tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-69276735713220815772024-03-05T07:26:16.215-08:00Reviews from the WhirlwindI am mom of 3 and a blogger in my down time. I hold a full-time job but my passion is writing. I turned to blogging as a way to exercise my writing skills
Here I will share my experiences about my children, my depression, and review a few items along the way.
A fairly typical mommy blog about just making it through the day and keeping the minions breathing.linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.comBlogger54125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-37906099458737518952020-07-20T12:07:00.000-07:002020-07-20T12:07:46.242-07:00Sock It to Me, I'm Back!Hello Everyone,<br />
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I know it has been a long while, like 4 years since my last blog post. I thought I had reached a point in my life where it was time to move on to other projects, but then I realized that I really did miss writing in this format. So for those of you who are returning with me: Thank you for your patience. I am excited to get back to this. For those of you who are just discovering this blog: Welcome! Now lets have some fun.<br />
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When I was a little kid the absolute worst present I could get were clothes. The excitement and mystery of a wrapped gift fading and souring a little as I pulled back the wrapping paper only to discover fabric of a nice shirt, or (heaven forbid) socks and undergarments. Birthdays, Christmas, any other holiday, it did not matter. To my little kid brain, clothes were not impressive; they were not fun, or exciting. That is not to say that I was an ungrateful child. I DID appreciate the fact that someone took the time to get me a gift, but lets face it, to a child clothes vs. toys? Toys will win out every time.<br />
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<a href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0178/1245/5524/products/a0e0fb9a863d1672e01f75aae7fc0c12_2048x2048.jpg?v=1564392541" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="554" data-original-width="800" height="221" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0178/1245/5524/products/a0e0fb9a863d1672e01f75aae7fc0c12_2048x2048.jpg?v=1564392541" width="320" /></a>When did that all change? I love receiving clothes now, especially socks. I love a fun sock (and yes, socks can be fun.) I recently found a company that specializes in socks. Not just any socks, <a href="https://sockthat.co/" target="_blank">SockThat</a> will take any photo that you want and turn them into socks. Imagine having kooky, one-of-a-kind socks that are specific to you. You and your bestie have an inside joke? Put it on a sock! You could wear your favorite meme, or even have your pets featured on your feet. I know that when I see someone with unusual socks I stop them to ask them about it. Most of the time, the sock wearer is more than happy to tell me about them.<br />
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<a href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0178/1245/5524/products/custom_rainbow_pet_animal_face_socks_2048x2048.png?v=1565204346" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="200" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0178/1245/5524/products/custom_rainbow_pet_animal_face_socks_2048x2048.png?v=1565204346" width="200" /></a><a href="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0178/1245/5524/products/custom_rainbow_stripe_pet_animal_face_socks_2048x2048.png?v=1565204234" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="800" data-original-width="800" height="200" src="https://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0178/1245/5524/products/custom_rainbow_stripe_pet_animal_face_socks_2048x2048.png?v=1565204234" width="200" /></a><br />
Your socks can be an icebreaker to get conversations started or they can be a statement piece!<br />
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" 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<br /><br />With <a href="https://sockthat.co/">SockThat</a> it is more than just socks with them. They are also dedicated to the finer details. The subtle touches. A celebration of the understated sock should also be about love, giving back to people who need it the most, and turning the ordinary into the extraordinary. SockThat works closely with various charity organizations, LGBT communities, as well as local arts and cultural communities providing them the help they need to receive the support they need to prosper.<br /><br /><br /><br />You can check them out at <a href="https://sockthat.co/">SockThat!</a> or on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/sockthat/" target="_blank">Facebook</a> or <a href="https://www.instagram.com/sockthat/tagged/?hl=zh-tw" target="_blank">Instagram</a>. And should you be so inclined to give the company a try, use the discount code <b>Bell$5</b> for $5 off your purchase!!<br />
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Happy sock-making and designing!<br />
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Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-33779302843092665832016-03-16T03:03:00.000-07:002016-03-16T03:06:30.202-07:00The Stone Bearers<br /><a href="http://www.tomoson.com/?code=TOP95ebaa4c617658ea336ffbd9f8987c3b" rel="nofollow"><img style="display: none" src="http://www.tomoson.com/images/front/pixel.png" /></a>
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Ashira, just received the worst prophecy of all time. She, who longs for
travel and adventure and maybe even a prince to marry, had all her
hopes and dreams dashed when the Seer told her the best path for her
would be a "life of no renown".<br /><br />But how can life be so unfair?
Her sisters had already received fantastic prophecies and were living
much better lives than those of a potter's daughter should.<br />Determined
to make her own destiny, Ashira volunteers to follow a Stone Bearer and
learn more about the magic in the world. By living in the temples and
learning about magic, Ashira does get to travel and have adventures.
However with a demon on the way, has she wished for more than she can
handle, and would she have been better off sticking with her life of no
renown?<br /><br />Stevens does a fantastic job of bringing the characters
and the magic of the world to life. I was fully enveloped and by the
third chapter was engrossed. The first few chapters are little slow and
difficult to get into but are needed to set some of the foundation of
the story. Stevens does manage to bring everything together by the end
of the book and have everything make sense.<br /><br />
For a limited time, The Stone Bearers is available for purchase at 90% off to celebrate the launch of the new title. You can get your copy at the link below at this price until the end of the day of March 16th, 2016.<br />
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<a href="http://amzn.to/1TtXBeE"><span class="message-message">http://amzn.to/1TtXBeE</span></a> <br />
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Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-6165006697184412742016-03-08T20:31:00.000-08:002016-03-08T20:32:33.697-08:00Potty training sequence initiated<script>
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There seems to be only one major roadblock. He has developed potty anxiety. While to he wants to emulate mommy, daddy, and his siblings, every time I try to sit him on the potty alone he starts to cry. However, if I sit on the big potty, he will come and sit down on his little potty and everything is ok, until I try to take his diaper off.<br />
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At the suggestion of one of his day care teachers, I have gotten a book and started making that his potty book. The book is a simple alphabet book that takes photographs of everyday objects that happen to look like letters.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/search/ref=as_li_qf_sp_sr_il?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&index=aps&keywords=0578115735&linkCode=as2&tag=reviewingwhir-20&linkId=RKZFFRJJCES6JTH5"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=0578115735&Format=_SL110_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=reviewingwhir-20" height="320" width="317" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=reviewingwhir-20&l=as2&o=1" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
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This hardcover book features full color glossy pages of real life photographs. The book is a collection of a ten year old's art project. All the colors are vivid and the pictures give me plenty to talk about with my little guy while we wait for him to get comfortable while using the potty.<br />
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You can read more about this amazing ten year old boy and see more of his art work at his website.<br />
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<a href="http://www.adambsolomon.com/">http://www.adambsolomon.com/</a><br />
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Another thing that I have used to help make him feel more comfortable on the potty is to provide some simple snacks, usually fish crackers. To help keep them contained, I use SnackCubby's little re-usable snack cylinders.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0194N6HJ6/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0194N6HJ6&linkCode=as2&tag=reviewingwhir-20&linkId=3GBXGPEYY6ZV5UDU" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B0194N6HJ6&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=reviewingwhir-20" /></a><br />
Generally, Snack Cubby containers are awesome and are just the right size for
packing that salty or sweet snack in a lunch box. The sides are silicone
and offer a little more protection than the standard zip-top bag, but
if really put through activity you will end up with a container full of
crumbs. I have yet to have a container randomly pop open but with the
design that is my number 1 worry (as I mentioned, it has not happened
yet).<br />
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They do come with caps that you can use to make large
Popsicles however they would be too big for my kids at this point in
time (my oldest are 9 and 6). I do look forward to using them later to
make large yogurt popsicles.<br />
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The only next hurdle I foresee may be to teach him to pee standing up. Although with such devices as the "P-thing" I may be able to teach him without the assistance of daddy.<br />
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The "P-Thing" is a funnel like device that was created to level the potty playing field between men and women. The funnel makes it possible to women to pee standing up. The only hard part about using it is to maintain aiming while giggling.<br />
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The "P-thing" funnel is made out of a soft silicone. This makes it easy to clean and easy to store. I have stashed it in my purse while traveling, in case of "road-side emergencies (no more squatting and accidentally wetting part of my pants) or to save me from public restrooms that are not as well kept as they should be.<br />
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As always feedback, questions, comments, and suggestions are always welcome. Please remember to follow the blog and register your email address at the top of the page to have new posts delivered right to your email inbox and never miss an update.
Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-57476807297088352392016-03-03T05:17:00.000-08:002016-03-03T05:17:33.752-08:00Cats and Grooming<script>
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However I have found a grooming glove that makes things a little easier. <br />
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PetNov has developed a grooming glove with nubbs that brush the cats' hair gently to where they don't seem to mind as much. The glove also generates a little static charge as you pet the animal to where the hair that comes loose clings to the glove.<br />
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Here is my cat Charlie who is normally pretty skittish especially around the minions enjoying the attention. (Please excuse my stuffy voice, I am trying to recover from a head cold.)<br />
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As always feedback, questions, comments, and suggestions are always welcome. Please remember to follow the blog and register your email address at the top of the page to have new posts delivered right to your email inbox and never miss an update.
Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-69113843060151873462016-02-19T15:46:00.000-08:002016-02-19T15:46:44.364-08:00The Feelings Edition<script>
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</script> As a way to follow up on the Valentine's Day Edition, we are going to talk about feelings today.<br />
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We are always told "Don't shoot the messenger" and most of the time we abide by that. Except when it comes to our emotions. According to the creator of feelings magnets, our emotions are the messengers that deliver important messages, and when we ignore them they persist until we can no longer ignore them.<br />
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I used to be guilty of bottling my emotions. One particular instance of this and the negative consequences that occur as a result was when my younger brother died while deployed. I was sad and grieving, but as a mother I had to put all those emotions to the side in order to perform my day-to-day functions. After ignoring those feelings of sadness and grief they started to leak out and manifest in many negative ways. I progressively became more and more moody, prone to irritation and anger. Eventually, I sought out help with handling the grief and by exercising those emotions and allowing myself to listen to them I was able to bring myself back into balance.<br />
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The feelings magnets are a tool to help one focus during a quiet meditation session. I like to sit down with my kit once or twice a week and really think about how I feel. As an adult, I find my emotions are usually complex consisting of several emotions simultaneously. The feelings magnets kit allows me to address each feeling individually and work through them.<br />
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There is also a version of the kit for children. This version of the kit while it has few emotion tiles (I guess children are supposed to have simpler feelings) they are more colorful and fun. The case for both kits are metal so the magnets can be used on them or on another magnet compatible surface.<br />
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The website for the feelings magnets also allows users to sign up for feel exercises to be done with the kits. These short exorcises teach different ways to use the kits and range from identifying the emotions you are feeling as well as listening to why you are feeling a particular emotion to finally coming up with a strategy or action plan to work through a difficult emotion.<br />
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My oldest minion is nine years old and so far as a family we have not made that big of a deal before of talking about our feelings, and this maybe by far one of the biggest oversights we have made as parents so far. I hate to say it, but I do see him struggle with managing his feelings, especially those of angers and disappointment. Not only did we find that he had a hard time describing them, but they also usually controlled him, causing a full on meltdown. For this kind of behavior to be manifesting now, so early before the tumultuous teenage years is a bit terrifying.<br />
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<a href="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0685/7127/products/My-Feelings-Box-for-Kids-Open-With-Magnets.png?v=1452450532" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://cdn.shopify.com/s/files/1/0685/7127/products/My-Feelings-Box-for-Kids-Open-With-Magnets.png?v=1452450532" height="320" width="320" /></a><br />
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We started using the Feelings Magnets kit with him. I was a little surprised that even with the children's kit there were some emotions that he was not able to identify with. I worked through a few exercises that were emailed to me and we are working on expanding his emotional vocabulary. Our next step will be to start putting together a plan for him to work through his more extreme emotions so that he is not getting stuck in a vicious cycle. <br />
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You can check out the Feelings Magnets Kits available as well as sign up for the email emotion exercises at the website below.<br />
<a href="https://www.blogger.com/goog_945770812"><br /></a>
<a href="http://www.feelingmagnets.com/">http://www.feelingmagnets.com/</a><br />
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As always feedback, questions, comments, and suggestions are always welcome. Please remember to follow the blog and register your email address at the top of the page to have new posts delivered right to your email inbox and never miss an update.
Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-65534693416200450892016-02-16T17:37:00.000-08:002016-02-16T17:37:53.344-08:00Sharing something that I have accomplished<script>
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I often under value the effort and work I put into this blog. (Yes, I mainly write it for myself, but still.) Did you know that I started this blog at the end of September of 2015? This blog is less than 6 months old. In the short time that I have been sharing funny parenting stories and product reviews, this blog has accumulated almost 900 views. (I am trying to think of a fun way to celebrate once the blog reaches 1000) And to be honest, I didn't think the blog would take off like that. For this to be my first blog, I am kind of impressed.<br />
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Additionally, I also been sharing my reviews on Amazon.com. I started writing reviews for the items I receive for free and discounted as well as for the items I buy about the same time I start this blog. Amazon keeps track of your reviews as well as how many other people find your reviews "helpful" and they create a sort of stack ranking. These rankings are updated about once a week. My first ranking on Amazon was around 1.5mil. (yeah, you ultimately want that number to be low) This week however, my ranking on Amazon as a reviewer is #33,134. That is a huge improvement. I am now officially in the top #50,000.<br />
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You can check out my Amazon Public Profile at the link below:<br />
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I know this may not mean a whole lot to you, but for me...this is me recognizing my own accomplishments, which I don't do nearly enough.<br />
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Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-39405426014814659392016-02-13T12:45:00.001-08:002016-02-13T13:26:32.762-08:00The Valentines Day Edition<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There are many different stories regarding the origins of Valentine's day. The one that I find most intriguing is the theory that Valentine's Day with the Christian martyrs is celebrated in the middle of February as a way to Christianize the pagan celebration of Lupercalia, a fertility festival dedicated to Faunus, the Roman god of agriculture as well as to the Roman founders Romulus and Remus.<br />
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The actual fertility celebrations get a little weird with women and crop fields getting slapped with strips of goat hide that had been soaked in dog's blood (I couldn't make this up even if I tried).<br />
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Lupercalia survived the initial rise of Christianity and but was outlawed—as it was deemed “un-Christian”–at the end of the 5th century, when Pope Gelasius declared February 14 St. Valentine’s Day. It was not until much later, however, that the day became definitively associated with love. During the Middle Ages, it was commonly believed in France and England that February 14 was the beginning of birds’ mating season, which added to the idea that the middle of Valentine’s Day should be a day for romance.<br />
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All of this information and more can be read in its entirety on the <a href="http://www.history.com/topics/valentines-day/history-of-valentines-day">History Channel's website</a>.<br />
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Thankfully in my house, there is no slapping women with goat hides dipped in dog's blood (and after three children I definitely do not need any more fertility). Instead we go for the more mundane tradition of giving gifts to each other.<br />
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<b>Wine Glasses</b><br />
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<b>My Therapy</b><br />
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As funny as this may sound, this glass accurately sums up my experience with wine. Had a bad day at work? A glass of wine will help calm you down and let it go. Kids driving you crazy? Put them to bed and enjoy that warmth and fuzzy feeling a glass of wine can provide.
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<b> What Night?</b><br />
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Another great and funny wine glass that helps me gauge how much wine is needed after a long day. Most of the time, all I need is just a good night or maybe a great night. Sometime, though after a really long and trying day with work and/or my minions a what night? is needed to help unwind. <br />
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Both glasses are from GotMeTipsy and are a great quality for the price. Other glasses I have purchased at this price point felt thin and fragile. These glasses, while not overly thick or heavy feel appropriate for every day use. The designs on them are white and printed on the glass instead of etched in making the designs easy to see and read whether you are drinking a red, blush, or white or you need a refill. Best of all they are dishwasher safe so the design is not going anywhere. <br />
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<b>Coffee Mugs </b><br />
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<b>Go Away </b><br />
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Much like the What Night? wine glass this coffee mug is marked with different levels communicating to everyone around you whether you are approachable or not yet. This is particularly handy after a night of indulging in "What Night?" levels of wine drinking or if you are generally just not a morning person. It is a great tongue-in-cheek gift for anyone who is not a morning person or is a coffee addict.
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<b>Favorite Child</b><br />
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<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=reviewingwhir-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00XM7WC7C" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />This mug makes for great subtle bragging rights in large families. I have a lot of sibling and I like to joke that I am my mother's favorite. So it only seemed fitting for me to get this mug. I like to break it out during family gatherings just to show off a little to my brothers and sisters.
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTa5F9oiq6TgSG4VJkgfZs2FMS1Y4u0XCnEiHs8ARxzkeFTPC_E_Z6Q0phbHdz_4VAoBxDikPHpuDAmnSOSURuBKJErRWAHasaGKfCCULhjJBBN_oeZRVQRJJT26MISiEld9_6fVpFRd6G/s1600/20160213_131141.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjTa5F9oiq6TgSG4VJkgfZs2FMS1Y4u0XCnEiHs8ARxzkeFTPC_E_Z6Q0phbHdz_4VAoBxDikPHpuDAmnSOSURuBKJErRWAHasaGKfCCULhjJBBN_oeZRVQRJJT26MISiEld9_6fVpFRd6G/s320/20160213_131141.jpg" width="180" /></a> Much like the wine glasses listed above, these coffee mugs are also from GotMeTipsy. They sport the same screen printing technique for the design making them easy to read even when the mug is empty. Also just like with the wine glasses, these are dishwasher safe so the design is not going to just come off with one washing. <br />
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Both mugs, while made of glass are fairly weighty and feel well made and the handles are well crafted and not a seam can be found.<br />
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<b>Wrist Rest</b><br />
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I work extensively at computers, both at my day job as well as with my hobbies.<br />
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Lately, I had started getting a little concerned because it seemed as though my hands were "falling asleep" more frequently than usual. I had also started noticing shooting pains from my wrist to my fingers not terribly often nor would they last too long, but long enough to have me concerned.<br />
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I watched my mother and her journey with carpal tunnel and it is not something that I am anxious to repeat. I know that the damage that is already done, is most likely irreversible but hopefully with the right gear I can slow down its progression. That is why this gift means so much to me.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgcHDhInD-oJajI4nYbs7kGjd8elFaxDUPUgsdv8pIw57XvBHCPTFcGkFbWrgtjy9tOCaSi51kSRMdG9BW5ML_i3MP5WoKwJL6nSpZl32VH-tWeFS8CIxMGlT2719QbdGKYbvRbKb6r-dL/s1600/IMG_20160209_2200534_rewind.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjgcHDhInD-oJajI4nYbs7kGjd8elFaxDUPUgsdv8pIw57XvBHCPTFcGkFbWrgtjy9tOCaSi51kSRMdG9BW5ML_i3MP5WoKwJL6nSpZl32VH-tWeFS8CIxMGlT2719QbdGKYbvRbKb6r-dL/s320/IMG_20160209_2200534_rewind.jpg" width="320" /></a>The wrist rest pad does help me to keep my wrist in line while typing and the filling is supportive but also soft enough to yield a little to the weight of my hands. That plus the soft covering makes for a really comfortable experience. The bonus mouse pad is made of the same material and is just as comfortable.<br />
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Since I started using these items, I have not noticed the shooting pains and my hands are not falling asleep all the time. Hopefully I have bought myself a little bit of time before I will have to got for medical intervention for carpal tunnel.<br />
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My gift to everyone else was rolling sushi by hand.<br />
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<b>Sushi knives</b><br />
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As with most things, what may seem like a hard task is made much easier if you have the proper tools. For example rolling and cutting sushi can be quite disastrous. I have tried to do this in the past with my other knives, and while I love them and they are great at what they do, they are not a good fit for cutting sushi rolls. They tear the wrap and all the sushi rice sticks to the blade preventing a good clean cut. This sushi knife is super sharp and slices right through the wrap. The shape and thickness of the blade is such that it helps reduce the amount of rice that sticks to the blade. The knives are lot lighter than my normal cooking knives and the balance feels just slightly off. My only other complaint is that the way the tang of the blade fits into the handle I am worried about the knife's longevity but so far it has not been an issue.<br />
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Complete with mixed drinks made with a new <b>cocktail shaker</b>.<br />
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Bars N Roses has a beautiful stainless steel cocktail shaker kit. The lid of the shaker fits down nicely into the bottom and the cap comes off for easy pouring through the strainer. The kit also included a smaller jigger for measuring as well as an ebook with drink recipes. Now my house is equipped for me to play bartender. <br />
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Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired.
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</script>I recently had the pleasure is being introduced to an interesting SciFi series called the Caretaker series. It has been a little while since I had a series envelope me and transport me away into another so completely as the Caretaker series has. Below is a brief look at the two books in the series so far. (No worries, there are no major spoilers, all the specifics I mention are revealed fairly early in the plot.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiydREPvMz42d_MRyvwxe6h7Wh-GuigNHPCELAFF5UT-ue0uTFt700sl-VqcFGh-GBoPtJtjIWnrsP-Bx3M5oOiDlsQ-dajAFc_s0VM35IEDijdJSFgswRsbWnac_d058h-9Uh6nXZA3ymn/s1600/Caretaker-Josi-Russell.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiydREPvMz42d_MRyvwxe6h7Wh-GuigNHPCELAFF5UT-ue0uTFt700sl-VqcFGh-GBoPtJtjIWnrsP-Bx3M5oOiDlsQ-dajAFc_s0VM35IEDijdJSFgswRsbWnac_d058h-9Uh6nXZA3ymn/s320/Caretaker-Josi-Russell.jpg" width="213" /></a></div>
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Ethan was the Caretaker that was never meant to be.<br /><br />After the
ship's assigned caretaker dies suddenly, the ship's computer assigns the
only human who is not asleep the position. Ethan was the last passenger
scheduled for stasis after seeing his pregnant wife safely to her
slumber, and so the role of caretaker fell to him.<br /><br />What he had
thought would be just a quick nap until he and his wife reached the new
planet, he was now facing 50 years of solitude, during which he would
age and his wife and the other passengers would not.<br /><br />As circumstance would have it, one other passenger would wake up early providing him with some companionship.<br /><br />This
book covers complicated themes of human loneliness and the bonds formed
out of necessity and circumstance. In many ways this book reminded me a
lot of Z for Zachariah, where relationships and emotions get confused
when two people are isolated with each other for long periods of time.<br /><br />The
book further covers the events of trying to go back to original
relationships after forming new bond and memories. Ethan has so many
shared experiences with the other passenger who awoke early, how can he
ever recover the intimacy and closeness he once shared with his wife?<br /><br />The
depth and detail that Josi Russell put into the ships and these other
worlds immersed me a science fiction fantasy. There were times when
things felt a little too contrived (Deus Ex Machina if I may) but for
the most part the action and the pace of the book made sense and kept me
turning pages.<br />
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<br />
<a href="http://amzn.to/1K6EdkM"></a>You can check out Caretaker on Amazon: <a href="http://amzn.to/20QmrpS">http://amzn.to/20QmrpS</a><br /><br />
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After the hero saves the day, he is supposed to go home and live happily ever after. But life is never that simple.<br /><br />Ethan
had just settled in to what was supposed to be his happily ever after
with his wife and their new family. He was adjusting well to the side
effects with which his adventure where he saved 4000 people in stasis left him, when the
planet, home to his sunny meadow with the little blue cottage starts to
show her ugly side. Natural dangers abound and Ethan once again finds
himself in a position where he is responsible for a small group of
people.<br /><br />To further complicate things, the settlement of the
planet was privately subsidized. Leaving just about everything owned by
major corporations. However, corporations rarely care about much beyond
their bottom line in their profit margins. Cutting corners and over
promising available jobs has left the economy in a dire state where most
citizens find themselves in an indentured servitude position.<br /><br />In
this book Josi Russell explores economic hardships and how they might
look on another planet. She also pulls in themes of how do those with
super abilities and fame assimilate as they strive for "normalcy"<br /><br />The
book is well written, and I really do like the characters. Josi has a
way of creating a bevy of unique characters that you can't help but love
(or love to hate in some instances).<br />
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You can investigate Guardians on Amazon: <a href="http://amzn.to/1K6EdkM">http://amzn.to/1K6EdkM</a> <br />
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This second book was released earlier today (February 11th) and to celebrate, Future House Publishing is offering a discount for both titles.<br />
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Both Guardians and it's prequel, Caretaker, will be available for $0.99 February 11th - February 17th.<br />
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The publisher will also be giving away some physical copies too on our Goodreads giveaway starting February 15th.<br />
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Click on the link below to enter to win a copy of Guardians on Goodreads.<br />
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Caretaker on Goodreads: <a href="https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26215914-caretaker">https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/26215914-caretaker</a><br />
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As always feedback, questions, comments, and suggestions are always welcome. Please remember to follow the blog and register your email address at the top of the page to have new posts delivered right to your email inbox and never miss an update.
Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-87219538713173258502016-02-07T17:49:00.001-08:002016-02-07T17:49:10.949-08:00Girl Time<br />
My daughter an I are outnumbered in our family. A girl to boy ratio of 1:2 for children will do that. That often leave me and her to deal with boy things for entertainment. Sword fights and nerf gun shoot outs are common occurrences.<br />
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This past weekend, my husband took minion Number 1 to visit some friends out of town finally giving her and I a chance at some girl time (well after minion Number 3 went to bed).<br />
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We watch girl targeted tv shows. Surprisingly enough my daughter at 6 years old really got into the Amazon Original TV show "Just Add Magic". We binge watched the show for a few hours and at the end of each episode she would look at me and ask "What happens next?"<br />
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The show is about three friends who have an amazing talent for cooking who find a magic cookbook and the trouble they cook up. It is light and fun and in a way brings on the same spirit of friendship that The Sisterhood of the Traveling Pants books did.<br />
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We also played a fun Yoga game from ThinkFun.<br />
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ThinkFun has finally provided me a way to incorporate my daughter in some of my Yoga exercises. The goal of the game is to collect a card of every color. Each color focuses on a different aspect of yoga (strength, flexibility, and balance). It also add a fun little competitive side to it by allowing you to steal others' cards, or getting to choose which color card they have to do. The game was perfect for my 6 year old and it ended in just the right amount of time to where she didn't want to play again immediately after it was over nor did it bore her to where she didn't want to finish. </div>
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The last thing we did for the night was beauty stuff (as she calls it). My daughter gets <span style="color: #111111; display: inline; float: none; font-family: "helvetica" , "arial" , sans-serif; font-size: 16px; font-style: normal; font-variant: normal; font-weight: normal; letter-spacing: normal; line-height: 22px; text-align: left; text-indent: 0px; text-transform: none; white-space: normal; word-spacing: 0px;">eczema flare ups from time to time. It generally get worse during the winter and she complains about it itching a lot. I try to keep her from scratching at it with her nails because that just causes things to get worse. I have found that finding a good loofah and having her use that to scrub (scratch) to her hearts content during her bath time and then having her apply a good moisturizing lotion as soon as she gets out works wonders. </span></div>
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Green Heart Labs has an amazing exfoliating body cloth called the ExfoliMate. It is just the right amount of roughness to really satisfy itchy skin while also sloughing of scaly dead skin build up. It leaves skin beautifully primed to accept moisturizers better than just washing alone. </div>
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As always feedback, questions, comments, and suggestions are always welcome. Please remember to follow the blog and register your email address at the top of the page to have new posts delivered right to your email inbox and never miss an update.
Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-57392116724242016412016-02-01T13:30:00.000-08:002016-02-01T13:30:38.697-08:00Absence and Review Round Up<script>
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</script> It has been a hot minute since my last post, and for that I do apologize. Here I would normally insert excuses about Winter Storm Jonas, my kids, or my work but to be completely honest what really has been the cause for the delay was a lapse in my medication for depression and a not so pretty minor depression episode. Nothing like what I experienced this time last year, but bad enough to where I just wanted to bury my head in the sand or to sleep all the time to make everything go away. At the insistence of my spouse I resumed my medication and I am working towards getting back to a more natural and balanced emotional rhythm.<br />
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So before I head into my review round-up, I do have a funny "horrible parenting" moment to share. Lately in our house, we have been running a little thin on sippy cups for Number 3. The small pieces that prevent them from leaking are either getting lost or getting eaten by the dishwasher. To further complicate things, it feels as though we never have the right lids for the available cups. This brings out count of usable sippy cups down to three. The other morning, while getting all of the kids ready for school, I holler at minion Number 1 to go fetch a sippy cup with milk in it for minion Number 3 while I changed his diaper and got him dressed. After a few minutes Number 1 reports back stating that there were not any available sippy cups, reminding me that I had just loaded up the dishwasher with all three right before waking the minions. Number 3 does okay with open cups with supervision and I instruct Number one to find the smallest cup and fill it with milk. A few minutes later, Number 1 strolls in to the den with a shot glass filled with milk. I had an internal struggle of about 10 secs regarding whether or not I should let the baby drink from the shot glass. Then I thought, 'good enough'. Kudos to Number 1 for indeed finding the smallest cup in the house.<br />
<b><br />Shot Glass - Bottoms Up</b><br />
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The shot glass that was used in the above story was a new shot glass I had received from Make Em Laugh. The shot glass is a little larger than most as it will hold a full 2 oz shot compared to the 1.5oz of other glasses. The shot glass is made really well with a thicker glass bottom to keep it properly weighted and it is free from any imperfections. The lettering on the shot glass is black and is easily legible not matter what is in the shot glass (clear spirits, dark spirits, milk) and best of all don't come off in the dishwasher. Yes, this shot glass is dishwasher safe. I once has a set of Boondock Saints shot glasses, and after using them my husband was going to be nice and have them washed. To wash them, he put them in the dishwasher. Much to my surprise I go to unload the dishwasher and I see a set of plain shot glasses without any designs.<br />
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Make Em Laugh has several different designs for their shot glasses and their sense of humor displayed on the shot glasses is evident in other aspects of their company. Here is their instructions for the shot glass.<br />
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Instructions For Shot Glass Use:<br />
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* Place Shot Glass on flat surface with open side up<br />
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* Pour Liquor(s) into the Glass<br />
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* Raise Glass off flat surface to lips in one swift motion<br />
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* Quickly empty contents into mouth<br />
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* Place Shot Glass back on flat surface<br />
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* Repeat if necessary<br />
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* Enjoy
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<b>Yummi Gear Divided Lunch Boxes (Set of 4)</b><br />
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These are a bit smaller than the ones I have gotten in the past, but are perfect for packing a lunch for my son and daughter. The main compartment perfectly fits a sandwich and the two smaller compartments allows two sides to also be packed providing a complete meal all in one grab-and-go case. (I like to fill all four at night and have the kids' lunches ready to go for the next two mornings. It definitely helps with that morning chaos.)<br />
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The containers individually seal with the lid, however the seal is not air tight. You might want to refrain from packing a side that is wet or you may end up with a soggy sandwich. I usually stick with fairly dry sides like baby carrots, grapes, and/or goldfish snack crackers.<br />
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<b>Mr. CookWare Stainless Steel Grater Zester</b><br />
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I would inwardly groan every time a recipe called for lemon or lime zest. Gathering citrus zest was always such a pain. Who knew I was just using the wrong tool. I used to use a hand cheese greater with a super fine grate on it. First of all, getting any significant amount of zest would take a forever and secondly, the zest itself would be a super oily mushy mess. I always felt like I ended up with more zest on surfaces where I didn't need it and never where it needed to be.<br />
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This zester is fast and efficient. It is also very sharp, which is why I am very glad that it came with a cover. A little brush also was shipped with the zester. That right there was the icing on the cake. I can't tell you how many dish sponges have become victims to my graters. I can't wait to try it on some of the other foods.<br />
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<b>Digital Kitchen Timer by kitchenen</b><br />
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I love just how portable both timers are.<br />
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Both the large and the small timer have large screens and are easy to read. They are super easy to set too. Both timers have a loud and clear chime for when they reach zero. The small one has a really thin design that can easily slip down into my pocket so I can clean while I bake and carry the timer with me. </div>
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They will also be an invaluable asset for when I begin potty training Number 3. When I potty trained the first two minions, I took away their diapers for a weekend and put them in cloth big kids undies and set a timer. Every hour and a half, I would take them and sit them down on the potty. It is usually pretty successful. Is it messy? Yes. But if I notice a lot of accidents in between scheduled bathroom breaks, I schedule them to be much more frequent. If, by the end of the weekend the my kid has not once had a successful trip to the bathroom, I mark that up as they just weren't ready and we table the idea for about a month when we try again.</div>
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Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-58480813160125768282016-01-24T22:39:00.000-08:002016-01-24T22:42:27.326-08:00Knife Snob<script>
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</script>In either my late teens or early twenties, while visiting my dad I cooked for him. I love to cook; for me it is a creative outlet, and I had wanted to share it with him. When I moved away and went to college, I had gotten an el cheapo set of knives. I thought knives were knives and that they all cut equally. Oh, how wrong I was. Using my dad's fancy Wusthofs made with German steel and honed to perfection, I was brought into the light and I instantly became a knife snob.<br />
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I used to hate food prep. Cutting up potatoes with cheap knives is torture, much less trying to hack through raw chicken with tough tendons. Later than same year, my dad bought me a set of Henckels which is a sister brand to his Wustofs. They too, are made with premium German Steel and can hold an edge like no other. Food prep became a breeze as the knives glided through potatoes and even half frozen chicken as if they were butter. The knives are heavier than cheap knives and the weight is a part of their advantage. The weight of the knife is often enough to do most of the work of the cut and all I have to do is just guide the blade. Contrary to first instinct, a dull knife is much more dangerous than a sharp one. (For one you don't have to fight a sharp knife and risk things getting out of hand).<br />
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I recently found an 8in chef's knife that is made by a company called Happy Moon and after reading some of the research the company had made prior to designing the knife I just had to try it out and see how it stacked up to my Henckels.<br />
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The Happy Moon knife is very similar to the Henckel that I have, however the devil is in the details. The shape of the blade, particularly the way it tapers (quite a bit less than the Henckel) towards the tip. The shape of the handle is different too as it carries a little bit more of a curve allowing me a little bit more leverage on each pass of the blade. <br />
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I know the picture below doesn't do a good job of showing it, but the thickness of the blade on the Happy Moon knife is slightly more than that of the Henckel. This results in the Happy Moon blade being a little bit more hefty. As I mentioned before I don't mind the heft especially since the tang of the knife goes through the handle and the little metal cap at the end of the hand also provides a nice counter weight for a well balanced blade. </div>
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For the most part, the Happy Moon knife has me 'over the moon' so to speak. I am excited to see some nice quality knives designed here in the US rather than Europe, and at a much more affordable price than the German blades. <br />
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Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-30195596391052499242016-01-24T11:43:00.002-08:002016-01-24T11:47:52.024-08:00Teething Babies<script>
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</script>Minion Number 3 is 22 months. Just a few months away from the "terrible twos"; although with him it looks like "Tyrant twos" might be more accurate. I am sure we have all seen the Toddler's Rules of Possession meme that has been making rounds on social media. I recently saw it again on Facebook and thought to myself how accurately it described my tyrant of a little minion.<br />
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The other day, Minion Number 2 had decided to have a snack of peanut butter crackers. She made some for herself and after encouragement from me and daddy, she also made a small plate for Minion Number 3. She handed him the plate and he started shoving the little crackers in his mouth with much gusto. As soon as Minion Number 2 sat down with her plate and started eating her crackers, Minion 3 started screaming and having a full on melt-down. Apparently, in his eyes, her plate of crackers were also his, and she had just stolen his food. Never mind that there were more crackers there than he could eat in one setting. Poor Minion 2, she didn't know what was going on, or why he was crying. Confusedly, she looked to me for answers. When I explained why he was crying, she tried to explain to him that she was only eating her crackers. Of course the only thing that worked to get him to calm down was just a little bit of time.<br />
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Don't get me wrong. Minion Number 3 is a very sweet little boy, but like most toddler's he is still trying to work out the rules of social interaction. To make things worse for Minion Number 3, he has had a bad bout out teething. I know 22 months is a little late for this kind of issue. It caught me a little bit by surprise myself. Especially, since his first teething coming in only seemed to give him a little bit of discomfort.<br />
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What started out as just a mild grumpiness grew to nightmare proportions. It started a few weeks ago. Minion 3 went to bed as usual and right on time at 8pm. However, at 11pm, we hear him start to stir. We leave him be for a few minutes, to see if he would go back to sleep. Needless to say, he didn't and after just 10 minutes, the restless stirring escalated to full on wailing. I go into his room and check on him. He felt a little warm but nothing alarming. I pick him up and cuddle him a little while also checking his diaper. It checks out, but the cuddles are not working to calm him down. That is when I notice that he is acting a little 'weird'. He would push at me as though he wanted me to put him down and then he would throw himself forward on me. I put him down, thinking maybe he had a bad dream and just needed a moment to calm down, but he continues that weird behavior of sitting up and then throwing himself forward on the floor. I offered him some water to drink, frankly because watching him cry so much was making me thirsty. He would go through the motions of taking a sip, but would start crying again before actually drinking anything.<br />
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At this point it becomes apparent that he is in distress and obviously in discomfort. I feel around his ears and neck to see if I get a reaction out of him (checking of ear infections). Nothing. Finally, just completely stumped, I gave him a dose of baby Tylenol. The time it took for it to kick in felt like an eternity, but at last he calmed down and started drifting off to sleep. Breathing a sigh of relief, I lay him back down and I start winding down for bed. Shortly after drifting off to sleep (about 4 hours after I had giving Minion Number 3 his Tylenol), he wakes up crying again, and we repeat the session above.<br />
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And so this behavior continued over the next few days. Minion Number 3 and I were sleeping in 4 hour increments and it was not doing either of us any good. Finally, late at night on the 3rd or 4th night of this, I called my insurance's 24-hour nurse hotline. The fantastic nurse on the other line, compassionately asked me several questions, and finally had me look in Minion Number 3's mouth. Sure enough, his gums were swollen and I could see the white points where his new canines were trying to cut through and fill in the gaps between his incisors and his eye teeth that has already come in. In addition to those, he was also starting to get his two-year old molars on the bottom. (No wonder he didn't feel well.)<br />
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A friend of mine from high school told me about amber teething necklaces when I shared this story with her. She said that her daughter had a horrific time cutting teeth and that this was the only thing that worked for her. So I looked it up, and decided to give it a try, even though I know most of the time these things down work. <br />
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<img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEjZSEQgspenBpxhHCt6IX0udLjoFYkTTRCsI3MmXZ_Y5IwZYSnUI9iuH_DwMdf6a8KFCUVbYGKpl6ah0qvMRkTOjFSNE7zDaDuPATKI-dUbz5AQa6yrCflrQ-U5B99jXcFJLE1exEdxMqjFvRP90z1fcdFkLly2HEnt0M5qmTU8R4DpTJWn8jE16EpUbSqv8w=" /> <br />
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This Bambini & Me amber necklace offered a lot of the same things that other amber teething necklaces offer, but a few features made it stand out. <br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B015HINW40/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B015HINW40&linkCode=as2&tag=reviewingwhir-20&linkId=OESM2K6HNE34TD3J" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/proxy/AVvXsEjkHpfSZRJMZHlgfmM8ohQnDHu8dWE2_fH4KYk2fmrGOacqBic5feJjBv48kxRPbjp8ZnizIKXiymoXibz0cEb1XxmVg_aHUEYJBtjLcl9bpzQK5b6jUY47Qfjashp6tPtFwJWx1-oWnzTW41-Uf750LxG6DXe0PahfHB-SkgrvF4kJxmtfh4F88HtCgl-W83IsHYgWvC32BZUQhh1DuFhGJlW9mdZsAA4i-TrdVsomcZcZPThWBdI36YDCcskurGtJjcxGjFN-IvmV70xT5ytY9pWk1DM9AwxMYKOp64MeSYGDEHCOzUuG=" /></a><br />
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<b>Features & Benefits: </b><br />
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<li>100% certified high-quality Baltic amber </li>
<li>Warm to the touch </li>
<li>Safety knots between amber pieces </li>
<li>Natural immune system booster </li>
<li> Includes a silicone teething necklace mom can wear! </li>
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I really like that there are safety knots between the amber pieces. Minion 2 has had several bead necklaces and once those strings pop, beads go flying everywhere. Having those knots in place ensure that in the event the string does give out that there are not going to be a million of little amber pieces to try to clean up. <br />
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Another boon for me is that with this product from Bambini & Me, you are protected by our 30 day NO QUESTIONS asked money back guarantee.<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/n6oV7B9SNWCz5Nnr1AvqYGRy4HkA8aDs-uLD3eUx2IVP91vlpiqjEC7pT3sQ6NmlWTGl1A=s400" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://3.bp.blogspot.com/n6oV7B9SNWCz5Nnr1AvqYGRy4HkA8aDs-uLD3eUx2IVP91vlpiqjEC7pT3sQ6NmlWTGl1A=s400" width="240" /></a>After receiving it, I tried it on Minion Number 3. It fits perfectly. It fit him just slightly more loose than a choker style necklace. Normally, putting any necklace around his neck, he is irritated with it and is trying to pull it off within three minutes. To be perfectly honest, he doesn't seem to mind this necklace. And it looks absolutely adorable on him. Here I have just laid him down for a nap, and was just about to take the necklace off for him to sleep. <br />
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<b> </b>So far we have noticed a great improvement. He is now sleeping through the nights again. He is eating and drinking normally. He does still run a little warm, but it is within a normal range and we have not had to give him Tylenol in several days. He seems happier, and to me that means the world. <br />
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<b>Safety Suggestions: </b><br />
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<li>Infants should be supervised while wearing the necklace- no chewing. </li>
<li>Remove the necklace if child is left unattended. </li>
<li>Necklace is not to be worn while sleeping. </li>
<li>Necklace is double-knotted for added protection, but if broken please discard. </li>
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Another side effect of teething is all the drooling. I have used regular bibs in the past but they usually just trap moisture next to the baby's skin which leads to chafing. With my first two children, I had reached out to family members who knew how to sew to have them create double layered bibs for my kids. I used to have them sew a cotton/polyester blend cloth over the top of terry cloth for extra absorbency. The bibs were functional if not the prettiest. I recently found bibs that I could purchase that had that same dual layer idea but were way cuter than anything my relatives and I could have thought up.<br />
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Patoshi has created these super cute bandana style bibs. As I mentioned above they are dual layered with the underside created from a layer of fleece. These bibs are incredibly soft and really absorbent.<br />
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Another bonus for me is that these bibs do not use Velcro for the closure. As many of you already know, Velcro on children's clothes don't always work. The Velcro has a very limited life span and quickly loses its ability to fasten as the little hooks and loops age. These bandana bibs use good old fashioned metal snap closures. It also has three different positions so that baby can feasibly wear these from 3 months to 2 years.<br />
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</script> So my day to myself included hanging out with my best friend, reading an awesome book, and making something called wine gummies.<br />
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Hanging out with the bestie, would not be complete without fermented grape juice, the drink of the gods in Greek mythology, or to my children "mommy juice". Usually hanging out with her is more like a festival celebrating the Greek god Dionysus.<br />
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Recently while browsing Pinterest, I came across an interesting idea. Using wine as a base for a gummy bear. <a href="http://www.tomoson.com/?code=TOPc1ee6d0a0da3e3fbd9e3590770e401a5" rel="nofollow"><img src="http://www.tomoson.com/images/front/pixel.png" style="display: none;" /></a> So I packed up some of my wine is a plastic transportable wine bottle.<br />
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This travel bottle, made by Wine Anytime, is made of extra thick plastic. It absolutely does not leak. It can can hold a full 750ml bottle of wine to boot. I love it because it makes it easier to my wine places where glass bottles are not allowed or where the bottles might break (like in my trunk). At first I was afraid that it would be a pain to fill but it is surprisingly easy. I do inflate the bag first to make it just a little easier. <br />
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<i><b>Wine Fruit Snacks – Wine Gummy Bears (or Hearts—whatever shape you want to make them!)</b></i><br />
1 cup wine<br />
4 Tbsp gelatin (I always use <a href="http://amzn.to/HVKzod" target="_blank">this kind</a>)<br />
1/2 tsp stevia (optional)<br />
2 -4 Tbsp maple syrup (I always use Grade B, but any kind will work)<br />
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Click to see the <a href="http://www.thrive-style.com/2013/01/wine-fruit-snacks-gummy-wine-hearts-not-for-kids-great-for-your-body/">original recipe</a>.<br />
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I simplified this recipe a bit. Instead of using both stevia and maple syrup, I used honey. The main reason why I opted for honey is because it dissolves in liquids really well. Considering the trick to making really good gummies is to get the gelatin to dissolve not having to worry about the sweetener dissolving is a boon.<br />
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Once the wine had heated up, the grainy texture of the gelatin disappears and then you know it is ready to pour into whatever mold you choose.<br />
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I happened to have a silicone gummy bear mold.<br />
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My silicone mold is made by Status Kitchen, and thankfully came with a little dropper to cleanly fill each cavity.<br />
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I added all the ingredients into a zip top baggie, and then submerged the baggie in a pot of simmering water to help heat up the wine without breaking down any of the alcohol molecules in the wine. I, then used the dropper to fill each mold cavity and then set it in the fridge for 1-2 hours to set up.<br />
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The gummies that come out are absolutely adorable and well formed. The silicone releases the gummies easily without having to oil everything.<br />
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At the end of the day, back at home with my adorable little wine bear gummies, I curled up on the couch to finish reading the book I was working on; Wanderers: The Apprentice.<br />
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With this second installment in the Wanderer series, our journey with Rafe picks up shortly after where it left off in the
first book. True to her word, Fate has found Rafe an apprentice to
train. This is important now more than ever since Rafe has learned that
he is one of the last of his kind. However, Fate has broken tradition.
Rafe's new apprentice is female. Considering the side effects that
working magic with a partner can cause is going to make training the new
apprentice interesting for Rafe.<br />
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This book feels as though we
take a short break from the over arching story of Rafe's pursuit of
Rowle and the quest to stop Ragnarok. The story is full of action and
there is rarely a lull. It is also fully of twists and turns that will
surprise the reader and keep them guessing who Rafe can actually trust.<br />
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The
story does tackle complex relationship themes like sexual tensions that
often arise between mentor and trainee when consisting of opposite
genders as well as the complex emotional state of obligation and
responsibility that can cloud judgement when those you care for are in
danger.<br />
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This plot is a great follow up to the storm that Bamberg started brewing in book 1. <br />
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Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-83686064006943921002016-01-11T14:17:00.000-08:002016-01-11T14:18:23.382-08:00New Year and Resolutions<br />
And so on December 31, we said goodbye to another year, and welcomed in a New Year. None was more happy to do so than I. 2015 was one of the roughest I have encountered yet. However, I am not one to dwell on the past. I constantly look and move forward.<br />
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With a New Year traditionally comes New Year Resolutions. I learned growing up that trying to hold myself to something is difficult and in my early teens started picking out easy resolutions, the kind that are impossible to fail so that I would not disappoint myself. (Yes, I realize that, that is kind of cheating in itself.)<br />
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Last year, one of my co-workers introduced me to a new New Year's Resolution plan. Instead of picking out just one resolution to stick to for the entire year, you pick 12, one resolution for each month. Let's face it, sticking to a resolution for at most 30-31 days is a lot more manageable that trying to stick to it for the entire year, so one is more likely to keep that resolution because of the more reasonable time scale.<br />
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So, with emulation of my co-worker last year, I have decided to do the same.<br />
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For January, my resolution is to take better care of my skin. 2016 is the beginning of my third decade of life and so far my skin has been pretty good to me. I have had a few issues with hormonal acne and pore size but as far as wrinkles and skin texture goes it is pretty awesome. Probably the two biggest things I have done for my skin so far in my life is not over exposing it to the sun and not smoking. Both of which I have seen take a very serious toll on women's skin, making ones who are much younger than me look a great deal older. I have even seen former classmates look up to 10-20 years older because of their habit and the toll it takes on their skin.<br />
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And so as part of a new way to take care of my skin I have added an exfoliating scrum and face mask to my weekly face washing routine. My favorite for the moment is <span style="font-weight: normal;">Valentia Skin Detoxifying Clay Mask AND Eternal Youth Exfoliating Scrub. </span><br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014PJLKJ6/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B014PJLKJ6&linkCode=as2&tag=reviewingwhir-20&linkId=HZ7TJG4UYYMBUFCD" rel="nofollow" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B014PJLKJ6&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=reviewingwhir-20" /></a><a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014PIVJCA/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B014PIVJCA&linkCode=as2&tag=reviewingwhir-20&linkId=S57HSSSFWXBEVT4W" rel="nofollow"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B014PIVJCA&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=reviewingwhir-20" /></a><img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=reviewingwhir-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B014PIVJCA" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
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Both products from Valentia boast to be All Natural and Cruelty Free.<br />
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This Exfoliating Scrub:<br />
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- Brightens & revives skin<br />
- Improves skin tone & texture<br />
- Removes dead skin cells<br />
- Softens the skin<br />
- Prevents future breakouts<br />
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The scrub is made of the ingredients listed below.<br />
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- Green and White Tea:Packed with polyphenols and potent antioxidants that provide anti-inflammatory, anti-irritant, and anti-aging effects.<br />
- Aloe Vera:This nutrient rich botanical moisturizes the skin and fights aging by improving skin firmness.<br />
- Jojoba Beads:Gentle beads that work to exfoliate and remove dead skin cells without scratching the skin.<br />
- Olive, Avocado & Kukui Butter:This nutrient dense trio is rich in Vitamin A, B, D, and E helps nourish, hydrate, and repair the skin while combating pro-aging free radicals.<br />
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The smell of the scrub is nice, light and almost fruity. The texture of it at first leave quite a bit to be desired. <br />
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The gelatinous texture of it is very off-putting for me. I have to win an internal battle just to stick my fingers into the container to swoop out some goop. Once I do, though, and start massaging it into my skin everything is fine. The scrub works well to cut through dirt and oil and even makeup that is on my face. After washing, my face feels soft smooth and like it can breath again. <br />
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This Antioxidant Rich Clay Mask:<br />
- Draws out skin impurites<br />
- Improves skin tone<br />
- Reduces pore size<br />
- Firms & strengthens the skin<br />
- Leaves skin feeling smoother<br />
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The Clay Mask's ingredients include:<br />
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- Kaolin Clay:Clay minerals draw impurities, improve skin tone, and tighten pores for smoother firmer skin. <br />
- Plant Stem Cells:Naturally decreases the level of pro-aging toxins and works to soother the skin, reduce redness, and improve evenness.<br />
- Spirulina:A botanical stimulant full of vitamins that hydrates the skins surface and contributes to tissue regeneration of the skin.<br />
- CoQ10:Lessens the appearance of wrinkles by reducing free radical damage and stimulating health collagen production.<br />
- Hibiscus & Cranberry Fibers:Both lend their anti-aging properties to firm and reinforce the skin, helping to reduce the creation of new wrinkles.<br />
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This mask is a little on the thin side for what I like clay masks to be. I am used to heavy clay from the Dead Sea masks. This one is more like a cream. It has a very light and botanical smell and it dries usually within 20-25 minutes.<br />
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After using both the scrub and the mask, my face feels soft and smooth and even clear of oil. They do not feel like they dried out my skin, and my skin actually feels like it has been moisturized without any residue. So far, I have not had any new significant break outs, but I haven't really noticed any significant change in my pore size. <br />
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Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-14790634218235712482016-01-07T06:15:00.000-08:002016-01-07T06:15:42.065-08:00Post Christmas Giveaway Winner Announcement<script>
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May they serve you well and bring several audiobooks to your ears.<br />
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Happy listening!<br />
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As always feedback, questions, comments, and suggestions are always welcome. Please remember to follow the blog and register your email address at the top of the page to have new posts delivered right to your email inbox and never miss an update.<br />
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Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-84388395995678638752016-01-04T15:56:00.000-08:002016-01-04T15:56:24.632-08:00Dori, the Four-Legged Child<script>
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</script>I normally keep my pets out of the blog, mainly because I was wanting to one day start up a sister blog to Reviewing Whirlwind that would focus on them. I will probably still do that. However, my Beagle/Boxer mix has had a pretty awesome month.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYTCNLczjmCtPEdILK5l76xGPoYB3d32tUvJvRC39v02YRE1-kDJiZ-8WITZxPHrErunuwox_WYm5HeFBqW7tc8xoZ30xESHiTGQXQDdDKU1J9gISKjfFEvITvOJVhPdVQX0OFOqC-nhlM/s1600/IMG_20151231_2236262_rewind.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhYTCNLczjmCtPEdILK5l76xGPoYB3d32tUvJvRC39v02YRE1-kDJiZ-8WITZxPHrErunuwox_WYm5HeFBqW7tc8xoZ30xESHiTGQXQDdDKU1J9gISKjfFEvITvOJVhPdVQX0OFOqC-nhlM/s320/IMG_20151231_2236262_rewind.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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But first let me tell you a little bit more about her. Shortly after my husband and I bought our house (with a yard I might add) I convinced him that it was time for me to get my English Bulldog or one of several other breeds I wanted. We searched online and the local papers but nothing was really striking our fancy. Finally our search took us to the Lexington Humane Society. There we found several beautiful PitBulls, but where we have children under the age of 13 we were not eligible to adopt any of them.<br />
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Just as we were about ready to call it a day, we happened across Dori's pen. She looked pitiful just laying in her little bed. After a few minutes of coaxing she finally came up to the door to check us out. We arranged for a "meeting" and we were walked to a back room where they brought her in. She was so chill and calm and just what we were looking for in a pet.<br />
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My husband, completely enamored with the dog insisted she was the one. We filled out the paperwork and brought Dori home. There have been a lot of growing pains with adding her to our family. From what I can tell, she has not really had much in the way of training and she has a tendency to be really excitable as well as anxious.<br />
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When we brought her home, we found that she had not been housebroken, and frequently had accidents in the house. From there she and I have worked hard together and she has made some great strides. She has been crate trained and calms down quickly when she is sent to her bed. She does still have accidents from time to time, but that has greatly decreased since the implementation of the crate.<br />
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Last month, I decided that we should work towards other behaviors now that some of the basics were addressed.<br />
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I found this training kit from Pet's Mum. It comes with just about everything you need to get started including a dogwhistle and a clicker. While she has been really slow to respond to the whistle (read as she completely ignores it) the clicker has worked really well. We have quickly made strides to conquer "Sit" and "Down". Next up will be "Come" and "Stay". <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwercvIDGFHnEvBbQ5YZ2SivHlzfFvroVJR1L8bO0UmLQGbzygcpFgmcevTfK2403ROvwZeMJCVyOZlKUPZg-3XEDaE4Fm95-QoprIR8eU2iZ_2Lmtu1dQ33VET6VL4RwZyOGgJ8-UJ61T/s1600/IMG_20151226_1903587_rewind.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwercvIDGFHnEvBbQ5YZ2SivHlzfFvroVJR1L8bO0UmLQGbzygcpFgmcevTfK2403ROvwZeMJCVyOZlKUPZg-3XEDaE4Fm95-QoprIR8eU2iZ_2Lmtu1dQ33VET6VL4RwZyOGgJ8-UJ61T/s200/IMG_20151226_1903587_rewind.jpg" width="200" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfn-2RBV-0VaTfmE1LxmGlAWlrWKJeRZOTdhQ04evAdX0LetVPLHYAwmEfYAIAyJaradRsy3sPUiIfOaeTWmQjTgsg88XjBETSyNs5DlGp4aiRPBgW13Z3YdEo_g-D06wVrmVpikHA8qo/s1600/IMG_20151123_1951049_rewind.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDfn-2RBV-0VaTfmE1LxmGlAWlrWKJeRZOTdhQ04evAdX0LetVPLHYAwmEfYAIAyJaradRsy3sPUiIfOaeTWmQjTgsg88XjBETSyNs5DlGp4aiRPBgW13Z3YdEo_g-D06wVrmVpikHA8qo/s200/IMG_20151123_1951049_rewind.jpg" width="200" /></a>As far as incentives go, I do give her treats. Lately we have been trying Purina's new Beyond dog treats (free samples courtesy of Smiley360). These treats are amazing. They actually smell like their ingredients.<br />
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Previously, we had been using Milkbone treats (those are ok) but the generic dog treats I had found were awful. While the dogs liked them, they smelled bad. I could smell the dogs eating them from across the room. I feel much better with Dori eating these treats especially knowing that they are made with animal protein first and foremost and lack grain fillers. <br />
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Dori seems to approve of them too!! :)<br />
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To learn more about Purina Beyond Dog Snacks or how to get free samples to try from Smiley360 click the link below.<br />
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<a href="http://h5.sml360.com/-/1l7g2">http://h5.sml360.com/-/1l7g2</a><br />
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As always feedback, questions, comments, and suggestions are always welcome. Please remember to follow the blog and register your email address at the top of the page to have new posts delivered right to your email inbox and never miss an update.
Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-44342999732778550232015-12-31T07:58:00.003-08:002015-12-31T08:00:08.732-08:00Fruit Juice Cubes to Beat Boredom<br />
While my kids are home on Winter break, I have been scrambling to fight cabin fever and boredom, because idle children are the root of all evil. That and when my minions get bored they want to pick and poke at each other.<br />
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To make things worse, while it has not been too terribly cold, it has been extremely wet, and so the minions have been cooped up inside for the most part. <br />
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One thing that never fails as a boredom buster are fruit juice cubes. Normally I pull this out on rainy summer days, but the minions were calling for something sweet and had been suggesting ice cream (Not going to happen).<br />
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In the past, I have used just the generic plastic ice cube trays. You know the kind you can pick up at the dollar store. They warp and crack easily, but at less than $5 per the only thing that really hurt was the time it took to go out and buy replacements.<br />
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Recently I found a company that called Kuuk and they have silicone ice cube trays. They are extremely flexible and yet still hold up nicely when filled. (The perfectly shaped cubes that come out appeases the perfectionist in me as well. The flexibility of the tray makes it super easy to get the cube out without having to run it under water to loosen them. Just turn the tray over, press on the bottom of the compartment and peel the tray off the cube.<br />
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I have used all different fruit juices, let the kids eat them by themselves and even added them to water to "flavor" the water (instead of having the kids drink juice all day).<br />
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One fun thing I like to do is add small fruit to each cube like blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries.<br />
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You can check out <a href="https://www.pinterest.com/explore/fruit-ice-cubes/">Pinterest</a> for more ideas or let your imagination run wild!!<br />
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As always feedback, questions, comments, and suggestions are always welcome. Please remember to follow the blog and register your email address at the top of the page to have new posts delivered right to your email inbox and never miss an update.
Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-84237401098641841102015-12-30T11:00:00.001-08:002015-12-30T11:06:36.714-08:00Practico Outdoors Camping/Travel Pillow Review<br />
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Practico Outdoors sent me their travel pillow to try out and share my thoughts on it with you. See the video to see how it holds up!!<br />
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The bottom line is that it is not a bad pillow. It is actually really comfortable. My minions have been playing with it for two weeks and it has not gotten any leak and it still functions just as intended (which is really saying something as my minions are really rough on things). <br />
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As always feedback, questions, comments, and suggestions are always welcome. Please remember to follow the blog and register your email address at the top of the page to have new posts delivered right to your email inbox and never miss an update.<br />
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<br />
Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-6713864693253886792015-12-26T07:36:00.000-08:002015-12-26T07:42:38.720-08:00Post Christmas Giveaway!!!<script>
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Hey Everyone,<br />
<br />
Audist has sent me an awesome set of ear buds. These ear buds fit comfortably while delivering excellent sound quality. It has a build in mic and control button in line on the cord for easy access. The control button is fairly large and easy to manipulate without having to look down. You can read more about these ear buds at their Amazon listing page: <a href="http://foundthis.net/sx3511">http://foundthis.net/sx3511</a>.<br />
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<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8cO7WDApmUQ-fOqw6ilmvf8LDacwXIRrSJawnFRUBHFaWY82HCxtYMQ3_H6gILULPd4jcLYnXi19N0Y1KV3dzR63YVzdSkkMDUvctuOlEnK2iOflQVxCL2AcbdSu4cI43NnDR_ST3YGTC/s1600/IMG_20151225_1937326_rewind.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh8cO7WDApmUQ-fOqw6ilmvf8LDacwXIRrSJawnFRUBHFaWY82HCxtYMQ3_H6gILULPd4jcLYnXi19N0Y1KV3dzR63YVzdSkkMDUvctuOlEnK2iOflQVxCL2AcbdSu4cI43NnDR_ST3YGTC/s320/IMG_20151225_1937326_rewind.jpg" /></a><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiah5fGyWOgvB5enaKyEaCx3ijizm_pWNDiEns2cxQGXHI_SxTIsZ9GwKi11L36sKeEd66qJ4GfN0gsfRPfIDTGyqYosaugBDIObi3N9vV69UP1d8WNk5xwYbUKeKNxy3D6SFivQ7Oi1GAr/s1600/IMG_20151225_1937570_rewind.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiah5fGyWOgvB5enaKyEaCx3ijizm_pWNDiEns2cxQGXHI_SxTIsZ9GwKi11L36sKeEd66qJ4GfN0gsfRPfIDTGyqYosaugBDIObi3N9vV69UP1d8WNk5xwYbUKeKNxy3D6SFivQ7Oi1GAr/s320/IMG_20151225_1937570_rewind.jpg" /></a><br />
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Now for the giveaway details. Like and Share the post on Facebook, and then comment below when you have done so with what you listen to, to help you unwind. Whether you need to unwind from your kids fighting with each other or from work.<br />
<br />
On <span style="font-size: large;">December 29th</span> I will choose one winner and contact via Facebook message with the details of delivery.
Remember bonus points to those who can make me laugh!!
Now, GO! And may the odds be ever in your favor!!<br />
<br />
Contest is only open to US residents. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-88746168450319783632015-12-25T10:23:00.002-08:002015-12-25T10:25:00.682-08:00Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays!!<script>
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Merry Christmas lovely readers! </div>
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I work in part of the retail industry and growing up my mother worked with the United States Postal Service. So for me Christmas was always kind of ad-hoc fit it in where ever, and this year was no exception. My husband and I let our children open most of their Christmas gifts last night on Christmas Eve. These presents include the ones from me and him, and the ones from relatives who live far away and won't be able to make a trip in to visit.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQjZV-tBlGmx9z2FgQZuln0Mj1o0BmlU4m0xdAydwr3Q4x4uBM3RdDHjB_aKdvFuNVglfVJk_s2_WjZ95h2BJXnz-Z2A94imeueBfaPmLNFfqbuWjyjP3v2HW8TyuhThBFDtXqRdzPQPM5/s1600/received_10101600996801853.jpeg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQjZV-tBlGmx9z2FgQZuln0Mj1o0BmlU4m0xdAydwr3Q4x4uBM3RdDHjB_aKdvFuNVglfVJk_s2_WjZ95h2BJXnz-Z2A94imeueBfaPmLNFfqbuWjyjP3v2HW8TyuhThBFDtXqRdzPQPM5/s320/received_10101600996801853.jpeg" width="180" /></a></div>
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It was a successful unwrapping. The older two professed how much they loved their gifts. Minion Number 3 was actually playing with the toys he had unwrapped. We cleaned up all the wrapping paper and ushered the children off to bed so I could relax a little before going to bed for the night. (Yes, I had to work today.)<br />
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As us adults were unwinding my husband pointed out. The kids still believe in Santa. And here we were, Christmas Eve and the children had already unwrapped all their gifts. The husband and I, start wracking our brains to come up with a plan. We found the tricycle we had gotten for Number 3. We hadn't shown it to him yet because it still needed to be assembled. We found a new pair of boots for Number 1; we hadn't shown him them because they were not wrapped due to the shoe box missing its top. So that had my boys taken care of, but what about Number 2? We really didn't have anything left for her that she had not already seen. I go through my closet and I found my stash of yarn and I remembered her begging me to make her a scarf all year long. So I got right to it. About 2 hours later, she had a nice warm scarf folded and sitting under the tree.<br />
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This morning when we all got up the older two excitedly ran to the tree. Number 1 tried on his boots and loved them. The first thing out of Number 2's mouth was the exclamation <span style="font-size: large;">"Mommy made me a scarf!"</span> In a way she didn't care that at first glance she didn't get a Santa gift and she was excited that I had made something for her (*insert sound of heart melting*). However, I felt that it would be selfish of me to rob her of her belief in Santa just so I could receive credit for the scarf I had made. My husband and I corrected her and told her it was from Santa.<br />
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Then Number 2 replied <span style="font-size: large;">"Mrs. Claus can knit?" </span><br />
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Thank you readers for allowing me to share this wonderful little bit from our Christmas. I hope you all are having a wonderful Christmas/Holiday.
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Keep an eye out over the next few days. I have a set of ear buds that I will be hosting a giveaway for soon. Details to come!!linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-37585074506227119162015-12-21T08:57:00.001-08:002015-12-25T10:22:29.914-08:00Modern New Mom Survival Kit<script>
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<br />
A lot has changed in the world of having children. Parenting techniques have changed and now there are a LOT of different ways to raise your child. New research is constantly emerging regarding vaccinations, breastfeeding, and discipline. The way the hospital treats post-delivery mothers has changed greatly in the past 30 years. I remember when my mother had my younger brother. It was a normal, uncomplicated, routine delivery and yet her stay in the hospital after the birth was 5 days. When I gave birth to my children with normal, uncomplicated, routine deliveries, I was discharged within 48 hours of delivery.<br />
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Women are returning to the workforce a lot sooner than they used to. <br />
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The following excerpt is from a study conducted in 2014. <br />
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"We asked mothers in LTM II about their employment patterns after they had their baby.
<br />
Among those mothers who had returned to paid work, more than a third had returned by
<br />
6 weeks, and most (84%) were back to work by 12 weeks (Figure 8). This represented 57%
<br />
of all formerly employed mothers. They typically returned to the same work setting
<br />
(full-time, part-time or self-employed) that they had been in during pregnancy. Overall,
<br />
36% of mothers had paid work responsibilities by 12 weeks after the birth."<br />
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The fact that more women are returning to work and soon than past trends indicate only goes to show the different social climate new mothers are in. <br />
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And while advice from mother may get you quite a ways in navigating those early newborn waters, things have changed a great deal since she was in your shoes.<br />
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It is for that reason that I have compiled a short list of items that I either had or wished I had during each of my three pregnancies to help weather out the chaos.
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Congratulations! You're Pregnant</b></span><br />
<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=reviewingwhir-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0190FRE3Q" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
<a href="http://www.tomoson.com/?code=TOPcce1885b31eff553015f9ec166671c68" rel="nofollow"><img src="http://www.tomoson.com/images/front/pixel.png" style="display: none;" /></a>
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0190FRE3Q/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0190FRE3Q&linkCode=as2&tag=reviewingwhir-20&linkId=VLA26AKEYM5AY53E" rel="nofollow" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B0190FRE3Q&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=reviewingwhir-20" /></a>While the book What to Expect When You Are Expecting is still my favorite go-to for just about anything pregnancy related, I do like Angie's Congratulations! You're Pregnant as a sort of quick reference guide. It also has a lot of recently updated information especially that pertaining to nutrition. For example, I am a big sushi lover, but decided to go without while I was pregnant. (Fear of raw foods and all) However, Angie shares that most forms of sushi are safe to eat while pregnant as long as the raw fish in it were flash frozen first which most major fishing industries do on the boat right after the fish is caught. The freezing process kills any parasites that could potentially cause sickness. This is good to know and just wish I had known during my last pregnancy. While there were some topics that I wish Angie had gone a little more in depth with, I do love the book, and as I mentioned above it makes for a great quick reference guide or even a bathroom read (yeah, I spent a lot of time in the bathroom with each of my pregnancies: morning sickness among other reasons.)<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><a href="http://www.tomoson.com/?code=BOTTOMcce1885b31eff553015f9ec166671c68" rel="nofollow"><img src="http://www.tomoson.com/images/front/pixel.png" style="display: none;" /></a></b></span>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Breastfeeding Scarfs</b></span><br />
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<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=reviewingwhir-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B016PSXSW2" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
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With my first two kids I used receiving blankets, but they can be really annoying to carry around and seriously with a little baby do we really need to carry more things. I used to stash it in the already over-stuffed diaper bag and it would constantly get in the way when I would need to fish out a diaper or a wipe. Not to even mention that I live in the South and covering up my kids with a receiving blanket while they nursed would have both of us flushed and sweating from the heat. And while I loved the bonding time it gave me with my babies, it was rarely a positive experience for me or them when they needed to nurse in public.<br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016PSXSW2/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B016PSXSW2&linkCode=as2&tag=reviewingwhir-20&linkId=HXNAARCSMMPQSYW3" rel="nofollow" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B016PSXSW2&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=reviewingwhir-20" /></a><br />
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That is where this breastfeeding scarf has changed the game for my latest child. I can wear it as an infinity scarf, scarf with hood, or even as a shawl over my nursing tank top. The material is extremely soft and gets softer with each washing. It is almost like butter made into cloth. It is very light weight and breathable and there is enough material there to create a large "tent" area so you are completely covered as you switch sides without having to readjust the cover.<br />
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I only wish they had came out with this sooner, so I could have used it with my first two children.<br />
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<a href="http://www.tomoson.com/?code=BOTTOM7335da9fa68ccb5c5701826227f54221" rel="nofollow"><img src="http://www.tomoson.com/images/front/pixel.png" style="display: none;" /></a>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Snug Baby Monitor for Smartphones (Apple/Android)</b></span><br />
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<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=reviewingwhir-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B00XJI2G2K" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
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This is an item that has been made possible due to advances in technology, and now that I have one for my third child, I don't know how I ever got along without it for my first two. This baby monitor connects to the house's wifi network and can be accessed through an app on either an Apple or Android mobile device. The monitor mostly stays in stand-by mode and can either be activated remotely through the app or is activated by either sound or by detecting motion. If the monitor activates itself it sends a push notification to the connected mobile device. Now I can actually get stuff done while the baby is laying down for a nap without having to go check on him every 20 minutes. The monitor takes a little while to set up both physically and on the wifi network. It can be mounted to the wall and the eye of the monitor can do a full swivel for a complete view of the room. Once it is installed and set up it works beautifully. <br />
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<a href="http://www.tomoson.com/?code=BOTTOMbfc32b304ec845e6a02f380b04d9914d" rel="nofollow"><img src="http://www.tomoson.com/images/front/pixel.png" style="display: none;" /></a>
<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Resistance Loop Bands</b></span><br />
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<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=reviewingwhir-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B0147RQ7XA" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
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As mentioned in my introduction, women with young babies are returning to the workforce. This creates an even great demand on a new mother's time. Add to that demand the added pressure society puts on new mom's to shed the baby weight and it is no wonder that new mom's can feel overwhelmed.<br />
While I have stubbornly ignored all of society's expectations regarding my maternal stores (I am still about 20 lbs away from my pre-pregnancy weight and the baby is now almost 2) I have found an item that makes working out much easier than going to the gym.<br />
<br />
<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0147RQ7XA/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B0147RQ7XA&linkCode=as2&tag=reviewingwhir-20&linkId=BAJVO3BL5QMYFHWA" rel="nofollow" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B0147RQ7XA&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=reviewingwhir-20" /></a>These resistance loop bands come in a pack of five and have different weight resistance. They range from super light (about what you would need for physical therapy) to super heavy (really work on that muscle tone). The material feels strong and durable and I don't have any concerns about them breaking and snapping (although that could be an issue once they become worn). I love how they are compact and offer all the benefits of a home gym without taking up all that space. I also love how I could work out at home during the baby's nap, instead of trying to fit in a trip to the gym.<br />
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<a href="http://www.tomoson.com/?code=BOTTOM474e41212a4e1df82d770a7954935797" rel="nofollow"><img src="http://www.tomoson.com/images/front/pixel.png" style="display: none;" /></a><br />
As always comments, feedback, questions and suggestions are welcome. Please remember to follow the blog and register your email address at the top of the page to have updates sent directly to your email inbox so you never miss a post.<br />
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You can also like the blog's <a href="https://www.facebook.com/reviewingWhirlwind/?ref=aymt_homepage_panel">Facebook page</a>. I announce on Facebook when there is a new post and will begin running the occasional giveaway soon!<br />
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Please note the general disclaimer regarding any item mentioned in this blog. The General disclaimer can be found at the link at the top of the page. linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-22108479416234775162015-12-14T08:42:00.001-08:002015-12-19T07:09:54.753-08:00Another Round of Product Reviews
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Here are some more items that I have had the pleasure of trying recently. These listed below made enough of an impression with me that I think they might make a good gift or spark some inspiration for those who are difficult to buy for. <br />
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A Gift of a Quiet Night: Anti-Bark Collars (Not to be used on the kids no matter how tempted I am.)<br />
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<img alt="" border="0" src="http://ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=reviewingwhir-20&l=as2&o=1&a=B016SIRJGA" height="1" style="border: none !important; margin: 0px !important;" width="1" />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B016SIRJGA/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B016SIRJGA&linkCode=as2&tag=reviewingwhir-20&linkId=FGSEEXISQC5M6O6Y" rel="nofollow" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B016SIRJGA&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=reviewingwhir-20" /></a>
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I can't tell you how many times something would sneak across the street (usually a stray cat) and get my dogs riled up for several hours of barking. I am a pretty light sleeper, and that would be all that it would take for me to get little to no sleep and revert back to the zombie like state that had previously only been induced by having a newborn needing to eat every few hours.<br />
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I have a really large Golden Retriever/Lab/Chow mix. He is an adult dog that we "inherited" from a family member. He did not have any structured training in his formative years and as such has fully resisted several months of attentive training methods that worked for my Beagle/Boxer mix.<br />
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If I lived out in the country, his barking would not be an issue, but I live in an older well developed and otherwise quiet neighborhood. My neighbors know me and have been exceedingly patient with us and our large dog, but I can tell that their patience is starting to wear a little thin especially as I see the bags and dark circles under their eyes become more pronounced like mine.<br />
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For me training collars are the absolute last resort. I started off with the collar on the default setting, since he is a larger breed. At first, it did not phase him at all. I have since increased the level once and I am starting to notice a difference. My dog still barks, but it is less frequent and doesn't last as long. I will probably leave it at this level (5) as long as he continues to show progress. Hopefully in a few weeks we can try just setting it at the audible *reminder* setting.<br />
<a href="http://www.tomoson.com/?code=BOTTOMc5816f6c1a0c61a1836cc7372567f8e0" rel="nofollow"><img src="http://www.tomoson.com/images/front/pixel.png" style="display: none;" /></a>
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A Gift of Relaxation: Calming Ocean Waves CD and Wine Aerator<br />
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Ryan Judd has composed a beautiful and relaxing soundtrack that will take you to the beach. <br />
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The CD is exactly 1 hour long and offers consistent sounds of waves. There are no jarring noises like seagulls squawking to make you jump and get your adrenaline going while you are trying to relax. The CD comes in a thick envelope-type sleeve and not in a jewel case, which is no big deal to me but I thought I would mention it.<br />
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I use this CD for my meditation as well as for white noise to help my toddler fall asleep at nap time.<br />
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And when meditation fails to bring me calm and inner peace a nice glass of red will. Although I find that with a lot of affordable reds out there you have to let them breath for quite a while in order to get rid of that harsh tastes.<br />
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I found an explanation of this at the site <a href="http://food-hacks.wonderhowto.com/how-to/make-crappy-wine-taste-good-good-wine-taste-better-without-any-special-tools-0151694/">Wonder-How-To: Food Hacks</a>.<br />
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When wine is aerated, many volatile compounds like sulfides become oxidized and then turn into vapor. This means they don't end up in your mouth, where they can make the wine taste sour, tannic, or otherwise nasty. Ever sipped a glass of wine that has the taste of rubbing alcohol? That would be ethanol, another volatile compound. Exposing your wine to a lot of air reduces that harsh note as well.<br />
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So the longer wine is exposed to air, the more harsh flavors and notes begin to mellow out and blend together. If you have a very delicate older wine, you probably don't want it to aerate for too long or its singular aromas might literally turn into thin air. More recent vintages and very tannic wines (like Cabernet and Syrah) tend to be harsher and more concentrated. These can stand long periods of aeration and be better for it.<br />
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Since I usually don't have the patience to sit there and wait for a glass of wine to be ready, I like to lend a little hand to the breathing process. (No, I don't sit there an blow on the wine...anymore.)<br />
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I have graduated to using wine aerators. These little devices add air bubbles to the stream of wine as it is poured.<br />
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This was actually the second wine aerator I had purchased. While I love the one I originally purchased, it was awfully clumsy to use with out someone lending me an extra set of hands. You literally need three hands with my first aerator (one to hold the bottle, one to hold the aerator, and one to hold the glass.) It is not that big of a deal if you are pouring for others, but pouring for yourself will be a lesson in juggling.<br />
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This aerator by Vino Aria. It has a rubber collar on the small end that you shove into the wine bottle for a hands-free aeration. When I first opened up the packaging for the aerator and examined it, I was quite a bit disappointed as it is terribly light. My first aerator is heavy as it is made of hand-blown glass. As I got to thinking about it, the hardened plastic material suits me just fine. Out of all my wine accessories, do I really need another one that will shatter if accidentally dropped? With this one made from the hardened plastic, I feel comfortable carrying it with me and a bottle of wine over to my friend's house for a girls' night in.<br />
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A Gift of time: for those who are always late (and by that I mean a watch).<br />
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Topaz makes some surprisingly nice watches. The watch face is very nice. It was slightly larger than expected, but that makes sense as it it listed as a unisex watch. It is larger than watches listed as women's but smaller than a lot of watches tailored towards men. The numbers are easy to read and even though I have only had it a few days it appears to keep time well.<br />
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For more holiday gift ideas, check out Amazon's list of top toys for the season.<br />
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I had mentioned shipping deadlines in my last post.<br />
Here is an update for shipping Christmas presents this year. <br />
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These are the published deadlines from the major shipping services.<br />
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<b>USPS</b>: December <b>15</b> is the last day the USPS recommends you use standard shipping if you want delivery
on time; December <b>19</b> is the last day for First Class mail; December <b>21</b>
for Priority Mail, and December <b>23</b> for Priority Mail Express.<br />
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<a href="http://vignette3.wikia.nocookie.net/logopedia/images/0/0e/UPS_logo_2003.png/revision/latest?cb=20100615165603" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://vignette3.wikia.nocookie.net/logopedia/images/0/0e/UPS_logo_2003.png/revision/latest?cb=20100615165603" height="320" width="269" /></a><b> </b><br />
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<b>UPS</b>: December <b>18</b> is the last day to ship UPS 3 Day Select — if you want packages to be delivered before Christmas Day; December <b>22</b> is the last day for 2 Day Air, and December <b>23</b> is the deadline for overnight packages to arrive on the 24th.<br />
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<a href="http://pictures.mastermarf.com/blog/2009/090113-fedex-express.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://pictures.mastermarf.com/blog/2009/090113-fedex-express.png" height="139" width="320" /></a><b> </b><br />
<b>FedEx</b>: December <b>16</b> is the last day to ship FedEx Ground if you want delivery by Christmas<a href="https://www.blogger.com/null"> </a> Day: December <b>21</b> is the deadline for Express Saver, and December<b> 22</b> is
the deadline for 2 Day Air. The <b>23rd</b> is the last day to send overnight
packages for arrival on the 24th.
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As always feedback, questions, comments, and suggestions are always welcome. Please remember to follow the blog and register your email address at the top of the page to have new posts delivered right to your email inbox and never miss an update.<br />
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Disclaimer: please be aware that any item mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed in this blog are my own regardless of how the items were acquired. <br />
<br />linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-44749203587283580882015-12-10T12:06:00.002-08:002015-12-10T12:13:14.998-08:00Celebrating 500!!Hello World!<br />
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I know things have been quiet the last few days. Things at my day job have picked up and that means lots of overtime had to be worked. Hello 60 hour work week!<br />
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On top of that, I had a switch in my medication for my depression. Since I have been managing my anxiety really well lately, I am going back to Celexa from Lexapro. Don't get me wrong the Lexapro is great and really helps, but it also makes me feel sleepy all the time. Without anxiety attacks I can go back to the Celexa which keeps me feeling happy without feeling sleepy. And that was definitely needed for this really long week at work.<br />
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Now in spite of the few days' absence, I am delighted to share that this blog has just crossed the 500 lifetime views. I just wanted to say thank you. Because of you guys stopping by and reading these posts, this blog has grown so much faster than I ever expected it to. Knowing that you are out there waiting for updates, keeps me writing. It keeps me going. All of you are great, and I truly appreciate everyone of you.<br />
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Hopefully, I am fulfilling my promise to each and every one of you to provide you with amusing and entertaining anecdotes and honest product reviews. I am trying to follow the advice outlined in Halden Zimmermann's Guide to High Impact Blogs to ensure that I am providing focused and quality content. Which if any of you ever decide to start a blog of your own, this book provides you with valuable information without being too burdensome. It is a short read; I had it completely read within a day. It goes over the basics for building and outlining a blog and provides strategies for managing it as it grows to insure sustained growth. You can read more about the author Halden Zimmermann on his website <a href="http://haldenzimmermann.com/">http://haldenzimmermann.com/</a> or on his author page on <a href="http://www.amazon.com/-/e/B0187VW47K">Amazon.com</a>.<br />
http://reviewingwhirlwind.blogspot.com/2015/12/celebrating-500.html
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Sorry for that digression. I just wanted to show my appreciation for all of you.<br />
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I will post another round of product reviews for holiday gift ideas within the next 24 hours.<br />
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Remember, if you are ordering from Amazon.com we are now less than two weeks away for the Christmas order deadline for most of the items on the site that are shipped by Amazon. For orders to be delivered before Christmas with two day shipping, the order needs to be placed no later than 1pm Tuesday, December 22. Always check the order confirmation email for the most accurate estimated delivery day. That will be the one that takes into account where your items are coming from as well as where they are being delivered. Also, please bear in mind that the Prime two-day shipping will generally guarantee that the item will only be in transit for two days and does not cover the amount of time the fulfillment center may need to put the order together. The shipping guarantee means that if Amazon and the carrier are not able to get the item to you by the date in your confirmation email, then any extra you paid for that faster shipping can be refunded. Last but not least, try to be nice to any customer service representative you may need to reach out to for help. Most of the time, they will try to do everything in their power to make the situation right, and they really do understand the frustrations you are experiencing. Just please, try not to take it out on them. <br />
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This time of year always ushers in dread as cold fronts bring with them biting winds that drive everyone in doors. With the minions all going to school (the youngest in daycare), these little petri dishes manage to bring home every cold, stomach bug, and flu out there. Thank goodness they have been vaccinated against antique diseases, otherwise we probably would have lost minion Number 2 to pneumonia all Oregon Trail style after attempting to ford a river.<br />
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Recently I learned, that it is not the cold itself that makes us sick; as my grandmother told me (yours probably told you too) "You'll catch your death of cold!"<br />
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But from what I have learned the cold temperature itself does not make you sick. Germs make you sick. Cold temperatures can make things a little more difficult for your body's immune system to respond and fight off those invaders, but for the average person in decent health (not the really young, really old, or those with otherwise already compromised immune systems) the affect of colder temperatures on the body remains negligible. The more likely behavior that explains why winter heralds in as the season of sickness is that people spend more time indoors. It is too cold to go outside. There aren't as many daylight hours in the days surrounding the winter solstice. This increases our proximity to <strike>other carriers </strike>*ahem* I mean, family members which increases our changes of contracting a pathogen our bodies have not yet had.<br />
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Here is a fun and informative video from ASAP Science explaining the same concepts above in more detail. <br />
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I remember my first winter in college. I was the sickest I had ever been. I don't even remember what it was that I had. I just remember running a really high fever for several days. The fever was so high that my eyes would water and the tears would feel almost boiling hot. I was concerned with how high the fever was to the point that I would only sleep with someone in the room to watch me ( I was afraid it would get to the point that I was delirious. I would tell you the exact temperature however, my college dorm kit did not include a thermometer. I only remember when I finally went to the clinic on campus after missing a full week of classes, and they took my temperature there, the nurse exclaimed in surprise, "Oh my, you are running a fever of 102."<br />
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I looked at her and said "Oh really? That's concerning, considering this is the best I have felt all week."<br />
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I firmly believe that if a thermometer had been included in my "off to college" kit, I would have checked my temperature at least once and my room mate would have forced me to go to the campus clinic much sooner. Since I try to make sure that there is always at least one thermometer in the house, whether or not I can find it is a different story as my minions find taking their temperature amusing. <br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">A thermometer is just a thermometer. They are all the same and just measure your body temperature.</span><br />
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At least I used to think so. That was before I had my first child and before he ran his first fever. I have learned the value of quick read thermometers, especially when you have a sick non-cooperative toddler who does not believe you when you say that you need to take their temperature to figure out how sick they are.<br />
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FamFave has created a quick read thermometer and one of the best features about it (other than the speed which provides results in about 10-25 seconds) is the large and well lit display. Now low light in a room you have designated as the sick bay is no longer an issue as the green back light allows you to quickly retrieve the measured temperature. FamFave had definitely won over this mom of three with this thermometer.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">FamFave has created a special offer for Reviewing Whirlwind readers. </span><br />
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<a href="http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B010C7V8DS/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B010C7V8DS&linkCode=as2&tag=reviewingwhir-20&linkId=DJNMJQWGDEBCNGF4" rel="nofollow" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?_encoding=UTF8&ASIN=B010C7V8DS&Format=_SL250_&ID=AsinImage&MarketPlace=US&ServiceVersion=20070822&WS=1&tag=reviewingwhir-20" /></a>Click on the picture to the left, add the item to your shopping cart and then enter the promotional code <span style="font-size: large;">T53OFF4U</span> at checkout to receive the item for the promotional price of $7.97. That is a 53% discount off the regular price of $16.97. And remember, Prime members get free shipping<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"> items shipped from Amazon</span></span>. Satisfaction guaranteed - 100% money back guarantee - no-hassle refund available, just contact Amazon if you are unsatisfied for any reason.<br />
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As always, comments, questions, suggestions, and feedback are always welcome. Please remember to follow the blog and register your email address at the top of the page to have updates sent directly to your email inbox so you never miss a post.<br />
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Disclaimer: Any product mentioned in this blog may have been received for free or at a discount in exchange for a fair and honest review. The opinions expressed above are my own regardless of how the item was acquired.linixpixihttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16329673352567348453noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6927673571322081577.post-8471290345087686872015-12-03T08:53:00.000-08:002015-12-03T08:54:10.142-08:00Adulting is Hard to DoA friend of mine is just starting out her own blog and this first real post (after the introductory post) is an honest and vulnerable monologue about the insecurities of making friends once you enter adulthood.<br />
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If any of you were the first in your group of friend to get married or have kids, you can relate. It is almost as if as soon as one of those life events happen you are jettisoned to a different "planet" for that phase of life. All of a sudden your group of friends don't want to hang out because the spouse wants to be included, or they think you might (and rightly so) be too busy with your kids. Next thing you know, you are left to go it alone until your friends can "catch up".<br />
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I often times think to myself "<span style="font-size: large;">How come no one ever told me making good friends after reaching adulthood would be so hard?</span>"<br />
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And so without further ado, here is<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><i>Things that Clog the Mind</i></span> from Clarity of Mind and Life.<br />
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All of my life I have had random thoughts and feelings of
inferiority. I’ve never felt quite good enough. Never felt I had
enough to offer people. Always missing… something. Lately this evil
lil minion of self doubt has been prancing around the living space in my
head.<br />
I’m older. I’ve learned that as I age, the friends in my life have
dwindled. A lot. I try to make new friends.. and it never seems to
work. I have people in my life that I love, dearly. But, they are so
so far away. Life just does that, ya know? Moves you and others around
and around in a whirlwind of events that can leave us all misplaced. We
set our roots when we finally land… and the people who were there along
the way end up wayyyy over there. Its just life. And I accept that.<br />
I feel that this ebb and flow is constantly fighting against me. I
miss having friends. I miss having a social life. I have moments when I
am reminded of its like to be social. And I miss it. Life’s
obligations, family, work, dishes, laundry.. everything.. its drains me
and I’ve lost myself along the way. I miss having a strong sense of who
I am and loving myself.<br />
It feels like I annoy those around me. Like, right now, I’m at work
and there are people all around me. I’m usually quite friendly, but
lately it feels like I’m just getting on peoples nerves. I have tried
over the past year to pay close attention to how I am perceived by
others. Trying to pick apart how I come off.. how people react to me
being based on my mood. I often wonder if I try too hard? Or expect too
much from others? All I want is to make friends, and I seem to just
bug people. How do you get past that? I miss the days when I didn’t
care about the opinion of others, but this seems to be a pattern. I
make a friend, start incorporating them into my life, only for the
friend to suddenly disappear. Is it me? Or is it just that ebb and
flow?<br />
Days like this I wish I didn’t think so much.<br />
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As always, comments, questions, feedback, and suggestions are always welcome. Please remember to follow the blog and register your email at the top of the page to have new posts delivered directly to your email inbox and never miss an update.<br />
<br />
Also please check out the new blog by my friend, <a href="http://clarityofmindandlife.com/" target="_blank">Clarity of Mind and Life</a>. She gives herself a hard time but she is actually a decent writer and one of the most 'real' people out there. :)<br />
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