Category: Reviews

REVIEW - Aquafresh Iso-Active Whitening Deep Impact Toothpaste

aquafresh deep impact can

For almost a month now I’ve been using another new toothpaste, AquaFresh Iso-Active Whitening Deep Impact Toothpaste.

Product description

Aquafresh Iso-Active Whitening doesn’t look like an ordinary toothpaste, and it doesn’t act like one, either! Given that 40 percent of your tooth surface is hidden between your teeth, getting your mouth healthy and clean can be a challenge. But Iso-Active’s revolutionary gel activates the moment you start brushing, transforming into a micro-fine foam. This active foam penetrates hard-to-reach places around your mouth, protecting between your teeth and giving you a whole-mouth clean.

  • Breakthrough gel transforms into an active foam
  • Penetrates hard-to-reach places to protect between teeth
  • 33% better whitening*
  • Provides Aquafresh Triple Protection for healthy gums**, strong teeth, and fresh breath

My Thoughts

Aquafresh Iso-Active Whitening Toothpaste is available in three varieties: Fresh Impact, Deep Impact and Lasting Impact. I have tried this tooth paste in the Fresh Impact variety before and loved it. I really like this one too but not quite as much as the Fresh Impact because the taste is a little different. The taste is a little less minty than the Fresh. The toothpaste isn’t exactly paste or gel. When you put the toothpaste on the brush and put it in your mouth it foams up. I like the packaging because there’s no need to squeeze or flatten like regular toothpaste BUT I don’t like that you can’t tell how much toothpaste is left in the can. It’d be terrific if they built a little window into the can so you know how much is left inside.

If you’d like to try Aquafresh Iso-Active be sure to download the printable $1 Aquafresh Iso-Active coupon.

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

REVIEW AND GIVEAWAY - Radius Intelligent Toothbrush

radius intelligent toothbrush package

Having been to the dentist in the last two weeks I’d like to remind you of how important good tooth care and oral hygiene is. I was glad to hear that I did not have any cavities. I was not so glad to hear that the dentist wanted me to have gum work done AGAIN. I brush several times a day and floss. The Radius toothbrush that arrived for me to review couldn’t have come at a better time.

From the website - “RADIUS aimed to make the toothbrush comfortable, enjoyable and effective. With a mass of very soft bristles, a large head area for low pressure brushing and a comfortable handle, this toothbrush would let you brush lightly and accurately.”

The Radius Intelligent Toothbrush has a built in timer that will alert the user in thirty second intervals. I have not been brushing that long so this will be a good tool for someone like me, as well as children who need to learn how to brush correctly. I absolutely love the handle on this toothbrush, it’s solid, non-slip handle is very comfy to hold and can be used by righties and lefties alike. The head is cool, it has 65% more bristles than your typical toothbrush. I found that the head seemed to be covering more and I felt like I was doing a better job. As a person who’s used a toothbrush longer than the recommended time I appreciate the built in 3 month wear meter that tells the user when it’s time to replace the head. Oh yes, didn’t I mention that? The head is replaceable! No more buying new toothbrushes, which saves money and reduces waste. Just pop a new head on the reusable handle and you’re good to go.

The Radius Intelligent Toothbrush is available with soft or medium bristles and is available to purchase online. An individual toothbrush is $8.99, a three pack $24.27 and a six pack $43.15. A two pack of replacement heads is $5.49.

WIN IT!

ONE winner will receive a Radius Intelligent Toothbrush.

HOW TO ENTER. (MANDATORY)

To enter visit the Radius Toothbrush site and then leave a comment on this post telling me which of their products you’d most like to try.

BONUS ENTRIES - LOTS OF THEM!

1 - Subscribe to my newsletter. (sidebar)
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1 - Place my button on your blog. (in sidebar)
1 - Visit one of my other blogs - From Val’s Kitchen, Val’s Views and Game Review Network - and leave a comment on any post there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned there. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.
1 - Visit HereAndThere.US (my Mom) and leave a comment on any post (except a giveaway post) there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned on my Mom’s blog. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry. Leave an additional comment for each entry you qualify for. You must have completed the first entry according to the instructions to be eligible for any bonus entries.

THE SMALL PRINT.

US addresses only please, no PO Boxes. This contest will end on Friday 07/23/10 at 11:59 pm est. If you’ve entered any of my giveaways before then you know that only comments containing all of the requested information will be eligible for entry. The winner must contact me to confirm they wish to receive the prize within two days of my email notifying them they’ve won. Good luck to everyone!

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.

BOOK REVIEW - Chicken Soup For The Soul: Teacher Tales

chicken soup for the soul teacher tales cover

Chicken Soup for the Soul: Teacher Tales: 101 Inspirational Stories from Great Teachers and Appreciative Students

Paperback: 400 pages
Publisher: Chicken Soup for the Soul (February 2, 2010)
Language: English
ISBN-10: 1935096478
ISBN-13: 978-1935096474

Synopsis

This is a great gift for new and experienced teachers, providing them a morale boost and the knowledge they are appreciated. The teaching industry has embraced this book, and more than half the stories are from “celebrity” teachers, including all of the 2009 State Teachers of the Year and the 2009 National Teacher of the Year. There is a lot of buzz about this book in the teaching industry and those teachers who don’t receive it as a gift are sure to buy it for themselves, to read these 101 true stories by great teachers and appreciative students, with lots of laughs, poignant moments, and some tears too.

As a young child I loved school. I know that it was a direct result of the teachers I had and the school I was in at the time. I was heartbroken when I couldn’t attend anymore. Teachers can make such a difference, they can have such an impact on a person’s life. As students you get to hear other student’s stories about what teachers influenced them. But you don’t get the opportunity to hear about what student’s impacted teachers. This book is broken up into chapters – Why We Teach, First Year Tales, Learning From The Kids, Great Ideas, Thanks I Needed That, That Was Embarrassing, Touched By A Student, The Teacher Who Changed My Life, Tough Kids, Reconnecting, and Reflections On Being A Teacher. The stories are all short and meaningful, some humorous and some inspiring. Many of the authors are teachers that have won state teacher of the year awards. My favorite stories were The Power Of The Pen, My Christmas Lesson, Field Trip Fiasco and Special Treatment. This book would make a great gift for any reader, and an especially great gift for a teacher or someone that wants to become a teacher.

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

BOOK REVIEW - Chicken Soup For The Soul: Thanks Dad

chicken soup for the soul thanks dad

Chicken Soup For The Soul: Thanks Dad - 101 Stories about Gratitude, Love, and Good Times

  • Paperback: 400 pages
  • Publisher: Chicken Soup for the Soul; Original edition (April 20, 2010)
  • ISBN-10: 193509646X
  • ISBN-13: 978-1935096467

SYNOPSIS

This book gives fathers the pat on the back they deserve. Children of all ages share their heartfelt words of thanks and loving memories in this collection of 101 new stories. Personal accounts of learning from Dad’s example and lasting lessons, special moments and memorable outings, encouragement and expectations will bring any father joy, inspiration, and laughs. Whether the reader is a new dad, a father to one or more, a father of teens, a father of grown children, or a grandfather, these heartwarming and humorous stories will resonate with him. He may even find that his kids did pay attention after all! !

What I love most about Chicken Soup For The Soul books is that they are light and easy to read short stories yet they provoke some thought provoking feelings and memories. More than once I found myself remembering moments from my past while reading this book. While I’m partial to the father/daughter stories and the teen stories I also found the others interesting, including father/son stories, sports stories, hero stories and father knows best stories. My favorites included Words Of Wisdom, Johnny, The Track Meet and Melody Of The Heart. The book would be a great gift for any father or grandfather.

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

REVIEW AND GIVEAWAY - Chicken Soup For the Soul: True Love

chicken soup for the soul true love cover

Chicken Soup For The Soul: True Love - 101 Heartwarming and Humorous Stories about Dating, Romance, Love, and Marriage

  • Paperback: 416 pages
  • Publisher: Chicken Soup for the Soul (December 29, 2009)
  • Language: English
  • ISBN-10: 1935096435
  • ISBN-13: 978-1935096436

Synopsis

Everyone loves a good love story. And we all love stories about how the love started and blossomed. This fun new book about dating, romance, love, and marriage, will make readers laugh and cry, and is guaranteed to inspire a renewed search for that special someone or open the heart a little more to the love already found. Stories of how couples met, when “they knew,” good and bad dates, proposals, maintaining the relationship, second chances, and all the other ups and downs of love, romance, and marriage will entertain, encourage, and warm the hearts of all readers. A great Valentine’s, wedding, or romantic gift!

I like the Chicken Soup For The Soul books for lots of reasons. They’re diverse, light, touching, easy to read and they often cause one to reminisce. This is especially the case with Chicken Soup For The Soul: True Love – a book about love in it’s many phases including dating, marriage and death. This is my favorite Chicken Soup book to date. The book contained a forward from skater Kristi Yamaguchi and her husband on how they met and eventually married. Reading about how he proposed and what he was thinking made me chuckle. This book is broken into chapters titled How We Met; Adventures in Dating; Meant to Be; The Proposal; The Wedding; Keeping the Love Alive; Lessons in True Love; Happily Ever After; Gifts from the Heart; and Love Everlasting. My favorite story of all was Special Friends Special Love, it had me balling my eyes out. Lighter favorites included My Ninja and The Counterproposal. The Last Valentine and The Most Glorious Vacation brought a tear to my eye. This book is a great fit for anybody and would also make a great gift.

WIN IT!

ONE winner will receive a copy of the book Chicken Soup For The Soul: True Love.

HOW TO ENTER. (MANDATORY)

To enter leave a comment on this post telling me how you feel about true love.

BONUS ENTRIES - LOTS OF THEM!

1 - Subscribe to my newsletter. (sidebar)
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1 - Follow me on Twitter AND leave your Twitter name here. (sidebar)
1 - Tweet this giveaway.
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1 - Blog about this giveaway, including a link here.
1 - Place my button on your blog. (in sidebar)
1 - Visit one of my other blogs - From Val’s Kitchen, Val’s Views and Game Review Network - and leave a comment on any post there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned there. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.
1 - Visit HereAndThere.US (my Mom) and leave a comment on any post (except a giveaway post) there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned on my Mom’s blog. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry. Leave an additional comment for each entry you qualify for. You must have completed the first entry according to the instructions to be eligible for any bonus entries.

THE SMALL PRINT.

US addresses only please, no PO Boxes. This contest will end on Sunday 07/18/10 at 11:59 pm est. If you’ve entered any of my giveaways before then you know that only comments containing all of the requested information will be eligible for entry. The winner must contact me to confirm they wish to receive the prize within two days of my email notifying them they’ve won. Good luck to everyone!

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.

REVIEW WITH GIVEAWAY - Dreft Laundry Detergent

dreft detergent

Dreft laundry detergent is the baby laundry detergent brand most recommended by pediatricians. Specially formulated for the unique needs of baby items, Dreft is as gentle as water on baby’s skin and has helped moms and dads clean baby clothes for over 75 years. Trusted by parents to leave their little one’s clothes and linens soft and comfortable, and complete with a scent that mom’s love (that’s also gentle for baby!), Dreft has been a “must-have” for any new parent for generations.

I highly recommend Dreft. When my son TJ was born I wasn’t sure what detergent to use. My Mom suggested I use Dreft. So I did. I always found it got clothes clean and left them soft and smelling good. As TJ got older I stopped using Dreft. Once CJ was born I started using Dreft again for his laundry. It is one of only two detergents I will use on his clothes to this day, as I know he won’t have a reaction to them. Dreft smells as good today as it did ten years ago, and still gets the job done. At Dreft.com you’ll find product info you’ll find great laundry tips for everything from preparation before baby comes home to tips for removing food, soil or oily stains.

Dreft is available at stores nationwide. It is available in High Efficiency Liquid Detergent, 2X Ultra Liquid Detergent, and Powder Detergent.

dreft giveaway basket

WIN IT!

ONE winner will receive a Dreft New Mom Baby gift basket which includes a Dreft product of your choosing (power, liquid or high-efficiency for HE washers), a cozy soft baby blanket, and a cuddly teddy bear .

HOW TO ENTER. (MANDATORY)

To enter leave a comment on this post telling me what you currently wash your baby’s laundry with AND why you’d like to try Dreft.

BONUS ENTRIES - LOTS OF THEM!

1 - Subscribe to my newsletter. (sidebar)
1 - Subscribe to my RSS feed. (sidebar)
1 - Follow me on Twitter AND leave your Twitter name here. (sidebar)
1 - Tweet this giveaway.
1 - Friend me on Facebook. (sidebar)
1 - Blog about this giveaway, including a link here.
1 - Place my button on your blog. (in sidebar)
1 - Visit Game Review Network and leave a comment on any post there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned there. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.
1 - Visit HereAndThere.US (my Mom) and leave a comment on any post (except a giveaway post) there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned on my Mom’s blog. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry. Leave an additional comment for each entry you qualify for. You must have completed the first entry according to the instructions to be eligible for any bonus entries.

THE SMALL PRINT.

US addresses only please, no PO Boxes. This contest will end on Saturday 07/03/10 at 11:59 pm est. If you’ve entered any of my giveaways before then you know that only comments containing all of the requested information will be eligible for entry. The winner must contact me to confirm they wish to receive the prize within two days of my email notifying them they’ve won. Good luck to everyone!

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.

REVIEW - iFrogz EarPollution CS40 Headphones

ifrogz headphones colors

In case you haven’t noticed me mention it before, my family loves music. Like our music, we have different likes when it comes to headphones. I hate the ear buds that came with the iPod. Those little round things are super uncomfortable and fit poorly, allowing other noises in or causing them to fall out of the ear. CJ can’t wear them because of the size and shape of the inside of his ear. TJ thinks their sound quality is awful. I was recently offered the opportunity to try iFrogz headphones. Being a brand I was unfamiliar with and wanting to find something that sounded good, I accepted.

ifrogz earpollution cs40 package

I received a pair of the iFrogz EarPollution CS40 headphones. CS stands for Comfort Series. I expected the headphones to feel heavy and bulky but to my surprise they felt pretty light. The ear muff portion of the headphones feels surprisingly soft and super cushiony. The cord on the iFrogz is nice and thick and doesn’t tangle like the cord on ear buds. Something really neat about the iFrogz is that they fold into themselves to make them smaller and more portable.

ifrogz earpollution cs40 headphones opened

Sometimes I like my music loud. Sometimes I need it loud, so that I don’t hear the noise from the television my husband is watching, the video games that TJ is playing or the toys that CJ is playing with. With the ear buds sound has always leaked through, so that I heard my music and whatever they’re doing. At times RB has even told me he’s heard the music from the ear buds. The iFrogz headphones sealed out the background noise, which meant all I heard was my music. Nice! The sound was clear and full. It had had a nice amount of bass, unlike the ear buds which usually sounded sort of flat. In short, these headphones rock!

I’d recommend these highly for anyone looking for a quality headphones offering quality sound at a reasonable price. I love mine and wear them all the time at home. I’m thinking about checking out a pair of their ear bud models, to wear while exercising.

iFrogz EarPollution CS40 Headphones come in five colors - black, white, blue, red, pink. They retail for $39.99 and can be purchased online. iFrogz offers a wide line of ear buds and headphones including custom made.

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

Super Search 60 Pro - Game App Review

super search 60 icon

I love hidden object games. Aside from Mario games, hidden object games are my favorite type of puzzle game to play. One we got an iPod Touch in our house the first thing I started doing was checking out apps. That’s how I learned about Super Search 60 Pro, a fun hidden object game for iPhone and iPod Touch..

Super Search 60 is a hidden object game by Klicktock for the iPhone and iPod Touch. It’s easy to play. The object of the game is to find as many of the objects as you can within sixty seconds. At sixty seconds the game ends. When you start the app you’re given 60 seconds. At the top of the screen you will see a hint containing a number and an item, representing the item you need to find and how many of it that you need to find. Underneath that is the game play area which has 9 rows with 7 characters in each. If your hint says to find 3 sneakers you’ll get extra points if you tap all three quickly. Graphics are simple and clear and the items are all items you’re familiar with. Items may or may not be a color you’re familiar with. Items can be different colors. For example, a cassette might be black, but it also might be white or green. Items can also be in different positions, meaning right side up, sideways or upside down. It keeps you on your toes and makes finding things challenging. You cannot move on to the next item until you’ve completed what the current hint shows. If you don’t find an item after a few seconds it will wiggle a little on the screen to help you find it. There is no musical soundtrack to the game, something I am grateful for. You can listen to small sound effects as you find items or listen to music from your iPod. This game is super addictive because it’s so quick and easy to play. I’ve often found myself telling myself “just one more game” because I want to beat my own score. When you’re finished playing you can post your score to your Facebook wall.

super search 60 pro picture

Super Search 60 is available in two versions – free Super Search 60 and Super Search 60 Pr0. The difference between the two, aside from the Pro version’s $1.99 price, is that the free version is supported by advertiements. The free version is fun but once you play you’ll find yourself wanting to play more so get the Unlimited Pro version.

This game is addictive. I recommend it highly to anyone that enjoys hidden object games or games that can be played quickly.

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me as a member of the Game Review Network for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

REVIEW AND GIVEAWAY - Lysol No-Touch Hand Soap System

lysol no touch hand soap system

It’s great that as parents we teach our children to wash their hands. It promotes good hygiene and health. After all hand washing is the number one way to help prevent getting sick and spreading germs. But think about it. When you use a soap dispenser like many of us do, you leave the dirt and germs on that dispenser. Then after washing your hands you go on your way, leaving the germs for the next person to potentially pick up.

These are the steps recommended by the CDC to wash your hands.

  1. Wet hands with clean running water and apply soap. Use warm water if it is available
  2. Rub hands together to make lather and scrub all surfaces, including underneath the nails and back of the hands
  3. Continue rubbing hands for 20 seconds, long enough to sing the “Happy Birthday” song twice
  4. Rinse hands well under running water
  5. Dry hands using a paper towel or air dryer. If possible, use a paper towel to turn off the faucet

Lysol recently introduced a soap dispenser that you don’t have to touch to use - the No-Touch Hand Soap System. This system senses when hands are underneath and then dispenses enough moisturizing, antibacterial soap to wash your hands and kill 99.9% of bacteria and germs, including E.coli, MRSA and Strep.

I received a sample of the Lysol No-Touch Hand Soap system. My sample was the Soothing Cucumber scent and it smells really good - light and clean. I put the dispenser in the bathroom. Then I realized it would be great in the kitchen to use during food prep. I decided that I had to get a second one, it was just easier than playing musical soap dispenser. Anyway. The dispenser is super easy to use. Here’s a brief video to show you.

LYSOL Healthy Touch No-Touch Hand Soap System Starter Kits are now available in Soothing Cucumber Splash scent and Cleansing Green Tea & Ginger™ scent at Walmart for a suggested retail price of $9.97 (includes 1-dispenser, 1-8.5 oz. hand soap refill and 4 AA batteries). Hand soap refills (8.5 oz.) are available in three fresh scents, Soothing Cucumber Splash scent, Cleansing Green Tea & Ginger™ scent and Refreshing Grapefruit Essence™ scent at Walmart for a suggested retail price of $3.47. Starter kits and hand soap refills will also be available at grocery, drug and mass stores nationwide.

WIN IT!

ONE winner will receive a Lysol No-Touch Hand Soap System.

HOW TO ENTER. (MANDATORY)

To enter leave a comment on this post telling me what your favorite scent of soap is.

BONUS ENTRIES - LOTS OF THEM!

1 - Subscribe to my newsletter. (sidebar)
1 - Subscribe to my RSS feed. (sidebar)
1 - Follow me on Twitter AND leave your Twitter name here. (sidebar)
1 - Tweet this giveaway.
1 - Friend me on Facebook. (sidebar)
1 - Blog about this giveaway, including a link here.
1 - Place my button on your blog. (in sidebar)
1 - Visit Game Review Network and leave a comment on any post there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned there. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.
1 - Visit HereAndThere.US (my Mom) and leave a comment on any post (except a giveaway post) there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned on my Mom’s blog. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry. Leave an additional comment for each entry you qualify for. You must have completed the first entry according to the instructions to be eligible for any bonus entries.

THE SMALL PRINT.

US addresses only please, no PO Boxes. This contest will end on Friday 06/18/10 at 11:59 pm est. If you’ve entered any of my giveaways before then you know that only comments containing all of the requested information will be eligible for entry. The winner must contact me to confirm they wish to receive the prize within two days of my email notifying them they’ve won. Good luck to everyone!

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.

REVIEW - PartyLite Scentglow Warmer Flameless Candle - With Giveaway

partylite logo

I love the scent of candles – the way I inhale them you’d think they were food. It may be no coincidence that my favorite candle scents are somehow food related. What do you think? Anyway. I hardly ever light a candle and burn it. Between my son and the cat I get nervous so I just play it safe. When I received the opportunity to try Scentglow Warmers, flameless candles recently introduced by Partylite, I accepted in the hopes that it might be a solution to my situation.

partylite flameless warmer 1

The Scentglow Warmer is a decorative ceramic piece with a 60” cord. . It is 6” high and 5 3/4 “ in diameter and is available in three decorator colors (blue, green and cream) and a sunflower design. When you plug it in and turn it on a 25 watt lightbulb warms the small wickless candles that are called Scent Plus Melts, releasing scent into the air.

partylite flameless warmer 3

Scent Plus Melts are available in sixteen different scents - Blueberry Wisteria, Home by the Sea, Bamboo Mist, Mulberry, Home in the Country, Island Nectar, Essence of Lavender, Ocean Berry Breeze, Island Home, Banana Leaf, Pure Vanilla Crème, Tamboti Safari, Apricot Daisy, Strawberry Rhubarb, Citrus Bloom Citronella, and Black Orchid. For Partylite regulars, the Scent Plus Melts are five times stronger than the PartyLite Aroma Melts. Each Scent Plus Melt come in a tray of twelve and each Melt lasts up to 80 hours. The warmer can hold up to four Scent Plus Melts at once, allowing you to enjoy one fragrance or combine different fragrances to create your own.

partylite flameless warmer 2

Scentglow Warmers don’t look like any average candle. Of course they don’t, being made by Partylite. I received the blue City Glow warmer. I also received a tray of Pure Vanilla and a tray of Home By The Sea Scent Plus Melts. I really like both of the scents but of the two the Pure Vanilla is my favorite. I am really enjoying this product. It is a lovely piece. Plugged in it’s even more beautiful because it casts a pattern of light around it. It’s perfect in any room – on the kitchen counter, on the bathroom counter, or in the living room. The soft light is relaxing and the scent is so warm and inviting.

partylite flameless candle lit dark

The Scentglow Warmer retails for $34.95. Each twelve piece tray of Scent Plus Melts retails for $9.95. You can purchase either or both online at www.partylite.com. Be sure to visit the Partylite Facebook page as well.

WIN IT!

ONE winner will receive a City Glow warmer and choice of two trays of their favorite scent .

HOW TO ENTER. (MANDATORY)

To enter leave a comment on this post telling me what two scents you’d like and why you want a flameless candle.

BONUS ENTRIES - LOTS OF THEM!

1 - Subscribe to my newsletter. (sidebar)
1 - Subscribe to my RSS feed. (sidebar)
1 - Follow me on Twitter AND leave your Twitter name here. (sidebar)
1 - Tweet this giveaway.
1 - Follow us on twitter @sunprotectzone and leave your Twitter name here
1 - Friend me on Facebook. (sidebar)
1 - Fave this blog at Technorati AND leave your Technorati name here. (sidebar)
1 - Blog about this giveaway, including a link here.
1 - Place my button on your blog. (in sidebar)
1 - Visit Game Review Network and leave a comment on any post there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned there. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.
1 - Visit HereAndThere.US (my Mom) and leave a comment on any post (except a giveaway post) there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned on my Mom’s blog. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry. Leave an additional comment for each entry you qualify for. You must have completed the first entry according to the instructions to be eligible for any bonus entries.

THE SMALL PRINT.

US addresses only please, no PO Boxes. This contest will end on Wednesday 06/16/10 at 11:59 pm est. If you’ve entered any of my giveaways before then you know that only comments containing all of the requested information will be eligible for entry. The winner must contact me to confirm they wish to receive the prize within two days of my email notifying them they’ve won. Good luck to everyone!

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.

Meet My New Oreck Platinum Pilot Vacuum - With Giveaway

oreck logo

Last year I was fortunate to be able to receive an Oreck XL Gold Vacuum for review. We’ve been very pleased with it and have never had a problem. When I was offered the opportunity to review Oreck’s latest, the first thing I wondered was what had changed. I checked it out online and read a bit about it. I was intrigued by the new features and really wanted to check them out so I decided to accept. Boy am I glad I did, and you will be too. (Keep reading.)

The Oreck Platinum Pilot Vacuum is a two piece system. The system comes in one big box with an upright vacuum and a lightweight handheld vac.

oreck platinum pilot box

oreck platinum pilot box open

It make look like an ordinary upright vacuum but the Oreck Platinum Pilot Vacuum Cleaner was designed with a 360° Glide technology and ball-joint and pivot connection that allows the vacuum to tilt, twist and turn anywhere you need it to go without repositioning the vacuum - making cleaning more effective, faster and easier. If you didn’t know you’d probably never guess that it can vacuum while laying flat, allowing you to vacuum under things. The vacuum has an advanced HEPA filtration with antimicrobial protection.

oreck platinum pilot upright

The Oreck Platinum Pro system’s handheld vacuum weighs in at about 5 pounds and comes with 8 attachments and a hypo-allergenic filtration system.

oreck platinum pilot handheld

There’s lots more to tell you about this info but I’m going to save that for a couple of additional posts that I have planned, along with some video.

The Oreck Platinum Pilot Vacuum retails for $599 and is available for purchase at Oreck Clean Home Centers nationwide and online at oreck.com.

WIN IT!

Yes, it’s true, I did say “win it”. The winner of this giveaway will receive this same vacuum - the Oreck Platinum Pilot, retail price $599.95!

HOW TO ENTER. (MANDATORY)

For your main entry visit the Oreck Platinum Pilot website. Then come back here and leave a comment of at least two sentences explaining one feature/capability of the Oreck Platinum Pilot has that is different than your current vacuum.

LISTEN UP.

I’ll be posting about the Oreck Platinum Pilot again a few more times. (I’m even planning an audience participation portion.) There will be a post about using it on carpet and another about the accessories being used for above the floor use. In each of these posts there will be additional ways to enter.

BONUS ENTRIES - LOTS OF THEM!

For 10 entries - Blog about this giveaway, including a link here and a link to the Oreck Platinum Pilot, as well as the reason why you want a new vacuum.

1 - Leave a comment containing one thing that you learned about the Oreck Platinum Pilot on the Oreck site. Unlimited entries for this method of entry.
1 - Subscribe to my newsletter. (sidebar)
1 - Subscribe to my RSS feed. (sidebar)
1 - Follow me on Twitter AND leave your Twitter name here. (sidebar)
1 - Tweet this giveaway. Limit once per day.
1 - Friend me on Facebook (sidebar)
1 - Friend me using Google FriendConnect. (bottom right of page)
1 - Place my button on your blog. (bottom of page)
1 - Visit Game Review Network and leave a comment on any post there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned there. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.
1 - Visit HereAndThere.US (my Mom) and leave a comment on any post (except a giveaway post) there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned on my Mom’s blog. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.

Leave an additional comment for each entry you qualify for. You must have completed the first entry according to the instructions to be eligible for any bonus entries. There are unlimited entries for this giveaway.

THE SMALL PRINT.

US addresses only please, no PO Boxes. This contest will end on Wednesday 06/30/10 at 11:59 pm est. If you’ve entered any of my giveaways before then you know that only comments containing all of the requested information will be eligible for entry. The winner must contact me to confirm they wish to receive the prize within two days of my email notifying them they’ve won. Good luck to everyone!

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

Software Review - iolo Technologies System Mechanic

system mechanic box

My computer runs really slow, sometimes unbearably so. When I turned it on it would take between five and ten minutes to boot up and be ready to use. When I shut down it would take more than ten minutes to shut down, if it shut down at all. I’d get all kinds of messages when shutting down, about things quitting or not quitting. When I was offered the opportunity ti try iolo technologies System Mechanic I accepted, figuring I had nothing to lose. After all, I depend on my computer and need it working.

A recent report by the CMO Council’s Customer Experience Board found that 94% of consumers depend on their computer in their personal lives, and nearly two-thirds (62%) have a high level of dependency. Undoubtedly the computer is one of the most expensive and necessary product in our lives. However, 64% say their computer has caused them anguish or anxiety (the irony?). How can we keep the PC running the best condition without breaking the bank??

System Mechanic combines more than 40 robust tools enabling novices and experts alike to clean out their computers and keep them in peak condition. It’s four main functions are to:

  1. speed up your pc
  2. clean your pc
  3. fix your pc problems
  4. ensure your privacy

Speeding up your pc

iolo Labs researchers state that the top 5 causes of PC slowdowns and bottlenecks are:

  1. Hidden startup programs
  2. Registry errors and bloat
  3. Memory leaks and fragmentation
  4. Unoptimized internet settings
  5. Hard drive fragmentation

The steps System Mechanic takes to speed up your pc are to:

  • Cleans, defrags, & repairs registry
  • Accelerates PC startup 19 ways
  • Defrags & recovers orphaned RAM
  • Boosts internet speed
  • Complete low-level drive defrag
  • Turns off unused background programs

Cleaning your pc

iolo Labs researchers state that the top 3 ways clutter degrades performance are:

  1. Critical indexes Windows maintains to organize its files become bloated with meaningless junk, causing overall sluggishness during file and program access.
  2. Useless files are included when defragmenting your hard drives, adding to the time and processing power required.
  3. Hard drive space is unnecessarily reserved, leading to premature upgrade costs or replacements.

The steps System Mechanic takes to clean up Windows are:

  • Cleans over 50 different types of junk files
  • Removes invalid installers and programs
  • Wipes internet history, clutter and cache
  • Regains thousands of megabytes of hard disk space

Fixing your pc problems

iolo states that over 98% of PC problems are caused by clutter and faulty settings that are the result of everyday PC use.

The steps System Mechanic takes to fix your pc include:

  • Repairs and compacts registry
  • Eliminates memory leaks
  • Fixes random crashes and restarts
  • Revives unstartable systems
  • Repairs and prevents corrupted drives
  • Fixes security vulnerabilities
  • Automatically maintains PC health with patent-pending ActiveCare®

Ensuring your privacy

iolo reminds us of the fact that virtually everything you do on a PC is stored in activity logs or leaves a trail, even long after it’s been “cleared.”

The steps System Mechanic takes to ensure your privacy include:

  • Employs multi-pass military-grade wiping to ensure complete removal of all deleted data
  • Defeats forensics recovery techniques
  • Permanently and completely removes internet history and cache
  • Integrates Incinerator® technology with Windows Recycle Bin for high security
  • Cleans up after all major web browsers, online chat, and web toolbars

System Mechanic is easy to install and easy to use. To install it you just place the cd into your computer and the installation should begin on its own. Once installed the first thing System Mechanic will do is scan your computer. This took about fifteen minutes on my computer.

system mechanic system scan

Once System Mechanic is finished analyzing your system it will tell you the health of your computer. Mine wasn’t great.

system mechanic quick scan results

Once your system status has been determined System Mechanic gets to work fixing the problems. What I liked about this is that I had the option of letting System Mechanic fix everything itself or letting me see each problem and choose to fix it myself.

system mechanic pc cleanup wizard

Once all of the problems were fixed I restarted the computer. I noticed that restart was much quicker - I was up and running in under two minutes. Shut downs have become faster as well, they take about two minutes and I don’t get the messages about programs quitting or not quitting anymore.

While my computer isn’t the fastest (it’s pretty old), it is running better than it has in some time. I have been running the computer for about two weeks now since installing and haven’t encountered any problems. I’d say this is a good software to pick up if you’re trying to speed up an old computer or if you want to clean up your system and don’t have the know how or time to do it manually.

System Mechanic is designed to work on Microsoft Windows Vista, XP, and 2003 Server operating systems and has been tested to work on the latest releases of Windows 7. System Mechanic is both 64-bit and 32-bit compatible. iolo System Mechanic may be installed on up to three pcs. It can be purchased online. It’s regular price is $49.95 and it is currently on sale for $39.95.

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

Sun Protection Zone UV Protected Children’s Clothing Review - with Giveaway

sun protection zone logo

My son CJ is very fair and susceptible to sunburn. We have to be very careful and watchful in both sun and heat. My fears are compounded by the fact that my Mom was diagnosed and treated for skin cancer over a year ago. We put sunscreen on when he goes outside and we have him wear sunglasses and a hat when possible. Given the circumstances, I’d gladly do more to further limit his exposure to the sun if I could. The folks at Sun Protection Zone emailed me a while back to acquaint me with their line of children’s UV protective clothing. They reminded me of a fact I was already aware of - Doctors have announced that one in five Americans are victims of skin cancer and 90% of skin cancer is caused by the sun’s harmful rays. Sun Protection Zone offers a line of stylish children’s clothing that is made of fabric with100 SPF / UPF 50+ UV Protection. With the beginning of the Special Olympics track season looming I gladly accepted their offer to review one of their shirts. sun protection zone cj wearing I received a blue and black short sleeved rash guard shirt. When it arrived and I took it out of the packaging I was surprised at how light it felt. Doesn’t that sound silly? I don’t know what I expected of clothing that was going to block the sun. Sheet metal perhaps? The shirt reminded me a bit of the swimsuits we used to wear for competition back in the day – stretchy and flexible. Now for the first test – the fit. The shirt fit really well. CJ is hard to fit, things are always either too small or too big. I like the way that this shirt was loose but sort of conformed to his shape, not so small that his belly and back were hanging out and not so big that it was falling off. The more skin that isn’t exposed the better, after all. The shirt stayed in place through Special Olympics, which is a small feat in itself. CJ got a little sweaty and the shirt dried quickly. We were out in the sun for over an hour and he got no sunburn or pinkness whatsoever where the shirt covered.

sun protection zone cj running I am thrilled with the Sun Protection Zone shirt we received. I am looking forward to putting it to good use, now that’s it’s almost swim season. It’s great to know that I won’t have to be constantly reapplying sunscreen while he’s wearing it.

A Sun Protection Zone short sleeved rash guard shirt such as I received is sold online for $18.00. Sun Protection Zone also offers long sleeve suits, long sleeve rash guard shirts, shorts, hats and sunglasses.

WIN IT!

ONE winner will receive a Sun Protection Zone shirt.

HOW TO ENTER. (MANDATORY)

To enter visit the Sun Protection Zone site and then leave a comment on this post telling me what your favorite design is and who you would like to win this for.

BONUS ENTRIES - LOTS OF THEM!

1 - Subscribe to my newsletter. (sidebar)
1 - Subscribe to my RSS feed. (sidebar)
1 - Follow me on Twitter AND leave your Twitter name here. (sidebar)
1 - Tweet this giveaway.
1 - Follow us on twitter @sunprotectzone and leave your Twitter name here
1 - Friend me on Facebook. (sidebar)
1 - Fave this blog at Technorati AND leave your Technorati name here. (sidebar)
1 - Blog about this giveaway, including a link here.
1 - Place my button on your blog. (in sidebar)
1 - Visit Game Review Network and leave a comment on any post there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned there. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.
1 - Visit HereAndThere.US (my Mom) and leave a comment on any post (except a giveaway post) there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned on my Mom’s blog. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry. Leave an additional comment for each entry you qualify for. You must have completed the first entry according to the instructions to be eligible for any bonus entries.

THE SMALL PRINT.

US addresses only please, no PO Boxes. This contest will end on Saturday 06/05/10 at 11:59 pm est. If you’ve entered any of my giveaways before then you know that only comments containing all of the requested information will be eligible for entry. The winner must contact me to confirm they wish to receive the prize within two days of my email notifying them they’ve won. Good luck to everyone!

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.

Dove Ultimate Deodorant Review And Giveaway

dove ultimate care deodorants

Summer is coming, which means sleeveless tops and bathing suits are as well. Are you ready for the heat? Are your armpits ready? If not you can get them ready by giving them a “PitiCure”. A PitiCure is to underarms what a manicure is for hands and a pedicure if for feet. The PitiCure is a three step in home process that was developed by Beverly Hills Board Certified Dermatologist and co-author of “The Beauty Prescription” Dr. Debra Luftman to help people cleanse and care for their underarms. You can see the PitiCure process at http://bella.popsugar.tv/Have-You-Tried-Dove-Deodorant-PitiCure-7939330. I’d always thought of underarms as a place I didn’t want to add moisture. I know better after watching the brief video.

I think armpits are gross. I won’t even wear sleeveless tops. There’s something nasty about stubbly, bumpy armpits. When the folks at Dove emailed me about the PitiCure and asking me to try out their new Dove Ultimate Beauty Care Deodorant, I was curious. And a little suspect, that perhaps they’d been spying on me. I accepted the offer to review thinking the best it would do is work and the worst it would do is leave the gross armpits exactly the way they were.

Did you know shaving reduces the top layer of skin by 20 percent, and can result in irritation and skin dryness? I didn’t. The folks at Dove did know this, and kept it in mind when creating Dove Ultimate Beauty Care Deodorant. Dove Ultimate Beauty Care Deodorant contains a tri-moisturizing system that soothes shaving irritation and helps replenish delicate underarm skin. It also alleviates white marks while delivering 24-hour odor and wetness protection. The tri-moisturizing system found in Dove Ultimate anti-perspirant/deodorant consists of the following moisturizers:

• Humectant – works like a magnet to hold in moisture under the skin’s surface, keeping delicate underarm skin conditioned

• Occlusive Layer – forms a layer on the surface of the skin to prevent moisture loss, which can cause dryness

• Nourishing Moisturizer – Contains natural sunflower oil that is known to help boost the skin’s natural moisture barrier to soothe shaving irritation and help deliver soft, smooth underarm skin with Dove 1/4 Translucent Moisturizers™

I received one of each of the scents – Light Radiance and Sheer Silk. I preferred the Sheer Silk fragrance, although the Light Radiance wasn’t bad. I found both to feel very soft and smooth going on. They didn’t feel grainy like some deodorants I’ve tried in the past and my armpits definitely felt softer and smoother. I was very pleased with both deodorants.

WIN IT!

ONE winner will receive a light radiance deodorant and another variety from the collection!

HOW TO ENTER. (MANDATORY)

To enter leave a comment telling me how you currently care for your armpits.

BONUS ENTRIES

1 - Subscribe to my newsletter. (sidebar)
1 - Subscribe to my RSS feed. (sidebar)
1 - Follow me on Twitter AND leave your Twitter name here. (sidebar)
1 - Tweet this giveaway.
1 - Friend me on Facebook (sidebar)
1 - Fave this blog at Technorati (sidebar) AND leave your Technorati name here.
1 - Friend me using Google FriendConnect. (bottom right of page)
1 - Blog about this giveaway, including a link here.
1 - Place my button on your blog. (bottom of page)
1 - Visit Game Review Network and leave a comment on any post there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned there. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.
1 - Visit HereAndThere.US (my Mom) and leave a comment on any post (except a giveaway post) there. Then return here and leave a comment on this post telling me one thing you read or learned on my Mom’s blog. (That’s two comments you need to leave for this bonus entry, one there and one here.) Unlimited entries for this method of entry.

Leave an additional comment for each entry you qualify for. You must have completed the first entry according to the instructions to be eligible for any bonus entries.

THE SMALL PRINT.

US addresses only please. This contest will end on Tuesday 05/25/10 at 11:59 pm est. If you’ve entered any of my giveaways before then you know that only comments containing all of the requested information will be eligible for entry. The winner must contact me to confirm they wish to receive the prize within two days of my email notifying them they’ve won. Good luck to everyone!

THIS GIVEAWAY IS NOW CLOSED.

The product(s) featured in this review was provided free of cost to me for the sole purpose of product testing and review. This review has not been monetarily compensated and is based on the views and opinions of my family and/or self. Please note that the opinions reflected in this post have not been influenced by the sponsor in any way.

Toy Story 1 and 2 DVD Review

toy story 1 and 2 bluray dvd combo pack

Toy Story BD & DVD Combo Pack and Toy Story 2 BD & DVD Combo Pack

  • Own the Blu-Ray Combo Pack on March 23, 2010
  • Also Available: Toy Story Special Edition DVD and Toy Story 2 Special Edition DVD available May 18, 2010

When we went to Walt Disney World in February we got to go on a brand new ride from Toy Story 3. CJ and I both loved the ride and I have no doubt that we’ll love the movie. This past week CJ watched Toy Story 1 and 2 for the first time, as part of our Toy Story DVD marathon. He really enjoyed both movies, and didn’t move off of the couch during either one.

Growing up did you ever have a friend that got a new friend? Did you wonder if you’d be replaced? I bet this is something that most children go through. In Toy Story 1 a boy named Andy has a favorite toy named Woody. Andy gets a new toy named Buzz. As older toys get to know Buzz, the favorite toy Woody feels jealous and threatened and tries to get rid of Buzz. The pair of toys find themselves in danger and that’s when Woody realizes that Buzz isn’t the bad guy. He comes to accept him as a friend and they find their way home, just in time to reunite with Andy on moving day. In Toy Story 2 some of Andy’s toys are being sold at a yard sale. Woody sets out to save one of the toys and gets stolen. He’s delivered to a collector at The Toy Barn that plans on selling him and placing him in a Japanese museum. While captive he’s with toys that try to convince him that being there is good, because he’ll be preserved. Meanwhile, the other toys, including Buzz, set out to rescue their friend. Comedic mishaps occur when Buzz is switched with a newer, updated model of himself. In the end all of the toys end up back at home safely.

Here’s the official release.

The “Toys” Are Coming To Life — Like Never Before!

Disney*Pixar Present For the Very First Time In Blu-ray™ High Definition
TOY STORY and TOY STORY 2

Fantastic Blu-ray Debuts Allow Fans to Experience the Hilarious Adventures of the “Toy Story” Gang with Blu-ray’s Eye-Popping Picture and “Buzz”-Worthy Sound!

Releases Include Exciting Sneek Peeks of This Summer’s Eagerly Anticipated Toy Story 3

TOY STORY BD & DVD COMBO PACK *ALL NEW* BONUS FEATURES INCLUDE:
• The Story: An Exclusive Sneak Peek at Toy Story 3
• Buzz Lightyear Mission Logs: Blast Off
• Paths to Pixar: Artists
• Studio Stories: John’s Car
• Studio Stories: Baby AJ
• Studio Stories: Scooter Races
• Buzz Takes Manhattan
• Black Friday: The Toy Story You Never Saw
• Plus BD-Live movie chat, movie mail, movie challenge and more! (Only Available on the Blu-ray Disc)

TOY STORY 2 BD & DVD COMBO PACK *ALL NEW* BONUS FEATURES INCLUDE:
• Characters: An Exclusive Sneak Peek At Toy Story 3
• Buzz Lightyear Mission Logs: International Space Station
• Paths to Pixar: Technical Artists
• Studio Stories: Toy Story 2 Sleep Deprivation Lab
• Studio Stories: Pinocchio
• Studio Stories: The Movie Vanishes
• Pixar’s Zoetrope
• Celebrating our Friend Joe Ranft
• Plus BD-Live movie chat, movie mail, movie challenge and more! (Only Available on the Blu-ray Disc)

Toy Story and Toy Story 2 ‘Special Edition’ DVDs include all the above special features, except for the BD- Live Portal Features.

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