The Purple Lady

Win an AWESOME Safco Desk from Shoplet.com

2011-07-03T11:02:00.000-05:00

Look at this awesome Desk you could win. I love that you are able to use dry erase markers on it to take notes or messages right on the desk without hurting it, and think of all the scratch paper you could save doing just that. I also love the sleek design and it would be perfect in my living room. Enter for your chance to win here on the Shoplet.com Blog

Winners, Are you one of them?

2010-09-12T13:38:00.000-05:00

Numbers have been drawn and the winners contacted for two giveaways: Box Tops for Education and Go-Gurt Yogurt.

Thanks to everyone that entered and just because you didn't win this time, doesn't mean you won't win next - if you enter, you have a chance to win, only takes one entry to win - time. Currently I do not have any open giveaways (only because I am behind as I got sick and was bed-ridden for a couple of weeks), but hopefully I can get them up and running soon.

In the meantime the winners are:

Go-Gurt: #41 Christina Andrea

Box Tops: #151 Nanner

Congratulations to you both!
Winner have been sent an e-mail and have 48 hours to respond. Otherwise a new winner will be chosen.

Help Conner's Teacher WIN Classroom Supplies!

2010-09-08T17:16:00.000-05:00

My Teacher Rocks!

... is a contest for teacher's to win $500 worth of classroom supplies. And I need your help. I need your votes.

I entered Conner's teacher, Mrs. Hale, into the contest with the following:

Mrs. Hale of Ward School in DuQuoin, Illinois

Submitted by: BrendaLea Abbott

I want to nominate my Grandson’s teacher, Mrs. Hale of Ward School in DuQuoin, Illinois for this prize. My Grandson has Aspergers, and she is so wonderful with him. She is patient and under standing and has really helped him grow by learning. It can be difficult to teach a child with Aspergers, she goes above and beyond to help him in his studies and I have seen a huge improvement in him, due to her teaching abilities, and her work with those that are challenged. These supplies would make a huge, wonderful impact on her class and a awesome award to a great teacher who is patient and giving every day with the kids that can bring daily challenges. Thank you for the chance to make her world easier as she has done my Grandson’s world.

For Mrs. Hale to win the supplies, I need you to vote. You can go here to vote, by leaving a comment, but you only have until September 10th at 6 pm.

With all of the budget cuts, and teacher's low wages, and them using much of their own funds to supplement the supplies for their classrooms, this win would really make a difference and a great way for Conner to show her how much she means to him and what a wonderful teacher she is.

So please, take a moment of your time to vote for this wonderful teacher, Mrs. Hale.

Thanks so much,
BrendaLea

Go-Gurt Yogurt Giveaway

2010-08-22T15:00:00.002-05:00

School is in session for us, and may be in session for your children, or soon to be if they are old enough for school. Along with school, comes school lunches for the little ones. A great way to keep their lunches cool until lunchtime, is a wonderful treat... Go-Gurt! No ice pack needed - Go-Gurt (and Simply… Go-Gurt too!) is specially made to freeze and thaw, keeping the yogurt, and the rest of lunch, cool until lunch time.

We love yogurt, and Go-Gurt has flavors that are made for kids, though I enjoy them too. I love how I can freeze it and place it in the lunch bag to keep their lunch cool. No longer do I need to use a freezer pack that takes up space.

coupon not in photo

With Go-Gurt yogurt in your child’s lunch box, you can feel confident that there will be no snack trading at lunch time since Go-Gurt has a taste and texture that kids love! Moms can feel good about packing Go-Gurt each morning since each portable tube contains a good source of calcium and vitamin D, providing a wholesome addition to a well-balanced lunch. Available in a variety of cool, fun flavors like Strawberry Splash and Chill-Out Cherry, Go-Gurt will quickly become a refreshing classroom favorite.

I received a “Keeping Cool in School” prize pack that includes an insulated lunch tote, mini water bottle, sandwich keeper, cool breeze pen fan, and some fun school supplies for the new school year. And you have the chance to win the same, see below.

In addition, check out Yoplait on Facebook and Twitter! Be sure to “Like” Yoplait on Facebook and “Follow” Yoplait on Twitter to keep up with the latest news from Yoplait Yogurt.

You can visit http://www.myblogspark.com/uc/main/b4ce/ to download a printable *coupon for $0.85 off one box of Yoplait Go-Gurt yogurt today!

*This coupon offer for free Go-Gurt is not valid in some states, including California, Idaho, Louisiana, Minnesota, New Jersey, Nevada, North Dakota and Tennessee.

ENTER TO WIN

WIN: "Keeping Cool in School" Prize Pack from Go-Gurt through MyBlogSpark

Mandatory entry: Have you tried Go-Gurt? And if so, what do you think of it?

**You MUST do the mandatory Entry! All bonus entries will be deleted if it's not done first!**

*BONUS ENTRIES*

{Leave separate comments for each bonus entry - or you will get credit for them}

Follow me on twitter {1 entry}

Tweet the following {1 entry - can be done once daily}

RT - Go-Gurt Yogurt Giveaway: Keeping Cool in School Prize Pack http://bit.ly/cAMjGw Ends 9/5 #myblogspark #win #sweeps

Vote for me (below my picture), Round 6 winner (I really - I beg you - need your votes, you can read my original post here) {5 entries}

Blog about this giveaway and leave me a direct link to the post {3 entries}

'like' The Purple Lady on facebook {1 entry}

Comment on any non-giveaway post, telling me which one {1 entry for each comment}

Rules

Open to the US only

18+
No PO Boxes
Giveaway ends Sept 5, 2010 at 12(noon) CST
Winners will be chosen via Random.Org., and contacted by email
Winners will have 48 hours to respond to the email, or another winner will be chosen
I check ALL entries! Invalid comments will be voided!
Please leave your e-mail address in your comment so that I have a way to contact you
( ie: prpldy (at) comcast dot net )

Yoplait Go-Gurt, prize pack, information and additional prize pack to give away were all given to me from Yoplait through MyBlogSpark. All opinions are 100% my own, and others opinions may vary. Thank you Yoplait and MyBlogSpark.

Box Tops for Education - Walmart $25 Gift Card Giveaway

2010-08-18T20:21:00.001-05:00

Have you heard? Box Tops for Education are there to help your child's school earn some money. Right now you can even find 4 box tops on many of the General Mills products. Some of the ones we like are the Pillsbury Toaster Strudels, Betty Crocker Fruit Roll-Ups, Totino's Pizza Rolls, and so many others.

The Box Tops for Education program is an easy solution and this year Walmart is making it even easier! From Aug. 3 - Aug. 31, head over to your local Walmart to find 4 Box Tops on participating General Mills products and earn more cash for the participating school of your choice. As your one-stop destination for all your needs this back-to-school season, Walmart is helping you save more and earn more with the Box Tops for Education brands you love.

With over 20 great brands and more than 40 products participating, here are just a few favorites that include 4 Box Tops that you can find at Walmart this August:

Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal
Pillsbury Toaster Strudel pastries
Trix Yogurt
Hamburger Helper skillet meals
Totino's Pizza Rolls snacks
Nature Valley Granola Bars
Betty Crocker Fruit Roll-Ups snacks

Be sure to keep an eye out for Box Tops on great products from Kleenex, Ziploc, and Hefty too!

I enjoyed going to Walmart and using my gift card to purchase many of the products we love, that have the Box Tops for Education. But before I was able to get any pictures, the boys tore into the packages, and they do not open them gently either. So unfortunately no pictures this time. Here's a list of the items that I can remember though:

Betty Crocker Fruit Roll-Ups snacks
Nature Valley Sweet & Salty Chewy Granola Bars
Betty Crocker® Supreme Brownie Mix
Pillsbury Toaster Strudel pastries - cream Cheese
Totino's® Crisp Crust Party Pizza®
Cinnamon Toast Crunch cereal - one of my favorite cereals
Ziploc Sandwich and Snack Bags

Since the boys school does not collect the Box Tops for Education (I do not understand why they don't), I send them to one of my blog friends. So they do not go to waste and I still feel good about helping a school increase their funds.

How would you like to win a $25 Walmart Gift Card? If so, follow the rules below:

ENTER TO WIN

WIN: $25 Walmart Gift Card from General Mills through MyBlogSpark

Mandatory entry: Tell me what must-have item you will be purchasing from Walmart this back to school season?

**You MUST do the mandatory Entry! All bonus entries will be deleted if it's not done first!**

*BONUS ENTRIES*

{Leave separate comments for each bonus entry - or you will get credit for them}

Follow me on twitter {1 entry}

Tweet the following {1 entry - can be done once daily}

RT - Box Tops for Education - Walmart $25 Gift Card Giveaway: http://bit.ly/c49KmC #giveaway Ends 9/1 #myblogspark #win #sweeps

Rules

Open to the US only

18+
No PO Boxes
Giveaway ends Sept 1, 2010 at 12(noon) CST
Winners will be chosen via Random.Org., and contacted by email
Winners will have 48 hours to respond to the email, or another winner will be chosen
I check ALL entries! Invalid comments will be voided!
Please leave your e-mail address in your comment so that I have a way to contact you
( ie: prpldy (at) comcast dot net )

General Mills provided me with a $25 gift card, information, and giveaway through MyBlogSpark. All opinions are 100% my own. Thank you General Mills and MyBlogSpark for sponsoring this giveaway.

Celsius, not Fahrenheit

2010-08-18T16:06:00.002-05:00

Have you seen the TV ads for the new drink called Celsius? Or maybe you have seen it in one of the stores or on the Food Network Channel. I received a huge package not long ago filled with Celsius in the can and the "on-the-go" stick packets that you add to your bottle of water, or non-carbonated drink, along with a ton of technical information.

At first I was a wee bit apprehensive to try the new drink, Celsius, especially after trying to read all of the technical data (which I really didn't understand) and the studies that were completed. But then I jumped in, and tried it. It taste great! Celsius is vitamin enriched and loaded with the good-for-you ingredients found in MetaPlus®, and isn't filled with the not-so-good for you ingredients as found in other beverages. It comes in 6 great flavors with 2 of them being non-carbonated Green Tea flavors such as: Raspberry Acai (my favorite), and sparkling flavors like cola, orange, ginger ale, and berry.

Celsius can help you get fit and stay fit. Using Celsius will help to burn calories while at the same time giving you sustained energy. Celsius also helps to promote fat burning while you gain lean muscles. If you have seen the ads on tv or in some of the magazines like STAR, you might have noticed that Mario Lopez is their celebrity spokesperson. And if you check out their site and enter the Ultimate Workout Challenge, you have a chance to win a trip to LA to meet Mario Lopez in person or to win one of the other many great prizes that are up for grabs. But you only have until September 3, 2010 to enter the challenge.

Information from their website:

What is Celsius®?

Celsius is Your Ultimate Fitness Partner™ that can help you get fit and stay fit. Studies show that drinking a great tasting Celsius will help you burn calories and provide you lasting energy to power you through your routine and beyond. Even better, studies show drinking Celsius 15 minutes before exercise, may result in reducing body fat and building lean muscle.

Celsius a weight loss product?

Celsius is most effective when combined with a healthy diet and regular exercise. Multiple clinical studies show that Celsius enhances the benefits of regular exercise with improved results in cardio fitness, endurance and body composition. Some people consume Celsius because they enjoy its taste and lasting energy, and others drink it because they want to get fit or stay fit.

I am really enjoying my cans and packets of Celsius. It taste great! Will help me to burn fat, and give me the energy that I need to exercise for more than just a few minutes. If you are looking to get fit or stay fit, I would suggest you checking into the vitamin enriched Celsius and seeing if it is right for you. I was able to use their store locator on the website and found that many quick marts in my area as well as some of the pharmacies like CVS and Walgreens carries Celsius. So this will make it easy to keep it on hand and use as I see fit, while trying to get fit. They also have a money savings coupon that you can print right from their site, so you can save some money while giving Celsius a try.

I received the product I reviewed free of charge so I could do an honest review. I did not receive any other compensation. My reviews are 100% my own and others may have different opinions. A big thanks to Celsius for sponsoring this review.

WINNERS - August 14, 2010

2010-08-14T10:11:00.000-05:00

Thank you all for entering my giveaways, and the wonderful comments (I do read them all) and congratulations to the following winners:

Truvia - Hoa comment #51 CLAIMED

Smart & Sexy - Ellie comment #86 CLAIMED

CSN Stores - Sol Ducky comment #577 CLAIMED

Winners have 48 hours to reply to my e-mail (which has already been sent) with their shipping address. If i do not hear from the winner within 48 hours, a new winner will be chosen.

ShoeMall's Back to School Giveaway

2010-08-11T18:21:00.000-05:00

School Shoes Backpacks Skechers Shoes etnies Shoes Crocs Shoes

Have you taken the time to enter the giveaway? If not, hurry it ends soon. August 14th is the last day to enter and there are many ways to gain extra entries. ShoeMall.com has some great styles and brands to choose from. I entered and so can you. Good Luck!

I Love Home Improvements

2010-08-09T20:16:00.000-05:00

And when you have a great product that is easy to install like the American Standard OutReach Centerset Lavatory Faucet, I love them even more.

The American Standard OutReach Centerset Lavatory Faucet came with great instructions that were clear and easy to understand. Even I could install the faucet.

Only these simple tools were needed to install the faucet. Could it get any easier!

The American Standard OutReach Centerset Lavatory Faucet only works with the centerset faucet, the one that measures just 4 inches from the center of one handle to the center of the other handle. Like mine below. It's a shame though as I believe everyone would love this faucet, with it's innovative and very convenient pull-out spray spout.

I never dreamed there would be a pull-out spray spout faucet (similar to what is in the kitchen) for the bathroom. But I am so thankful that there is one, as it has made my life easier. I am able to fill a bucket for mopping without a hassle. Cleaning the sink is so much easier. And in time I am sure I will find many ways to put the pull-out spout to more uses.

About the American Standard OutReach Faucet (from the press release)

American Standard is proud to introduce the new OutReach lavatory faucet, a unique dual control bathroom faucet that goes a step beyond the ordinary. Featuring an innovative pullout spray spout that extends up to 24”, the OutReach provides matchless flexibility and convenience in performing household tasks one simply can’t do with a typical bathroom faucet. With the new OutReach faucet, cleaning hard-to reach places in the sink, filling a flower vase or a bucket with water, washing a child’s hair and even bathing a small pet—have never been easier.

I love this new faucet, and would highly recommend the American Standard OutReach Centerset Lavatory Faucet. It's easy to install, comes in both polished chrome and brushed nickle. And it's so convenient to use.
You can find the American Standard brand exclusively at the Home Depot, and for more information visit http://www.americanstandard.com/ or http://www.homedepot.com/.

**I received the product I reviewed free of charge so I could do an honest review. No monetary compensation was received. My review is 100% my own. A huge Thank You to Blogger Select for allowing me to be a member of the Product Review Place and American Standard for the opportunity to review this wonderful product.**

Spinning to the Music of a Music Box

2010-08-09T10:57:00.000-05:00

Ballerina Large Plum

I love music. Any and all kinds of music. The music can come from the radio, album, or a music box. One of my favorite gifts was a white jewelry music box, that when you pulled the drawer out music would play and butterflies would day around on the mirror. I still have that jewelry box today, and it still works. But I also have other music boxes as well. I have grown up and so have my taste in music boxes. Like the one above from the Amazing Music Box Company, I can see myself lifting the lid, and dancing around my room to the music emanating from the music box.

Butterflies Music Box
When my Grandsons were little, we would lay down for a nap, falling asleep to the sound of one of my many music boxes. The Elm Burlwood music box with it's inlaid butterflies would be a welcome addition to my collection of music boxes. The Amazing Music Box Co. has many beautiful music boxes to choose from.

Did you know that the history of music boxes date back centuries? I didn't. And that watchmakers were the ones to create them in the beginning, using a metal disk in the 18th century. Later they switched to cylinders that were powered with a spring. After an invention by Paillard in 1862, removable cylinders were introduced so that the melody could be changed.

Lilac High Gloss Heart and Flower Inlay Music Box
The Amazing Music Box Co. has some amazing music boxes to choose from. if you are needing a gift for a wedding or an anniversary, check them out. If you need a gift for someone that has everything, look at the music boxes that the Amazing Music Box Co has to offer, everyone needs at least one music box in their life.

A music box would make a wonderful gift for the young (what child would not enjoy watching a cylinder spinning around and making music) or the young at heart. Check out all of the beautiful music boxes at the Amazing Music Box Company for one you would enjoy.

Can't Teach Old Dogs New Tricks Without Tons of Practice

2010-08-03T22:24:00.081-05:00

If you have been a reader of my blog for a little while, you have probably heard me talk of my two fur babies: Coffee and Latte'. Latte' is still fairly young at 6 years old, but Coffee (the one below) is 10 years old and is riddled with arthritis, and neither are into learning how to do new tricks. Latte' tends to be stubborn and Coffee is just getting old.

Coffee - 10 yrs old

I was asked to do a review for a set of pet stairs, and I loved the idea as I was thinking of getting Coffee a set of pet stairs as he is little with lots of arthritis. The rep from pet-super-store.com sent me the set below. I love them! They are the perfect height for both my couch and the bed. Though I haven't tried it with the van yet (too hot outside), I believe they will be perfect to use there as well.

I have been working diligently trying to teach my babies how to use the stairs. Coffee and Latte' may not want to give the steps too much of a work out at this time. But my Great Niece, Miss Gracee, loves to play on them when she comes over.

Not only are the pet stairs beautiful and useful, they are well made with a cover that is removable for cleaning. The fabric is of high quality as is the inner high density foam. The foam is soft but strong and both of my teenage Grandsons walked up the steps and onto the couch when they first arrived. Without falling! And these are not small boys either. Which should tell you that the pet stairs would handle any dog using them, large or small, young or old.

Look at the fabric. I love doggy faces that are in the design of the fabric. The upper photo is a truer color (on my monitor but may vary on yours) of the stairs I received. The picture below shows the design in more detail.

The pet stairs that I received come in two styles: 4 step (I received this one) and 6 step, along with 6 fabric styles to choose from. Pet-super-store.com carries a variety of pet stairs and ramps, along with a great selection of other products for your pets. Items include, but not limited to: pet food bowls, training aids, collars, travel carriers, and beds.

If you are needing pet stairs because your fur baby is getting older like Coffee, is ill, or needs a boost because they are small, I would definitely recommend the set I received. The quality is great, the service was fantastic, and my fur babies will be able to use these pet stairs for a long time to come (once they get accustomed to them.) I see that this particular set of pet stairs qualifies for free shipping too. Not sure if that is all the time, or a special they are running. Pet-super-store.com also guarantees the satisfaction of your purchase. The site is easy to navigate, has great product pictures, and customer service that you can chat with on-line (when available) or you can call their 800 number.

I look forward to my babies using the pet stairs on a regular basis. I keep trying to teach Coffee to use the pet stairs, but he tends to be a slow learner. I'm glad that he does use them from time to time, as I know it helps Coffee with his arthritis, it's just never when I have my camera ready. When I do capture him using the pet stairs on ~~film~~ disk, I will be sure to share the pictures with you. In the mean time, I will continue to teach them the trick of using the pet stairs and you can check out pet-super-store.com.

I received the set of pet stairs for review, but no other compensation was received. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions I have expressed are my own.

Protect yourself with Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Liquid Sunblock

2010-08-03T13:00:00.001-05:00

As I get older (yikes! 50 real soon) I get more and more concerned about protecting myself from aging and the sun. I want to remain as young looking as possible, but don't we all! I try not to go out in the sun too much, because of some health issues. But you can bet that when I do, I use a product to protect myself from the harmful UVA and UVB rays. Currently I am using Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Liquid Sunblock.

I received two bottles of the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Liquid Sunblock to review. When it arrived, I was excited and concerned about trying it. First thing I did was read the package, and wanted to see what it smelled like. I was pleasantly surprised that the scent was very low and not offensive. I wanted to learn what I could before applying it. Wondering if I would break out in acne or a rash, which has happened to me after using something new in the past. After I opened it, I washed my face so that it would be free of any make-up, dirt, or oil. Then I applied the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Liquid Sunblock to my face and neck. The scent was great and once applied, I could not even tell I had it on. The scent of some products aggravate my asthma, but this has not. The Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Liquid Sunblock soaked right in and did not leave a greasy feeling. I am so glad of that. I have combination skin with some very oily sections, and I do not like to use products that leaves it feeling oily. But that was not the case here.

I continue to use the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Liquid Sunblock on a daily basis (applying it at least 15 minutes before exposure to the sun), so that when I go outside with the fur babies, checked the mail, or swept the porch, my face will be protected from the harmful rays of the sun. Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Liquid Sunblock contains helioplex, a broad spectrum protector against uva - uvb rays. Which shields skin 6 layers deep from premature aging as well. The Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Liquid Sunblock also is waterproof and sweat proof, it won't clog your pores, and it is also oil and PABA free. And the SPF is 70!

You can use the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Liquid Sunblock by itself as it goes on smoothly and has a non-shiny finish, or you can use it under your make-up or moisturizer. I'm so glad I was chosen to review the Neutrogena Ultra Sheer Liquid Sunblock. I have found the perfect protector for my face from the sun, and while it protects, it will help me prevent premature aging (a huge plus in my book) as well.

Try it for yourself and Get $2 off your UltraSheer® purchase at http://www.neutrogena.com/suncoupon

Would you like to review products, too? Then go to http://giantwavepool.com !

Disclosure of Material Connection: I received the product mentioned above for free for review purposes from Tidal Labs. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. 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."

Winners Announced 7/31

2010-07-31T15:29:00.001-05:00

Thanks to all my readers for entering my giveaways. I have some winners to announce. Sorry for the delay in announcing the isABelt winners. I also have the winner of the Cheerios giveaway chosen as well. All winners have been notified and have 48 hours to reply with their mailing info., or new winners will be chosen.

isABelt Winners are:

#34 allisonbj3 - CLAIMED

#119 Angel - CLAIMED

Cheerios and Gift Card Winner is:

#316 barbara.montyj- CLAIMED

Congratulations to the winners! And if you didn't win this time, there are still giveaways to enter and more to come in the very near future.

BrendaLea

Have You Heard..... about the GIVEAWAY SCOUT

2010-07-30T09:53:00.000-05:00

of the new site where you can post all of your giveaways, called: Giveaway Scout???

Not only can you list your giveaways at Giveaway Scout, but you can find blog giveaways, contest and sweepstakes all in one place.

At the Giveaway Scout you will find all of the latest giveaway promotions with products ranging from coupons and samples to high value jewelry and electronics. Because so many giveaways are short term, Giveaway Scout updates every hour with the latest giveaways, contest and sweeps.

If you haven't listed your giveaways at the Giveaway Scout, you might want to check it out. And if you haven't taken a look at all of the current giveaways posted at the Giveaways Scout, I suggest you take a look. For your convenience, there is a widget on my left side bar with current listings from the Giveaway Scout. You can also subscribe to the Giveaway Scout so that you will receive e-mail updates of current giveaways. I have just joined the giveaway Scout. The site seems easy to navigate and I am looking forward to exploring the Giveaway Scout more.

I won, but I still need your help - PLEASE

2010-07-26T19:37:00.000-05:00

I could really use your help. I entered a swimsuit photo and story contest over at the blog for Swimsuitsforall.com and surprise, surprise I won round #6. I won a $100 gift card to swimsuitsforall.com. "Thank You" Swimsuits For All, I really appreciate the gift card.

I am stoked! Not in a million years, did I ever dream that I would win. But I did! With all of the gorgeous women that have entered, how did I win? And by the way, there is still time to enter the last few week's contest until Aug. 22, 2010. If you are interested, check it out. I won and so might you. And now I am in the Grand Prize Drawing for a $1,000 gift card, which I could really use.

I really need your help. If you could take a moment of your time, and head over to the voting section of the contest, and vote for me. I would really appreciate it. To vote - all your have to do is click on the stars below my picture that is here. You can click on 1 - 5 stars. Five would be appreciated, but that is your choice.

If you do take the time to vote for me, you can gain 2 extra entries into each of my giveaways that you enter, up until Aug.22. Just leave two separate comments in each giveaway, with the words " voted-swimsuit " Now I am not able to check your votes, so please be honest about voting. I think you can only vote one time. There is no signing up to vote, you do not need to leave any info, though you may leave a comment below my picture if you like.

If I am lucky enough to win the Grand Prize, I could really put the $1,000 to good use. Some of the things I could use the money on are:

get the boys a computer to use for school
get my A/C fixed in my van, the compressor is going out
pay-off 2 loans to my Sister and Niece... about $300
I could put a couple hundred in my savings account as it is down to $5.37
I could use it to get my G-son a car as he will be 16 in September

I know that I would not be able to do everything above, but those are some of the ways that I could put $1,000 to good use. I definitely would not blow the money on clothes, shoes, or unnecessary items. That is for sure.

Thank you for taking the time to read this post. And thank you in advance for voting for me, if you do. I really appreciate it.

BrendaLea

Just a reminder regarding my giveaweays...

2010-07-24T11:46:00.000-05:00

Please follow all the rules to my giveaways. I love hosting them and having my winners receive some wonderful products. But my rules are not for breaking, sorry!

I had to delete some entries into my giveaways because the rules were broken. I do check each entry. So please be honest, and follow the mandatory entry, or all of your entries will be deleted or not posted at all.
Sorry, but I want to make it fair for everyone.

For those of you that follow the rules, good luck and if you don't win this giveaway, there will be more to come.

Have a beautiful day,

BrendaLea

CSN Stores Giveaway

2010-07-22T23:24:00.002-05:00

CSN Stores began in Boston in 2002 and has grown into over 200 online specialty stores and has over 400+ employees! Have you been by there yet? I love window shopping over at CSNstores.com. I recently was looking at their lights, and found this one that I love:

WAC - MM-204 - - Low Voltage Surface Mount Flexible Spotlight for MM 204 Series

... the sleek modern look of this spotlight. I could see several of them being used to spotlight some of my artwork.

I've also been looking at some solar spotlights and flood lights. I have some of the small solar lights, that are use to line a walkway. But I want something that will put much more light outside so that when my fur babies go out at night, I can see them, without turning on the light at the door (which draws all the bugs into the house). So I found two that I am leaning towards, which are:

Bell & Howell Solar Powered Flood Light, $19.99

Solar Powered Spotlight, $24.99

I believe both of these lights might be good choices for me. For the few extra dollars, I am really liking the copper colored one, as is so attractive. Though the flood light might work better for my situation. If you have any thoughts on this, I would love to hear them. Which do you think would work better for me?

Besides lights, the CSNstores.com has just about anything you can think of. From housewares, office supplies, tools, and even shoes and bags. I would love to have this Herman Miller ® Aeron ® Loaded Chair With Graphite Base, for my office someday.

And I also have these dishes on my wish list as they would match my kitchen perfectly:

Waechtersbach Squared Rimmed Dish in Kiwi

And because of the vast assortment of items they carry in their 200+ stores, you are so lucky to have the chance to win a one time use $70 gift certificate. Thanks to the CSNstores.com.

ENTER TO WIN

WIN: $70 one time use CSNstores.com Gift Certificate

Mandatory entry: visit CSNstores-Lights and tell me which product you would love to have, if money was not a concern.

**You MUST do the mandatory Entry! All bonus entries will be deleted if it's not done first!**

*BONUS ENTRIES*

{Leave separate comments for each bonus entry - or you will not receive the bonus entries}

Follow me on twitter {1 entry}

Tweet the following {1 entry - can be done once daily}

I want to win the $70 CSNstores Gift Cert - RT - Ends Aug 12th - #giveaway #win #contest http://tinyurl.com/37ltebt @prpldy @CSNStores

Follow CSNstores on Twitter Leave your Twitter name. {1 entry}

Follow CSNstores on Facebook, leave first name and last initial {2 entries}

Blog about this giveaway and leave me a direct link to the post {5 entries}

'like' The Purple Lady on facebook {1 entry}

Comment on any non-giveaway post, telling me which one {1 entry for each comment}

Enter one of my other giveaways {2 entries}

Rules

Open to the US and Canada

No PO Boxes

Giveaway ends Aug 12, 2010 at 12(noon) CST

Winners will be chosen via Random.Org., and contacted by email

Winners will have 48 hours to respond to the email, or another winner will be chosen

I check EVERY entry! Please only leave valid comments for valid entries!
I will remove invalid entries.

Please leave your e-mail address in your comment so that I have a way to contact you
( ie: prpldy (at) comcast dot net )

There was no monetary compensation received for this review. All opinions are my own. I would like to thank CSNstores.com for providing the gift certificate for this giveaway.

WINNERS

2010-07-22T18:50:00.000-05:00

Two giveaways have closed and winners have been chosen. Thanks to all of my readers who ahve entered. If you didn't win this time, there are other giveaways ending soon. Someone has to win, and it might just be you!340

Zebra Pen and Pencil pack:    #66 swiener1 (Susie) - claimed

Book: What to Wear for the Rest of Your Life:

                  #63 Steph
                  #40 Rgarden7
                 #27 The Spears Family

All winners have been e-mailed. If I do not hear from the winners within 48 hours, new winners will be chosen.

Congrats to you all,

BrendaLea

Truvia - review & giveaway

2010-07-19T19:04:00.000-05:00

In this day and age, it seems everyone is watching their weight or looking for ways to cut calories. I am one of them. I tend to have a sweet tooth so I look for ways to cut calories in my drinks, such as the ice coffee that I make and drink daily, and my cereal.

When my Sister comes over, I can now offer her Truvia™ (she only uses sugar substitutes) for her coffee and I believe I have even turned her into a Truvia™ fan. With the single serve packets, it makes it very easy to use.

A Few Facts:

Truvia™ (pronounced Tru-VEE-a) is the brand name for a great-tasting, natural, zero calorie sweetener made with rebiana, the best-tasting part of the stevia leaf, which is 200 times sweeter than sugar. Truvia™ natural sweetener provides consumers with a new, natural sweetener choice to reduce the number of calories in their diets and provides a new option in their overall wellness plan. Truvia™ sweetener is available both as an ingredient and as a tabletop sweetener.

One packet of Truvia™ natural sweetener provides the same sweetness as two teaspoons of sugar. Truvia™ natural sweetener is suitable for people with diabetes. The product is kosher certified (Parve circle U)

Truvia™ natural sweetener comes in recyclable cartons that are printed with soy inks. The cartons are designed to evoke sweetness and the notion of confections. These unique cartons have an attractive and easy-to-open lid.

Truvia™ natural sweetener comes in packets that are printed with food grade inks, a feature not replicated with other sweetener packets.

The tabletop sweetener is available in 40, 80 and 140 sachet quantity packaging. Manufacturer's suggested retail pricing is $3.99 for 40-count carton, $6.49 for 80-count carton and $10.99 for 140-count carton.
The 40-count package is available for purchase online for $3.99 plus shipping/handling at www.truvia.com.

Truvia™ has been kind enough to offer a giveaway for one of my readers. For your chance to win, enter below.

ENTER TO WIN

WIN: one 40-count box of Truvia™

Mandatory entry: follow via GFC and tell me if you have ever used a sugar substitute

**You MUST do the mandatory Entry! All bonus entries will be deleted if it's not done first!**

*BONUS ENTRIES*

{Leave separate comments for each bonus entry - or you will not receive the bonus entries}

Follow me on twitter {1 entry}

Tweet the following {1 entry - can be done once daily}

I would love to win a box of Truvia™ - RT - Ends Aug 1st - #giveaway #win #contest http://bit.ly/cmxwEy @prpldy

Blog about this giveaway and leave me a direct link to the post {5 entries}

'like' The Purple Lady on facebook {1 entry}

Comment on any non-giveaway post, telling me which one {2 entries for each comment}

Enter one of my other giveaways {2 entries}

Rules

Open to the US

No PO Boxes

Giveaway ends Aug 1, 2010 at 12(noon) CST

Winners will be chosen via Random.Org., and contacted by email

Winners will have 48 hours to respond to the email, or another winner will be chosen

I check EVERY entry! Please only leave valid comments for valid entries!
I will remove invalid entries.

Please leave your e-mail address in your comment so that I have a way to contact you
( ie: prpldy (at) comcast dot net )

There was no monetary compensation received for this review, though I did receive the sample to conduct my review. All opinions are my own, and were not swayed by receiving the products. I would like to thank Truvia™ for providing the items for review and for this giveaway.

PrintScans Review

2010-07-19T14:02:00.000-05:00

If you are anything like me, you have tons and tons of photographs in boxes or photo albums that you would love to share with your friends and family. It's only in the past year or so that I converted over to a digital camera - I still love my film camera and use it from time to time - and so I have nearly 49 years of pictures and negatives.

my Dad and Uncle Charlie - way back when

I would love to have them archived on a disk, but who has time to scan them all. I know I don't! It would take me forever. But if they were on a disk, it sure would make it easier to share them via the internet. I would also be able to print them out for various craft projects. Another huge reason would be the ability to safely have them stored on disk should something ever happen to the originals.

That is where PrintScans.com comes into play. They have a wonderful service, where you send in your pictures via a priority mail envelope or box, they scan them and mail your pictures along with a disk back to you.

my Daughter - age 4

PrintScans.com mailed me a postage paid priority mail envelope to fill with my pictures. I sent in a total of 274 pictures and if I had paid for the service it would have only cost me $39.95 to have them scanned and placed on a disk. Considering the amount of pictures that I sent, and the time that it owuld have taken me to scan them and copy them to a disk... I think it is a pretty decent price to pay.

me - age 6

I had placed my pictures into 8 different plastic bags that I placed into the priority mail envelope. I didn't know what to expect, or what kind of shape they would be in when they were returned to me. The pictures were placed back into their original plastic bag and in the order that I sent them. I popped the disk into my laptop and the pictures were all in order in the plastic bag, as they were on the disk. I check each and every picture and compared it with the scanned image. The first 3 pictures I checked, seemed a bit faded or dull compared to the original picture. The fourth picture until the 274th picture was perfect. The color, resolution, etc matched on my monitor, to picture I held in my hand. The pictures above are just a few samples of those I had scanned. If you would like to see any of the above pictures larger, all you need to do is click on it.

I would definitely recommend PrintScans.com to anyone that has photographs that they would like scanned, but just don't have the time to do it themselves. The photos are scanned at 300 dpi and a JPG digital file is created for each picture. PrintScans.com is located in Ohio, and I am in Southern Illinois. From the date that I mailed the package of photos until the day that I received my photos and disk back, was a mere 9 days. I know that it would have taken me a lot longer than 9 days to scan all 274 photos.

ProFlowers Birthday Bear Review

2010-07-18T09:10:00.000-05:00

Have you ever sent flowers to someone? Have you ever needed a gift for someone in another state, or on the other side of your own state? Have you ever thought about sending flowers or a gift, but feared the cost would be too extreme?

See the adorable ProFlowers Birthday Bear and Miniature Yalow Roses with Balloon above? I had my choice of some wonderful items (spa sets, other bears, fruit baskets, to name a few) to choose from, but since my Great Niece (Miss Gracee) was turning 1 year old right about the time I was to receive the item for review, I chose the Birthday Bear.

Gracee's Bear and My Roses

I am so glad that I chose the item that I did. The bear far exceeded my expectations. The bear was so soft and very plush. From the picture on the ProFlowers site, I wasn't sure what the hat and cupcake were made of. I was so happy when the box arrived! I was totally impressed with how well everything was packed. The bear was in a sealed plastic bag, the roses were not only fresh and with tight buds, but was wrapped in plastic to protect it. The balloon was separate from the bear and roses so that it arrived in perfect shape. I loved the balloon that came with our bear, much cuter and brighter than the one in the ProFlowers' picture.

I got a little off-track, I was talking about the hat and cupcake, I wasn't sure what they were made of. They looked like they might have been made of a hard plastic. Too my surprise they were not and I was glad about that.... they are both made of a shiny fabric and very soft, so the bear was very suitable for my Great Niece.

ProFlowers carries a wide assortment of flowers and other gifts. When I need a gift in the future, for a loved one that lives far away, you can bet I will be visiting ProFlowers to see what I can send them. They have prices that are very reasonable, and in this day and time, I am always looking for ways to save money or get more for my money. ProFlowers will definitely be able to help me in that department. The Birthday Bear sells for $34.99, which in my opinion is a really great price.

BTW, Miss Gracee loved her Birthday Bear and balloon. I am loving the miniature yellow rose bush/plant (I have always wanted one) and I can even plant this outdoors if I choose too.

There was no monetary compensation received for this review, though I did receive the sample to conduct my review. All opinions are my own, and were not swayed by receiving the products. I would like to thank ProFlowers for providing the items for review.

Smart & Sexy Review and Giveaway

2010-07-17T15:35:00.003-05:00

UPDATE: If you DO NOT have a twitter acct (can not follow Smart & Sexy on twitter), please leave a comment for your mandatory entry stating that fact, and also follow my blog, and tell me if you already do follow or a new follower.

Lately I have been having trouble finding a bra to fit right. It had been ages since I did a bra fitting (or measuring myself for a bra). I knew the bras that I currently had (have been buying and wearing the same size for nearly 15 years, and of course my shape has changed .... *hint* *hint* I've gained some weight), no longer were comfortable to wear. I happened up the Smart & Sexy website, where they had instructions for measuring for your bra size. I'm not sure if it shocked me or amazed me that I needed a different size than what I currently had been wearing.

I went shopping for a new bra, and tried on tons of them. Brands that I had heard of before and brands that I had never heard of. Padded, un-lined, under-wire, and push-up. Nothing seemed to fit right. I tried on sizes that were larger and smaller than what my measurements said I should wear, as well as the correct size. Still nothing was fitting.

Right about that same time, I was asked to review the Smart & Sexy line. I had never heard of them prior to seeing them on on-line (I wasn't about to purchase a lingerie on-line) on other blog giveaways. I jumped at the chance, I figured what the heck, nothing else was fitting, what did I have to lose.

To my amazement, I now have two beautiful, sexy and well fitting bras. The bras are super comfy to wear and in an awesome shade of royal purple too! Smart & Sexy also sent be a beautiful microfiber chemise in a great shade of pink, like this one, but pink:

Now, when I wear my new lingerie, I am comfortable and sexy at the same time. And boy does that help to boost my self confidence. If you haven't checked out the Smart & Sexy website, you really should. Great prices, sexy lingerie, what more could a woman ask for.

Smart & Sexy also has a Smart & Sexy Social Club, where you can sign up to receive their e-mail and fill out a survey and be entered to win a $100 gift certificate. Smart & Sexy are also on facebook and twitter too. Visit them there to find out what new is happening on their site, and for specials they may be having.

Smart & sexy has their own line of swimwear now, as well as all of the beautiful lingerie and sleepwear. I can tell you this much, I will be shopping at Smart & Sexy from now on. I can find bras in my size (I'm not huge, but not tiny either) that are quality made, sexy and comfy, along with panties in several styles, and sexy sleepwear too at very affordable (and for me to say affordable, you know they have to be great prices) prices!

Smart & Sexy has been kind enough to offer my readers a giveaway too!

ENTER TO WIN

WIN: $50 worth of lingerie in your size

Mandatory entry: follow Smart & Sexy on twitter, while there leave them some love.

**You MUST do the mandatory Entry! All bonus entries will be deleted if it's not done first!**

*BONUS ENTRIES*

{Leave separate comments for each bonus entry - or you will not receive the bonus entries}

Follow me on twitter {1 entry}

Tweet the following {1 entry - can be done once daily}

I want to win $50 of SMART & SEXY Lingerie - RT - Ends Aug 7th - #giveaway #win #contest http://bit.ly/cmxwEy @prpldy @SaSSocialClub

'like' Smart & Sexy on facebook, and tell them I sent you {2 entries}

Blog about this giveaway and leave me a direct link to the post {5 entries}

'like' The Purple Lady on facebook {1 entry}

Comment on any non-giveaway post, telling me which one {2 entries for each comment}

Enter one of my other giveaways {2 entries}

Rules

Open to the US

No PO Boxes

Giveaway ends Aug 7, 2010 at 12(noon) CST

Winners will be chosen via Random.Org., and contacted by email

Winners will have 48 hours to respond to the email, or another winner will be chosen

I check EVERY entry! Please only leave valid comments for valid entries!
I will remove invalid entries.

Please leave your e-mail address in your comment so that I have a way to contact you
( ie: prpldy (at) comcast dot net )

There was no monetary compensation received for this review, though I did receive the lingerie to conduct my review. All opinions are my own, and were not swayed by receiving the products. I would like to thank Smart & Sexy for providing the items for review and for this giveaway.

Have You Heard of the CHEERIOS "Do What You Love" Contest? - giveaway

2010-07-16T15:03:00.003-05:00

I've eaten Cheerios^® for as long as I can remember. And when my Daughter was a tot, I would give her Cheerios to munch on. Never thinking of Cheerios as part of a healthy heart diet. But they are!

Eating Cheerios, made with 100% whole grain oats, is a tasty way to maintain a healthy heart. I almost always have a box of Cheerios in my house, at any given time. When I want a quick snack, or a simple lunch, it's nothing to see me eat a bowl of Cheerios. Cheerios has several varieties, but I personally prefer the original, plain Cheerios.

Cheerios is giving you a chance of a lifetime by partnering with country music super star Martina McBride and professional athlete Cal Ripken, Jr for the "Do What You Love" Contest. McBride and Ripken will recognize two very lucky people with prizes that will make their hearts race with joy.

One music lover along with a guest, will tour the Country Music Hall of Fame® and Museum with Martina McBride, hang out with her in her recording studio (the world famous Blackbird Studio) and also get VIP tickets to one of her upcoming concerts.

Another lucky winner, who is a baseball enthusiast, along with a guest, will have the chance to hang out and play catch with Cal Ripken, and tour the Ripken Youth Baseball Academy in Aberdeen, MD, with the "Iron Man" of baseball himself. The winner will also get to throw out the first pitch at the Cal Ripken World Series and sit in Ripken's reserved seats at the Baltimore baseball game.

Between now and July 23, 2010 you can submit a 150-250 word original story and photo, showing what you love to do, for your chance to win the experience of a lifetime with either McBride or Ripken. To enter, visit http://www.cheerios.com/love today.

In addition to your chance to win by visiting http://www.cheerios.com/love, I also have a giveaway that you can enter to win.

Also, check out Cheerios on Facebook today! Visit Cheerios on Facebook to "Like" the brand and keep up with the latest news from Cheerios.

ENTER TO WIN

WIN: "Do What You Love" prize pack (includes one box of Cheeries and a $25 American Express^® gift card

Mandatory entry: follow my blog, and tell me what you like about Cheerios

**You MUST do the mandatory Entry! All bonus entries will be deleted if it's not done first!**

*BONUS ENTRIES*

{Leave separate comments for each bonus entry - or you will not receive the bonus entries}

Follow me on twitter {1 entry}

Tweet the following {1 entry - can be done once daily}

I want to win Cheerios and a $25 gift card - RT to WIN - Ends July 30th - #giveaway #win #contest http://bit.ly/anZEFH @prpldy

Subscribe to my blog {2 entries}

Blog about this giveaway and leave me a direct link to the post {5 entries}

'like' The Purple Lady on facebook {1 entry}

Comment on any non-giveaway post, telling me which one {2 entries for each comment}

Enter one of my other giveaways {2 entries}

Rules

Open to the US

No PO Boxes

Giveaway ends July 30, 2010 at 12(noon) CST

Winners will be chosen via Random.Org., and contacted by email

Winners will have 48 hours to respond to the email, or another winner will be chosen

I check EVERY entry! Please only leave valid comments for valid entries!
I will remove invalid entries.

Please leave your e-mail address in your comment so that I have a way to contact you
( ie: prpldy (at) comcast dot net )

Disclaimer: The box of Cheerios, gift card, information contained in this post and giveaway were all provided by Cheerios through MyBlogSpark.

Grab Guard - Review

2010-07-13T09:57:00.000-05:00

Last month I talked about several safety items as June was Home Safety Month. Today I want to tell you about another item that can be used at home (I suppose), that is also a safety item. The Grab Guard!

The Grab Guard is a tool that allows you to feel more at ease while shopping because you can lock your purse to your cart, and thwart the attempt to have your purse stolen. Shopping is stressful enough without the worry of your purse being snatched. But the Grab Guard is a tool that anyone can use. Adults and children alike!

I personally have used mine when shopping at the grocery store and other stores. I have used it to lock my tote bag to my chair when at the doctor's office. I can see when traveling, using the Grab Guard to attach and lock your laptop bag to your roll-a-long suitcase when in an airport. Or a child using the Grab Guard to secure his/her backpack to the fence when out playing, or at the pool to secure your tote. Even men can use the Grab Guard. Men have brief cases, and laptop bags and some even have backpacks too. When at a restaurant (especially the buffet type) securing your purse to your chair so that when you visit the buffet, someone doesn't have to stay behind to keep an eye on all of the purses, or so that you don't have to carry your purse with you while trying to balance a plate of food.

The Grab Guard is so easy to use, both in securing your items and in setting it to your own personal lock number. The Grab Guard comes in 5 colors that will suit men, women, and kids alike. For a $20 investment (and less if you buy 3 or more right now) you can have some peace of mind. I mentioned before in another post, that my Niece had her purse stolen out of her cart while at Walmart. Had she had a Grab Guard, she wouldn't have lost everything, including money, credit cards, drivers license, pictures of her kids, and other important items. Her purse was never found.

from their site:

Grab Guard was invented by a South Florida mother of 5 who witnessed two purses being stolen from a local restaurant. Reports state that every 3 seconds a purse or wallet is stolen and that 2.65 million purse and wallet thefts were recorded in 2006…and those are just the ones reported!

Grab Guard is easy to use, has over 50 pounds or pull strength and fits in the palm of your hand. Best of all, Grab Guard helps deter theft and protects your valuable and your identity. With Grab Guard, all the items you carry such as your wallet, PDA or phone, car and house keys, computer, cash , checks, credit cards and more are protected, anyplace-anytime. Grab one today and protect your valuables from theft tomorrow!

The Grab Guard would make a wonderful gift. As soon as I have a few spare dollars I will be getting them for my Grandsons, and my Sisters (who ALWAYS leave their purses sitting in their shopping carts). And if you purchase 3 or more from their website, you can save 25% at checkout if you use the promo code 123.

There was no monetary compensation received for this review, though I did receive the sample to conduct my review. All opinions are my own, and were not swayed by receiving the sample. Thank you Grab Guard for allowing me to review this wonderful product.

Danica's Big On-line Jewelry Show w/ Giveaways

2010-07-12T20:20:00.000-05:00

Jewelry by Danica is having 'The Biggest On-line Jewelry Show Ever'

During the jewelry show, you have a chance to save 25% this week (July 12 - July 18) on everything in her shop. She has a variety of jewelry to choose from (but of course I picked out the purple items to show you....)

Necklaces....

and Bracelets....

and more Bracelets...

She has earrings too, but I didn't see a purple pair to share with you. Sorry. While you are there, Danica will be having giveaways all week too. So visit her site, Jewelry By Danica for your chance to win some beautiful jewelry and to save 25% off her already low prices. Take my word for it, I have won some of her jewelry, as well as purchased some in the past. It's beautiful! It's well made, and with wonderful prices. And this week even better prices.

Good luck,

BrendaLea

I Love my isABelt !!! - review & giveaway

2010-07-10T16:31:00.004-05:00

CLOSED - Winners will be drawn soon

7/26/2010

Oh My Gosh! The isABelt has to be one of the best inventions ever!!!! Where has it been all my life??? Since I received my isABelt for review, I have not worn any of my other belts, nor have I had to tug on my britches each time I stood up, bent over, or got out of the car.

Even pants (shorts, or capris) that once were a teeny tiny bit big in the waist, are now comfortable to wear. I no longer have added bulk under my form fitted tops that other belts cause, nor do a have a belt buckle showing or pooching out, when I want a cleaner, leaner looking silhouette.

I love my isABelt so much, that I would be lost without it. And you can experience the same thing, if you enter for your chance to win, below.

The isABelt comes in several varieties. They have the regular, which is a thinner isABelt, and they also carry the wide that comes in both clear and black and is unisex. Even men can have a problem with a gaping waist band. The isABelt Jr is has some fun designs, such as skulls, cupcakes, peace signs and others. Then they also have the Breast Cancer Awareness isABelt, which is clear, yet with a pink ribbon design. The isABelt BCA even looks great as a decorative accessory.

Each isABelt comes packaged in its own box with directions for adjusting the isABelt for a proper fit. Even though it looks like it would adjust, the way one would adjust the straps of a bra, it doesn't. So please make sure you read the instructions. It is super easy to adjust, so don't be afraid. But by reading the instructions, it will make adjusting your isABelt a very easy task. They also have a video on their website, which also shows you how to adjust your isABelt.

The isABelt is a fabulous product that can be purchased for less than $20, that no one should be without, in my opinion. With the isABelt you will no longer have a gaping waist band. And if the waist band of your pants are tad bit too big, the isABelt makes them fit to a "T". You can purchase the isABelt on their website as well as at many brick and mortar locations. They have a 'store locater' right there on their site.

ENTER TO WIN

WIN: one of 2 isABelt regular - size large
Mandatory entry: visit isABelt and tell me about another product they carry

**You MUST do the mandatory Entry! All bonus entries will be deleted if it's not done first!**

*BONUS ENTRIES*

{Leave separate comments for each bonus entry - or you will not receive the bonus entries}

1. Follow me on twitter {1 entry}

2. Tweet the following {1 entry - can be done once daily}

I want to win 1 of 2 isABelts - RT ti WIN - Ends July 24th - #giveaway #win #contest http://bit.ly/9LaLJ1 @prpldy

3. Subscribe to my blog {2 entries}

4. Grab my button (on the left) and leave the URL where it's at {2 entries}

5. Blog about this giveaway and leave me a direct link to the post {5 entries}

6. 'like' The Purple Lady on facebook {1 entry}

7. Comment on any non-giveaway post, telling me which one {2 entries for each comment}

8. Follow via Google Friend Connect {2 entries}

9. Enter one of my other giveaways {2 entries}

10. Visit isABelt on Facebook, and leave this comment on their wall: The Purple Lady sent me here: http://prpldy15.blogspot.com/ {2 entries}

Rules

Open to the World Wide

No PO Boxes

Giveaway ends July 24, 2010 at 12(noon) CST

Winners will be chosen via Random.Org., and contacted by email

Winners will have 48 hours to respond to the email, or another winner will be chosen

I check EVERY entry! Please only leave valid comments for valid entries!
I will remove invalid entries.

Please leave your e-mail address in your comment so that I have a way to contact you
( ie: prpldy (at) comcast dot net )

There was no monetary compensation received for this review, though I did receive the samples to conduct my review. All opinions are my own, and were not swayed by receiving the samples. I would like to thank isABelt for providing the items for review and for this giveaway.

What to Wear for the Rest of Your Life - book review & giveaway - CLOSED

2010-07-05T22:35:00.003-05:00

What to Wear for the Rest of Your Life

Ageless Secrets of Style

Author: Kim Johnson Gross

Do you have a closet full of clothes you never wear, but someday hope to? Or a closet full of clothes, yet nothing to wear? Do you like to read? Do you like to read a book that is also a bit humorous? Or one that makes total sense? Or how about one that has tip and hints that make perfect sense?

What to Wear for the Rest of Your Life was not only easy to read, but a fun book to read. It is also packed full of information that does not tell you what to wear, but instead helps you figure out what clothing styles are best for you.

I know that I am at a point in my life where shorts that are too short are not for me, but I don't necessarily want to wear "mom jeans" either. I have a closet full of clothes that I have had for years that I never wear. That is where this book, What to Wear for the Rest of Your Life comes in handy. I haven't gotten very far in cleaning out my closet and setting up just for me, at my current point in my life, but I am working on it.

Ms. Gross first burst on to the scene with her Chic Simple series (a series that I'd consider to be the bible of fashion) and she's continuing her Assess, Dejunk, and Renew war cry in this book. Gaining hold of your closet and learning to dress for your own pleasure so that you enjoy EVERYTHING that you put on will help you to "evolve" your style..

Other key elements:

Dressing your age
Shop Smart for the rest of your life
Jewelry
Colors
Pulling it all together
and more....

How would you like to win a copy of this book for yourself? I have 3 copies that will go to my wonderful blog readers, if you enter below.

ENTER TO WIN

WIN: one of 3 copies of "What to Wear for the Rest of my Life"
Mandatory entry: visit Hachette Book Group and tell me of another book you would like to read.

**You MUST do the mandatory Entry! All bonus entries will be deleted if it's not done first!**

*BONUS ENTRIES*

{Leave separate comments for each bonus entry - or you will not receive the bonus entries}

1. Follow me on twitter {1 entry}

2. Tweet the following {1 entry - can be done once daily}

GIVEAWAY: win 1 of 3 copies of "What to Wear for the Rest of Your Life" - Ends July 19th - #giveaway #win http://bit.ly/9weLfK @prpldy

Rules

Open to the US only

No PO Boxes

Giveaway ends July 19, 2010 at 12(noon) CST

Winners will be chosen via Random.Org., and contacted by email

Winners will have 48 hours to respond to the email, or another winner will be chosen

I check EVERY entry! Please only leave valid comments for valid entries!
I will remove invalid entries.

Please leave your e-mail address in your comment so that I have a way to contact you
( ie: prpldy (at) comcast dot net )

What to Wear for the Rest of Your Life: Ageless Secrets of Style is available for purchase at Amazon.com for $16.49

There was no monetary compensation received for this review, though I did receive the samples to conduct my review. All opinions are my own. Receiving the samples did not sway my review. I would like to thank Hachette Book Group for providing the items for review and for this giveaway.

WINNERS

2010-07-05T19:24:00.000-05:00

We have some winners! Congrats to you all! E-mails have been sent, and don't forget to check your e-mail and respond within 48 hours.

Mom Concept's Shopping Gadgets winner: #36 Jeanine

First Alert Home Safety Test Kits winner: #32 Paper Princess

First Alert Home Safety - other two items winner: #19 Angel

Sweeney's Snake Repellent winner: #21 Judy

Congrats to you all!!!

BrendaLea

My Glue Dots Summer Bonding Project

2010-07-05T09:45:00.002-05:00

TwitterMom has a great Summer Craft Bonding contest going on right now. I needed some decorations for party that I was having. Wasn't sure what to do, then it hit me. I had balloons left over from my Grandson's birthday party the month before. The kind without helium and that are on sticks. I wanted to dress them up a bit, so I began looking in my craft room for items that I could use to spruce them up a bit. My Grandson was helping me figure out what to use. I came across the shoe box that was full of foam shapes in the colors of the rainbow. But how would I attach them??? A liquid glue would not work! They would slide right off. I didn't want tape to show. Then I remembered I received a sample package of Glue Dots in the mail recently, and wha-a-a-a la! Glue Dots are great to use anytime, but especially when a liquid glue will not work. Knowing how well Glue Dots work (they have such great sticking power and no need to wait for them to dry) to attach items where others glues do not work .... I knew I had the perfect opportunity to put my newly acquired Glue Dots to work for me

I gathered foam shapes in various sizes of circles, squares, and triangles. My Grandson and I took two different shapes (for the most part) and 2 different colors I layered them using the Glue Dots. Then we used the Glue Dots to attached between 9-16 of the layered shapes on to each balloon in a random order. We had so much fun, figuring out what colors and what shapes and sizes to use together.

Once the balloons were complete, I would take 4-6 balloon sticks, place them in a vase, and add some colored tissue paper. They looked great! I placed them on tables for a center piece. I had one vase sitting here and one sitting there. I received a lot of compliments! And I still have the balloon arrangements sitting around my home, as they are colorful, bright, and cheery. And the other day when my Great Niece was over for a visit, she wanted to play with those balloons as they really grabbed her attention.

If you have never used Glue Dots, you should give them a try. I give them two 'Thumbs Up!" for being such a wonderful, innovative, and useful product. If you have time, take a look at the Glue Dots facebook page, where you will find many links to other great projects using Glue Dots.

This post is part of a blogging  contest from the TwitterMoms community. There is a chance this post  could be randomly selected to win a $30 Amazon GiftCard, so wish me  luck! For more details, you can view  the contest page here (http://www.twittermoms.com/forum/topics/2000-in-prizes-up-for-grabs).

June was Home Safety Month

2010-07-01T15:07:00.000-05:00

I didn't know that until I had done a review for some safety products. Along with being physically safe in your home, you need a safe place to store important papers, or certain medicines.

A while back I told you about the wonderful entertainment centers at the CSNStores.com, that I wanted. And during that time they, CSNStores.com, allowed me to pick out an item to review. Since I didn't have a safe, I choose the SentrySafe Fire-Safe® Security Chest. They have a huge selection to choose from, and this one fit my current needs to a 'T'. Yes, I know I am a wee bit behind in my reviews, sorry. I had the SentrySafe this whole time, nearly 1-1/2 months and it sort of slipped my mind. That is until it was home safety month, just yesterday was the last day.

I finally got the safe out, something that I mentioned, I have never had before. Though with all of the important papers we all have, along with the controlled substance medicines that I take, I really needed one. The G-sons are growing up and are now teenagers and they have a lot of friends over. Their friends are good kids, but in this day and age of drugs. One can never be too safe. Hence, the home safety factor.

The SentrySafe Fire-Safe as you can see is small in size, but huge in storage. It has a convenient carrying handle, and a key lock (which I prefer as I have trouble remembering all of the various PIN numbers, and passwords for various websites, etc). I was able to get in my important papers, along with precious jewelry, flash drive, meds that are a controlled substance, disk, and I still had plenty of space to add more items as needed.

I love the fact that should there be a fire, the safe has:

Proven UL classified 1/2-hour fire protection
ETL verified 1/2 hour fire protection up to 1550 degrees Farenheit
3-year limited warranty

I am so glad that June was home safety month, and that I finally have my safe filled with items I want to keep safe. In the very near future, I will also be telling you about the Hamilton Beach Stay or Go Slow Cooker, also from one of the over 200 stores, under the CSN Stores name.

There was no monetary compensation received for this review, though I did receive the sample to conduct my review. All opinions are my own. Receiving the sample did not sway my review. I would like to thank CSN Stores for providing the item for review.

I got a ton of Zebras last week - Giveaway

2010-06-30T17:55:00.002-05:00

I got 4 new Zebra Finches (two matched pairs) to add to the little zoo that I have here. Boy are they cute. I love their sweet soft singing. Much un-like my other 3 birds, which tend to be very loud. My oldest G-son said "they bounce off the walls of the cage like ping pong balls." Because they are very flighty and always on the move.

The other Zebras that I received were some awesome new Zebra pens and pencils. Look at these colorful and fun new Zebra pens and pencils. I love them!

I received the Z-Grip Daisies Retractable Ball Point Pens in five fun colors in a medium 1.0 mm point. The rubberized grip tells you the color of the ink. I love embellishing my envelopes with these very smooth writing ink pens. They also make writing snail mail letters much more fun as well.

Next, I received the very colorful Cadoozles .7 mm mechanical pencil 6 pack. The Cadoozles are refillable and I love that they have the shape of a regular pencil. They roll less and feels like you are writing with a wooden pencil. Each has a different colorful graphic for both boys and girls. Some of the graphics themes include balloons, sports gear, ice cream treats, music, and space. You will never have to sharpen your pencil again with the Cadoozles.

Then I finally received two four packs of assorted colors of the Regal Roller Ball Pens. One in a arrow tip that is 0.7 mm and the other is a needle tip that is 0.5 mm. I wasn't sure how much I would enjoy using the roller ball pens. They surprised me! I enjoyed how smooth they were to write with and find that I am using them on a daily basis. The four colors are black, blue, red and green. I love that you can actually see how much ink is left in the barrel. And if you travel, they are airplane safe! You won't have them taken from you at check-in.

The Zebra Pen Corp has been a leader in the business for more than 110 years. Zebra is a name associated with quality, and they back their quality with a guarantee. Zebra has also produced an eco-friendly line of products. Many of their products are refillable, and so ...are eco-friendly.

“Right now, consumers are most concerned with two things: making sure they’re getting the best product their money can buy and doing what they can to ‘go green,’ said Director of Marketing Chris Farley. “Zebra Pen Corporation is making a way for consumers to do both.”

When you visit the Zebra facebook page you will find that they hold many contest of their own. You might want to take a moment while there and see what is happening. Zebra products can be found in stores such as; Staples, Walmart, K-mart, as well as other office supply stores. Many food and drug supply stores also carry the Zebra products. For more information, check out the Zebra website, it's full of information and very easy to navigate.

ENTER TO WIN

WIN: The same set of pens and pencils that I received. One pack of Cadoozles, one pack of Z-Grip Daisies, one pack of Regal Roller in 0.7 mm and one in 0.5 mm.
Mandatory entry: visit Zebra's facebook page, leaving a comment there that I sent you and 'like' the Zebra facebook page too.

**You MUST do the mandatory Entry! All bonus entries will be deleted if it's not done first!**

*BONUS ENTRIES*

{Leave separate comments for each bonus entry - or you will not receive the bonus entries}

1. Follow me on twitter {1 entry}

2. Follow Zebra on twitter {1 entry}

3. Tweet the following {1 entry - can be done once daily}

GIVEAWAY: win some great Zebra Pen products - GIVEAWAY Ends July 14th - #giveaway #win http://bit.ly/bCVGJV @prpldy @ZebraPen

4. Subscribe to my blog {2 entries}

5. Grab my button (on the left) and leave the URL where it's at {2 entries}

6. Blog about this giveaway and leave me a direct link to the post {5 entries}

7. 'like' The Purple Lady on facebook {1 entry}

8. Comment on any non-giveaway post, telling me which one {2 entries for each comment}

9. Follow via Google Friend Connect {2 entries}

Rules

Open to the US only

No PO Boxes

Giveaway ends July 14, 2010 at 12(noon) CST

Winners will be chosen via Random.Org., and contacted by email

Winners will have 48 hours to respond to the email, or another winner will be chosen

I check EVERY entry! Please only leave valid comments for valid entries!
I will remove invalid entries.

Please leave your e-mail address in your comment so that I have a way to contact you

( ie: prpldy (at) comcast dot net )

There was no monetary compensation received for this review, though I did receive the samples to conduct my review. All opinions are my own. Receiving the samples did not sway my review. I would like to thank Zebra Pen Corp for providing the items for review and for this giveaway.

A few more hours and .....

2010-06-30T10:29:00.000-05:00

and half of 2010 will be over. Where has the time gone?

For me it has gone in many directions. From happy to sad, from funny to tense. What about you?

Latte' when she was about 8 weeks old, she climbed on top of the coffee table and just sat there looking at me

Latte' I believe is finally on the mend. When I arrived home from my doctors appointment yesterday Latte' for the first time in over 10 days brought me one of her favorite toys and wanted to play fetch. You know she is sick when she doesn't want to play. I was to happy to play fetch with her, knowing that she was finally on the mend and that I wouldn't have to figure out a way to pay for a large doctor bill. Another sign that told me Latte' was on the mend was that Coffee was on her case all evening (Coffee is very healous of Latte') and while Latte' was sick Coffee never once got on her case, but instead would give her little kisses throughout the day.

I didn't quite hear what I wanted to at the doctor's appointment yesterday. He said I need surgery on my right thumb. That they would take a tendon out of my arm, roll it up and replace the round bone in my thumb that is deteriorated and that my right hand has severe arthritis,. My left hand hurts worse, but my right has more arthritis. Anyhow, they would also do some work on the thumb bone as well. About 6 weeks ago all of a sudden I lost the strength in my right thumb. I was no longer able to do things that I took for granted before. I could not light a lighter with my right hand, I had trouble hooking and unhooking the dogs leashes, I wasn't able to pull weeds with my right hand (I am right handed, if you didn't guess that already), I could not use the remote like I always had before. Something I have learned how to do differently during this time, though I still try to use my right thumb, it just does not want to cooperate with me. I will have to think long and hard before agreeing to the surgery as the doc said he could not say whether the surgery would give me the strength back in my thumb, and I can cope with the pain at the moment. During my last surgery I had a stress heart attack while under the knife, because I was very concerned that they would not be able to keep my chronic pain under control.... which they didn't and I ended up having to go for 13 hours with no pain meds at all. Thankfully I was ICU and it was quiet, or I would have really been out of my mind with the pain. I currently take pain meds every 4-6 hours, and to go for 13 hours with no meds was not fun at all.

I will soon have some new babies in my house, which is a good thing, I will tell you more about that later.

One Grandson has already had his birthday this year which was a success you can read all about it in this post.

I have begun doing some product reviews which I am loving. Not only do I get to bring some new and different products to you and tell you what I think of them. Many are also sponsoring giveaways, which are fun for you and for me. I am running a bit behind, but promise to get caught up very soon. I had planned on completing at least one review/giveaway a day until I got caught up, but with Latte' being sick, my A/C going on the fritz, my pain level rising dues to all of the stress.... all I can say I will do my best to get caught up.

Today my e-mail program, Eudora is messing up. I am getting my mail, but it will not show me the contents. I will try to re-install it and see if that will help. It's very difficult to deal with my mail, responding to those that need a response, or handling whatever the mail needs to be done. So as much as I wanted to get a review/giveaway posted today, I may not be able to. First my mail has to be working correctly for me to retrieve some information I need from one of the reps.

Let's hope that the next 6 months will be a bit better than the past 6 months for both you and for me.

BrendaLea

I Need To Raise Some Money!

2010-06-28T11:54:00.000-05:00

My sweet little Latte' is still sick. Even though she received a shot to help with the nausea, it didn't help. She has thrown up at least once a day for the past 7-10 days, if not more often. I called the vet today, as he wanted to know how she was doing today. He wants to take x-rays and a full blood work-up. My problem is, that I don't have the funds. It was cost $180 for the two sets of test. I had to post date a check (yes, I know you are not supposed to, but the doctor accepted a posted dated check) until July 3rd for the visit the other day which was $60. So any extra $$ that I had for July are now gone. And I don't have the $$ for these new test. And I don't know how to go about getting the funds to pay for them. Any ideas?

I don't like seeing my little girl sick. I've had her since she was 6 weeks old. She is now 6 years 2 months and 13 days old. She is a part of my family! She is my little girl! I want her to feel better! But I don't know how to pay for it.

I need to raise the money, $190, as soon as possible, sot hat she can get the test she needs to find out what is wrong with her, and why she keeps throwing up.

On top of that, my window a/c is malfunctioning. The other day it got 89 degrees in here. I turned it off for a few hours as it was not putting out any cold air. It was miserable, for me, for Latte', for the Grandsons, Coffee and the 7 birds! After it got 89 degrees in here it took over 8 hours to cool back down to a temp that was comfortable. Now I turn it off for 2 hours 2 times a day. So far it's been working, but during those two hours, it get terrible warm and stuffy in the house, even though I have 3 fans running in one room.

Even though I need to do something about my A/C, Latte' is my first concern at the moment. It's hard when you live on a fixed income and you are single. It gets very depressing at times.

Hope you all are having a better day than I am,

BrendaLea

Latte' went to the vet and she's not feeling any better

2010-06-26T13:00:00.000-05:00

Latte' was able to see her vet, Dr. Pirtle yesterday.  She wasn't to  excited about it, but she behaved like a little lady.  Dr. Pirtle took a stool sample and examined her, and asked me a lot of questions.  Latte' was not fond of him for taking the stool sample.

look at that sad face, you can see she doesn't feel well

We found out that she has an intestinal virus.  She got a shot to help with her nausea, but evidently it didn't work as she got sick again last night, just after I climbed into bed. So I had to get up and clean it up.  She also received antibiotics to take twice a day for 5 days.

He said this should clear it up and that in about 24 hours we should see a marked difference, and within 48 she should be back to almost normal.  But if she is not better by Monday to call him and we would have to do a full blood work-up.

It's been nearly 24 hours and she doesn't seem to be ant better yet.  Let's just hope that by tomorrow she will be feeling a lot better.  My fingers are crossed.

Dr. Pirtle said that several things can cause the intestinal virus.  One being a germ that she got from another animal, such as:  if she stepped in some other animal's poop and then licked her paw.  He said with the warmer weather, he has seen more of this type of intestinal virus lately.  And if it wasn't something like that, there are health issues that can cause the intestinal virus.  One being kidney failure.  He doesn't really expect it to be something like that as she is only 6 years old.   Let's hope it is not that serious.

I have people coming over at 2pm today for a Febreze House Party, and the sure sign of Latte' feeling better will be when they arrive.  She loves company, she gets very excited and always wants her belly rubbed when they come over.  Plus she dances around a lot when people are here.  So time will tell me for sure if she is feeling better.  They should arrive within the next hour.  Let's hope she is active and exited.  That will let me know that she is on the mend.

Hope everyone has a fabulous weekend,

BrendaLea

My Baby Is Sick

2010-06-24T08:15:00.003-05:00

Latte' with her Summer hair cut

My sweet little Latte' isn't feeling well. I believe I will have to take her to the vet either today or tomorrow. It started on Sunday when she threw-up a couple of times. She just laid around all day, and didn't eat. Not even some of her favorite treats. Which is very much un-like her.

Then on Monday she felt feverish and I tried to get her to take a baby aspirin. That was not happening. She wanted nothing to do with it. Not even when I wrapped it in a piece of turkey. I tried getting it down her throat, but she wasn't having any of that either. She didn't eat anything at all on Monday. I was getting very concerned. And told myself that if she was not better by Wednesday, that I would take her to the vet.

Summer hair cut grown out but not all the way yet

Yesterday she seemed to be feeling an itsy bitsy tiny bit better. She actually came over to get her chicken treat, which she loves. And when the G-son came in the door, she went to greet him. Not quite enthusiastically as she normally does, but she was up and moving a little bit. After days of JUST laying around. I thought her fever had broken. But then later in the evening, she got sick again, a few times. And once again she felt feverish.

Later today I will call the vet and see if he will see her, but with me waiting until next month (no too many days away) to pay the bill. Latte' has NEVER been sick like this before. Throughout her 6 years of life, she has thrown up from time to time. But that was it. She has never been lethargic, not eating, throwing up, and not wanting her treats. I am REALLY concerned and hope it is nothing major.

She is my little girl, my baby, my child!

I love her so very much and hate to see her sick and not able to tell me what is wrong. Just like a baby. It kills me to see babies sick. They can not tell you where they hurt, what is wrong, or how they feel. And as a parent or adult, I feel helpless. Just like I do now.

Hoping my baby feels better real soon,

BrendaLea

Rayovac Powers Your Summer Twitter Event

2010-06-22T14:40:00.000-05:00

Rayovac Powers Your Summer Twitter Event

Join Rayovac and 5MinutesForMom for a Twitter Event to support the exciting Rayovac Powers Your Summer Promotion. The Twitter Event will feature more than 20 fun giveaways from Rayovac ranging from a summer supply of Rayovac Batteries to $50 Target Gift Cards.

Rayovac Powers Your Vacation Summer Promotion Twitter Event
Date: Wednesday, June 30, 2010
Time: 7:00 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. CST
Location: #rayovac
Follow: @Rayovac_Battery, @5minutesformom, @CirclePRMary

The first 99 bloggers to promote the Rayovac Powers Your Summer Twitter Event won a prize package from Rayovac

Rayovac Powers Your Summer Promotion

2010-06-22T14:29:00.000-05:00

Rayovac wants to Power Your Summer and they have a wonderful promotion going on right now, and ending July 20, 2010.

Rayovac wants to empower families to have fun this Summer. You have a chance to win some wonderful prizes (ranging from cameras and bikes to camping supplies and a summer supply of Rayovac batteries) by answering their daily question. Today's question involves camping. They want to know how you like to camp. Personally I like to rough it, give me a tent whether it be in the back yard, or a camp ground.
Along with the fun questions to answer daily (where there are no right or wrong answers) they will have daily tips to help you Power Your Summer.

While you are at it, why don't you 'like' Rayovac on facebook so that you can be in the' know' when Rayovac has other promotions that you might want to check out.

The first 99 bloggers to promote the Rayovac Powers Your Summer Promotion won a prize package from Rayovac

Sweeney's Snake Repellent Review & Giveaway

2010-06-21T10:21:00.005-05:00

edited/updated: 6/25/2010
My wording below is just a bit off. You are to re-apply after a heavy rain. You originally apply the repellent when it is dry outside.

I recently asked my readers if they ever had a snake in their house. I received only a few comments. And I am so thankful for that. That tells me that most of you have not experienced what I did a few weeks back.

As you know I have two wonderful little fur babies that I adore. One evening I was in the process of letting Latte' back in the house after she had done her business. Coffee, for once, had not gone outside at that time. It was already dark and I am guessing about 9:30 pm or so. I have my babies leashes set-up where they are attached outside and the loose end that attaches to their collar is brought inside under the door. When they are let out, I open the main door, attach the leash to their collar, open the screen door and they go out. When they are ready to come in, I do the reverse. I open the screen door and they come in. I un-hook their leash, and then shut the main door, the leash remains inside on the floor. I have been using this system for over 12 years and it has worked great for me. I don't have to go out in the cold or rain to get their leashes, and it makes it easy to get them outside fast (which you need when you have an older fur baby like Coffee.)

Anyhow, I sort of got off track for a moment. I was letting Latte' back into the house and as I opened the screen door a s-n-a-k-e (shivering with the thought.... yikes!) came into my house. I immediately slammed the main door and the snake got caught underneath. Latte' was still outside. Coffee was inside. And me .....

I jumped! I screamed! I ran, grabbed the phone and ran out the other door. I call the other Grandparents hysterically crying that a snake was in my house, thankfully they live just 4 blocks away. Both boys were over there for the night. She said they would be right over. It seemed like hours before they arrived, but in reality it was less than 4 minutes.

They arrive and ask me where the snake was. I said "in the house!" I did not know if it was still under the door or had crawled elsewhere.

The youngest Grandson is now known as the Snakanator! He had his sword and chopped him up, tossed the snake outside, then cleaned up the floor and his sword. There was no way I wanted that snake tossed out my back door - dead or alive! So they tossed him into a bag and into the dumpster. I am so proud of my snakanator for protecting me.

Shortly after this happened I was contacted and asked if I wanted to do a review on Sweeney's Snake Repellent. I jumped at the chance. With having a snake in my home just days prior... Yes! Yes I wanted to do this particular review.

I am deathly afraid of snakes!!! I can't stand to see them on TV or in a book! I won't run over them while in my car (fear that it would cling onto the wheel and crawl inside), and I won't go to the reptile house at the zoo! I don't even like worms as they are baby snakes to me!

I received a 2 lb. canister of the Sweeney's Snake Repellent and wanted to use it right away, but needed to wait until it quit raining We were in the midst of the Spring rainy season. The directions say you should apply after a heavy rain.

The Snake Repellent is very easy to use. You walk around the area you wish to protect and shake the granules to create a 6-10 inch wide barrier. As mentioned above you should apply after a heavy rain and for best results, apply every 3 to 4 weeks.

I can not yet say if it works for not, as it has only been a couple of weeks. But I have not seen any sign of any snakes, thankfully! I am now able to go back outside and into the yard. That's a huge plus! I am comfortable once again about being out in the yard (I am not wearing knee high boots, and tip-toeing around constantly looking for a snake) knowing the I have my Sweeney's Snake Repellent out there to chase the snakes away. Prior to using the Sweeney's I would not go out into the yard (unless I had boots, pants, and gloves on and carried a shovel), or tend to the weeds my flower beds. Thank you Sweeney's for giving me the freedom to enjoy myself outside, again.

My Sister was shocked about the snake being in my home and did not realize (as I never mentioned it before) we have had many snakes outside over the years, Not little ones either, but don't ask me what kind. I don't want to know and I don't care to know. Snakes are snakes in my book!

What I like about Sweeney's is that it will not harm your lawns, vegetable gardens or plants. It is safe to use around children and pets. It is also biodegradable and easy to use. And Sweeney's has been around since 1892, that alone has to say something about the quality of their products.

HOW IT WORKS: Snakes continuously monitor their surroundings by "sensing" chemicals from the air with their tongues. This is accomplished with a special organ on the roof of their mouths called the Jacobson's organ. {I didn't know that, did you?} Sweeney's Snake Repellent emits a sweet, pungent aroma that snakes find distasteful, causing them to leave the area, Sweeney's will not harm snakes but will repel them from the area.

The 2-lb bottle retails for $12.99 and the 4-lb shaker bag retails for $17.99. You can purchase the Sweeney's Snake Repellent directly from their website, along with their other products. You can find a list of retailers on their site that carry the various Sweeney's products.

Sweeney's also has a contest right now called: "I Hate Moles", where you have the opportunity to win a $500 Lowe's gift card, by submitting your tale of mole woes.

ENTER TO WIN

WIN: 4-lb shaker bag of Sweeney's Snake Repellent

Mandatory entry: visit Sweeney's website and tell me of another product you would like to try.

**You MUST do the mandatory Entry! All bonus entries will be deleted if it's not done first!**

*BONUS ENTRIES*

{Leave separate comments for each bonus entry - or you will not receive the bonus entries}

1. Follow me on twitter {1 entry}

2. Tweet the following {1 entry - can be done once daily}

Have a snake problem, WIN Sweeney's Snake Repellent - RT @prpldy - GIVEAWAY Ends July 5th - #giveaway #win http://j.mp/9iN1Am

3. Subscribe to my blog {2 entries}

4. Grab my button (on the left) and leave the URL where it's at {1 entry}

5. Blog about this giveaway and leave me a direct link to the post {3 entries}

6. Add my blog to your blog roll {1 entry}

7. Comment on any non-giveaway post, telling me which one {1 entry for each comment}

8. Follow via Google Friend Connect {2 entries}

Rules

Open to the US only

No PO Boxes

Giveaway ends July 5, 2010 at 12(noon) CST

Winners will be chosen via Random.Org., and contacted by email

Winners will have 48 hours to respond to the email, or another winner will be chosen

I check EVERY entry! Please only leave valid comments for valid entries!

Please leave your e-mail address in your comment so that I have a way to contact you

( ie: prpldy (at) comcast dot net )

There was no monetary compensation received for this review, though I did receive a sample to conduct my review. All opinions are my own. Receiving the sample did not sway my review. I would like to thank Sweeney's for providing the item for review and for this giveaway.

Many Giveaways Ending Soon

2010-06-20T15:33:00.001-05:00

Midwest Gone Idahoan has 6 different giveaways that end by July 2, with some ending even sooner. Most have low entries so your chances are even greater to win. They are:

Holly Hobby Tin and Fabric

Earrings from Designs by Ellen

And Susan of Amazing Coupons and Discount Deals has a giveaway for a $5 Burger King gift card. Yummy! It ends on July 4th. And who can't use some extra $$ to eat on. I don't usually eat at places like that as I don't have the $$ to spend there. But if I won, I sure would, and I would have to get my Bacon Double Cheese Burger. Oh yeah!

Good Luck,
BrendaLea

Home Safety Month Review and Giveaway

2010-06-19T21:44:00.003-05:00

June is Home Safety Month. I didn't know that, did you? The Home Safety Council is a national non profit organization that is dedicated to preventing home related injuries. They work to educate families on the many dangers in and around the home and the steps they can take to prevent these injuries. Home related injuries result in nearly 20,000 deaths and 21 million medical visits in an average year. That number is much too large. While there are numerous causes, according to The Home Safety Council the top 5 things that result in death or injury in and around the home are:

Falls
Poisoning
Fires and Burns
Choking and Suffocation
Drowning and Submersions

Children are one of the most vulnerable groups of these kinds of injuries that's why it is so important to safeguard your home and to teach your children about these dangers. Their are many things you can do to prevent these injuries and many lifesaving devices you can use in your home. Some of these include:

Installing Window Guards on second story windows to prevent little ones from falling.
Installing Carbon Monoxide Alarms in or around every sleeping area.
Installing Smoke Alarms in or around every sleeping area and making sure there is a working Fire Extinguisher readily available.
Keeping all Hazardous Chemicals out of reach from little hands by installing Cabinet Locks.
Putting up a Pool Fence and installing a Pool Alarm.

You can find a lot more information on homesafetycouncil.org. They have created several resources for you to share with your friends and family. Including Brochures, Newsletters, Lesson Plans and so much more. I recommend that you take the time to visit their site and educate yourself so that you can protect your family all year long.

In honor of Home Safety Month First Alert and The Lehigh Group have teamed up with the Home Safety Council and created a "home safe home" kit which includes the following items:

First Alert® Radon Test Kit
First Alert® Mold Test Kit
First Alert® Lead Test Kit
First Alert® Water Test Kit
Cordzilla by Secureline from The Lehigh Group
First Alert® Tundra Fire Extinguishing Spray™

There will be two winners: one will receive the first four items in the list above and the second winner will receive the last two items.

ENTER TO WIN

WIN: first winner will receive the four test kits (items 1-4 above), 2nd winner will receive the Cordzilla and First Alert Tundra Fire Extinguishing Spray (last 2 items)

Mandatory entry: Must follow via Google Friend Connect (right side) and leave a comment letting me know, and tell me why you would like to be one of the 2 winners.

**You MUST do the mandatory Entry! All bonus entries will be deleted if it's not done first!**

*BONUS ENTRIES*

{Leave separate comments for each bonus entry - or you will not receive the bonus entries}

1. Follow me on twitter {1 entry}

2. Tweet the following {1 entry - can be done once daily}

2 WINNERS - Home Safety Products - RT @prpldy - GIVEAWAY Ends July 2nd - #giveaway http://j.mp/bsDE14

3. Subscribe to my blog {2 entries}

4. Grab my button (on the left) and leave the URL where it's at {1 entry}

5. Blog about this giveaway and leave me a direct link to the post {3 entries - leave 3 separate comments}

6. Add my blog to your blog roll {1 entry}

7. Become a public GFC follower - right side {1 entry}

8. Comment on any non-giveaway post, telling me which one {1 entry for each comment}

Rules

Open to the US only

No PO Boxes

Giveaway ends July 2, 2010 at 12(noon) CST

Winners will be chosen via Random.Org., and contacted by email

Winners will have 48 hours to respond to the email, or another winner will be chosen

I check EVERY entry! Please only leave valid comments for valid entries!

Please leave your e-mail address in your comment so that I have a way to contact you

( ie: prpldy (at) comcast dot net )

I was not compensated for this review, nor did I receive any samples. All opinions are my own. I would like to thank The Lehigh Group, the Home Safety Council and First Alert for providing the items for this giveaway.

Shopping Gadgets Review and Giveaway

2010-06-16T07:47:00.008-05:00

I love to shop!

Whether it be for clothing, shoes, household items, or groceries. I even love to shop at thrift shops, and junk stores. But the one thing I hate about shopping is trying to keep my coupons organized, and not waste any of my precious time while in the store. And what to do with everything you need when you shop. Then what to do with my coupons that I want to cash in and not forgetting about them. What is a person supposed to do?

Well, I will tell you.

You need to check out Mom Concepts! They have a Koala Pouch ($14.95 at www.momcepts.com) that is the perfect shopping organizer that you can take with you to the store, and attach it right to your shopping cart.

It has a great design with awesome features:

a dedicated pocket with index cards to keep coupons and shopping list organized
a roomy pocket on the front for easy access to your cell phone
a zipper pocket on the back that includes two re-usable compact shopping bags, so you will never forget them again!
a pen/pencil holder
and enough space to carry all the items you need (List Caddy, Koalabiner, keys, money, debit/credit card) so that you can leave your purse at home or in the car

Then, there is a multi-use List Caddy ($1.99 at www.momcepts.com) that really comes in very handy. It snaps right onto your shopping cart handle and holds your pen/pencil, along with shopping list. Many times I have forgotten to use my coupons once I pulled them from my organizer because I had no designated place to put them, and they would end up in my pocket. I would never remember them until it was too late (usually I would find them in the washer after doing laundry.) Now I place them in the List Caddy clip until I get to the register. And now I get to save those $$ from the coupons that I spent time clipping.

And if you check out the Momcepts.com website, you will find some fun and unique ways to you the List Caddy. Hmmm, wonder if any of use can come up with some more unique ways to utilize this cool tool. Oh, and the List Caddy comes in many fun colors too! I have to get several of the purple ones.

And if you are like me, and like to have your purse with you when you shop, you need the Koalabiner Purse Hanger ($4.95 at www.momcepts.com). Not only does my purse take up space in my shopping cart (I use a rather large purse), now my bread doesn't get smashed, and small items don't get lost below my purse. Boy is that embarrassing when I have paid for all of my items, grab my purse to leave and there before us are one or two small items sitting there in the cart. YIKES! I get the feeling that they think I am trying to steal them. I am NOT!!! No longer do I have to worry about that horrible feeling.

Now I can hang my purse from my shopping cart using the great Koalabiner. My bread is never mashed from the weight of my purse, items don't get hidden below it, and no one can easily steal my purse. Which has happened to my Niece. So many of us plop our purses in the child seat area, and don't give it another thought while shopping. We leave our carts for a second while grabbing something from a shelve. But doing that makes it very easy for someone to grab our purses and run. And if you have a diaper bag, because you have your child with you, the Koalabiner will hold it as well.

The Koalabiner is cute with its koala bear shape that I have even wore it as a bracelet until I got inside the store. Or I store it on one of my purse handles, so that it is handy to use. It also comes in handy to attach several bags of groceries (or other purchases) together so they don't spill out before you get home. No longer do I have to tie each plastic bag shut and struggle to un-knot them or end up cutting them open. The Koalabiner also comes in handy to use with a baby stroller, so you can attach your diaper bag or purse right to the handle.

ENTER TO WIN

WIN: one Koalabiner and one List Caddy and one Koala Pouch

Mandatory entry: Head to Momcepts.com and tell me which of the List Caddy colors you like the best.

**You MUST do the mandatory Entry! All bonus entries will be deleted if it's not done first!**

*BONUS ENTRIES*

{Leave separate comments for each bonus entry}

1. Follow me on twitter {1 entry}
2. Tweet the following {1 entry - can be done once daily}

WIN - 3 Shopping Gadgets - RT @prpldy - GIVEAWAY Ends June 30th - #giveaway
http://j.mp/9iN1Am

3. Subscribe to my blog {1 entries}

4. Grab my button (on the left) and leave the URL where it's at {1 entry}

5. Blog about this giveaway and leave me a direct link to the post {3 entries - leave 3 separate comments}

6. Add my blog to your blog roll {1 entry}
7. Become a public GFC follower - right side {1 entry}
8. Comment on any non-giveaway post, telling me which one {1 entry for each comment}

**RULES**

Open to the US and Canada
Giveaway ends June 30, 2010 at 12(noon) CST
Winners will be chosen via Random.Org., and contacted by email
Winners will have 48 hours to respond to the email, or another winner will be chosen

I was not compensated for this review, though I did receive samples of the products to conduct my review. All opinions are my own.

Happy Birthday Grandson!

2010-06-15T12:14:00.000-05:00

June 12th

Today we are having a sleep over party for my Grandson's 13th birthday. His Golden Birthday! Even though his actual birthday is not until June 13th, he wanted it tonight so that they could stay up all night and not have to worry about getting up early Sunday morning to go to church. Originally it was planned for tomorrow. But he changed it at the last minute. Not sure how many kids will be here today, last year we had a total of 12. They slept in the chairs, on the floor, on air mattresses and anywhere else they could find. But they had a blast.

His other Grandmother is making his cake, and we will be getting Pizza Hut pizza (3, I believe) and we will have chips (3 kinds), dips, ice cream, Powerade, various soda, and anything else he comes up with between now and 6 pm tonight when his friends are supposed to arrive.

June 15th

cake made by other Grandmother

The boys wore me out. They were up all night long, except for one that went to sleep around midnight. The rest finally drifted off to sleep way after day break. Of course the first one to sleep was also the first one up. And it was up to me to entertain him (I did have better things to do) which took the majority of my day as the rest of the boys slept until 3pm. The early riser kept asking me when the others would wake. How was I to know. They are teenagers, and teenagers can sleep 18 hours straight, at times.

G-son with his new Lazer Tag

Look at that scowl. He actually loved his gift. Thankfully. As my money has been super tight the past 4 or 5 months. I didn't even have money to buy a gift. I won this awesome Lazer Tag system from Mom Central, during one of their giveaways. When I checked Amazon.com, it was listed for $399.00. Boy was I flabbergasted. There is no way I could afford a gift like that.

Here they are outside playing Lazer Tag. They played all night long with those lazer guns. Since there were only 2 guns and a total of 5 teens.... 2 played with the lazer tag, 2 played on the XBox 360, and one was on the computer. Through out the night they would periodically trade places.

Me and my fur babies hit the hay around midnight, and woke around 2 am. Shortly after getting up, they finally wanted to cut the cake. They had their pizza, chips, Powerade, and soda earlier, and now needed something else to munch on. So we light the candles that re-light after you blow them out and they all had fun trying to get them to stay out. Then we all ate cake and ice cream and then it was back to playing the various games for them.

Earlier in the evening I did have a treasure hunt game for them, with one prize to win. I had picked up a pack of Yu-GI-Oh cards as they all play and collect them. I had my friend hide the wrapped pack earlier in the evening while the boys were here. It was a good time for me. It was so funny watching them hunt all over trying to find something that I only gave general clues about. I really wished I had a video camera to capture the fun. You would have had to see how much fun it was. They had me rolling in laughter trying to find the prize.

All in all it was a good time for them, and a wearing time for me., I am glad it is now over, but next year we will have the party once again. Just like we have had for the past 4 years.

Emma's Water Lilly Review

2010-06-14T22:36:00.005-05:00

* This post as well as the review contains links and references to adult products. Please do not view unless you are 18 or older.

Who doesn't like to have a bit of fun in or out of the water? Or what about adding a bit of pizazz to your sex life? For either one, you can look to the Emma's Water Lily to do just that. This multi-speed waterproof clitoral stimulator proved work just as I expected.. With it's low noise level, but intense vibrations, it was a lot of fun to use, and definitely upped the excitement of my sex life. It's made of very soft silicone that was smooth and silky to the touch, and a wonderful pink color. It looked and felt to be very high quality. It was easy to operate, with it's on/off button located on the opposite end. And water proof it was! After using it in the shower, I checked to see if any water had leaked into the battery compartment. It hadn't! You can get your own Emma's Water Lily for $35.99.

I was not disappointed in my first choice from Eden Fantasys. The lily arrived quickly and and in packaging that was very discreet. No need to worry about purchasing from Eden Fastasys and being bombarded with pornographic material. They are a shop that stands behind their products, and customer service has the utmost respect for you and your privacy.

If you are looking for an adult toy shop, I would definitely recommend Eden Fantasys. They have a lot of various items to choose from, such as adult sex toys, dvds and books, lingerie to fit most everyone as they have sizes from the xs to 4xx. And the lingerie has it's own assortment from the normal bra and panty, to corsets and costumes along with the various hose and stocking to complete the outfits.And if you need any lotions or accessories, they have those as well.

Want something of your own from Eden Fantasys? Just head over to their site and start shopping. You will not be disappointed. I know I will be back there from time to time to get items to help create more excitement in my bedroom. They have wonderful customer service and products that you can count on. They also have the Eden community where you can find reviews and interviews, along with their blog and other information.

2010-06-14T12:19:00.000-05:00

Oprah’s new network OWN has created a contest and the winner will get their own talk show. Tania Reuben was inspired by her blog – Pure Natural Diva – to enter the contest. Pure Natural Diva is an informational site dedicated to Whole Living with Style and Ease.
The show - Pure Natural Diva Live – will cover the same topic. Simple Solutions to help people live greener, healthier lives.

This is a hardcore competition with high stakes. The current leader of the contest is Rener Gracie – he has the entire Ultimate Fighting Community voting for him – in two weeks he’s gotten over a million votes. As a blogger I am thrilled to support Tania and leverage the power of social media to make her a contender! She has a great site and a her show has the potential to create change in our country.

One voter had this to say on the Oprah site:

”We need Pure Natural Diva Live! America needs this show! I love that Tania is a mom who wants to make a difference in all our lives. She has passion and really dives into the issues, makes you feel passionate too about wanting to make changes in your own home and life. In addition to being a hilarious and genuine person she is incredibly smart. Tania has invested her heart & soul in Pure Natural Diva….out of not just her own family & personal needs but seeing a genuine need in all of our lives & in society today Please pick Pure Natural Diva Live to be an Oprah show!”

View Tania’s audition here and don’t forget to vote – http://myown.oprah.com/audition/index.html?request=video_details&response_id=5711&promo_id=1

Her website can be found here – www.purenaturaldiva.com

Win $50 Gift Cetificate to Eagle America for Father's Day!

2010-06-14T09:20:00.000-05:00

A Concord Carpenter Comments is giving away to one lucky winner a $50 Gift Card to Eagle America. You only have 2 days to enter as it ends on June 15th. He gives you several ways of getting extra entries as well.

If your Father or Husband enjoys working with wood, then you need to enter and you might just have a great gift for them, for Father's Day!

Good Luck,

BrendaLea

Have you ever had a snake.....

2010-06-09T23:22:00.000-05:00

in your house? I have! Stayed tuned for more on that and Sweeney's Snake Repellent.

Nutrition At Your Fingertips

2010-06-09T22:01:00.001-05:00

I recently read a book (most of it for now, more about that in a moment), Nutrition At Your Fingertips, by Elisa Zied, MS, RD, CDN. Oh my! If you want to learn about the food values of various food items (protein, calories, other vitamins or minerals), or learn how to read your food labels and understand what they mean. Or manage your weight, then this is the book you need in your library.

I was totally amazed at the amount of information that was in this book, and how easy it was to navigate and how organized the book is. It has a very easy Flip and Find structure which makes it simple to find the information you need right now, and doesn't require you to learn everything there is to know about nutrition right at this moment. (That's why I didn't read the book from cover to cover .... yet) You can learn along the way, at your own pace and what you want to learn. The book allows you to search for the information you want now, and pinpoint it, quickly and efficiently.

If you want to find the dietary sources of something such as vitamin C, the book will tell you what they are. Or if you want to know how many calories you would burn doing various activities, there is a chart for that as well. There is an appendix with useful resources such as other books to read, websites to visit and organizations to help you.

I know many people who have a gluten sensitivity and there is a sub-chapter pertaining to just that information. It recommends ingredients to avoid and talks about Celiac Disease and it's symptoms (which we thought my Niece had, but doesn't... thankfully),

The chapters in the book are as follows:

Carbohydrates
Fats
Protiens
Vitamins
Minerals
Creating A Daily Meal Plan
Weight Management
Eat To Beat Disease
Food Allergies, Intolerances, and Sensitivties
Healthy Food Shopping
Healthy Eatting Tips
Foodborne Illnesses and Food Safety

Each chapter has many subcategories within them. I am no expert, I can not tell you if this book has all of the information a person needs to know about nutrition. I can tell you that it has one heck of a lot of information and that I was truly amazed at how much this book of 405 pages actually contains. I learned many things that I did not already know. And am thrilled that I now have this book in my library for reference. Now, with this book at my side, maybe I will be able to take off the weight that I have been wanting to lose for a long time now.

How the book is organized (taken directly from the book):

Nutrition at Your Fingertips is organized like this. First, the key nutrients your body needs and that are found in the diet, including carbohydrate, fat, protein, vitamins, and minerals, are covered. Then I show you how to determine your daily calorie needs and create your own daily eating plan no matter your age or stage of life. Whether you are trying to manage your weight, a diet-related medical condition, or a food allergy or sensitivity, you'll find how-to nutrition strategies throughout the book. The book also includes information to help you navigate the aisles of your local grocery store in a more informed way, read and understand food labels, and ultimately fill your cart with the most delicious and healthful items from the basic food categories.

Elisa Zied is a registered dietitian and a spokesperson for the American Dietetic Association. She also co-wrote the books: Feed Your Family Right! and So What Can I eat?

This book was published by Penguin Group which is part of ALPHA BOOKS. They also have a series of "At Your Fingertips" books on various subjects because time is the scarcest commodity of all! Some of the book in that series are: Wine, eBay Business, Spanish, and The Internet

OMG! My comments are now numbered!

2010-06-09T17:26:00.001-05:00

I am so very, very excited! I finally got my comments to be numbered with the help from the blog: The Computery , without her help I never would have been able to do this on my own. I had been searching on the web for several weeks now trying to figure it out. But I wasn't able to.

I can not express my "Thanks" enough to Miss Susie from the UK for writing the tutorial after spending countless hours figuring out how to make our comments numbered. Thank You Miss Susie!

BrendaLea

WINNER - Betty Crocker Prize

2010-06-09T12:35:00.000-05:00

I just drew the winning number of #154 and that belongs to cstironkat. Congratulations! You won the Betty Crocker Mississippi Mud Prize Pack. I have already sent the e-mail and you have 48 hours to reply with your mailing address. Otherwise a new winner will be drawn.

Those who did not win, don't despair! I have more giveaways planned and they will be showing up very soon right here on my blog. So please come back. Would love to read more comments. I enjoy them even if I don't get to respond to them all, I do read every single comment that is left for me. I love comment love!

Hope everyone is having a wonderful day,

BrendaLea

Do you have a geek in your family?

2010-06-09T07:57:00.000-05:00

If so, you might want to enter the giveaway over at the Burning Moon Blog. She has a $25 gift certificate to Think Geek up for grabs and you only have until June 23rd to enter. She has tons of ways to get extra entries also that are really easy too! I know I entered and I want to get some BuckyBalls for my Grandson. He has to keep his hands busy and the BuckyBalls would be a great item for him.

Good Luck my Readers,

BrendaLea

Winners - Uncle Ben's Whole Grain White Rice

2010-06-09T02:45:00.000-05:00

Sorry about the delay in posting. Between blogger being messed up the other day, then storming weather here. And in general, not feeling the best. I am just a bit behind. Well that is not totally true, I am way behind on so many things. One of them is posting to this here blog. Shame on me.

There are two winners for the Uncle Ben's Aprons and the winners will have 48 hours to reply to my e-mail or new winners will be chosen.

The winners are:

#27 ....... Erin

and

#83 ....... PrettyTiffany

I will send you both an e-mail in just a few minutes, looking forward to hearing back from you.

Congrats!

BrendaLea

Black and Decker Cordless Trimmer Giveaway

2010-06-08T15:08:00.000-05:00

Black & Decker® Launches 24 Volt Cordless String Trimmer/Edger with PowerCommand™

How would you like to win one of your very own? All you have to do is go to the Home Construction and Improvement blog to enter. You have until June 19th to enter. So don't waste any time, go enter now. good Luck!

BrendaLea

Bottles of Hope and other Clay Projects

2010-06-03T00:46:00.000-05:00

four generic bottles for men or women

Have you ever heard of the Bottles of Hope? I made these a while back and they have been sent out or give to various cancer patients. Just last week I uploaded them pictures with the intent to show them to my readers. Today I was over at Lori's blog, My Wooden Spoon, where she has a post regarding Glad To Give.

Dino bottle made special for a little boy

Because of Lori's post, I have decided to go ahead and get this post written. And if you visit My Wooden Spoon you can enter to win a $500 gift card, that she hopes you will use for giving.

My bottles are not as beautiful as those on the Bottles of Hope site, but I hope those whom have received them have gained a bit of hope from having them.

It has been a while since I have played with my polymer clay and my hands are itching to get back to it. I have dreams of expanding my polymer clay art, and create much more beautiful items. But like anything else, you get better with practice.

silver and white mokume gane cane covered empty chicken egg

black and white clay covered chicken egg

My clay work is not even close to other clay artist, but I had fun creating these items. I love making the chicken eggs, I put glass beads inside so that when you pick them up then rattle. I have found that clay items beg to be touched, handled, and picked up.

fire breathing dragon

mother and child monkeys

I learned how to make the monkeys from one of the many Carol Duvall shows that was on HGTV at one time. Sure miss watching your shows each day, Carol!

I am hoping when I can finally get back to my clay, to play, that I will eventually have some of the beautiful items that I vision in my head and many jotted down on paper, to show you. But in the mean time I hope you have enjoyed these few items.

Hope you all have a wonderful creative and giving day,

BrendaLea

Betty Crocker Mississippi Mud Supreme Review and Giveaway

2010-06-01T12:21:00.001-05:00

I had an opportunity to review the Betty Crocker Mississippi Mud Bars. I was amazed at how easy they were to make. This would be great to make with children as it was so easy and they would have fun spreading the base in the bottom of the pan.

Even though I am allergic to chocolate (chocolate doesn't like me, but I still love it), I had to give them a try, It's really hard for me to make something chocolate and not take at least one bite. But I had to have more than one bite. They were really good. Not overly sweet, just right for me. And they were easy to eat because they stayed together like a brownie. They had a rich chocolate cookie crumb type base with a top that was similar to a brownie with mini marshmallows sprinkled though out.

(prior to baking)

Betty Crocker, via MyBlogSpark is letting me give one of you a Mississippi Mud Bar Supreme package of your very own and it comes with the great square baking pan too.

ENTER TO WIN

Mandatory entry:

What upcoming gathering or event could you see yourself making the Betty Crocker Mississippi Mud Supreme?

**You MUST do the mandatory Entry! All bonus entries will be deleted if it's not done first!**

*BONUS ENTRIES*

{Leave separate comments for each bonus entry}

1. Follow me on twitter {1 entry}
2. Tweet the following {1 entry} can be done daily
RT @prpldy - GIVEAWAY - Mississippi Mud Bars and Baking Pan - Ends June 7th -Your chance to win - http://j.mp/9iN1Am

3. Subscribe to my blog {1 entries}

4. Follow me on google friend connect {2 entries}

5. Blog about this giveaway and leave me a direct link to the post {3 entries}

6. Add my blog to your blog roll {1 entry}

**RULES**

Open to the US
Giveaway ends June 7, 2010 at 12(noon) CST
Must be 18 or over
Winners will be chosen via Random.Org., and contacted by email
Winners will have 48 hours to respond to the email, or another winner will be chosen
MyBlogSpark is responsible for prize fulfillment.

This review is based on using the complimentary product that Betty Crocker, through MyBlogSpark, provided me. I also received information, and the opportunity for this giveaway from Betty Crocker. I was not compensated and all opinions express are 100% my own.

A Day To Remember

2010-05-31T13:10:00.000-05:00

While you are spending time with your family and friends today, please take a moment to remember those who have sacrificed for us (now and in the past), and those who have lost their lives or have been hurt, lost a limb or more, so that we could remain free.

Please have fun, be safe and enjoy spending time with those around you. But DO NOT forget what today really means.

Remember,
BrendaLea

Uncle Ben's Whole Grain White Rice Review and Giveaway

2010-05-28T09:33:00.002-05:00

We eat a lot of rice in my house. And I am always trying to find ways of getting the boys to eat healthier. It's not always easy to do. My Mom (rest her soul) used to make a lot of rice dishes, and now when I want to make myself feel better, fell closer to her, I follow her recipes. One of my favorites, is her Cinnamon Rice which is easy to make and taste great. We love it for breakfast or as a snack.

Cinnamon Rice:

2 cups cooked white rice
1 cup milk
1 Tlbs butter
1/2 tsp vanilla
sugar and cinnamon to taste

Mix above ingredients together and enjoy. Told you it was easy.

And now with the New Uncle Ben's Whole Grain White Rice, it is not only tasty (the boys could not tell the difference, nor could I) but a much healthier option for us. With 4 grams of fiber per serving, and the taste and texture of white rice, it's the perfect addition to any shopping list.

I know I will be using the Uncle Ben's Whole Grain White Rice on a regular basis now. And it will replace my standard white rice on my shopping list.

You can find many great recipes at Uncle Ben's, and if you sign up at Uncle Ben's you can get a .75 cents off coupon right now.

My Grade: A+

About:

New UNCLE BEN'S Whole Grain White Rice is made with natural ingredients and low in fat. Whole Grain White Rice combines the familiar taste, texture, and cooking time of white rice with the goodness of whole grains.

Nutritional Claims & Product Benefits

Good Source of Fiber
45g Whole Grains per Serving*
Low Fat
No Saturated Fat
0g Trans Fat
Cholesterol Free
Made with Natural Ingredients
No Preservatives
No Artificial Colors
Vegetarian
No MSG
Supports a Healthy Heart†

†As part of a diet low in saturated fat & cholesterol.
*The USDA Dietary Guidelines recommend consuming 48g (or 3-oz. equivalents) of whole grains per day.

ENTER TO WIN

I received a few boxes of the rice along with some aprons to share from Uncle Ben's via Mom Central to share with friends and family. Below you can enter for your chance to win one of two aprons.

Mandatory entry: Tell me the name of one recipe you could use this New UNCLE BEN'S Whole Grain White Rice in?

**You MUST do the mandatory Entry! All bonus entries will be deleted if it's not done first!**

*BONUS ENTRIES*

{Leave separate comments for each bonus entry}

1. Follow me on twitter {1 entry}
2. Tweet the following {1 entry}

RT @prpldy - GIVEAWAY - 1 of 2 Aprons - Ends June 4th -Your chance to win - http://j.mp/c4JcZx #UncleBens

3. Subscribe to my blog {1 entries}

4. Follow me on google friend connect {1 entry}

5. Blog about this giveaway and leave me a direct link to the post {1 entry}

6. Add my blog to your blog roll {1 entry}

**RULES**

Open to the US
Giveaway ends June 4, 2010 at 12(noon) CST
Winners will be chosen via Random.Org., and contacted by email
Winners will have 48 hours to respond to the email, or another winner will be chosen

I was not compensated for this review, I did receive a box of rice and an apron (to conduct the review), with others to giveaway. All opinions are my own.

I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Uncle Ben’s and received samples to facilitate my candid review. Mom Central sent me a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate.

So much coming your way!

2010-05-27T17:02:00.001-05:00

I am so excited!

I have some great reviews and giveaways coming real soon. Some are for food items. Others will be for leisure time. A few very useful items. And one to help keep a terrible pest away. I am really excited about that one.

my newly remodeled kitchen

The other day I received my Carolina Pad prize pack that I won from Erin's blog: Mrs. Cox Slice O'Heaven. It's just like the one Erin received (picture below) but my laptop sleeve is lime green and white dots just like my kitchen, where my desk is. Everything matches so well. When my Sister stopped by and I was showing her the items, she said "How did they know your colors!" It was funny... guess you had to be here. But she was right, it's like they knew what to send me

Hope you have a great day and don't forget to come back, one giveaway starts tomorrow.

BrendaLea

Look What I Got in the Mail Yesterday

2010-05-23T02:48:00.025-05:00

Have you heard of Savvy Cents? If not, check them out. She has these gorgeous wallets that are reasonably priced, that allow you to be well organized and help you with your budget. Instead of carrying various envelopes with your allowance for the week or month for items such as groceries, dining out, etc, the wallet has divider tabs that you can label. There is also room for a checkbook, slots for credit cards or store savings cards, and your drivers license.

Thanks to Andrea from the blog: Moody Mama Says, I won a black patent leather one (like the picture above) earlier this month and it arrived yesterday. I love it and wanted to say 'Thanks' to both Andrea and Savvy Cents for this wonderful gift.

BrendaLea

Powerade Play vitamin enhanced sports drink for kids Review

2010-05-22T12:44:00.000-05:00

I love water, as do my two wonderful Grandsons, and we drink our fair share as you know from my previous post. But from time to time we want a change. A little bit of flavor instead of plain ole water. Many times the boys will want soda, but I prefer to bring out the Powerade. And now I can bring out the all NEW Powerade Play, for the boys. The boys love the taste and I love that they get something with less sugar and added vitamins that the boys can surely use.

Now when the boys are playing outside this Summer or active in their various sports, I can rest assured that with the Powerade Play they will re-hydrate themselves with something that is good for them with less sugar and still taste great. Because the boys can be picky about what they eat and drink, I was tickled that they really did enjoy this new Powerade Play.

You will soon be able to find Powerade Play on your local Grocers shelves for about $3.19 for a 6 pack of 12 oz bottles (love the smaller size bottle for the smaller hands) in several flavors: orange, fruit punch, grape, and mixed berry.

My Grade: A+
Because: less sugar, taste great and the boys will drink it, replenishes electrolyte lost from sweating, from a company I already trust.

From the Company:

POWERADE PLAY™

Sports drink for the young athlete

POWERADE® hydrates and energizes many of the country’s best athletes. Now, the brand introduces POWERADE PLAY, a great option for the next generation of superstars

POWERADE PLAY blends LESS sugar, MORE vitamins and GREAT taste

Parents and Coaches of active youngsters will appreciate PLAY’s benefits:

- 25% less sugar than leading sports drink

- Enhanced with Vitamin C (100% of Daily Value) and Zinc (20% DV) to help support a healthy immune system

- Loaded with B-Vitamins (20% DV) B3, B5, B6 + B12

- 100% natural flavors

POWERADE PLAY will also feature POWERADE’s ION4® advanced electrolyte system which helps replenish four electrolytes lost in sweat -- sodium, potassium, calcium and magnesium

Packaging will include illustrations of partner athletes Ryan Howard, Chris Paul and Venus Williams

I was not paid for this review. I did receive a 6 pack of the orange flavor so that we could give our honest opinion of the product.

Honestech Audio Recorder Deluxe Giveaway

2010-05-22T09:40:00.000-05:00

How many of us still have cassette tapes that we no longer listen to because they are not CDs? I probably have close to 150+, but now there is this fabulous tool along with software that will turn your cassettes into MP3 files so that you can burn the music you love onto CDs. I have a ton of older music that I love such as Brenda Lee, The Doors, Eagles, Beatles, Ros Stewart, and many, many more. I really need one of these. You can win this by going to FAVE Crafts and entering. You have until May 28th to enter.

Good Luck,
BrendaLea

Yummy Recipe for a Blueberry Mojito

2010-05-19T14:22:00.000-05:00

Truvia is a natural, zero-calorie sweetener made with rebiana, the best-tasting part of the stevia plant. Truvia offers consumers a new, natural way to reduce the number of calories in their diet. It is 200 times sweeter than sugar; one packet of Truvia provides the same sweetness as two teaspoons of sugar. Not only can Truvia be used to sweeten tea, coffee, cereal, fruit, etc., but you can also cook with it! Check out great recipes at www.truvia.com.

Celebrity Chef Sam Talbot, best known as a semi-finalist on Season 2 of Bravo's "Top Chef," uses Truvia instead of sugar as an easy way to reduce the numbers of calories in his recipes without giving up sweetness or flavor. Diagnosed at a young age with juvenile diabetes, Sam's cooking is a reflection of his insistence on fresh, healthy and natural ingredients.

Check out Sam's recipe for a Blueberry Mojito that uses Truvia instead of sugar. This is the perfect summer cocktail!

Blueberry Mojito

Serves 4

Ingredients

4 lemon wedges

4 lime wedges

16 blueberries

20 mint leaves

Crushed ice

1 ounce fresh lime juice

2 ounces fresh lemon juice

8 ounces of your favorite rum (aged)

16 packets of Truvia(tm) natural sweetener

Directions
In a cocktail shaker muddle the blueberries, mint leaves and lemon- lime wedges. Add the crushed ice, lemon and lime juice and Truvia(tm) natural sweetener and shake well. Stain over cubed or crushed ice and garnish with lemon wedge and mint sprig

Hooded Towel for Summer

2010-05-18T09:38:00.000-05:00

Here is a great video on how to make a hooded towel for Summer from the DIY Dish. To use at the pool or beach, or even after a bath. It's so easy to make and you can personalize this so many different ways.

You could use rick-rack around the hood or on the bottom of the towel. You could add some silk flowers, or machine embroidery. Even if you don't machine embroider (like me, I don't) you could embroider by hand. Use some pre-made appliques as there are many to choose from at your local craft store. Even a ruffle or two would be cute for a little girl. These would make great gifts for new babies, Grandchildren, your own children, or how about your Nieces and Nephews. These would even be great birthday gifts for neighborhood kids. This is also instructions to make a cute little carrying pouch that is easy to make as well.

I might even think about making one for myself using a bath sheet. I know there are times that I have went to the pool in the early part of the swimming season and when I got out of the water I would be freezing. The hooded towel sure would keep me much warmer than just a towel. Hey, I am a big kid at heart. What can I say.

And if you visit the DIY Dish, you can enter to win an assortment of thread along with a storage drawer from Embroidery.com.

Have a great day and get crafting,

BrendaLea

Router Kit Giveaway

2010-05-16T11:30:00.000-05:00

Father's Day is coming up soon. Is he a handy guy? Does he like to work with his hands? How would you like to try your hand at winning a Milescraft Router Kit Model #1223 for your Father (or husband)? If you would like to win, then you need to head over to A Concord Carpenter Comments and enter here. While you are there you might want to look around as this might be a great site to tell your Father (or husband) about if he is into home repairs, wood working, or the like. Good Luck!

Have a wonderful Sunday,
BrendaLea

Misikko Flat Iron Giveaway at The Twin Kitchens

2010-05-11T09:16:00.000-05:00

Ry and Sky over at the Twin Kitchen is having a giveaway for the Misikko Flat Iron. For your chance to win stop by and check out these adorable girls at: The Twin Kitchen.

Happy Mother's Day

2010-05-09T10:25:00.000-05:00

Myspace Graphics, Mother's Day Graphics at WishAFriend.com

I Love ZeroWater!

2010-05-08T18:57:00.004-05:00

I love water! I especially love ZeroWater, it took all of the contaminants out of my tap water! I am so tickled to tell you about the ZeroWater Ion Exchange Filtration System. I love a good tasting glass of water, especially in the Summer when it is hot. And I believe we all know how important water is to our bodies.

Each ZeroWater Ion Exchange Filtration System comes with a TDS meter so that you are able to compare the amount of dissolved particles in your tap water as well as the water from the ZeroWater Pitcher.

This is water my tap water registered: 153

And this is what the water from the ZeroWater Pitcher register after

using it for 4 weeks: 000

The Zero Water was the BEST tasting water I have ever tried. The water taste clean, crisp, and oh so fresh! Now I am a person that does not like warm water. I have to drink my water extremely cold. Well I used to have to drink it extremely cold. I can tell you that with the Zero Water System, I am now able to drink water that is at room temperature if I need to. Such as when I have a bottle of water in my car that has gotten warm. No longer do I need to worry about how to keep my water cold when I am away from home. And because the water taste so refreshing I know I will drink even more water than I used to.

ZeroWater has also become a "green" company as they have initiated a recycling program for the water filters. An incentive for participating in the recycling program, ZeroWater® will offer a discount on replacement filters to offset the cost of shipping. And who doesn't like a company that thinks "green".

If ever I loved a product, then this is one that I love. And I have tried multiple types of water filtration systems because I have never liked the taste of our city water. None of the other systems I have tried holds a candle to the ZeroWater System.

about:

The revolutionary ion exchange filter by Zero Technologies, LLC is the only gravity fed filtration system that meets the FDA standard for purified bottled water*. For the first time ever, by filtering tap water through
the ZeroWater® system, users can confidently replace bottled water with water that meets a higher standard than any other gravity fed water they are currently drinking. This new technology far surpasses current gravity feed technology of the leaders in this market, removing virtually all measureable TDS in drinking water.

The ZeroWater® filtration system is available in the convenient ZeroWater® Pitcher and the jug-style ZeroWater® Filter Bottle. The pitcher has a ½ gallon capacity, requires one ZeroWater® filter and features an easy-fit lid with a pour spout for customer convenience, along with an exclusive in-fridge push button
dispenser.

The company is so confident in its guarantee that the filtered water will measure ZERO that it provides an independently manufactured total dissolved solids (TDS) meter so people can test water for themselves.

The TDS meter also offers users peace of mind that the ZeroWater® filter cartridges are working properly. When the tester reaches “006” it is time to change the filter. The life of a ZeroWater® filter is based on the amount of dissolved solids in local water and the amount of water consumed in a given time frame.

*Filtered potable tap water tested by an independent lab (not the FDA). Compared to water produced by leading gravity fed filters.

Walmart Gift Certificate Winner

2010-05-08T17:52:00.000-05:00

I drew the name and the winner confirmed her win.

Let's all congratulate entry #110

Jill of NC

A huge thank you to all that enter the giveaway!

Happy Mother's Day.... to all the Moms out in cyber world

BrendaLea

Packages Have Shipped

2010-05-04T23:10:00.000-05:00

To all of my 29 Days of Giving Challenge winners. Above is the picture of the packages that went out today via the United States Postal Service. I apologize to you from the bottom of my heart and soul that is has taken me so long to get them sent. Unfortunately, I was only able to send out some of the packages today. I still have 6 more to send out. The shipping cost was much, much more than I had ever expected. The total cost today was $46.81 which for me is a very huge chunk of change (I survive on less than $800 per month). I feel horrible that I was unable to send them out last month. And now a few of you may have to wait one more month. I first have to get all of my bills paid (I am disabled and only have money once a month) and only then be able to see if I will have the funds to ship out the remaining packages. It doesn't help me financially that my two teenage Grandsons spend a great deal of time with me (they are my world and I love them so very, very much) and like most teenagers, eat me out of house and home. I have noticed that since the prices of everything have gone up over the last few years, it has been harder for me to get by one month to the next. I did not take this into account when I began the giveaway. I'm sorry. If there is any way that I can send out any of the packages, even if it is just one or two, I will. Please, please accept my apologies. Never in my wildest dreams did I imagine that the cost to ship the packages would be so high, or that I would run into so many financial problems during the last few months.

I promise that EVERYONE will eventually get all of their goodies, but once again a few of you may have to wait a bit longer. I will be having more giveaways in the near future, but thankfully it will not be my responsibility to ship them. So hopefully no one will have to wait to receive their prizes.

I am sure you are tired of hearing my apologize, but I am truly sorry. And I hope nothing like this will ever happen in the future.

Just as a side note, the giveaway that ends today (May 5th) for the Walmart gift card, will be shipped out immediately. That I have in my hands, and will only require one tiny stamp to send. So if you have not entered, please do. Who knows you might just be the lucky winner.

Hope you all have a wonderful day,

BrendaLea

24 Hour Cascade Challenge and GIVEAWAY

2010-04-30T16:16:00.002-05:00

5/6/2010: comments now closed.

I had an opportunity to take 24 Hour Cascade Challenge from My Blog Spark and Cascade Complete. And of course I took it. Who wouldn't? Right! Besides I was given a $25 Walmart gift card to give away as well.

This was a fun fun challenge because it came with an easy and delicious recipe to make. Blueberry Cobbler. Along with a wonderful Corelle dish to bake the cobbler.

Thankfully I had all the ingredients on hand for the cobbler. Except I used fresh frozen blueberries that I had in my freezer.

After the cobbler was gone (it didn't last long in my household) I was to leave it out for 24 hours. Then into the dish washer, without rinsing or pre-washing the dish, along with one of the Cascade Complete All-in-1 ActionPacs. Basically that was the challenge.

As you can see the dish went into the dishwasher along with other grungy dishes, and the Cascade ActionPac did a pretty good job I have to say.

My water glasses were spotless (something I don't get very often), and some glasses that had been left outside for quite a while and were pretty grimy came out pretty darned clean. I have to be honest, the cobbler dish did not come out totally clean. Was it because I used frozen blueberries? Maybe my hot water isn't as hot as most dishwashers (my water heater is turned down, and I don't have the newest dishwasher, and I don't usually let me dishes set that long)? Am I happy with the results? Yes! Did the Cascade ActionPacs work? Yes! Would I buy them? You bet!

Put your pre-soaking days behind you, and lighten your load with Cascade Complete All-in-1 ActionPacs. They break down, dissolve, and rinse away tough food particles, leaving your hands free and your dishes sparkling. Sound too good to be true? We dare you to take the 24 Hour Challenge. You can learn more at CascadeClean.

P&G through MyBlogSpark has generously offered to give one of my readers a $25 Walmart Gift Card so that you can buy Cascade Complete All-in-1 ActionPacs to try out yourself!!

To win a $25 gift card, all your have to do is leave me a comment telling me what meal leaves the most mess on your dishes.

For an extra entry you can follow my blog via Google Friend Connect (on the right hand side)

Giveaway will close on May 5th. Winner will be drawn on May 6th, and an e-mail will be sent. The winner will have 24 hours to reply or a new winner will be chosen.

This review was based on using complimentary Cascade Complete All-in-1 ActionPacs provided by P&G, through MyBlogSpark. I also received a Walmart gift card to share with one of you, along with information on this product. P&G does not represent or warrant the accuracy of any statements or product claims made here, nor does it endorse any opinions expressed within this blog. I was not compensated and all opinions express are 100% my own.

Good Luck,

BrendaLea

Flo TV Giveaway

2010-04-29T11:35:00.000-05:00

You have to check out this awesome tiny TV, the FLO TV is the neat little thing. It has a long battery life, touch screen and even program reminders.

You can enter to win one over at Sage and Savvy blog. You only have until May 4th to enter, so enter soon. I know I am entering because my Grandsons would absolutely love to9 have this little TV. Good Luck!

Have a beautiful day,

BrendaLea

Plantronics Discovery 975 Bluetooth Giveaway

2010-04-28T12:59:00.000-05:00

Want the ability to multi-task just a little easier? Well, we can't give you super powers. But you could win a Plantronics Discovery 975 Bluetooth headset and feel like a super hero while you get things done. Angie at 5 Vinez Monkeys is giving away a Plantronics Discovery 975 Bluetooth headset with a rechargeable case that extends talk time to over 15 hours to one lucky winner! To find out more and enter to win this awesome prize, just stop by before 11:59pm ET on May 9th. Don't miss out!

Paslode Cordless Framing Nailer Giveaway

2010-04-28T11:38:00.000-05:00

Paslode Cordless Framing Nailer Giveaway

Home Construction & Improvement is giving away the above Paslode Cordless Framing Nailer. What a wonderful tool for yourself or this would be the perfect Father's Day gift for hubby or Dad. You have the opportunity to receive multiple entries to increase your odds of winning. You have until April 30, 2010 to ENTER.

I won! I won!

2010-04-24T18:34:00.000-05:00

I won the Soda Stream Fountain Jet that I blogged about here, over at Jennifer's blog the Review Retreat! I received th4e e-mail from Jennifer that I won just two days ago, and I am still so very excited that I won. When I received her e-mail that I won, I physically jumped up and down for joy and then quickly called my Sister, Niece and a dear friend to let them know that I won. Then I jumped on twitter and tweeted a huge 'thank you' to Jennifer and Soda Stream. When I was talking to my dear friend it was then that he mentioned that I had wanted this Soda Stream for over 4 years. I knew I had wanted one for a long time, but I thought it was only 2 or so years. Well now I will finally have one and not have to lug home tons of heavy soda from the store, have to worry about recycling all of those aluminum cans, and we can create nice fresh soda with the amount of carbonation that we prefer.

I am so looking forward to trying the Pete's Choice and Cream soda flavors. And you can bet I will let you know what I think about the Soda Stream when it arrives.

Thank you for letting me spread my wonderfully good news. I hope each and everyone of you are having a fabulous weekend. It's storming here. I am still excited and the rain won't make me blue.

BrendaLea

Happy Earth Day

2010-04-22T16:33:00.001-05:00

How is this Earth Day treating you all? It's the 40th anniversary of Earth Day. Have you change anything you normally do, to make the Earth a bit greener for you and your family?

Have you started recycling items you didn't before?
Have you put out a garden for the first time?
Are you trying to save on your water usage or collecting rain water?
Have you even given Earth Day a second thought?
Have you started carpooling or combining multiple trips into one?

On to another topic..... I want to say that I am very sorry to all of my winners (of my recent 29 Days of Giveaways), that I have not gotten your prize packages in the mail yet. I ran into some financial problems and ran out of money very early this month. But rest assured, your packages will go out the very first week of May. I promise!

And speaking of sending out your prizes....

I have a wonderful giveaway planned for next week, along with an easy and very yummy recipe to share with you. So I hope that you will return to see what is in store.

BrendaLea

ShoeMall's Summer Sandal Giveaway

2010-04-14T09:54:00.000-05:00

How would you like to win a new pair of sandals this Summer? I know I want to and we both can. Hopefully we will, that is. ShoeMall is giving away a total of 15 pairs of Summer sandals, in their ShoeMall's Summer Sandal Giveaway. Winners get to choose what pair of sandals they want ($100 or less). They have a huge assortment to choose from too. Feminine ones, casuals, pretty ones, and more. I would love a pair of the new Skechers Sport Women's Shape-Ups - Trim Step Sandal, that exercise your legs while you walk. You have until April 28, 2010 to enter.

Good luck to all that enter,
BrendaLea

How about some answers....

2010-04-12T00:36:00.000-05:00

Well today didn't go quite as I had planned. I didn't get to any of the artwork that I wanted to work on. ( Boo-hoo! ), instead I ended up picking up a huge amount of gum balls from the absolutely wonderful ( NOT! ) Sweet Gum tree that is in my yard. Does any one know how to make them quit producing those extremely annoying gum balls? Years ago I remember someone telling how how to do it, but at the time I did not have a Sweet Gum tree, and therefore did not need to know how to make them stop producing them. So if ANYONE could help me, I sure would appreciate it,

Has anyone seen the movie "Clash of the Titans"? Well I saw it for the second time... my other wonderful Grandson wanted to see it. I watch very, very few movies more than one time. But for my Grandsons I would do just about anything.

A new friend of mine, Marilyn (Dolls etc) sent me a gift the other day...... something I have always wanted, from when I was a child. And now I have one. It's a doll house! A one room cottage that I am so exited to be able to put together, paint, and decorate. Another friend of mine gave me some doll house furniture (sorry I have not taken pictures of the doll house or the furniture yet) when I told her that Marilyn was sending me a doll house.
These are coffee cups that I picked up at the thrift shop for 10 cents each because they match my kitchen really well. Once I got home I noticed that they were scratched in a few places, so I took a white paint pen and made polka-dots to hide the scratches, then I trimmed the top with black, and also used the black to make polka-dots on the handles. I love them now even more! Aren't they cute!

I have not yet gotten all the packages together for my winners. I am so sorry for the delay. It's been one thing after another, and tomorrow morning I have to go to the dentist, oh what fun! Not! By the time they arrive they will really be a surprise.... :-)

Well folks it is after mid-night and I am falling asleep here at the comptuer. So I am heading to bed.
Sweet Dreams,

BrendaLea

Off to the Movies!

2010-04-10T12:39:00.000-05:00

After my shower today I will be off to the movies. And I am running behind. What shall a girl to do! The birds are taken care of, the dogs have been out many times. And now I have to jump in the shower... I will be careful and not fall (I hope) and then out the door I go. It is sunny, and fairly warm today, so am looking forward to going to the grocery store on my way back home. Then I plan on doing some artwork... at least playing for a while. We'll see what I can create. Have a great day everyone.

BrendaLea

Review Retreat's Soda Stream Giveaway

2010-04-10T02:36:00.000-05:00

I have wanted one of these Soda Streams for some time now, so I entered to win one at Review Retreat's blog. And so can you. You only have until April 21st to enter for your chance to win.

You or hopefully me :-) could win the following:

Fountain Jet Soda Lover's Start-up Kit. Kit includes: Fountain Jet Soda Machine, CO2 to make over 100 liters of soda, 2 reusable carbonating bottles, a sample pack of flavors, & your choice of 3 full sized flavors! You chose between Black/Silver, White or Red/Silver. Retail Value: $100!!

Good Luck to all that enter,

BrendaLea

I Want a New TV

2010-04-09T11:48:00.004-05:00

I was recently contacted by James, a rep from the CSN Stores to do a review. I gladly accepted and was tickled to take a look at the many (200+) shops that they have. Boy it was fun to see the vast variety of items they carry. One item I focused on was the entertainment centers to house the new TV I would love to get.

While the process of shopping for entertainment centers may seem daunting...CSN Stores has a great selection to choose from. I have one of the old, huge TVs! It's like a heavy box, that takes up a lot of room and of course is NOT HD compatible. If I get a new TV, then I would need a new entertainment center. So I went searching on-line at the CSNstores.com. I found an entertainment center that I fell in love with. I love the clean lines and the deep, dark color. I could really see this one in my living room. Because of the flat screen, it would even give me a bit more room as well because it wouldn't stick out from the wall nearly as far as my current one.

But I digress, sorry. I will soon be doing two reviews for products products from the many shops at the CSN Stores. I really look forward to sharing my reviews with you, and hope that I do them justice. So please come back and enjoy the reviews.... soon.

Have a wonderful day,
BrendaLea

Happy Easter

2010-04-04T18:11:00.002-05:00

Hoping everyone that celebrates Easter is having a wonderful day with their friends and family! It's a quiet day but frustrating day here at my household. Just me and Conner, along with Coffee, Latte', Gabby, Tweety, and Patone.

The first thing I did this morning after getting my coffee started, let the fur babies out to go potty, and fed the feather babies.... I put together the Easter baskets for my 2 wonderful and handsome Grandsons. I started getting all the gifts together for my winners when Coffee had to go back outside. I never did make it back to the gifts (but I will, I promise). I have a one track mind.

Then I spent the better part of today getting my laptop running again. Not sure what happened, when I turned on the laptop and it got going I clicked on my e-mail program and then nothing wanted to respond. Computers are fabulous when they work and a pain in the patooty when they don't. This is the 2nd time this week I had to get this darned laptop going again. The first problem was caused by a web cam a friend gave me. I was so excited to get a web cam and be able to chat on-line face-to-face with friends and my family. That is not going to happen. Evidently the software does not work with Win 7. And now I am back logged with my mail because the past two days I haven't been home much for one reason or another (one being I took Conner to see "Clash of the Titans"... which was much better than I had expected. He and I both really enjoyed it.)

I would definitely recommend seeing the movie if you haven't. We saw the 2D version, not the 3D.

Well I am off to grab a bite to eat and then take a nap, I didn't sleep to well as my neighbors were out side until the wee hours...like 4:30am partying. I should have called the cops, but I didn't. I like to not cause havoc, but if it keeps up (if they do this every weekend), I will have to call the cops.

Be safe getting home if you traveled this weekend.

Hugs to all,
BrendaLea

The Last and Final WINNERS of the 29 Days of Giving Challenge

2010-04-01T18:09:00.000-05:00

I had a blast this past month having a new and different giveaway each day. And I am hoping you all enjoyed it as well. But the giveaways are not over yet.   There are still more to come, so please stop by once in a while to see what is going on,

The winners are as follows and all e-mail notifications have been sent.. So if you see your name on the list below and have not received an email from me, please send me an e-mail at: prpldy (at) comcast dot net letting me know which day you won along with your mailing address within 48 hours of this posting. Thanks and congratulations to all of the winners.

Day 23: Green Cuff       Carapace claimed
Day 24: fibers, tags, etc Susan
Day 25: Lighter Cover    Birgit         claimed
Day 26: 3 pr earrings   Merry           claimed
Day 27: surprise             Julie
Day 28: Iris brooch/earrings Neky
Day 29: brooch/2 pr earrings Lone Dollier    claimed

All packages will be mailed out within the next week or so. I have to package everything up, label, etc and just so you know. I enjoy being green and will recycle all packaging that I am able to. I will also sent out an e-mail when your package is mailed to you. And i would appreciate you letting me know when you receive it so that I can mark it off my list and make sure everyone receives them.

Have a wonderful weekend (a day early here in the US)
BrendaLea