Wednesday, December 15, 2010

Isle of Eden Review and Giveaway

I'm a huge fan of yummy smelling bath products-the amount of scrubs, bath salts, shower gels, bubble bath, lotions, potions and other girlie stuff I've collected is obscene. Naturally when I had the opportunity to try out some products from Isle of Eden, I jumped at the chance! I was intrigued by the website-the scent descriptions are so detailed which is rare-usually there's a lot of guesswork involved when ordering anything with fragrances online.

After much deliberation I finally settled on the Whipped Body Scrub, which I particularly love because you can layer several scents on top of each other so that as you scoop it out, you get a unique customized scent. When I opened it up it was dusted with a layer of shimmer and smelled incredible! The scents I layered were Hawaiian Sugar Creme (a delicious sweet coconut) and Blood Orange Sunset (blood orange blended with pineapple creme and mango mousse cake)..they work so amazingly well together!




I also picked up the Body Glow (made of sunflower and shea oil-no mineral oil!) which has a top that dispenses the perfect amount, avoiding a greasy mess. Just a few drops made my skin super soft after my shower, and it smelled so good. The "Can't Sleep, Clowns Will Eat Me" scent made me laugh at the title, but I was pleasantly surprised at the depth of this scent-a sweet cotton candy base with candied red apple and sugar dusted funnel cake-I actually smell each note in this one which was really nice. The Dazzle Glow is lovely as well-it's the Body Glow only with added shimmer to give your skin that pretty sheen. I've been hooked on all of them since they arrived!



Alexa was so sweet and easy to work with, she personally makes each product by hand and you can tell how much care she puts into each item. She kindly kept me updated on the status of my order and couldn't have been nicer. She has several products available where the profits go to various charities, such as the Dream Catchers Scrubs to help abused and neglected children and the Baby Harp Seal Scrubs to help save adorable seal pups-I'm all about getting soft skin AND helping out a great cause! Plus right now they are offering free shipping-you can't beat that!

Take a look at the website and read some of the unique, complex fragrances available here~
Isle of Eden

Alexa has generous offered to give one of my readers a $15 voucher to Isle of Eden (they have free shipping offers quite often so you can get a really great deal!), just leave a comment here telling me what Isle of Eden fragrance you'd like to try!

Extra entries available:

1. Become a Google Friend Connect follower
2. Add me to your blogroll
3. Subscribe via RSS or email
4. Sign up for the Isle of Eden newsletter Isle of Eden Newsletter
5. Follow me on Twitter

The winner will be chosen via Random. org and emailed on January 10, 2011. Please include your email if it's not publicly visible in your profile so that I can contact you if you win. Please respond within 48 hours, or a new winner will be chosen.

Disclaimer: I received the mentioned products at no charge from Isle of Eden in order to give an honest review, no other compensation was received. 

Franklin Township Holiday Lights

I thought the Franklin Township Holiday Lights (Carbon County,PA) were really pretty!

Pup Light Review

I was pretty excited when I was asked to review the Pup Light, an adjustable dog collar with three attached LED lights. Anyone who knows me knows that I'm a total night owl, and I often end up walking my dog later at night when it's sometimes difficult for cars to see you when you're crossing the road. I was really impressed with how much light this little thing gives off (it makes dogs visible for up to a mile away!) , and it was nice to have my hands free now that I don't have to bring along a flashlight. I could see perfectly even in areas without streets lights, and we even came across a skunk on the other side of a bush that we wouldn't have otherwise seen-that alone sold me! It's very stretchy and slips over my dog's collar so easily that I also found it useful to put around her neck before she goes outside at night so that I can find her quickly.

It's a little loose because she was so curious about it while I was taking it out of the box, I had to let her quick try it on :-)


The Pup Light is water resistant for rainy days and has a "fur guard" to ensure that the light is never blocked even for dogs with long, shaggy hair. You can read about more great features and where to buy a Pup Light of your own at Pup Lights.

It gives off a really large halo of light!

PupLight™ patented design features:

  • Three ultra-bright LED lights that illuminate up to 200 ft.
  • Rugged, water resistant construction
  • Easy-on, elastic collar for comfort
Small 1.5" High x 2"Wide
Lightweight 2.5 Ounces
Bright & Long Lasting 3 Ultra-Bright White LED's illuminates up to 200ft. in front of your dog & 70ft. to the side

Your dog is visible from 3 blocks away & 1.5 blocks from behind

Light shines brightly for over 150 hours.

Rim keeps light from shining in your dog's eyes
Durable Made of Polycarbonate Plastic and Nylon
Water Resistant Resistant to rain and splashing
Easy of Use Worn below existing collar. Simply slip over your dog's head or snap it on with its slide release buckles
Adjustable Adjustable light should be set so brightest light shines 5 to 15 feet in front of your dog
Collar Attachment Keeps hair away from light

Keeps light low beneath your dog's head
Replaceable Batteries Uses AAA batteries


Wednesday, December 8, 2010

Testing out my Canon SX210 at the Quakertown Farmer's Market!

The giant tortoise walking around the store



Waterdogs! How cute are these things?


A curious red and white Oscar fish


Tiny Blue Lobster


Huge Gar

Thursday, November 11, 2010

House Mouse

Last night I caught this cute little house mouse in the attic using a humane trap baited with a peanut butter covered Ritz cracker. I released him in the woods, hope he makes it to somewhere warm. Poor little guy!

Wednesday, November 10, 2010

Savvycents Wallet Review

I was actually really excited when I got the opportunity to review the Savvycents wallet. Everyone who commiserated with my post showing my overstuffed wallet can relate to the difficulties of keeping cash, credit card, receipts, coupons, store cards, membership cards, insurance cards, pharmacy cards, licenses, change together in an organized way. I immediately started transferring everything over to the cute patent pink leather wallet and was amazed at how much space this thing really has in it-I fit everything from my old overstuffed wallet plus more into it and it still kept it's sleek, streamlined shape. 

 

I love that I have the option to keep coupons in the accordion style pockets-even hard core couponers will appreciate having a place for important coupons with lugging their full coupon binders around. The convenient coin pouch on the back makes it easy to make change, and it even has a place to hold a pen or pencil in the inside fold. The fact that it zips all the way around is really nice-you can take it out to a restaurant as a clutch and not have to worry about anything falling out. This is the perfect "all-in-one" product-I'm really happy with how much easier it is to stay organized! 


 

Savvycents Wallet Features

  • Accordion style file system inside the wallet to separate money and/or coupons by categories;
  • Wallet comes with file cards where you can label each category with our pre-printed labels or customize the blank labels based on your needs;
  • Coin pocket is located on the backside of the wallet;
  • 6 pockets for credit, debit cards and store discount cards;
  • 2 open view slots for driver’s license or ID;
  • Snap closure on accordian file and zipper closure on wallet;
  • Wallet measures 8” x 4”;
  • Available in black, red or pink patent leather


Read more about the Savvycents wallet and where to find it here~  Savvycents


Disclaimer: I received a free wallet from the sponsor in order to give an honest review, no compensation was provided, all opinions expressed are completely my own.

Groupon

I'm thrilled that Groupon will finally be available in my city of Reading, PA! Previously I had been using the Philadelphia version and the offers weren't always as relevant to me. For those of you who are new to Groupon, it's website that sends you deals, coupons, and discount offers on local business that you can customize to be relevant to you. Then you just print the voucher or bring it along on your cell phone and you get the sale/discount. I've gotten some amazing deals and coupons using the site. Best of all it's completely free, so sign up today and give it a try!

Fruit of the Loom Bra Review

When I received a package of new Fruit of the Loom sports bras to test, I admit I was kind of skeptical. I do a lot of high impact work outs and I simply didn't view Fruit of the Loom as an "athletic" type company that could understand how important a good quality, well-built sports bra could affect a woman's comfort while she's working out. Trying to keep an open mind, I opened up the box. The first thing I noticed was how cute the bras were-they came in a great variety of styles and colors that would blend seamlessly into any woman's workout gear wardrobe.


I decided to throw one on before heading out to the gym. I chose the hot pink Shirred Front Racerback. I couldn't get over how comfortable it was from the minute I put it on! It fit like a glove and the racerback straps were SO comfortable. I really loved the style and color-it also comes in black and white so it's very versatile. This line specializes in petite sizing and I found it very easy to adjust the straps which are typically too loose on me. When I arrived at the gym and started my workout I was blown away by how much support this bra actually gave, even during a higher impact activity like my aerobics class. It looked really cute paired with my usual yoga pants and I got several compliments from other women in the class-they couldn't believe it was Fruit of the Loom either!

If you're a petite girlie like myself and are in the market for a cute, stylish, comfortable sports bra, definitely check this brand out. Their new product line has completely exceeded my expectations.

Right now they're running a special promotion where you can receive $5 off your entire order by using the discount code B2BFRUIT. (It's like getting the shipping for free!) Code expires December 15, 2010. Check it out ladies!

Fruit of the Loom

Disclaimer: I received a package of sports bras from the sponsor at no cost in order to give my honest review, no compensation was provided, all opinions expressed are completely my own.

House fire that I videotaped a few blocks from my boyfriend's house, really scary!

A really scary house fire that I videotaped a few blocks from my boyfriend's house. The house is completely gutted, but luckily everyone made it out ok. The owner sustained severe burns on his feet going back in to rescue his dogs.





Finally found Haagen Dazs green tea ice cream!

On a road trip back from New Jersey we finally found one of our new favorite ice cream flavors-Haagen Dazs Green Tea!! This stuff is so creamy and refreshing, I really wish it was easier to find locally. The Haagen Dazs "five" flavor line is also pretty good, the ginger is incredible. What are your favorite ice creams flavors? Has anyone else tried the green tea flavor? I'm hooked!!
You can check if certain flavors are available in your area using their online flavor finder~

Tuesday, October 26, 2010

My Devil Dog

My dog was thrilled to be the proud recipient of this fun costume that we won from GWLittle.com!
The red glitter horns and pitchfork tail were especially cute details. Stop by and take a look at their pet products, they have some great deals going on right now!

My Current Obsession

I've been drooling over this CC Skye Lizzie Hobo Bag ever since it came out, I just think it's gorgeous! Are there any new fall items you're currently lusting over?

Shopping Haul

Recently bought a few things that I thought I'd share! If you have any cool stuff you've found lately, give me a shout or post below!

Me in my Aldo boots

White PacSun camisole

Black Strapless Tart dress from Ideeli

Super cozy gray knit pants from Forever 21

Forever 21 Sleep Set

Laguna Boot Jeans from PacSun

Tart Hot Pink Burnout Tee-Ideeli

Gray Hooded Fleece Jacket from YMI Jeans

Wednesday, October 20, 2010

The Law of the Garbage Truck by David J. Pollay Book Review


The Law of the Garbage Truck by David J. Pollay

 “Twenty years ago, while riding in the back of a New York City taxicab, David J. Pollay narrowly escaped a life-threatening car crash. The driver who almost caused the major accident started yelling at David’s taxi driver, who remarkably just smiled, waved and wished the other driver well before he and David drove away. David asked how the cabbie could remain so calm. His reply spawned the defining principle of The Law of the Garbage Truck and left author, David J. Pollay awestruck.
His driver said: 
“Many people are like garbage trucks. They run around full of garbage, full of frustration, full of anger, and full of disappointment…And if you let them, they’ll dump it on you. So when someone wants to dump on you, don’t take it personally…move on.”


 This book struck a chord with me right away. All too often I tend to internalize a snappy coworker or a rude sales clerk. We have all experienced trying to be there for a friend emotionally only to get "dumped on" in their process of venting their frustration. The author gives many examples of how to handle everyday interactions with others that can impact your day in a negative way. By reflecting the insecurities, bad moods, anger, and frustrations of others, we can avoid absorbing the negative emotions into our own lives.

Packed with sage advice, stories, and questionnaires, Pollay helps you to develop a heightened sense of awareness of how much garbage you are picking up as well as how much you are putting out onto others.
At the end of each chapter is a "call to action" where the author gives you a task to help you gain insight into your life and enact positive change.


From David J. Pollay's Blog:
"In our lives we often focus only on where we stand in the stream. We act concerned only with what’s in front of us. We forget that there is always an upstream and a downstream. We are affected by those who come before us, and we affect those who come after us. Someone is always impacted by our thoughts, feelings, and actions. If you feel lucky, be grateful. Say thank you to anyone who might have helped you. Say thank you to God if that is your belief, or act grateful in this powerful world of ours. Don’t leave luck unaccounted for—show your gratitude. Focus on what’s good.
The Law of the Garbage Truck reminds us to be grateful for the good that comes to us from upstream, and thoughtful of what we send downstream."

We all hold within us the power the reverse the cycle of garbage:
Smile, wave, wish them well, move on and let the garbage trucks PASS YOU BY

James 1:19 “..be quick to hear, slow to speak and slow to anger.”

You can find more about “The Law of the Garbage Truck” here-
Twitter
facebook
blog
amazon
Barnes & Noble

A huge THANK YOU to Sterling Publishing for sending me this incredibly insightful book



Thursday, October 14, 2010

Chloraseptic Sore Throat Lozenges and Spray Review

Fall is one of my favorite times of the year, but it often comes with a host of fall allergy symptoms. Having to deal with a sore, scratchy throat is definitely not a lot of fun which is why I was pretty excited for the opportunity to try out the new Chloraseptic line of throat lozenges and sprays. The lozenges come in a great variety of flavors like Green Tea, Citrus, and Wild Berries and now have a soothing liquid center that coats your throat for long lasting relief. I love that there's no medicinal taste at all. I can easily see these becoming a staple for my fellow allergy sufferers, and perfect  to have on hand for cold and flu season. The throat spray instantly soothes raw throats and is great for day or night. These are absolutely new favorites for me and I'll be picking more up when I run out.



Visit your local grocery store, drug store, or supermarket to find Chloraseptic products or check out their website for more info~ Chloraseptic's website

Disclosure: I received the mentioned Chloraseptic products in order to provide an honest review, no compensation was given, all opinions stated are completely my own 

Hiking Hawk Mountain

The fall scenery is incredible this time of year! Hawk Mt. has so many beautiful lookout points





Thursday, October 7, 2010

A Day in Jim Thorpe Part Three-Dinner at Flow

Flow is a cozy restaurant located in a beautiful restored building which is part of the Carbon County Cultural Project. The name Flow comes from the creek that visibly flows underneath the floor-be sure to ask for one of the tables situated beside the glass cut-out so you can watch the Mauch Chunk Creek flowing while you eat. It was really fun to check out the owner's interesting art next door in the adjoined gallery while waiting for our meals to be ready. The menu changes frequently depending on what's available and seasonal. The presentation of the food was beautiful but he standout for me was the homemade cream soda-very frothy and creamy. The vintage oak bar was beautiful and lent a wonderful retro feel to the atmosphere. It's a fun place to stop for a quick lunch during a casual stroll through town, or make reservations to stop by for dinner.





Wednesday, October 6, 2010

A Day in Jim Thorpe Part Two-The Haunted Jail

The Old Jail stands as a fortress looking down on the rest of Jim Thorpe. It was built in 1871 and was used as a working jail all the way up until the 1970's. The jail is best known as the hanging site of seven Irish coal miners accused of being Molly Maguires, a secret organization that started one of the first labor unions in the country. Back then coal miners worked for pennies since they had to pay for all their own food and equipment, often becoming so severely indebted to the coal companies that they couldn't leave even if they wanted to. They were often treated cruelly, and if one of them was killed as the result of a mining accident (a common occurrence) their body was literally dumped on the porch of their family without incident. 

Make sure to check out Cell 17, where a man who was convicted of conspiracy to murder famously left his handprint permanently etched into the wall, where it would remain for all time to proclaim his innocence. The handprint has survived being cleaned, painted over, concreted over, and even having a new wall put over it. Very eerie!


The creepy dungeon


Barber Foods Table Manners Twitter Party

 Table Manners are something you don't hear discussed very much anymore. Growing up I was used to casual family dinners and get togethers and laughter often ensued for the occasional mishap, like when an uncle braced himself against the table to retrieve a dropped fork and sent the tablecloth flying along with plates and glasses.
 If you're like me you probably know quite a few people who could use a refresher course on dinner table etiquette.

 Barber Foods and The Product Review Place are hosting a Special Table Manners Twitter Party On Thursday, October 14th, 2010 from 7:30-9:30 PM EST. Table manners guru Sherry Thomas will be in attendance to answer all of your etiquette questions and a ton of fabulous prizes will be handed out. Just click on the brown Barber foods button below to RSVP-can't wait to see everyone there!


Barber Foods

A Day in Jim Thorpe Part One

With the Fall Foliage Festival in Jim Thorpe coming up we thought it would be the perfect time to walk around the town and check out some of the cute little shops and restaurants. Jim Thorpe is such a beautiful historic old town and there's so much to do there-I can't wait to go on one of the ghost tours! I snapped some great shots of the interesting architecture.




Betty Crocker Twitter Win!

I recently won this gift bag filled with yummy products  from the Betty Crocker Twitter giveaway-I can't wait to get baking! Those turtle bars look really good!

Tuesday, September 28, 2010

Follow Me Back Tuesday

Follow Me Back Tuesday is another day of the week that you can gain more followers and find other great blogs to follow on a weekly basis. Follow Me Back Tuesday is hosted by Survey Junkie, Little Yaya's, Review Retreat and Boobies, Babies & A Blog.

Each week we will choose a random number every week from the blogs linked and add the random blog to the #5 spot to link to the following week
This weeks guest host for the #5 spot is This week's Guest Host is Thanks Mail Carrier.

Follow Me Back Tuesday
Photobucket


How it Works

1. Follow the 5 hosts, #1 – 5, ( leave us a comment & we will follow you back- only leave a comment if you follow please ).
2. Create a blog post about FMBT (you may copy this post if you wish).
3. Follow as many blogs as you would like ( Leave a comment so they can follow you back).
4. When you receive a comment from a new follower return the favor & follow them back.

***Please link directly to your Follow Me Back Tuesday Post. Links that lead directly to your personal blog hop will not be accepted and will be deleted.***



Thursday, September 23, 2010

My Favorite SNL Skit of All Time

One of my all time favorite Saturday Night Live skits from back when it was still funny

Chicken BBQ Shish Kabobs

Don't you just love easy to throw together meals? Cooking out is a favorite around here year round and we love experimenting with new ideas for things to throw on the grill. Some of my favorites this summer have been clams and corn on the cob, sliced yellow squash with honey garlic shrimp, and of course the much loved shish kabobs. They're a great way to use up leftover chicken, beef, and vegetables. Sunday afternoon we brushed cubed boneless chicken breasts with BBQ sauce and added Vidalia onion slices, green peppers, zucchini, and fresh cherry tomatoes. 

Our favorite BBQ Sauces are made by Sticky Fingers-they're very affordable and come in a great variety of flavors. My favorite is probably the Carolina Sweet since it's loaded up with honey. I won a case of different flavors from a blog giveaway and now we're hooked! Thankfully we discovered on the store locator that they're sold locally, so we'll be repeat customers for sure! 




Do you like to grill out? Do you have any favorite grilling recipes to share?

Time For a Wallet Upgrade


Updating my wallet is something I really don't do very often. For the past several years my old standby has been a black vintage leather model that I picked up at a local thrift shop. Lately it's been getting stuffed to capacity with business cards, store cards, coupons, receipts, shopping lists, insurance cards, and other items and I've been hunting for a better way to keep all my stuff organized. It's really helpful to have all my coupons in one spot when I need to run an errand while I'm out without having to go home to get my coupon binder so I love when a wallet has a ton of extra slots to hold everything. 

The Savvycents wallets are really eye catching-their labeled accordion style coupon tabs would be so helpful to find what I need in a hurry. 


Do you have a wallet that you love? Let me know!