Kicking the Boob Toob to the Curb

I have to admit that I write this post with a certain degree of sadness. After talking it over with my husband, we have decided to no longer watch television. I'm sure some of you are thinking, "WHAT!?! Are you crazy?." And maybe to a certain degree we are. Merriam-Webster defines crazy as "unusual or out of the ordinary," and in that sense, I suppose we are a little bit crazy.

It's not a decision we came to overnight. We've talked about what standards we wanted to have as a family when it came to our viewing habits. We decided we wanted to be careful about what we allowed to influence the way we think, act, or behave. Think about it, if some stranger came into your house and started swearing at your children, would you invite them to come back over the next day? Probably not. If someone came over to your house and started making out in front of your spouse, would you feel comfortable?

Now, I'm not some crazy prude. I like TV. To be honest, I like it a lot. I just wish there were more family-friendly shows worth watching. Even if the shows themselves are decent, sometimes the advertising in between the shows is not so kosher. Some of my favorite shows include "The Office" and "Community" but if I'm honest with myself, sometimes the content, even though it's hilarious, is not entirely appropriate for me to watch as a woman who claims to have a relationship with Jesus Christ. I definitely wouldn't feel comfortable watching episodes at my church or with my ladies Bible study group. I suppose my personal conviction is that if I couldn't in good conscience show it at church, then I probably don't need to make a habit of watching it at home. I set the example for my child. If I want him to take faith seriously, he needs to see consistency in my standards both at home and at church.

I guess the biggest thing we discussed as a family is that the worldview, attitudes, and philosophies subtly communicated in much of the media, have a way of working their way into the way we view life. We don't want our son growing up thinking that certain behaviors are acceptable simply because that's what they are fed by characters on television. I'm not saying that people can't watch with discernment, as adults we certainly can and should. But for children, the message is sneaky. No one says "You should be disrespectful to your parents and authority," but create a show where the parents are portrayed as idiots and going behind a teacher's back is glamorous, and the message is communicated just as clearly.

I'm not saying all TV is evil. I'm not saying that in order to be a good Christian you need to toss out your TV. I'm just sharing the personal convictions of my family at this point in our lives. Philippians 4:8 says "Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is noble, whatever is right, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is admirable—if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things." I think you could substitute "watch" for the word "think" in that verse, because what we watch has the power to influence what we think about. If a program meets those qualifications, I don't have a problem in the world with watching it. My family just doesn't see the sense in devoting so much of our time/budget when there are so few programs that meet that criteria. So, as of 8/29, our cable service will be discontinued.

Cons of Giving up TV

• No more "vegging" out on the couch. (Which face it, after a whole day of watching a kid, is a nice respite)
• I may not be able to gab about the latest TV scandal, or share inside jokes about certain programs.
• My house is going to be REALLY quiet during the day when I'm home by myself. I usually have the television on all day long simply to have some background noise and to help break up the monotony of the day.
• I do think I'll miss the whole entertainment factor, because face it - watching TV can be fun. 

Pros of Giving up TV

• We'll save $840 a year. Over five years that adds  up to $4200. We can pay for a lot of fun family movies, games, and activities with that much money.
• We'll read more.
• We'll talk more.
• I can still break up the silence of the day by listening to Christian radio.
• I'll probably be more productive.
• I'll be able to devote my full attention to my son.
• I can listen to a bazillion and four different podcasts and actually LEARN something useful with my time.
• I can still stay up-to-date on what's happening through the newspaper and internet.
• I think if I fill my mind with positive, Christ-affirming content that my relationship with God will be encouraged to grow. 
• I can still watch fun shows I enjoy like "The Cosby Show" by getting them on DVD. 
• It'll be much easier to make this decision now before my son (who is one) is old enough to know what we're doing. I think it would be much harder to tell a ten-year-old that the TV is now gone. I don't want him vegging out in front of the TV. I want him to read, to play, and to be protected from negative influences until he's old enough to discern the truth from the lie.

I'm not saying that this decision is for everyone, or even that it's going to be easy; but to be honest, as much as I'm going to miss it, I do think it's for the best.  It's certainly going to take some time to adjust to. As it is right now, I turn on the television right after I wake up and I turn it off right before I go to bed. I think if I can make it through the withdrawals I'll be ok - in fact, I'm fairly confident I'll be the better for it.

The Aedyn Chronicles - Chosen Ones : Book Review

While investigating a mysterious silver glow in an ancient garden, Peter and Julia are magically transported from their grandparent's Oxford home to a strange new world. Aedyn is a beautiful and mysterious paradise ruled by three tyrannical Lords. Believing they have come to fulfill and ancient prophesy, Julia and Peter are heralded as the "chosen ones." Faced with a mission to rescue those enslaved by the evil kings, Peter and Julia must discover if they have what it takes to restore the land of Aedyn to its rightful ruler.

I read a few of Alister McGrath's academic theological works when I was doing my undergraduate studies. I wasn't sure if he would be able to communicate on a young adult level (primarily because this guy is brilliant), but he exceeded my expectations. I really appreciate that he didn't dumb down these books. They are very well written and use excellent vocabulary words. The story is age appropriate for the younger tween/teen crowd, but engaging enough to keep my attention as well.

The books is beautifully illustrated - every so often there is a black and white sketched illustration to accompany the story.

Chosen Ones certainly has a Narnia-esque quality to it. If you are a fan of C.S. Lewis and the Chronicles of Narnia series, I'm sure you will also enjoy the Aedyn Chronicles by Alister McGrath.




I received a complimentary copy of the book from Zondervan to facilitate my review. The opinions expressed are my own honest thoughts of the product.

Giveaways ending soon!

Don't forget!!

The Coriollis Flat Iron from Misikko ends tonight at midnight!!

Check out the right hand side of the blog for other giveaways ending in the next few days, including the Brugo Mug and Biggest Loser Dumbells!

Good luck!

Want some free Swag?

I have been seeing Swag Bucks promos all over the place lately. I never really understood what it was until recently. Had I known about it, I definitely would have signed up earlier!! Essentially with Swag Bucks you earn "swag bucks" through your normal internet activities (browsing the web, taking a poll, etc.). There are also tons of promo codes that you can use to get free swag bucks.

You can then redeem your bucks for gift cards or for entries into sweepstakes. I just entered a sweepstakes for an iPod touch. For 450 swag bucks you can get a $5 Amazon e-giftcard. In my first 15 minutes after signing up, I was already at 40 bucks.

It's a great way to get some neat prizes without a lot of effort! Click on the banner below to try them out!

And the winner is . . .

The winner of the Body Gospel DVD program is . . .

#20 Connie Black Says:

July 6, 2010 5:43 PM

Daily tweet:
http://twitter.com/97hockeymom/status/17908266261

Congratulations Connie, I will be e-mailing you shortly! You will have 48 hours to respond to the winning e-mail or an alternate winner will be selected!

Giveaways Ending Soon!

There are some fantastic giveaways ending soon! Have you entered?

• Body Gospel  an $80 value! ** FEWER THAN 100 ENTRIES!!** Ends 7/23
• Misikko's Corioliss Flat Iron Ends 7/26
• Brugo Mug Ends 7/28 **LOW ENTRIES**
• Biggest Loser Wii Dumbells Ends 7/29 **LOW ENTRIES**

 

S'more please.

When is your family's favorite time to enjoy S'mores?
A. During a Backyard Campout
B. Inside on a Rainy Day
C. After School
D. During a Backyard Barbeque
E. Just Because

I would have to say that I like S'mores just because. Back in college I learned how to make these little goodies in my microwave. Now I can have S'mores whenever I feel like it! That can be a dangerous thing, because they are ooooh soo good. Check out what other people think of this tasty summer treat at www.SmoresSmiles.com!



I am entering a contest for a S’mores prize pack as a member of the Mom Bloggers Club.

Upcoming CSN Stores Review.

I love shopping online. I'm a big comparison shopper, so I love the ability to search the web for great deals and bargains. I literally spent hours the other day looking at all of the stuff on the CSN site. There are thousands upon thousands of items for your home and family, everything from dining room furniture to kitchen islands.

It really is one stop shopping. I had such a hard time deciding what item to review. There was so much to choose from!

After much deliberation and switching back in forth between a few items, I've decided on the Radio Flyer Wagon ($95.99). A friend of mine had one at a fourth of July picnic. They seem so neat. I know my little one would love going for a ride.

Keep your eyes posted for a review in the coming weeks. In the meantime, check out CSN stores and see what they have to offer.

Playing with the Toilet Brush

My little boy follows me everywhere and I mean EVERYWHERE -including the bathroom. While in this porcelain palace, he inevitably finds something dirty and disgusting that he wants to put in his mouth. Today's disgusting find: the toilet brush. Now before you think I'm some horrible mother, I never let him play with these things. The second he heads that direction I pick him up, relocate him, and try to distract him with more sanitary play choices. He always gets mad. After all, how dare I take away the one thing he wants to play with.

That got me to thinking. I treat God the same way sometimes. He points out an area of my life, which to be completely honest can be just as disgusting as that toilet brush, and He says I'm not to play with it any more. I often react in the same way my son does.

"But God, it looks like fun! Don't you see the bright colors and interesting textures. See how it fits perfectly in the palm of my hand."

But what I can't see are the hidden dangers. The germs and bacteria that can work their way in and make me sick. God, like any good parent, doesn't want his child playing with things that can harm them. The problem is that most of the time we "adults" are unable to see the danger. Instead, we get upset that God wants to take away our toilet brush.

But I'm learning that it's always for our good. There are always other, more sanitary choices. God is not a cosmic killjoy. If He tells us not to do something or convicts us when we do wrong, it's not so we can wallow in guilt and shame. It's so we can learn. So that we can be safe from unseen dangers that can harm us.

So, today I am going to put down the ole toilet brush (which in these last weeks has included having a rotten attitude and using my time very poorly). But, like my son, I'm sure I will see their allure tomorrow. Thankfully, my Father will be right there waiting to point me in the right direction.

Ten Tips for Ensuring a Healthy, Safe and Successful School Year

It will be several more years before my little one heads off to school, but it's never too early to start thinking about things I can do to help ensure that the school year is healthy, safe, and successful.

1. Don't be afraid of early bed times. The vast majority of kids are not getting enough sleep which results in behavioral problems and poor performance in school.
2. Talk on a regular basis with your child about how things are going. Keeping the lines of communication open is so important - especially as kids reach those scary jr. high years.
3. Don't skip breakfast. Help your kids prepare for a busy school day by starting the day with a filling, fresh breakfast. 
4. Pack healthy, nutritious lunches. (While you're at it, don't forget to eat healthy yourself!)
5. Stay involved in your child's school. Be aware of what is going on in your child's class and be involved whenever possible.
6. Get the annual physical. Make sure the kiddos are up to date on all the required vaccinations.
7. Make a trip to the eye doctor to make sure your child can read without eye strain.
8. Throw a back to school bash to get the kids excited about the new year. 
9. Check that their backpack fits properly. If your child will be carrying a lot of heavy books on a regular basis, consider a backpack with wheels.
10. Get to know your child's teacher. Stay informed about areas where they are struggling and provide extra help where needed through tutors, one-on-one mentoring, and good old fashioned encouragement. 

“I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Airwear blogging program, making me eligible to get a $25 gift card. For more information on how you can participate, visit http://airwear.twittermoms.com/about.

And the winners are . . .

The winner of the Pampered Chef giveaway was Lynda Thorn. Congratulations Lynda! I'll be sending you an e-mail shortly.

The Winner of the Powermat giveaway is comment #128 - Connie Black.

Congratulations ladies!

WNBA Ticket Discount

I have to admit that I never watched sports very often before I got married. I couldn't tell you how many people played on a basketball team, or what the different referee hand gestures meant. I've learned a lot over the last four years.

Although I've never attended a WNBA game, I thought some of you might be interested to know about a special ticket discount offer through the One2One network. Just enter WNBABLOG at the Ticketmaster website to receive your special offer.

Some tickets are up to 60% off and are good through the end of the regular season (August 22)

You can check out these great teams:  Atlanta Dream, Chicago Sky, Connecticut Sun, Indiana Fever, LA Sparks, Minnesota Lynx, NY Liberty, Phoenix Mercury, San Antonio Silver Stars, Seattle Storm, Tulsa Shock, Washington Mystics.

Feel free to pass this offer along to friends and family who might enjoy attending a WNBA game!



I wrote the post in cooperation with the One2One network for a chance to win a $50 giftcard.

Tommee Tippee Review and Discount!

We've all been there. You fill up your child's bowl with his/her favorite cereal. You turn your back for a second and CRASH. The cereal bowl has landed unceremoniously on the floor. Its contents scattered from here to eternity. That is why I love the Explora Easi-mat and tableware from Tommee Tippee.

I recently took my son to a restaurant. I plopped the Easi-mat on the table and attached his bowl to the suction cup. My son ate away, not once knocking or dumping his bowl. I also attached some plastic bowls I already owned to the mat and they too stayed firmly in place. When you're ready to remove the plate or bowl you simply pull on the tab and the tableware comes off easily. The mat did not slip or move at all. I rate it 5 out of 5.

I also tried the Weaning Bowls and Lid with Spoon. I love the Lid with the Spoon. The spoon fits perfectly into the nook on the lid and a protective cover keeps the spoon from getting dirty, allowing you to toss the bowl into your diaper bag or purse when you're on the go. The bowls seem durable and work perfectly with the Easi-mat. I had a little trouble attaching the lid to the bowl at first. It took me a little while to ensure I had it on completely, but once attached it seemed secure. They are BPA and Phthalate free. They are dishwasher, freezer, and microwave safe. I give the Weaning Bowls 4 out of 5.

He's still a little young for the Explora water bottle cup. The beginning age recommendation for these is 18 months. I do like the dura-spout and the fact that it is dishwasher safe.It is a good size for juice or water on the go. It is spill-proof and the colors are bright and cheerful.

You can find these items and more at your local Babies "R" Us or Toys "R" Us store or online at BabiesRUs.com.

**Now through July 23:  Buy any Explora item (cups and toddler feeding),

get the second 50% off at BabiesRUs.com (http://bit.ly/cDYhv8)**

I received complimentary products from Tommee Tippee to facilitate my review. 

I'm participating in a blog review tour through the Mom Bloggers Club.

Boon Flo - Review

My son loves bath time and so I was excited to try the Flo water deflector and protective faucet cover from Boon. The Flo creates a gentle flow of water, much like a waterfall, perfect for rinsing soapy little heads and bodies. I also love that it protects kids from bumping or scratching their heads on the metal faucet, while still allowing access to the shower diverter.


The Flo also features a bubble bath dispenser. Parents can fill up the reservoir with bubble bath and a child can push a button to dispense the bubble bath into the stream of water. It's not intended to store bubble bath, so only put in the amount you expect your child to use for that one bath.

The Flo was super easy to install. You simply slip the cover over your faucet, making sure the front of the faucet lines up with the little flap underneath. It fits standard size faucets. There is even a cutout on top to allow for the shower pull nob.  

I give it 4/5. The only thing I disliked about it was that it was very easy to remove (this can be a pro if you need to take it off on a regular basis). It definitely won't fall off. It just takes a simple tug to remove it - something my little boy could do without much trouble.

All in all, I think it's a great bath time accessory. It helps keep little heads safe from bumps, makes it easier to rinse hair, and I love the bubble bath feature.

The Flo retails for $14.99.  

Boon products are available at a variety of stores including Babies R' Us, Target, and Amazon.

Want to learn more about Boon's great products? You can check out their Boon News blog, Twitter, and Facebook fan page.




I received a complimentary sample from Boon to facilitate my review. The opinions expressed are my honest thoughts of the product.

Same Kind of Different as Me - Book Review

You would think that a rich art dealer and a poor homeless man would have little in common, certainly not enough to build a lifelong friendship. What these men shared was a relationship with a woman willing to "fight the good fight." Deborah Hall's decision to serve the homeless of Fort Worth had eternal implications, especially in the life of her husband Ron and in Denver Moore, a poor sharecropper from Louisiana.

I grew up in Fort Worth, so I easily recognized the parts of town the author describes. I've driven down East Lancaster and have come across the homeless while walking around downtown. It always helps the story come to life even more when I have walked where the individuals have walked. I certainly don't view the homeless the same way I did before.

I thoroughly enjoyed this true tale. It was encouraging and uplifting to be reminded of the difference one person can make when they allow themselves to be used by God to love the unlovables. I'm definitely guilty of overlooking the homeless in our community. It's easy to judge, but hard to love the way that Christ would. Both Ron and Denver admit that we will never solve the problem of homelessness in America, but individuals can make a significant difference in the lives of the homeless by taking the time to know and love them.

The book challenged and encouraged me to love the way Christ loved - regardless of socio-economic issues. After all, as Denver said,"we're all the same kind of different."



I received a complimentary copy of the book to facilitate my review. I was not obligated to give a positive review.

The Eden Diet - Book Review

I have to be honest here. Part of what drew me to this book was the delicious picture of chocolate cake on the cover. I love chocolate cake. I love anything chocolate, (well almost anything - I tried chocolate covered squid jerky one time . . .that was not so good). This is why the thought of being on a diet for the rest of my life makes me angry. I don't think it's fair to give up the "good stuff" all in an attempt to fit into a smaller pant size. Of course, I also get frustrated when I don't fit into the smaller pant size. It's a no win situation. 

Author Rita Hancock proposes that it's possible to have your cake and eat it too. Her only stipulation: You can only eat when you're hungry and you stop the moment you start to feel full. It's common sense stuff, but it is harder than you think. Hancock has an ivy league education in nutrition and is a medical doctor specializing in pain management. Her theory is that God gave us hunger pangs for a reason: to let us know when we're supposed to eat. She says that many people are overweight because they are eating according to the clock or for emotional reasons rather than because they are actually hungry. She believes that if we listened to our body's internal hunger cues we would be able to eat fattening foods (in small quantities of course) and still lose weight. 

It definitely is a liberating "diet." If I have a craving for some cookies all I have to do is wait until I am actually hungry and then I can eat one without any guilt or shame. No food is forbidden. She claims that every food was created by God to be enjoyed, we just need to exercise self-control and stop eating at the first sign of fullness. No gluttony allowed. We also need to discern the difference between true hunger and emotional hunger. She offers a few tips on how to tell the difference.

Although I like the premise (and believe it could work), I have found that it's a little bit difficult to adjust to in real life. I'm a mom. I fix family lunches and dinners at a certain time. Hancock would say that if I'm not feeling physically hungry at dinner time then I'm not supposed to eat. It's really hard to prepare a meal and just sit at a table covered in food and watch everyone else eat. She says there are ways to adjust your food intake so that your hunger coincides with meal times. It definitely takes a good measure of self-discipline, but I think this is a lifestyle change that can bring about good, sustainable results. The author claims that this method has allowed her to keep her weight off for twenty-five years.

If you're tired of counting calories, keeping up with points, and mourning the loss of your favorite goodies, you might give this book a try.

I received a complimentary copy of the book to facilitate my review. I was not obligated to give a positive endorsement.

On the road again

The fam and I will be packing up in a few short hours to head to the mountains. I haven't started packing yet . . . not a good sign. But I'm super excited about the trip. A couple days in the mountains always recharges my batteries. Add in family and friends and I'm looking forward to a few peaceful days of rest and relaxation. 

That being said, don't expect any earth-shattering, life-changing posts while I'm gone. There will be no TV and no internet at our destination - which means no blog either. I'll post my Total Transformation update when I get home in a few days (I forgot to post last week's, so this one will be double duty).

Keep entering those giveaways! There are some great ones going right now, including a super nice flat iron, a Pampered Chef Batter Bowl (my personal fave, but I'm a little biased there), a nice exercise program, and more!

See you again soon!

Ben's Journey

I recently bought a Canon Rebel t1i DSLR camera. Ben and I went outside to try out the photo and video abilities.

Sakar/Biggest Loser Wii Accessories Review and Giveaway

I got a Wii Fit last year for my birthday, and I have loved it. It makes exercising seem more like a game than a workout. One of my favorite exercise games has been the EA Active Personal trainer. It implements a resistance band to provide a weight training addition. Maybe I'm just uncoordinated, but I often found it uncomfortable to correctly hold the wii remote and the resistance band at the same time. Which is why I just love the Wii dumbbell set from Sakar and the Biggest Loser.

Simply insert the Wii remotes into the special cavity, and you are ready to go. I tried the 2 lb set. They are comfortable to use and a great addition to my workout program. I can get weight training benefits without a cumbersome band.

I probably would prefer something a little bit heavier than the two lb weight, but I simply increase the number of reps that I do to compensate for the difference. These would be great for beginners or those not interested in heavy-duty lifting. It provides just a little extra resistance to help you reach your fitness goals. These would be great for Wii circuit training routines

My favorite part is that I don't have to struggle to hold the remote and the band at the same time. It certainly makes it easier to work out with the Wii. These dumbbells are compatible with the workouts in EA Active Personal Trainer, the Biggest Loser, and Wii Fit.

You have a chance to win a set of Wii Biggest Loser Dumbbells from Sakar!

Mandatory Entry:
Visit Sakar and tell me another product you love.

Extra Entries:

• Follow Sakar on Twitter.
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Giveaway open to US and Canada, 18+. Entries close on July 29, 2010 at 11:59 PM (MST)  Winner selected via Random.org. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to winning notification or an alternate winner will be selected. E-mail address must be visible in comment or in public profile. All winning comments will be verified.



I received a complimentary product to facilitate my review. The opinions expressed are my honest thoughts concerning the product.

How are you better than ever?

Five years ago I was a college student who wasn't quite sure what the future had in store. I certainly never imagined I'd be where I am today. Sure, I always dreamed of getting married and starting a family, but it's neat to see how all of the little pieces fit together. It just keeps getting better.

I used to feel like there was no real way I could make a difference. Now, through the power of the Internet (and blogging in particular), I've discovered that I have a voice to communicate with hundreds of people around the world.

I used to think that I needed people to admire me in order to have self-worth. I've learned that I have worth because of who I am (and Who's I am), not because of what I do.

I used to imagine what it would be like to be a wife and mother, and although it definitely has its challenging moments, it just keeps getting better.

Even though my life is not perfect, I have learned that attitude is everything. When you have the right perspective it's possible to see the bright side in even the darkest of circumstances.

Things are better than ever because of the friends and family in my life that make each day a new adventure.

Dove gofresh is hosting a photo contest. You can share what's "better than ever" on their facebook fan page and be entered for a chance to win a spa weekend getaway in Sedona, Arizona and thousands of dollars of prize packages from the folks at Dove.

You can also join this discussion on TwitterMoms and share how your life keeps getting better. 




“I wrote this blog post while participating in the TwitterMoms and Dove® gofresh™ blogging program, making me eligible to get a $25 gift card and some product. For more information on how you can participate, click here.”

ProFlowers Ghiradelli Chocolate Birthday Basket Review

If diamonds are a girl's best friend, then chocolate is her lover. I have a serious sweet tooth. Despite my attempts to quell my cravings, I inevitably come back for more. So imagine my absolute delight when I opened my door today and received a big basket full of chocolatey goodness from ProFlowers.

It may not be a good idea to send chocolate in the mail in the middle of the summertime, especially if you live near the desert, like I do. Unfortunately, all my chocolate was melted when it arrived at my house, but a quick stay in the refrigerator restored the chocolate to a more solid condition. And lets face it - Ghiradelli chocolate is delicious even in its melted state.

The basket was beautifully packaged and contained:

• 6 Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate Squares with Mint Filling
• 2 Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate Squares with Caramel Filling
• 3 Ghirardelli Dark Chocolate Squares
• A beautiful, large, Red Coffee Mug
• 3 (.85 oz.) Ghirardelli Double Chocolate Hot Chocolate
• 5.25 oz bag of Dark Chocolate Squares

The Dark Chocolate Mint squares are my absolute favorites. I may or may not share. We'll see.

ProFlowers offers a wide assortment of gourmet birthday gift baskets, flowers, and plants for all sorts of occasions. It certainly brightened my day to receive it.  Next time you're looking for a gift for a friend, check them out. There's something for everyone on your list.

I received a complimentary basket to facilitate my review. 

The opinions expressed are my own honest thoughts of the product.

Brugo Mug Review and Giveaway

I've admitted before how much I enjoy hot tea. I do NOT enjoy getting scalded by a steamy sip. The Brugo mug provides a way to enjoy the freshness of hot drinks without fear of being burned. It allows a portion of your drink to cool to a more comfortable drinking temperature, while keeping the rest of your drink hot.

Essentially, the mug works by siphoning off a small portion of liquid into a special chamber where it cools before you sip it. In order for this cooling chamber to work, you must tip the mug to allow the liquid to flow into the chamber. You can then turn the cup upright and sip. This process must be repeated every time you want a cooled off sip. You also have the option of using the mug as a normal insulated cup. Simply adjust the dial to "sip" and go right ahead and enjoy your piping hot drink.

I think it's a novel idea. I certainly had never seen anything like it before. I'm not sure how much I'll use the cooling chamber. I guess I'm just a little too impatient to tip then sip (what does that say about me as a person?). But for those who want to enjoy a hot beverage right away, the Brugo mug may be your solution. I do like that it keeps the rest of your drink hot. There's nothing worse than a tepid cup.

Here are some of the cup's features:

• Patented 2 oz/25 ml Temperature Control Chamber giving you sip by sip satisfaction at the perfect temperature
• Double-wall insulation
• 3-position drink mode selector -  "Lock, Sip, Tip & Cool" - allowing you perfect taste and temperature control whether you need a bolt of caffeine or prefer to linger over your coffee ritual
• 16oz / 450ml capacity cup size - a large cup
• Non-slip bottom keeping your coffee where you put it
• Ergonomic grip for maximum comfort
• 13 stylish colors
• Stainless Steel and Chrome accents
• Fits all cup holders

A luck winner will receive a Brugo Mug ($19.95). 

Mandatory Entry (must be completed in order for extra entries to be counted)
Visit Brugo and tell me which color is your favorite.

Extra Entries:

• Follow Brugo on Twitter.  
• "Like" Brugo Mug on Facebook. 
• Follow Mommy's Minute on Google Friend Connect
• Subscribe by e-mail or RSS Feed (righthand sidebar)
• Follow Mommy's Minute on Twitter and leave your twitter id.
• "Like" Mommy's Minute on Facebook.
• Share this giveaway on Facebook (daily entry).
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•  I entered to win a Brugo mug from @Brugomug and Mommy's Minute ($20 ARV) http://bit.ly/9MMzUS.

Open to US, 18+ Giveaway ends July 28, 2010 at 11:59 (MST). The winning comment number will be selected by Random.org. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to e-mail or an alternate winner will be selected. Please make sure your e-mail address is visible in your comment or profile. Winning comments will be verified!



I received a complimentary mug to facilitate my review. Opinions expressed are my own thoughts of the product. Images are taken with permission from the Brugo Mug website.

I need some blogger intervention

I am a notorious "do-it-yourself" type of girl, but this tech stuff is giving me a serious headache. Here's my goal: Switch from Blogger to Wordpress and then point to my new domain which is hosted by Fat Cow.

I have tried unsuccessfully for hours. I have a headache. I'm just about ready to quit, but I've already bought my web hosting package and domain name. Can anyone help me? I know how to export my blogger blog to wordpress. I'm having the most trouble linking up my wordpress blog with my domain hosting whatchamacalit.

Does anyone have a helpful tutorial for making this process easier. I'm already in over my head. I think I could happily go a week without reading one more line about DNS name servers and FTP what not.

Brain meltdown eminent.

And the winners are . . . .

I can think of no better way to wrap up a holiday weekend than awarding some great prizes!!
The winner of the SodaStream Fountain Jet is . . .

Carrie55 Says:

I 'like' sodastream on Facebook
Carrie I B

The winner of the Bodycology giveaway is . . . .

Comment #54 is Susie B. Homemaker.

I have contacted the winners. They have 48 hours to respond to the winning e-mail.


**The SodaStream giveaway was our biggest one yet. There were 365 entries into the contest. For those of you not familiar with Blogger, the comment numbers only go to 200 and then they start counting back at one. You can tell the difference between #55 and #255 by checking the comment range link at the top of the comments (ex. 1-200 or 201-365). I just thought I'd clarify that here so there wouldn't be any confusion. I do plan on making a switch to wordpress in the near future - this should eliminate any numbering problems.

My Life as a Roman Candle

My husband and I sat out on the front yard last night and watched a bunch of young guys shoot off fireworks in the field across from our home. It was quite the show. Half the time they were trying to shoot each other with the fireworks (I'm sure their mothers would be quite proud), but in the midst of the booms and grandeur I had an epiphany.

I realized that I am a lot like a Roman Candle.

I'm all fire and energy, a vast array of different colors streaking across the sky in a blaze of glory, but before long I burn out, and you are left with an empty vessel. I quickly jump from project to project my own little balls of light, always excited about the next "thing," but instead of focusing my energy on one grand multi-colored display, I quickly pop and move on to something different.


I wish I was more like the wick of a candle. A slow, steady burn that provides light and fragrance to a room. I'm working on it. I've made it a goal to see things through to completion before I jump off to start on my next great idea/job/project.

I'm sure Roman Candles have a purpose. They can be beautiful. They can be entertaining. Here's praying this Roman Candle can help light up the night.

Coriollis Flat Iron from Misikko ~ Review and Giveaway **CLOSED**

CONTEST CLOSED - CONGRATS TO 409Scope!
I always wondered how some women managed to get their hair so perfectly straight. I've used straightening irons in the past, but they never seemed to get my hair flat and smooth enough. I've recently discovered that it's not my hair that's the problem - it's the hair styling tools I've been using.

After using the Coriollis flat iron from Misikko I have discovered that it IS possible to tame my wild bed head into a more manageable mane. This is one of the best flat irons I've ever used.

Misikko offers a wide variety of great salon-quality tools, including professional hair dryers and great brands like Chi and Hana lines. I own a Hana flat iron and it is fantastic too!

The flat iron came beautifully packaged from Misikko. It was like Christmas. In addition to my flat iron I also received a heat-proof felt carrying case, some hand sanitizer, emmory boards, and Colgate Wisps.  The box was also adorned with ribbon and flowers. Talk about pretty. I almost didn't want to take it out of the box.

Here are some of the great features of the Coriollis:

• Ceramic plates for negative ions and hair-healthy far infrared heat, creating shiny, frizz-free results
• 1" plate size for easy styling of short to medium length hair
• Straighten, flip or curl
• Heats up in less than 6 seconds
• Adjustable temperature from 140°F to 410°F - great for all hair types
• Convenient on/off switch
• 1 year manufacturer warranty

One of my lucky readers will win a fantastic Coriollis iron from Misikko (a $200 value!).

Mandatory Entry (must be completed in order for any other entry to count.)

• Visit Misikko and tell me which product is your favorite.

Extra Entries:

• Follow Misikko on Twitter 
• Blog about the giveaway on a personal website. 
• Join Misikko Newsletter (3 extra entries)
• Follow Mommy's Minute on Google Friend Connect
• Subscribe by e-mail or RSS Feed (righthand sidebar)
• Follow Mommy's Minute on Twitter and leave your twitter id.
• "Like" Mommy's Minute on Facebook.
• Share this giveaway on Facebook (daily entry).
• Tweet this giveaway (daily)
•  I entered to win a Corioliss flat iron from @Misikko and Mommy's Minute ($200 ARV).http://bit.ly/b99hu8

US and Canada, 18+. Giveaway ends July 26, 2010 at 11:59 Mountain Time. Winning comment will be selected via Random.org. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to winning e-mail. Please make sure your e-mail is visible in your comment or profile. All winning comments will be verified.



I received a complimentary product to facilitate my review. The opinions expressed are my own honest thoughts of the product. Post contains affiliate links.