Saturday, August 31, 2013

Tiny Prints Labor Day Weeklong Sitewide Sale: 25% off Any Order! (Ends 9/3/13)

Another Labor Day Sale from Tiny Prints! Save 25% off with code LABOR13 at checkout! Offer Ends September 2, 2013 at 9pm (pt)


Its a great time to get party invites, photo books, customized notebooks, business cards and all things Tiny Prints!


Disclosure: My Journey to Living Well uses affiliate (marketing) links whenever possible. This post may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Wedding Paper Divas Site-Wide Sale ~ 25% Off! (Ends 9/3/13)

If you've been waiting to buy your wedding invites or other stationary, then now is the time to buy! Wedding Paper Divas is having a site-wide sale for Labor Day! You can save 25% off all orders using the code LABOR13 at checkout. There is no minimum purchase required for this promotion! Order what you need NOW before its over!

Wedding Paper Divas Save the Date Card Sale

Offer expires 9/3/13 at 11:59 pm (PT).

Disclosure: My Journey to Living Well uses affiliate (marketing) links whenever possible. This post may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

doTERRA DigestZen Review and Giveaway (Giveaway Ends 9/14/13)

This month I received doTERRA's DigestZen for review from My Natural Family's blogger review program.

doTERRA DigestZen - replace all your other remedies for food allergies, heartburn, bloating, cramps, the flu, diarrhea, food poisoning & the list goes on and on . . .

DigestZen is an essential oil blend used to help alleviate all sorts of digestive ailments. It is a combination of ginger, peppermint, tarragon, fennel, caraway, coriander and anise which all help to increase the effectiveness of this powerful blend.

Here are just a few of the uses for DigestZen™…

*Heartburn:
Add one drop of oil to rice or almond milk and drink
*Bloating and cramps:
Flavor water with 5 drops and drink
*Diarrhea and other digestive issues:
Apply topically on the abdomen or take internally by placing 1-2 drops in an empty capsule and swallowing.
*Congestion:
Diffusing into the air with our Lotus Diffuser can help clear up mucus.
*Food poisoning:
Add 6 drops to 8oz of water. Swish around in the mouth, and swallow. Place 1-2 drops in an empty capsule, and swallow.
*Helps with Abdominal Cramps, Bloating, Constipation, Diarrhea, Digestive Problems, Food Allergies, Food Poisoning, Heartburn, Irritable Bowel Syndrome, Nausea, Salmonella, and Stomachaches.

I've personally used the DigestZen for instances of over-eating or generally upset tummies at home. My youngest (who is three) frequently has belly-aches. Obviously there is something that's not agreeing with her but I haven't been able to figure it out yet. I apply the DigestZen to the soles of her feet (diluted with some coconut oil) and she feels so much better.

I tried once telling her it was perfume and put it on her belly but the smell is pretty potent for her and she didn't like after a few minutes. That's why I love the fact that these oils do great on the soles of the feet. I feel like I'm building an all natural medicine cabinet!

For myself, the few times that I've had stomach upset I dilute a few drops in a cup of water and drink it. It tastes a little like black licorice, not unpleasant and its like taking a miracle tonic. This stuff works for heartburn, overeating, diarrhea, and Irritable Bowel which I have personally had issues with.

My doctor had prescribed me a medication for it which completely dries me out, makes my mouth taste like I'm chewing on cotton and I hate it. DigestZen has completely replaced it. I highly recommend those looking for natural solutions to common stomach ailments give this stuff a try. I can't imagine anyone being disappointed.

Find out more about DigestZen here and one lucky reader is going to win their own bottle! Enter using the Rafflecopter below. A winner will be chosen using random.org. This contest will run through September 14, 2013 at 11:01pm cst. Open to US only, 18+

a Rafflecopter giveaway



The product I reviewed and the giveaway prize was provided by My Natural Family and will be shipped to the winner by My Natural Family. All opinions expressed are my honest opinions based on my personal experiences. If you own a blog and would like to run a giveaway like this, check out their blogger program.

Monday, August 26, 2013

$300 Amazon Gift Card Giveaway ~ Plus 4 Additional Prizes of $50! {Ends September 9th}


Yabbly is an online community of thoughtful people who help each other make great purchasing decisions everyday. They were finalists in SxSW 2013 in the social category and are a top 3 search result in "product reviews" on the iPhone app store. Now we all know how hard it is to get to the top 10 in the eyes of Apple. So that is pretty big news. Get the Yabbly App today. It's free!

The Yabbly philosophy is that the best purchasing decisions are made through dialogue with actual people who have made similar decisions recently. They believe that one of the main frustrations about online shopping today is that averaging a bunch of reviews just doesn't cut it, and you're left buying a product and simply hoping for the best.

Saturday, August 24, 2013

TinySoles Giveaway! {Ends September 2, 2013}

Baby need a new pair of shoes? Win some in this giveaway brought to you by Adventure of Midlife Mommy, Southern Mom Media and TinySoles!

Good luck!

Welcome to the TinySoles Giveaway Event

Sponsored by: TinySoles

Hosted by: Southern Mom Media 

&

Adventures of a Midlife Mommy

A great big "Thank You" to TinySoles for Sponsoring this  great event! 

If you didn't already know, TinySoles is an amazing one stop shop for all your child's footwear and accessories needs. They have an awesome selection of shoes from tons of name brands like Geox, StrideRite, See Kai Run, KEEN and more. 

Friday, August 23, 2013

Core Bamboo Over the Sink Shelf Review

I recently received an Over the Sink Shelf from Core Bamboo in exchange for an honest review.

I am so pleased to have gotten this shelf. Its one of those small things that make a huge difference in your home AND in your life. Yes, its that good. Taking away just that small bit of clutter behind my sink makes me feel so much better. Those of you who have ever "minimized" will know what I'm talking about.


Core Bamboo Over the Sink Shelf


Core Bamboo Over The Sink Shelf Review

I was initially interested in Core Bamboo both because of their commitment to social responsibility and because Bamboo is a 100% renewable resource that doesn't require re-planting, extensive irrigation, pesticides or fertilizer in to produce it.

They have really taken an interest in sustainability and that is so important these days as we continue to use up our Earth's resources.

The shelf came quickly and with awesome service, just fold it out it to set it up, you really couldn't ask for more. Its very roomy and makes cleaning up after doing the dishes SO easy. I don't have to move everything out of the way anymore just to clean up the sprayed water. Plus, it looks fantastic! I am now inspired to re-do this whole area (yes, I will most likely blog about it).

Here's a little more about this fantastic company:


Core Bamboo


About Us
Core Bamboo is the proud manufacturer, wholesaler and retailer of the world’s finest Bamboo products including bamboo bowls, cutting boards, serving trays and utensils. All of our products are made by our experienced team of hard working artisans in a safe and responsible environment. We take great pride not only in the outstanding quality of our products but in the environment in which they are made. Every product that bears our name was made ethically and in a socially responsible way. We have been awarded several honors by different local associations and trade groups for the standard in which we hold ourselves by.
Our Social Responsibility
We were fortunate enough to be born into a more privileged environment. We view it as our responsibility to help those who weren’t. It has been a Core directive since our inception to always give back to the communities in which we are proud to be a part of. Our family of over 2,000 skilled and talented artisans span throughout different parts of the world. All of our communities benefit from their employment and our local charitable endeavors. From proper housing and medical care, to additional parks and recreation, it gives us a great sense of purpose and accomplishment that we are able to play a meaningful part in the lives of such wonderful people.
The Basics
All of the bamboo we use is 100% organically grown. We use food safe water based adhesives and we finish our products with top grade natural oils. Even our lacquer comes from natural cashew trees. Every product adheres to the standards of the FDA and European equivalent. Wherever possible we use recycled and eco friendly packaging.
Some people talk about being organic, We live by it!
You can buy this product and so much more at CoreBamboo.com but also be sure to connect with them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Pinterest!



Disclosure: My Journey to Living Well uses affiliate (marketing) links whenever possible. This post may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Stephanie Izard's NEW Line of Sauces and Rubs Exclusively at Abe's Market

Breaking news from Abe's Market! They are now the exclusive online distributor of Stephanie Izard's NEW line of gourmet sauces and rubs! Check this out:
 (BE SURE TO CHECK OUT THE RECIPE LINKS BELOW!)
Great news! Abe's Market has teamed up with chef Stephanie Izard, the Chicago-based James Beard Award winner! We are now the exclusive online distributors of her new line of gourmet sauces and rubs, called "The Flavor, by Stephanie Izard." This new line is a mouthwatering collection of all-natural sautés, sauces, marinades and rubs that focus on bringing Izard’s “make your whole mouth happy.”

The Flavor by Stephanie Izard



Who doesn't want a little more flavor in their life? Whether that's at work, play, sex, fun or food, having more flavor is always welcome. Abe's is thrilled to announce that celeb chef Stephanie Izard, who won season four of Top Chef, is launching her line of sauces and rubs, The Flavor, exclusively with us. Izard uses layers of bold flavors at her two hugely successful Chicago restaurants, Girl & The Goat and Little Goat Diner, where people can sometimes book up to three months in advance to get a table at Girl & The Goat. It's that popular and that good!
The Flavor, which includes three sauces — The Marinade, The Chee and The Sauté — and three rubs — simply numbered 1, 2 and 3 — let Izard's popular flavors come home with you. The line is superbly versatile and can be used with various meats, seafood, tofu, vegetables and more.
To get things going, Izard gave us three delicious and easy recipes: heirloom tomato and stonefruit salad; grilled broccoli with spice krispies; and spicy and cheesy corn on the cob.



Q&A WITH CHEF STEPHANIE IZARD
Abe's Market: What inspired you to create this line of sauces and rubs?
Stephanie Izard: Our style is always to have as many layers of flavors in dishes and I wanted to take that and put it in a bottle … you can take a splash and there's your flavor. We take away having to add in the different layers of flavors. We put it all in a bottle!
Abe's: What are some of your favorite ways to suggest to people to use the different products?
Izard: It's about keeping things simple: Start with fresh ingredients, maybe from the farmers market, like your meat and produce. The Marinade and the Sauté are great with meats, but they can be used for various things. Just because it's a marinade doesn't mean you can't use it as a dressing.
Abe's: What, in your mind, sets The Flavor apart from other products people can get?
Izard: A lot of times if I buy something in the bottle, I doctor it up with more flavor. If it's a marinara, I'll add in onions or balsamic or whatever it's lacking. I think these sauces are the opposite – there's plenty of flavor in The Flavor.
Abe's: What inspires you to be more eco-friendly in your cooking, restaurants and products?
Izard: It started with meeting farmers and going to farms and getting a better appreciation of what goes into growing the food we eat. It's also about the benefits of the nutrients from food raised properly in comparison to other foods.
Abe's: Why did you want to team up with Abe's as your first ecommerce partner?
Izard: It's important to partner with companies that have similar beliefs, likeStumptown Coffee, who take time to visit their famers. As I learn more about Abe's, it aligns with our brand and it's important to be in the right places that make sense with our stuff.

You may have seen an article featuring Stephanie Izard in this month's issue of Better Homes and Gardens (arrived in the mail yesterday for those of you who subscribe)

Stephanie Izard in Better Homes and Gardens


Make sure you head over to Abe's and be among the first to get your hands on these!



The Marinade The Flavor, by Stephanie Izard (16 oz.)
The Marinade The Flavor, by Stephanie Izard (16 oz.)

Give whatever you're cooking a good long bath in this marinade. Fish, turkey, tofu... doesn't matter. Soak them all! Give it at least a few minutes though. An hour to a day works great, too.**contains wheat & soy.

The Saute The Flavor, by Stephanie Izard (16 oz.)
The Saute The Flavor, by Stephanie Izard (16 oz.)

Wondering how to add a little flavor to those everyday veggies? Heat up a pan, throw in a little saute sauce and add them in. If you're feeling like a pro, give the pan a quick toss to coat.**contains fish, soy, & wheat

The Chee The Flavor, by Stephanie Izard (16 oz.)
The Chee The Flavor, by Stephanie Izard (16 oz.)

What's in this bottle can be your best new friend. Add it to veggies for a quick kimchee, make a spicy mayo, add a little kick to your BBQ sauce or just marinate whatever is on hand to add a deep asian flavor.**Contains Soy, Wheat, & Fish

Rub #3 with Cheese, The Flavor by Stephanie Izard
Rub #3 with Cheese, The Flavor by Stephanie Izard

Like a sunburn from a tanning bed, this rub brings the cheesy heat. Perfect on everything from pasta to popcorn, this is the one rub that we can cop to eating straight from the packet.

Rub #1, The Flavor by Stephanie Izard
Rub #1, The Flavor by Stephanie Izard

This is the duct-tape of all rubs. Think of the all-time-best chip seasoning and you're in the ballpark for how this tastes. Seriously addictive and great on everything. Yes, everything.

Rub #2, The Flavor by Stephanie Izard
Rub #2, The Flavor by Stephanie Izard

When you need a little kick and want to add a fantastic blend of exotic flavors, don't hesitate to rub this in. Sure, we could use worlds like masala or other fancy spice names. But the reality is: who cares when it tastes this good?

Disclosure: My Journey to Living Well uses affiliate (marketing) links whenever possible. This post may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Tuesday, August 20, 2013

Kick Your Photography Skills Up a Few Notches With Craftsy

Take your photography skills to the next level (and then the next after that!) with online courses available at Craftsy. With Craftsy you can take courses on your own time but still have the resources of an instructor, forum, and videos to make sure you learn what you're paying for! You will be learning from no less than the best professionals!

Great for bloggers too! Really showcase your product reviews with awesome pictures and wow your sponsors!

Moms make sure you capture that perfect moment perfectly! You'll be prepared with this great selection available right now!


Shoot It: Product Photography Class - You don't need expensive software or a super-fancy camera to take great photos - just the knowledge you'll get in this essential class.


Kirk Tuck: Studio Portrait Lighting - Let photographer Kirk Tuck show you the equipment, setup and lighting techniques you’ll need to create alluring, professional-quality studio portraits.


Portraits With an On-Camera Speedlight - Use light to bring your portraits to life! Harness available light and learn advanced on-camera flash techniques with Neil van Niekerk.


Landscape Photography: Great Sand Dunes - Journey through stunning sand dune vistas with photo guru Rick Sammon & elevate your landscape photos from bland to breathtaking in this online class.


Shooting Intimate Landscapes - Turn the ordinary into the extraordinary! See beauty on a small scale and find intimate landscapes anywhere with photographer Rob Sheppard.


Off-Camera Flash Photography with Neil van Niekerk - Put your subjects in their best light no matter what the setting by taking your speedlight off-camera and creating fantastic portraits with Neil van Niekerk’s expert flash techniques.Disclosure: My Journey to Living Well uses affiliate (marketing) links whenever possible. This post may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

15% Off Upholstery Sale With Code at Zinc Door

Ahh.. finally you can relax in style and comfort with this contemporary furniture at Zinc Door. Perhaps you're searching for a new sofa or sectional, or maybe you just need the perfect ottoman to complement your existing furniture. If that's the case, then you won't want to miss out on Zinc Door's 15% off select upholstery sale with promo code SOFTSEAT valid through September 15, 2013! Browse eye-catching chaises/daybeds, bar stools, benches, and other upholstered pieces to tie your room together! Happy shopping! 



Disclosure: My Journey to Living Well uses affiliate (marketing) links whenever possible. This post may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Put The Style in Lifestyle With Modcloth's NEW Retro and Cute Apartment Decor!

ModCloth is launching a magical new line of home decor items for you to beautify your apartment. If you follow this blog you already know how much I LOVE that shop, this makes it a gazillion times better! Take a look at some of the new items here: ModCloth Retro & Cute Apartment Decor! Shop Now!


They have the cutest kitchen and bathroom items to make your home playful and elegant, all at an affordable price too. Plus they offer free shipping on all orders that are over $50, so don't be shy when you find a few (or more!) things you love at ModCloth! Come back and tell me what you got!!

Disclosure: My Journey to Living Well uses affiliate (marketing) links whenever possible. This post may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Big Savings at Castle Rock Resort and Waterpark in Branson Missouri!



I just got word on some great promotions from Caste Rock Resort and Waterpark in Branson, Missouri! Perfect for those of you looking for some last minute summer fun!




Big Savings Weekday Special - Book your reservation online to receive 30% Off of your entire stay! This offer is valid on new reservations only and is Not valid in conjunction with any other offers, discounts, promotions or packages. Blackout Dates: 10/13-10/17, 11/28. Offer Expires: 12/19/13



Wet & Wild Weekend Package - Includes 2 nights lodging, waterpark access, breakfast every morning for 2 adults & 2 children, VIP coupons, 1 water blaster, 2 adult & 2 children Branson Wild World VIP admission (includes the animal adventure tour, arcade, and mini golf). Package starts at $268, that's 25% off! On new reservations only. Not valid in conjunction with any other offers, discounts, promotions or packages. Blackout Dates: 8/30 - 8/31, 10/18 - 10/19 Expires 11/2/13



Call 1-888-273-3919 to book or visit http://www.castlerockbranson.com
Castle Rock Resort and Waterpark is located in beautiful Branson, Missouri. We offer a 30,000 square foot indoor waterpark and 10,000 square foot outdoor waterpark. We also have an on-site restaurant, a 24-hour arcade and gift shop, and day spa & salon.
This is an awesome place for the kiddos ~ they have bunk beds and their own 19" flat screen! Seriously though, with 150,000 gallons of water ON SITE who is going to be watching tv? Maybe good to get them settled down at night though right?
Our resort features 98 Tower rooms connected to the Waterpark through interior corridors and 102 exterior entrance rooms in the two Atrium buildings located approximately 50 yards from the Waterpark. Each Tower room has a built in Kiddie Cove (6' x 4') with a bunk bed and 19” flat screen tv. Our Tower room accommodations boast 2 double beds or 1 king bed, 32” flat screen tv, mini fridge, coffee maker, iron, ironing board, and hairdryer. Our newly refurbished Atrium rooms boast 2 queen beds, or 1 king bed, a 32” flat screen tv, coffee maker, iron, ironing board, and hairdryer.

So if you're like me, and you'll be bringing your own groceries for the majority of your dining out, they've got a fridge and coffee maker, the two basic necessities to ensure you're not breaking the bank.


Castle Rock offers one of Branson’s best attractions right on-site with our 30,000 sq ft indoor and 10,000 sq ft outdoor waterpark. Our waterpark features 150,000 gallons of splashtacular fun with two 500 gallon dumping buckets, multiple indoor and outdoor kiddie pools with rain showers and waterfalls and more! Enjoy a swim in our indoor lap pool or play basketball in our indoor activity pool. Loop and dip through our 2 large three-story thrill slides, kick back for a ride on the lazy river, play on themed water slides or relax on the multilevel sun deck.

My husband and I have not been ANYWHERE at all in years, its truly time for a vacation. This is close to home for us (we live in Tennessee) so we'll definitely be there!

Disclosure: My Journey to Living Well uses affiliate (marketing) links whenever possible. This post may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Gluten-Free Penne Pasta With Meat Sauce Recipe

I recently received a fantastic Gluten-Free Variety Package by Scharr from
  For The Gourmet!


For The Gourmet's parent company has been serving professional chefs since 2002. After being contacted by many home chefs and foodies who were inquiring about how they too could get the best, freshest, and location-specific ingredients for their home kitchens,
For The Gourmet was created.

They offer meats, seafood, cheeses, chocolate and so much more. Make sure you check them out, they deliver!

I, for one, am really glad that it was. I have been inspired to create several different gluten-free recipes just from this one package, the first being this Gluten-Free Penne Pasta with Meat Sauce Recipe. Its very filling, kid-friendly and fast!


This is super easy to make with just a few ingredients. Here's what you'll need:

1 Package of Multi-Grain Penne Pasta (Gluten Free)
1 lb of ground beef or ground turkey
1 can of marinara sauce
1 small can of black olives (drained)
1 chopped medium tomato
1 tsp dried parsley
1 tsp dried basil
salt and pepper to taste

Complete the meal with Ciabatta Parbaked Rolls (Gluten-Free)

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees (for the rolls)

Brown the ground beef or turkey and drain. Add marinara sauce, chopped tomato, black olives, parsley, basil, salt and pepper. Bring to a boil then reduce heat to low, cover and simmer, stirring occasionally.

Cook pasta according to the package directions, drain and add to the meat sauce.

How long you let it simmer is up to you. The longer it simmers, the more the flavors will merge together (that's why pasta is always even better the next day).

Bake the rolls in the oven for 10 minutes then serve.

ENJOY!

Connect with For The Gourmet on Facebook and Twitter!

Many of For The Gourmet Products are sold in bulk, which saves you money, here are the individual products used in this recipe:

Gluten Free - Ciabatta Parbaked Rolls
Gluten Free - Ciabatta Parbaked Rolls by Schar
Gluten Free - Penne Pasta by Schar
Gluten Free - Penne Pasta by Schar




Disclosure: My Journey to Living Well uses affiliate (marketing) links whenever possible. This post may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Friday, August 16, 2013

For The Home Giveaway Event (Ends August 24th)


Welcome to the For The Home Giveaway Event!



Hosted by the Southern Mom Media team:

Welcome to the For The Home Giveaway Event featuring 5 awesome products for your home! With the cooler seasons coming, you'll be spending a bit more time indoors and we want to make sure that your home is stylish and ready for all that extra attention. Here are the list of prizes!

From Walls to Floors and everything in between, this giveaway has what you need to show your home some love!

Thursday, August 15, 2013

zulily 72hr Back to School Sale

This zulily sale begins at 6am PST August 15th and ends at 6am PST August 18th


These deals are ALREADY discounted up to 55% off PLUS you'll get an additional 10% off with exclusive code SCRTSALE54 !

*This code can only be used for this event, with product only from this event, and a minimum purchase of $60 is required.




Hurry over now before everything sells out!




Disclosure: My Journey to Living Well uses affiliate (marketing) links whenever possible. This post may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Wednesday, August 14, 2013

Tea Collection Back To School Sale (Coupon Codes!)

Tea Collection is an awesome kids clothing store that features items that are globally inspired. Right now they are having a back to school sale!

Get it while it's discounted! 


From Thursday, August 15th through Sunday, August 18th, Tea Collection is rewarding you with more savings when you buy more during the Back to School Savings event. 

Save 10% off your purchase of 3 items with promo code BACKPACK3

Get 15% off if you buy 4 pieces with promo code PENCIL4

Keep a whopping 20% from your purchase of 5 items with promo code RULER5

Get your kiddos ready with shirts, pants, dresses, or entire outfits. The sale only applies to full-priced items, and excludes Patagonia. When it comes to Back-to-School shopping, this is your chance to get a whole lot for just a little! Happy shopping =) ! 


Disclosure: My Journey to Living Well uses affiliate (marketing) links whenever possible. This post may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Monday, August 12, 2013

Green Your School Year Giveaway Hop Featuring ECOlunchbox (Ends 8/27)

Made in the USA Giveaway

Welcome to the Green Your School Year Giveaway Hop, hosted by Happy Mothering and Brittleby's Corner together with the Green Moms Network! We are excited to bring you awesome prizes to help your children get ready for a green school year! After entering my giveaway, be sure to visit the other blogs listed under the Rafflecopter form for your chance to win more great giveaways.

And don't forget to enter the grand prize giveaways! Happy Mothering is featuring an awesome prize package for girls and Brittleby's Corner is featuring a prize package for boys! Both packages are generously sponsored by Mighty Nest, Planet Shoes, Kickee Pants, TruKid and TreeSmart!

So let's get hopping! Here at My Journey to Living Well I am pleased to be giving away an awesome Eco-Friendly lunch set from ECOlunchboxes! One lucky winner will receive one ECOlunchbox Solo Cube, one ECOnapkin, and one ECOStainless Spork! ARV $29.

ECOlunchbox set

The New Family Wall Sale at One Kings Lane


           The New Family Wall Sale at One Kings Lane - Starts August 12th at 9pm est.
Time to warm up your walls. This great assortment offers plenty of pieces that will personalize your family’s home, from prints carrying inspiring messages to floral letters for your child’s bedroom door. After all, it really is the little things that end up turning a house into a home.


 


Disclosure: My Journey to Living Well uses affiliate (marketing) links whenever possible. This post may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

ECOlunchbox Review

We are going green for back to school with a little help from ECOlunchbox!

I received the following in exchange for an honest review:


When the school year begins so too does the waste from traditional school lunch boxes. You have sandwich baggies, paper towels and even plastic spoons and forks that will all be used once and then thrown away.

ECO Lunchbox offers better alternatives that are waste-free: 
Stainless Steel, Cotton, and Bamboo!

ECOlunchbox Solo Cube: Square Metal Sandwich Box

This year, my daughter will be sporting her own Stainless Steel Solo Cube in her lunch box. 
This non-toxic sandwich box is plastic-free, lead-free, BPA-free, phthalate-free and waste-free. They are dishwasher safe but not for use in the microwave. You CAN reheat foods using this cube in medium-hot oven! This will definitely last us long time, it won't retain stains, odors or residues and its UNBREAKABLE! 

Stainless Steel Spork

The nifty little ECOStainless Spork is another awesome addition to her lunch box this year! Perfect for ages 5-105 (ECO Lunchbox recommends the EcoKidSpork for children under 5)  this spork has a generous sized spoon on one end and three tines on the other which pretty much covers all bases as far as school lunches go.

ECOnapkins: Set of 2 Artisan Cloth Napkins

Not to be under-stated, the ECOnapkin will save the most trees in this bunch. These reusable cotton napkins will replace all paper towels we may be tempted to use.  They come in a variety of colors and patterns and are hand block printed.

You can buy these products and more at ECOlunchbox.com.

Connect with ECOlunchbox on Facebook, Pinterest and Twitter.

Disclosure: My Journey to Living Well uses affiliate (marketing) links whenever possible. This post may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

Sunday, August 11, 2013

Back to School Giveaway Hop! {Ends August 25, 2013}

Back to School Giveaway Hop


Welcome to the Back To School Giveaway Hop hosted bySarah's Blog Of Fun!! We have some terrific prizes to make going back as easy as possible!!

Make sure you hop around to all the different blogs located on the linky at the end of this post. Each one has worked hard to bring you a great back to school prize.



Here at My Journey to Living Well you can enter to win a Back to School prize pack from Tiny Prints. Read my full review of Tiny Prints Back to School products here and enter to win on the Rafflecopter below!

Tiny Prints Back to School Products

Saturday, August 10, 2013

Tiny Prints Back to School Products Review

Basic school supplies are a necessity for all kids returning to school, but this year I was very happy to get a little something extra special from Tiny Prints for Back to School!

Tiny Prints offers a large selection of stationary for both families and businesses but what makes them really awesome is their ability to be customized!

I received the following package from Tiny Prints in exchange for an honest review.


I chose two lined notebooks and two sets of stickers for back to school. I let my teenager daughter customize her own notebook and got the stickers for my younger kids who are in elementary school. Umm yeah, and I customized one of the notebooks for myself, you know for mom's back to school organizing projects.

Friday, August 9, 2013

zulily Weekly Preview for August 9th - August 15th

For those who are not familiar with zulily, its a fabulous shopping site that offers brand names at awesomely discounted prices, sometimes up to 90% Off! You also get money for referring your friends (believe me you're going to want to) and they get money too!

Here is a preview of this week's sales at zulily, you're among the first to know! 

Weekly Preview 08/09 -08/15

Friday 08/09


Saturday 08/10

Wednesday, August 7, 2013

BluApple Review

Fresh produce is the easiest way that I know to help my family eat healthier. There are so many different diets out there and I'm sure they are great, but can be complicated. I'm starting simple and that means I'm going with what I know. 

Fresh fruits and vegetables = a healthier family.

Anyone who buys and/or grows fresh produce can tell you that keeping them fresh can be tricky. I live in a rural area and don't get to the grocery store as often as I did when I lived in town so keeping everything from ruining in the fridge has become a real issue.

Others have recognized this problem and come up with a solution: The BluApple. They sent me the following in exchange for an honest review.


I have learned from their website that the problem itself is Ethylene gas. Ethylene gas is "a harmless odorless, colorless, gas that is produced from both natural and man-made sources, and that has a profound effect on the freshness of produce."

Since the effect of Ethylene gas has become apparent over two decades ago, companies have taken measures to reduce the effect that it has on fresh produce (which naturally gives off the gas when it ripens) by fitting shipping trucks, ships and warehouses with Ethylene gas control measures. But when you get the produce home (or take it from its vine) and put it on your counter or in your fridge, the gas will begin to take its toll.

That is where the BluApple comes in. BluApple contains a small packet inside which absorbs any Ethylene gas surrounding it. When you put in your produce drawer it will effectively absorb the gas, thus prolonging your products.

The way it works is rather scientific and really beyond me but if that's your cup of tea you can read all about at the FAQ page. What I DO understand and which is also covered on their site is that it is essential to control three elements in order to keep your produce fresh:

Temperature. You will want the temperature to remain about 38-48 degrees at all times. Keep produce in the refrigerator crispers unless you are planning on deliberately ripening the produce items or if you want to use them immediately. With some produce items like avocados, you may want to keep them on the counter until they are ripe, but then return them to cold storage in order to keep them from continuing to ripen to spoilage.

Ethylene gas control. Nearly all shipping containers use Bluapple technology to absorb ethylene gas during shipment, and you should use this same technology at home too! Bluapple® is designed to protect your entire storage space from ethylene gas.

Humidity. Ideal humidity can neither be too dry or too wet. Most plastic bags do not breathe and end up keeping produce too wet from condensation. Micro-pore bags are available but not necessary. We recommend poking a few dozen holes in your standard plastic bags with a fork in order to keep produce humid, but not dripping. Sometimes with items like broccoli, a damp paper towel in the plastic bag can act as a humidity buffer, adding moisture if necessary and absorbing it if there is too much.
We can control the temperature and humidity ourselves and the BluApple takes care of the gas! Read more about HOW TO KEEP FRUITS AND VEGETABLES FRESH or you can find a detailed list based on specific fruits and vegetables by reading the BluApple White Paper. Please note that both are PDFs.

So the basic question that I am charged with answering for others who are interested is 
Does it Work? 

To that I can give an unequivocal YES. I have noticed a significant increase in the life of my produce by using the BluApple. I keep one in my produce drawer and another in my fruit bowl on the counter (I put it in the bottom of the bowl). This company has created a product that is effective, attractive, and inexpensive. 

I no longer have to worry about whether my daughter's school snacks will last the full week before going bad or whether Thursday night's dinner ingredients will last until I'm ready for them.

The packet in the BluApple will last for approximately 3 months after which you can buy replacement packs. A 12 month refill kit costs only $9.95, the same price as a two pack of the product. I have saved that much already!

You can buy BluApple at their website (look around while you're there, there's a lot to learn!) and connect with BluApple on Facebook.

Disclosure: My Journey to Living Well uses affiliate (marketing) links whenever possible. This post may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

zulily Tween Week Sales!

We all know how important it is for tweens everywhere to wear what they like and to have clothing that fits their personality. That's why zulily.com is having a Back to School event dedicated just for your tween, giving you all of the great savings that zulily has to offer. Whatever their developing tastes happen to be, zulily has plenty of on-trend choices to help them along on their fashionable way. Happy Shopping!


Monday, 08/05
Tween Week: The Rocker Girl – up to 60% off – Rock isn’t just about image- it’s about attitude. Add some glamour and edge to her look with these free-spirited fashions, and her confidence will hit a high note.
 

Tuesday, 08/06
Tween Week: The Girly Girl – up to 60% off – If sweetness and light are just her style, she’ll fall in love with these sugar-spun-looks. Fresh shades and feminine frills show off how great it is to be a girl.


Capelli New York - Capelli New York is one of today's fastest-growing brands in fashion. Founded in 1990 and based out of the Big Apple, this label is dedicated to delivering on-trend apparel and accessories. Capelli combines quality products with modern designs to offer you smart and sophisticated wears season after season.


 

Wednesday, 08/07
Tween Week: Wild Style – Lions and cheetahs and zebras – oh, yes! Taking a walk on the wild side has never been more fun thanks to this menagerie of fierce animal print fashions.
 

Thursday, 08/08
Tween Week: The Trendsetter – With these fresh takes on camo, your modern trailblazer is sure to stand out. Let some military-spired looks invade her closet and watch her conquer the world.
 

Friday, 08/09
Tween Week: The Sporty Girl – For active girls, comfort is key, but fashion isn’t forgotten. These sporty styles offer high-performance functionality without leaving her taste for trends in the dust.




Disclosure: My Journey to Living Well uses affiliate (marketing) links whenever possible. This post may contain affiliate links. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”