolest product ever! You know how you go to a bakery and drool over their deliciously-drool worthy filled cupcakes? Now you can make your own! I made plain yellow cake cupcakes, but I filled them with chocolate frosting and also frosted the outside of the cupcake. It was soooo good. I also put some sprinkles on the icing in the cupcake, so it was very pretty too. The squeeze bottles have special tips that you can decorate with. I am not a great decorator, so I skipped that step. A special spatula is also included so you can cover the filled part of the cupcake with more icing if you choose. The squeeze bottles were very easy to load and use and I had no problems at all with them or the corer. This is perfect for children to use too. They will have so much fun making their own cupcakes. I can't wait to experiment with the different varieties of cupcakes that I could make in the near future!

GIVEAWAY RULES:
I will be picking one (1) winner to win a Cupcake Corer and Decorating Set from Cuisipro.
1. YOU MUST DO THIS FIRST or all other entries will be DELETED! Please tell me why you want to win this product. (1 entry)

BONUS ENTRIES

2. Subscribe by Email and Confirm that Subscription (1 entry)

3. Subscribe to Sammi's Blog of Life in a Reader (1 entry)

4. Follow Me on Blogger (1 entry)

5. Follow ME on Twitter (www.twitter.com/pinkice88) (1 entry)

6. Leave a Tweet and the direct link to that tweet (1 entry) (You can do this daily)

7. FOR 5 EXTRA ENTRIES - Blog about this giveaway with a link to my blog and come back and leave the link to your blog post. Post FIVE separate comments that you've blogged about this.

9. Add my main button to your sidebar (if it's already there, let me know that! Leave link to your blog.) (1 entry)

9. Add Sammi's Blog of Life to your blogroll (using my URL), with a link back to me! (1 entry)

10. Follow me on Facebook for 1 entry.

Winner will be chosen on August 3, 2010 at 10 pm and then will be emailed.
One entry per day.
Alternate winner will be chosen if winner does not respond after 48 hours. Thank you and good luck!
Disclaimer-
I was provided a product in exchange for my review.
You can read more about my blog policies in my disclaimer.
Sammi's Blog Of Life Follows All New FTC & Facebook Laws for Reviews & Giveaways.
IF YOU DO NOT CORRECTLY ANSWER MY CONTEST QUESTION, YOUR COMMENT WILL BE IMMEDIATELY REJECTED.

Wednesday, July 21, 2010

Interview

I interviewed Heather over at www.heatherandaveryblogspot.com. I think she has a terrific blog and wanted to hear the history of her blog. Read her interesting answers here!

1. How was the idea for your blog created?

I originally started blogging about my life and my daughter after a while I discovered that was a little bit boring so I decided I wanted to review products. I still blog about life once in a while, but I'm mostly a review blog.
I chose the name because I LOVE the Duggar's and their show "19 Kids and Counting". I want more children so with time my name will change accordingly. I loved the name at the time and I still do.

2. Did you ever think your blog would be as big as it is right now?
Never. I remember looking back at blogs that were half my size and thinking they were huge. Now they're much bigger than that, but I thought they were huge. Come to find out they weren't that big at all.

3. What were the struggles and challenges of starting this blog in its early days?

It really wasn't all that challenging. The hardest part was getting more followers so I could get better sponsors.

4. What was the first item you remember having the chance to review, and being very excited about it?
My first review item was a Hip-T I had already won. My first shipment of review item was Piggy Paint for my daughter's nails. The most exciting review to date was the Rabbit Air Purifier!

5. Is there anything you won't review?
If it's something I know I won't use then I won't review it. Adult things I do a general review of the site as I try and keep my blog as family friendly as possible.

6. What was your strategy for gaining followers?
This is a hard one as I'm not totally sure. I do have my blog linked in my signature on 2 other sites. I also link my giveaways on a few different sites. online-sweepstakes.com as well as blog linky's. I think this was really my strategy. I didn't do much else besides this!

7. Anything else you would like to tell me
Thank you for allowing me to answer these questions for you!

Hadaki and Reisenthel Review and Giveaway

I have been needing a new wallet for a little while now. The current wallet that I have doesn't hold much, and for some reason doesn't stay snapped shut properly. All of my credit cards fall out inside my purse because of this. It's annoying and I am constantly on the hunt for whatever I need.

Hadaki sent me one of their large money pods (their name for a large wallet) and Reisenthel sent me a Mini Maxi Shopper Bag.

First, let me tell you who Hadaki is: *description taken from website.
* HADAKI is all about affordable luxury and fashionable function.
* HADAKI products feature top quality materials and fine workmanship.
* HADAKI products are eco-friendly, free of AZO and Phthalates/DEHP, DBP, BOP and other harmful chemicals.
* HADAKI products are easy to maintain, with most surfaces featuring water resistant and wipable fabrics and finishes.
* HADAKI consumers include students, young professionals and anyone who appreciates fun and funky design that
makes life easier.
* HADAKI is based in New Orleans where we draw from the city’s energy and vitality to create exciting new designs.

I love Hadaki. I think their line is fun and full of life and energy. I love brightly colored and unique pieces, just like what they offer.

I received the large money pod:



I really love this wallet. It's a large size, big enough to hold everything I need. It has multiple compartments for credit cards, cash, change, receipts, and anything else. I think the colors are cute and perfect for summer. I love the inside print too. It's funky. I like that the outside zips up because nothing can fall out that way.

Reisenthel is a 39 year old German company with a concept to make products that are extremely functional and versatile-perfect for everyday mobility and storage needs.



Reisenthel sent me a great Mini Maxi Shopper! I received an orange one called "bubbles." It's a reusable shopping bag that is extremely handy. Sometimes you don't want to carry groceries by hand, it's so much easier to carry them in a bag on your shoulder. The print of the bag is so cute, and the bag itself is of a good sturdy quality. It can't tolerate anything extremely heavy, but it can hold a few groceries.

Folds up easier, ready to use quickly! The handles are also longer, so it's more comfortable to wear on the shoulder.

A fun way to help the environment and use less disposable bags - a good eco friendly idea, and no sacrifice at all!

Holds 15 liter (about 4 gallons), max weight capacity about 15 kilos (30 lbs).

You can purchase Hadaki at: www.hadakishop.com
You can purchase Reisenthel at www.touchofeurope.net

GIVEAWAY RULES:
I will be picking one (1) winner to win a large money pod from Hadaki and a Reisenthal reusable bag of the company's choosing.
1. YOU MUST DO THIS FIRST or all other entries will be DELETED! Please tell me why you want to win these products. (1 entry)

BONUS ENTRIES

2. Subscribe by Email and Confirm that Subscription (1 entry)

3. Subscribe to Sammi's Blog of Life in a Reader (1 entry)

4. Follow Me on Blogger (1 entry)

5. Follow ME on Twitter (www.twitter.com/pinkice88) (1 entry)

6. Leave a Tweet and the direct link to that tweet (1 entry) (You can do this daily)

7. FOR 5 EXTRA ENTRIES - Blog about this giveaway with a link to my blog and come back and leave the link to your blog post. Post FIVE separate comments that you've blogged about this.

9. Add my main button to your sidebar (if it's already there, let me know that! Leave link to your blog.) (1 entry)

9. Add Sammi's Blog of Life to your blogroll (using my URL), with a link back to me! (1 entry)

10. Follow me on Facebook for 1 entry.

Winner will be chosen on August 1, 2010 at 10 pm and then will be emailed.
One entry per day.
Alternate winner will be chosen if winner does not respond after 48 hours. Thank you and good luck!
Disclaimer-
I was provided a product in exchange for my review.
You can read more about my blog policies in my disclaimer.
Sammi's Blog Of Life Follows All New FTC & Facebook Laws for Reviews & Giveaways.
IF YOU DO NOT CORRECTLY ANSWER MY CONTEST QUESTION, YOUR COMMENT WILL BE IMMEDIATELY REJECTED.


Tuesday, July 20, 2010

L'uvalla Review and Giveaway

I love skin care products. I have so many different ones that provide different results for your skin, all of them are unique in their own way and they all smell great!

L'valla provided me with a hydrating milk cleanser and an orange toner to review.

This company offers a unique selection of authentic pathways and resources to help every individual create positive transformation of body, mind and spirit. Our first product, featured here, is the L’uvalla 100% natural, organic skin care line. L’uvalla is an outstanding example of the superior authenticity and quality we are committed to providing for our Yuvalla community. (taken from website)



MILK CLEANSER
AGE-DEFYING SYSTEM STEP 1: a vegan cleanser that removes dirt, oil, and makeup without stripping vital moisture from dry or mature skin. Formulated with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant agents like Wild Chamomile, Passionflower, and Lotus Extract, it calms and soothes your skin while providing intense hydration. Meadowsweet, a natural source of Beta Hydroxy Acid, leaves your skin refreshed and clean without the residue left by other milk cleansers. Rich in fatty acids and vitamins, ingredients such as Hazelnut and Sunflower lock in moisture while rejuvenating the skin.

INGREDIENTS: Natural Spring Water, Cetearyl Alcohol, Cetearyl Glucoside, Sunflower Seed Oil, Cocamidopropyl Bétaïne, Hazel Seed Oil, Xanthan Gum, Lotus Flower Extract, Orange Peel Oil, Lavendin Oil, Matricaria Flower Extract, Meadowsweet Extract, Passionflower Extract, Ginseng Root Extract, Palmarosa Oil


This was my favorite product. It smelled very good and foamed very nicely. I was sure my skin was getting cleaned well with this product. There was no greasy residue left after I dried my face off like with some face cleansers.

ORANGE TONER


AGE-DEFYING SYSTEM STEP 2: effectively minimizes pores while calming and refreshing your skin, with ingredients such as Mallow, Verbena, and Mistletoe, which also soothes and heals irritation and bumps caused by shaving and waxing, without the damaging effects of alcohol. Formulated with the anti-aging properties of Bitter Orange Leaf and Horsetail Leaf, this toner will boost circulation and rejuvenate the connective tissue of your skin.

INGREDIENTS: Bitter Orange Leaf Extract & Oil, Natural Spring Water, Peppermint Leaf Water, Sodium Chloride, Lotus Flower Extract, Potassium Sulfate, Verbena Leaf Oil, Mallow Extract, Birdsfoot-Trefoil Flower Extract, Horsetail Leaf Extract, Alfalfa Extract, Mistletoe Leaf Extract

I was not a huge fan of this product. It didn't have a strong orange-y smell to it, and it was very oily on my skin. Normally, I enjoy toners but this one kind of bothered me. I did like that it was in a glass bottle, it had a vintage feel to it. I think it is a good product though and I'm sure others would enjoy it.

Giveaway Rules:
I will be picking 1 (1) winner to win a Hydrating Milk Cleanser from L'uvalla.
1. YOU MUST DO THIS FIRST or all other entries will be DELETED! Please tell me why you want to win this product. (1 entry)

BONUS ENTRIES

2. Subscribe by Email and Confirm that Subscription (1 entry)

3. Subscribe to Sammi's Blog of Life in a Reader (1 entry)

4. Follow Me on Blogger (1 entry)

5. Follow ME on Twitter (www.twitter.com/pinkice88) (1 entry)

6. Leave a Tweet and the direct link to that tweet (1 entry) (You can do this daily)

7. FOR 5 EXTRA ENTRIES - Blog about this giveaway with a link to my blog and come back and leave the link to your blog post. Post FIVE separate comments that you've blogged about this.

9. Add my main button to your sidebar (if it's already there, let me know that! Leave link to your blog.) (1 entry)

9. Add Sammi's Blog of Life to your blogroll (using my URL), with a link back to me! (1 entry)

10. Follow me on Facebook for 1 entry.

Winner will be chosen on July 31, 2010 at 10 pm and then will be emailed.
One entry per day.
Alternate winner will be chosen if winner does not respond after 48 hours. Thank you and good luck!
Disclaimer-
I was provided a product in exchange for my review.
You can read more about my blog policies in my disclaimer.
Sammi's Blog Of Life Follows All New FTC & Facebook Laws for Reviews & Giveaways.
IF YOU DO NOT CORRECTLY ANSWER MY CONTEST QUESTION, YOUR COMMENT WILL BE IMMEDIATELY REJECTED.




Sunday, July 18, 2010

Naumes Review and Giveaway

Summer is the perfect time for picnics. I love going to the park and bringing along some sandwiches and some little finger foods for a nice lunch. Naumes Fruit Gifts offered me this opportunity!

Who is Naumes? (Taken from their website)

NaumesFruitGifts.com is known for their delicious pears and are committed to growing quality fruit for generations to enjoy. As one of the largest family owned and operated pear growers in the world, we take great pride in the quality pears we produce. Major wholesalers and retailers have relied on our fresh fruit for decades and we are proud to begin offering it fresh from our farm to you. When you buy a gift from our family, you can be assured that you are getting the very best that nature has to offer.

Naumes cares about the communities where we live and work and believe everyone should have access to fresh fruit, a vital part of a nutritious diet. That’s why we are doing our part to fight hunger with our Donate Fruit program that matches every gift you purchase, pound for pound, with a donation of fresh fruit to food banks that feed hungry families.

Naumes's new Donate Fruit program offers delicious and beautifully made gift sets to buy and enjoy. I think it's very important and also very generous that for every gift set that someone purchases, a food bank receives a donation of fresh fruit to feed hungry families. Fruit is something that we take for granted, but it may bring great happiness to a lower-income family who wants something healthy in their diets.

I was sent the "Suncrest Appetizer."


Some information about the gift set:
Spread some toasted baguette slices with all-natural Artichoke Piquillo Bruschetta, made with flame-roasted red piquillo peppers. For those who love pesto with zest, the Artichoke Lemon Pesto on innovative hand-made focaccia crackers is irresistible. Pre-sliced Beef Sausage kicks in some hickory smoked flavor to your party, and fresh-roasted mixed gourmet nuts add in the crunchy factor. And with the included mini wood cutting board and cheese knife, these tasty treats can go straight to your outdoor concerts and picnics!

Collection Includes:

# 9oz Deluxe Mixed Nuts
# 9.9oz Artichoke Piquillo Bruschetta
# 10oz Lemon Pesto
# 2oz Pre-Sliced Beef Summer Sausage
# Cheddar Chive Currant Focaccia Cracker
# Mini Wood Cutting Board
# Small Cheese Knife

I loved the lemon pesto. I thought it was delicious on the foccacia crackers! It didn't have an overpowering lemon taste, but it was just a subtle hint of lemon. I am a huge fan of pesto. I didn't taste a ton of cheese in the crackers, but they did have a nice flavor. Not only is this great for a picnic, but it's also great to serve as appetizers at a dinner party, along with others as well. I think this is an excellent gift to give as well. I don't know how you can go wrong with serving or giving someone this set :)

Giveaway Rules:
I will be picking 1 (1) winner to win a gift set of their choosing from NaumesFruitGifts.com (NOT FRUIT, JUST THE GIFT SETS)
1. YOU MUST DO THIS FIRST or all other entries will be DELETED! Please tell me what you would choose if you won. (1 entry)

BONUS ENTRIES

2. Subscribe by Email and Confirm that Subscription (1 entry)

3. Subscribe to Sammi's Blog of Life in a Reader (1 entry)

4. Follow Me on Blogger (1 entry)

5. Follow ME on Twitter (www.twitter.com/pinkice88) (1 entry)

6. Leave a Tweet and the direct link to that tweet (1 entry) (You can do this daily)

7. FOR 5 EXTRA ENTRIES - Blog about this giveaway with a link to my blog and come back and leave the link to your blog post. Post FIVE separate comments that you've blogged about this.

9. Add my main button to your sidebar (if it's already there, let me know that! Leave link to your blog.) (1 entry)

9. Add Sammi's Blog of Life to your blogroll (using my URL), with a link back to me! (1 entry)

10. Follow me on Facebook for 1 entry.

11. Follow Naumes on Facebook for one additional entry.


Winner will be chosen on July 29, 2010 at 10 pm and then will be emailed.
One entry per day.
Alternate winner will be chosen if winner does not respond after 48 hours. Thank you and good luck!
Disclaimer-
I was provided a product in exchange for my review.
You can read more about my blog policies in my disclaimer.
Sammi's Blog Of Life Follows All New FTC & Facebook Laws for Reviews & Giveaways.
IF YOU DO NOT CORRECTLY ANSWER MY CONTEST QUESTION, YOUR COMMENT WILL BE IMMEDIATELY REJECTED.


Thursday, July 15, 2010

Bodycology Review and Giveaway

Nothing thrills me more than receiving beauty products and cosmetics to review.
It's probably not a great idea to keep adding to the mini Sephora that is my bathroom, but I can't stop! :)

Bodycology is a great website which specializes in delicious smelling lotions, body sprays, antibacterial hand soaps, and more!

Bodycology® strives to improve women’s lives through products that feed the mind, body and soul. We encourage women to “find their bodycology” with our delicious range of products that use the highest quality ingredients, long-lasting fragrance and upscale, beautiful packaging – and all at a great price!

I was sent the cherry blossom body cream, brown sugar vanilla anti-bacterial foaming hand soap, and white gardenia body mist.

Brown Sugar Vanilla Anti-Bacterial Foaming Hand Soap

The warm blend of vanilla, brown sugar and sensual amber creates a cozy, comforting scent.

Bodycology Anti-Bacterial Scrubbing Soap – cleans hands as it kills germs
Beneficial Ingredients:
Vitamin E, Shea Butter and Aloe Vera, and gentle scrubbing beads to cleanse deeply

This soap smells good enough to eat! I washed my hands with it and it foamed very nicely and did a good job of getting my hands clean. I love the color of it. It's a warm, rich honey color which really does remind me of brown sugar.

White Gardenia Body Mist

The rich, floral scent of fresh gardenias promotes love, peace and good spirits.

For Daily Rejuvenation: For a splash of fragrance and energy, spritz lightly on wrists, neck and shoulders – or, for all-over freshness, spray into the air and let the fine mist gently surround you.
Beneficial Ingredients:
Conditioning and Hydrating Aloe Vera

I wasn't a huge fan of this scent. It reminded me just of a typical room spray. It had a very "clean" scent to it. I don't think I would want to use this on myself. I would use it as a room spray though.

Cherry Blossom Body Cream

Blushing cherry blossom blooms with fragrance to produce a blissful and radiant scent.

For Daily Rejuvenation: Smooth over skin, giving special care to dry or rough areas such as hands, elbows, knees and heels – for softening that feels like blissful indulgence
Beneficial Ingredients:
Moisturizing Aloe Vera, Shea Butter and Nourishing Vitamins E & C

This smelled delicious!! I will definately be using this on a daily basis. It has a really nice subtle cherry scent. I am a big fan of fruity scented lotions and scrubs so this is a big plus in my book!

Giveaway Rules:
I will be picking 1 (ONE) winner for this contest. One (1) winner will win a sample of Bodycology's new Rich and Creamy Body Wash.
1. YOU MUST DO THIS FIRST or all other entries will be DELETED! Please tell me why you would like to win this contest. (1 entry)

BONUS ENTRIES

2. Subscribe by Email and Confirm that Subscription (1 entry)

3. Subscribe to Sammi's Blog of Life in a Reader (1 entry)

4. Follow Me on Blogger (1 entry)

5. Follow ME on Twitter (www.twitter.com/pinkice88) (1 entry)

6. Leave a Tweet and the direct link to that tweet (1 entry) (You can do this daily)

7. FOR 5 EXTRA ENTRIES - Blog about this giveaway with a link to my blog and come back and leave the link to your blog post. Post FIVE separate comments that you've blogged about this.

9. Add my main button to your sidebar (if it's already there, let me know that! Leave link to your blog.) (1 entry)

9. Add Sammi's Blog of Life to your blogroll (using my URL), with a link back to me! (1 entry)

10. Follow me on Facebook for 1 entry.
11. Follow Bodycology on Twitter and facebook for 2 extra entry (Twitter.com/@mybodycology) Facebook.com/Bodycology


Winner will be chosen on July 29, 2010 at 10 pm and then will be emailed.
One entry per day.
Alternate winner will be chosen if winner does not respond after 48 hours. Thank you and good luck!
Disclaimer-
I was provided a product in exchange for my review.
You can read more about my blog policies in my disclaimer.
Sammi's Blog Of Life Follows All New FTC & Facebook Laws for Reviews & Giveaways.
IF YOU DO NOT CORRECTLY ANSWER MY CONTEST QUESTION, YOUR COMMENT WILL BE IMMEDIATELY REJECTED.









WarmBuddy Review and Giveaway

Do you sometimes suffer from aches and pains that Advil or Aleve can't cure? You hope that "sleeping it off" will help, but sometimes the pain is still there when you wake up. There is an aid for this!

Who is WarmBuddy?
Karen McKee developed the first Warm Buddy heat wrap in 1995. These heat wraps surpassed what was on the market with improved heat holding capabilities, the addition of herbs and essential oils and unique designs and shapes. Originally, Warm Buddy products were aimed at the medical market and were widely used by medical practitioners and massage therapists in their treatments.

Karen's Warm Buddy product line quickly grew and evolved. The development of our warm-up plush animals, known to many as Warm Buddies, included teddy bears, kittens and puppies. These cute stuffed push animals added a new dimension to the Warm Buddy business. Warm Buddy warm-up plush animals are a huge comfort to sick children and have been used in children's cancer wards, as well as helping to soothe the elderly, or simply to appeal to the child in all of us.

Warm Buddy warm-up plush animals have recently won the PTPA Media award for excellence in parenting products.

The introduction of elegant designer silks and soft chenille fabrics to Karen's aromatherapy wraps led her straight to the giftware and spa market. Elegant Warm Buddy products are now sold in leading spas and gift stores across Canada and the US. Warm Buddy now creates the most luxurious spa robes.

I received a small beary cream warm buddy stuffed animal, and a body wrap.

Let's talk about the body wrap first:
(I received the same sage swirl color that the model is demonstrating)

The Body Wrap is the Warm Buddy staff's favorite heat wrap / heat pack. Simply heat in the microwave or cool in the freezer as desired. Covers are available in the most luxurious soft swirl fabrics.

The body heat wrap contains natural grains & lavender flowers. It has LONG HEAT HOLDING ability of 1 hour or longer. Makes a very effective cold pack (place in freezer 1-2 hours).

Use heat wrap therapy to relieve stress and comfort sore backs, shoulders, necks, hips, stomachs and all aches and pains. A great hot water bottle alternative for warming up the bed. Packaged for travel, and washable cover. (10" x 20")

I think this looks fantastic. Even though this is used for aches and pains, I think it would be a good idea to microwave it to use it on those freezing winter nights when you just can't seem to stay warm. It has a great lavender-y smell to it too! It is very comfortable and soft, and I love it! It has a small opening in its back which the pack goes in and you can velcro it closed. I microwaved the pack and it got very hot and makes the whole bear warm! It's not burning hot, but it's pretty warm.

The warm buddy small beary is the cutest thing ever! This product is genius, especially for small children. You pair an adorable bear with a freezeable or microwavable pack, how can you go wrong?

(I received the bear in the middle)
I love this bear. He has such a sweet face and is so soft. The tag on him says that a small portion of the sales from Warm Buddy bears will be donated to allow bear rehabilitators to care for cubs in need. Warm Buddy Co. wants to help bears live free in their natural habitat.

Small Beary Bear stands 14". They are available in three color options: cream chocolate and black. These microwavable teddy bears come with a removable heat pack.

I know I am going to enjoy the bear and the body wrap, these are great products!

Giveaway Rules:
I will be picking 2 winners for this contest. One (1) winner to win a body wrap and one (1) winner to win a small cream beary.
1. YOU MUST DO THIS FIRST or all other entries will be DELETED! Please tell me why you would like to win this contest. (1 entry)

BONUS ENTRIES

2. Subscribe by Email and Confirm that Subscription (1 entry)

3. Subscribe to Sammi's Blog of Life in a Reader (1 entry)

4. Follow Me on Blogger (1 entry)

5. Follow ME on Twitter (www.twitter.com/pinkice88) (1 entry)

6. Leave a Tweet and the direct link to that tweet (1 entry) (You can do this daily)

7. FOR 5 EXTRA ENTRIES - Blog about this giveaway with a link to my blog and come back and leave the link to your blog post. Post FIVE separate comments that you've blogged about this.

9. Add my main button to your sidebar (if it's already there, let me know that! Leave link to your blog.) (1 entry)

9. Add Sammi's Blog of Life to your blogroll (using my URL), with a link back to me! (1 entry)

10. Follow me on Facebook for 1 entry.


Winner will be chosen on July 28, 2010 at 10 pm and then will be emailed.
One entry per day.
Alternate winner will be chosen if winner does not respond after 48 hours. Thank you and good luck!
Disclaimer-
I was provided a product in exchange for my review.
You can read more about my blog policies in my disclaimer.
Sammi's Blog Of Life Follows All New FTC & Facebook Laws for Reviews & Giveaways.
IF YOU DO NOT CORRECTLY ANSWER MY CONTEST QUESTION, YOUR COMMENT WILL BE IMMEDIATELY REJECTED.



ProFlowers.com Review

ProFlowers.com is an amazing website which offers gorgeous flowers of every color, type, and size under the sun. Not only that, they offer fabulous gift baskets that range from spa, food, fruit, and seasonal baskets (winter, summer, fall, spring)

I received a wonderful basket called the Ultimate Lavender Relaxation Basket:


This basket came packaged extremely well. It fit into the carton perfectly, and when I got it nothing had opened or leaked. The basket was in plastic wrap to protect it and had a pretty lavender bow to compliment the lavender theme of the basket. The individual items were either in pretty lavender boxes with a pretty bow, or in pretty bottles with lavender flowers on it. The basket is very nice itself and will be useful long after the products are gone. It is a nice light colored wicker and has a beige cloth inside to protect it.

What was in the basket, you ask?

* 2 Soap Squares
* Lavender Scented Bath Fizzer
* 8 oz Lavender Scented Bubble Bath
* 10 oz Lavender Scented Bath Salts
* 8.8 oz Lavender Scented Body Cream
* Wooden Body Massager
* Wooden Back Brush
* Lavender Bath Sponge
* Lavender Scented Bath Tea
* 17.2 oz Lavender Scented Bath Cream
* 12 oz Lavender Scented Shower Gel
* Spa Slippers
* 6pc Bath Fizzers
* Lavender Bath Mitt
* Item #41409

For centuries, lavender has been cultivated for its soothing and healing properties. Our Ultimate Lavender Relaxation offers a spa in a basket. With even more relaxing lavender scented products than our original and Deluxe Lavender Relaxation Baskets, it’s perfect for spoiling that special someone!


WOW, how could anyone not love this awesome basket? It provides the ultimate relaxation for anyone. It makes me want to take a bath right now! The lavender scent is present, but not overly prominent where it's too much to handle, like some lavender products are. This basket would be PERFECT to give as a gift, or to even keep for yourself to enjoy!

Please see other ProFlowers spa baskets here: http://www.proflowers.com/spa-baskets-spa


Wednesday, July 14, 2010

Newman's Own Organics Review

I'm a big snacker, and I love pretzels and chips. I've cut back on my snacking though in recent years because it's not healthy. I still love the occasional cookie and cracker though.

When UPS rang my doorbell and handed me a 14 lb (YES FOURTEEN POUNDS!) box filled with delicious goodies, I was shocked! I never expected them to send me this much food.

Check out the goods!


Before I talk about the products, let me tell you a little bit about the company.

Newman's Own Organics was established as a division of Newman’s Own in 1993, and became a separate company in late 2001. Paul Newman has given over $200 million to thousands of charities worldwide since 1982.

Now, back to our regularly scheduled drooling. Look at all of these yummy treats! Pretzels, chocolate bars, cookies, chips, dried fruits, and even some peanut butter and chicken flavored dog treats for Colby! I've had Newman's Hint-O-Mint cookies before and loved them. I am excited to get the opportunity to try more of the fabulous products featured in the Newman's line. I do like that these products are organic and more healthy than normal processed foods, but they are still not calorie and fat free and should be eaten in moderation.

I've only tried a few things so far, but I can tell you that the BBQ crisps are my favorite. They have such a great flavor, but are not too spicy like some BBQ flavors can be.

I am excited to not have to buy any snacks in the future, Newman's has me covered!



Covet Giveaway

COVET RESTAURANT & LOUNGE
Brings a Little Bit of St. Tropez to
Midtown Manhattan

137 E. 55th Street * 212-223-2829
www.covetlounge.com


Midtown Manhattan is embodied by glass and steel high-rise buildings, loud sirens, and a barrage of yellow taxi cabs cascading up and down Lexington Avenue. It’s hard for New Yorkers to imagine a sanctuary in the midst of all this commotion. Situated in the heart of Manhattan, Covet Restaurant & Lounge blends old world elegance and new world opulence where guests are easily transported the moment they walk through the door. The unassuming façade of Covet belies its impressive, bi-level interior. Presiding over this new chic upscale restaurant and lounge is the man behind Miami ’s nightlife resurgence, Eric Milon and entrepreneur Andre Hnatyszak. This powerhouse team has set a new standard of elegant dining with a world-class menu created by former Bruno Jamais Restaurant Executive Chef John Keller; and has redefined the New York City nightlife experience.


This bi-level venue is part restaurant and part nightclub. “Covet exudes St. Tropez and St. Barth’s glamour,” says Mr. Hnatyszak. “The mix in ambiance is designed for a well-heeled crowd attracting celebrities, models, politicians, foodies, the financial set and fashionistas. It’s where Gordon Gekko meets Devil Wears Prada." The upstairs restaurant can seat approximately 70 patrons and the downstairs nightclub can accommodate close to 300 people until 4am Monday through Saturday. Covet is also the ideal space for private events or parties of any size.

Inspired by the luxe, rustic elegance of the Alpine après ski lodges of St. Moritz , Covet effortlessly blends the best of both worlds: the sophistication and charm of uptown and ultra-sleek vibe of downtown. Covet's main dining room features large Zeppelin chandeliers while the walls are adorned with colorful oil paintings by renowned artist Robert Lambert. Downstairs, haute Alpine coziness is combined with all the amenities New York City chic has to offer, and this is done through the harmonious pairing of distressed wood with embossed "croc-skin" paneling, and chrome accents.

If you are seeking a bevy of young beauties and deep-pocketed bankers, Covet is the perfect after work destination for New Yorkers. The unique and eclectic atmosphere at this Midtown lounge makes it the place to be seen. Its prime location in New York 's business center is one of Covet’s biggest draws as well as the swanky ambiance, world-class DJs, plush couches and exotic drink specials.


Guests’ palettes will be stimulated with a menu of eclectic Asian-Mediterranean cuisine, featuring signature dishes such as Hamachi Duo, Lobster Brulee, and Wild Boar Tenderloin. Famed mixologist Orson Salicetti has created a menu of concoctions at Covet that incorporates sensual ingredients that embody the venue's sophisticated elegance. Offering excess in a glass, Salicetti is shaking things up with the $160 cocktail: The Icarus - includes Louis XIII cognac, which retails for $1,600 a bottle – exclusively at Covet.

Hidden below the main floor, Covet's intimate cocktail lounge stays true to its elegant upscale vibe. The lounge features sounds by resident DJ Evalicious, the famed '90s French-Canadian model discovered by designer Jean-Paul Gaultier. Spinning an eclectic mix of musical genres ranging from electronic pop to indie mashups, her music style stays true to Covet's international influence. For those seeking a little discretion and a retreat from the high-energy crowd, guests can escape into one of the many roped-off enclaves that populate the space.

COVET SAMPLE MENU

Starters

Hamachi Duo
Tartar with wasabi tobiko/ lemongrass-ginger oil
Sashimi with ponzu/ Serrano pepper
$19
Lobster Brulee
Mushroom duxelle/ red chili aioli / chives
$21

Entrees


Black Cod
Gingered edamame puree / baby zucchini and patty pan compote
$26
Grilled Hamachi Steak
Yuzu- Dashi / baby bok choy/ enoki mushrooms
$30
Wild Boar Tenderloin
Agave- Wasabi mustard/ green apple- leek confit/ fingerling sweet potato
$32

Sides


Persian Kale/ Mushroom Fricasse/ Roasted sweet potato fingerlings/ Shanghai Tips/ Asparagus
$7

COVET SIGNATURE COCKTAILS

Shaman
Hungarian Paprika / Pineapple Mezcal / Himalayan Salt Rim with Spices
$18
Her Martini
Premium Vodka / Extract Ginger / Aphrodisiac Tea / Covet Sour / Hibiscus Bitters
$19
His Martini
Single Malt Scotch / Black Cardamom Essence / Red Lillet / Fresh Mint / Aphrodisiac Bitters
$19
Cupid
Grain of Paradise Infused Vodka / Aperol Cooked Strawberries / Rosemary Essence
$24Icarus
House Essence Flambé / Premium Saffron / Louis XIII / Hand Chiseled Ice
$160

About Covet Restaurant & Lounge
Eric Milon and Andre Hnatyszak introduce you to their vision of an elegant evening destination reminiscent of European class blended with New York City sophistication. Covet is comprised of a street level restaurant and a hidden lounge below. The dining room features large Zeppelin chandeliers by designer Marcel Wanders while the walls are adorned with colorful oil paintings by renowned artist Robert Lambert. Tucked a floor below the restaurant, Covet’s intimate cocktail lounge provides guests with impeccable hospitality in an atmosphere that exudes timeless luxury.

Mr. Milon’s previous venues include South Beach ’s The Strand, Prive, The Living Room, Set, all of which have been favorites of Hollywood ’s A-list stars including Cameron Diaz, Jennifer Lopez, Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears.

Covet is located at 137 E. 55th Street in New York City . The restaurant seats 66 guests and serves dinner Monday through Saturday beginning at 5:30PM. Prices range from $11 - $35 per dish. The full service bar and lounge holds nearly 300 guests and is open until 4AM. Please call 212-223-2829 for dinner reservations.




Main entry: (A must!) Just leave a comment with email on this post to be entered to win. Feel free to share... would you use this $50 gift certificate or pass it along to a friend? Are you planning a trip or are you a local?
CONTEST ENDS JULY 25TH AT 10 PM.

Good luck!



Tuesday, July 13, 2010

Executive Gift Shoppe Review and Giveaway

It can be hard to keep your desk or workspace clean and organized at work. It's much easier to just have a drawer full of paper clips, binder clips, and other various office supplies at the ready. When you have all those things in a drawer, it can be very easy to get messy and disorganized.

Who exactly is ExecutiveGiftShoppe?
Executive Gift Shoppe started as a small personalized gift store in Nanuet, NY in 1999 catering to the wedding & corporate gift industry. We built our reputation by providing unique, engraved & personalized gifts at affordable prices. Over the years, we have added thousands of new products, may personalized and many that aren't. One thing that hasn't changed is our commitment to quality and, more importantly, our commitment to customer service.

I had the chance to review the Revolving Rosewood Finish Desktop Organizer which I gave to my boyfriend for his desk at work. He thought it was great! This is a great organizer which conveniently revolves to store anything you want in little sections. Paperclips, tacks, binder clips, staples? Yep, it holds it! It even has a place at the top for your cell phone. It is attractive looking too.


Here are the specs for it from the website.
Our revolving desktop stationary holder is your all-in-one desktop storage device. It features a center mobile phone holder surrounded by compartments for every small accessory on your desk. There are pen cups, memo pad holders, tack trays and paper clip trays. You'll never feel disorganized again! Add our free engraving for a great gift. This handsome desk organizer comes packaged in a white gift box.


I'm sure that this organizer will help keep my boyfriend feeling organized and confident at work.

If you do win my contest, please consider choosing one of these two items as prizes:
Business Card Holders
Liquor Flasks




Giveaway Rules:
I will be picking 1 (1) winner to win an item of their choosing from ExecutiveGiftShoppe.com up to $50 excluding the gift baskets. (Free engraving is included if desired.)
1. YOU MUST DO THIS FIRST or all other entries will be DELETED! Please tell me what you would choose if you won. (1 entry)

BONUS ENTRIES

2. Subscribe by Email and Confirm that Subscription (1 entry)

3. Subscribe to Sammi's Blog of Life in a Reader (1 entry)

4. Follow Me on Blogger (1 entry)

5. Follow ME on Twitter (www.twitter.com/pinkice88) (1 entry)

6. Leave a Tweet and the direct link to that tweet (1 entry) (You can do this daily)

7. FOR 5 EXTRA ENTRIES - Blog about this giveaway with a link to my blog and come back and leave the link to your blog post. Post FIVE separate comments that you've blogged about this.

9. Add my main button to your sidebar (if it's already there, let me know that! Leave link to your blog.) (1 entry)

9. Add Sammi's Blog of Life to your blogroll (using my URL), with a link back to me! (1 entry)

10. Follow me on Facebook for 1 entry.


Winner will be chosen on July 23, 2010 at 10 pm and then will be emailed.
One entry per day.
Alternate winner will be chosen if winner does not respond after 48 hours. Thank you and good luck!
Disclaimer-
I was provided a product in exchange for my review.
You can read more about my blog policies in my disclaimer.
Sammi's Blog Of Life Follows All New FTC & Facebook Laws for Reviews & Giveaways.
IF YOU DO NOT CORRECTLY ANSWER MY CONTEST QUESTION, YOUR COMMENT WILL BE IMMEDIATELY REJECTED.


Sweet E's Review

I have a huge sweet tooth and love anything sweet, especially chocolate!
I was recently watching an episode of Cupcake Wars on the Food Network and saw the work of Sweet E's bakeshop featured on there. The cupcakes looked delicious, and I knew I had to ask to review them!

Lo and behold, I get to review three delicious cake pops!

Sweet E's is a bakeshop based out of Los Angeles, California but you can order the treats online too. This bakery offers brownies, cookies custom creations, cakes and more! They offer something unique called "Cake Pops." These pops are so cute and very unique! They are delicious mini cakes on a stick that are dipped in chocolate and beautifully hand decorated.

The pops that I received were: chocolate chip cookie dough, red velvet cake, and vanilla white chocolate.

Here are some pictures of them, get ready to drool!!








Here's an example of Sweet E's personal customization. Anything you want can be written on your cakes, cookies, etc. An S (for Sammi) was put on my pop. How cute is that? :)



These pops are just beautiful! They come wrapped very nicely in a white box with a pink bow. Each pop is individually wrapped and can be stored up to 2 weeks without needing to be kept in the fridge. I think that's great because it won't go bad if you don't finish it right away. I know I would eat the whole thing immediately! I tried the chocolate chip cookie dough flavor and it was AMAZING. The chocolate flavor is very prominent, but not overly sweet. I also loved the cookie dough pieces too! Eating these pops reminds me of eating a candy apple, the pop is the same size as the apple and they are both on a stick. I think these are great for on the go, and you don't even have to worry about needing a plate either! I know I will be sad when these are gone!

You can purchase Sweet E's treats at www.sweetesbakeshop.com