AUzIPjBYWAeqQ5UpYIvV90wMfjU

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

**Popchips**review

popchips bags
     Never fried.Never baked!!
naturally delicious and healthier. that’s popchips. when they said it couldn’t be done, we raised the snack bar. how do we do it? well, first, let's talk about how we don't do it. we never fry our chips. that just puts a lot of stuff in there that we could all do without. we never bake our chips either. that just takes a lot of flavor out, which, as snackers, we simply can't do without. so we came up with a chip like no snack aisle has seen (or taste bud has tasted). thanks to the magic of popping, we found a way to pop all the flavor in, while keeping fake stuff and at least half the fat of regular flavored chips out.


This was the Popchips sampler I received 4 single serve and 1 share bag. I thought the taste was original and flavorful, each was crispy and all natural but didn't taste like it was. I would recommend to anyone needing a healthy alternative to snacking.** This is below cost for promotion for advertising purposes.**I received the product for review and all opinions are my own**

**Lovely Candy Company**


Picture

     I had the privilege of trying for myself this Lovely Candy Company and was not only fascinated at the variety of candy being gluten and GMO free but excited to try it for myself.
     The company provided me with 4 samples of their Lovely candies :
the Original Caramels decadent of the group I enjoyed this one first out of the box it was chewy and tasted fantastic just like I was eating a caramel full of fat and bi-products. These are the #1 best seller and after sampling them I see why.
This was a chocolate swirl caramel and was very rich in chocolate flavor I felt it had a very even taste between the caramel and the chocolate. My son enjoyed this one because it reminded him of chocolate:)
When I took these superfruit style out of the wrapper, it was noticeably different from other candy chews. \

It had real fruit pieces inside and through the candy and they were large enough to be seen. They were very flavorful yet soft and chewy, flavors of cranberry, blueberry and raspberry.

The flavors of apple, cherry and blackberry, similar to the superfruits in texture and appearance.
     All bags are resealable and when you purchase 3 bags you get free shipping in the US. This is the perfect stocking stuffer for those that have a restriction and even those without I felt they were very tasty and very natural flavored.If interested in finding these they are available in many stores<HERE>
**I received these products for review and my opinion is 100% my own. The company was very easy to work with and the variety available was perfect for many tastes.**I will not be compensated for the product besides what I received to review.



Monday, November 25, 2013

**Autism Awareness** Differences

Learn the SignsCover art
**as explained by WebMD**
There is considerable overlap among the different forms of autism. The wide variation in symptoms among children with autism, however, has led to the concept ofautism spectrum disorder, or ASD.
ASDs affect one out of every 88 children in the U.S. They occur more often among boys than girls. While autism appears to be on the rise, it's unclear whether the growing number of diagnoses shows a real increase or comes from improved detection.

Recommended Related to Autism

Important It is possible that the main title of the report Autism is not the name you expected. Please check the synonyms listing to find the alternate name(s) and disorder subdivision(s) covered by this report.
Early diagnosis is important. That's because early treatment can help a child with autism make significant gains in language and social skills.

Signs of Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism spectrum disorders affect three different areas of a child's life:
  • Social interaction
  • Communication -- both verbal and non verbal
  • Behaviors and interests
Each child with an ASD will have his or her own pattern of autism. 
Sometimes, a child's development is delayed from birth. Some children seem to develop normally before they suddenly lose social or language skills. Others show normal development until they have enough language to demonstrate unusual thoughts and preoccupations. 
In some children, a loss of language is the major impairment. In others, unusual behaviors (like spending hours lining up toys) seem to to be the dominant factors.
Parents are usually the first to notice something is wrong. But a diagnosis of autism is often delayed. Parents or a physician may downplay early signs of autism, suggesting the symptoms are "just a phase" or a sign of a minor delay in development. Children with a possible autism spectrum disorder, though, should be evaluated by a professional team with experience in diagnosing autism.
Until recently, the types of ASD have been determined by guidelines in the diagnostic manual (DSM - IV) of the American Psychiatric Association. According to the CDC, the three main types of ASD are:
  • Asperger's syndrome
  • Pervasive developmental disorder, not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS)
  • Autistic disorder
The DSM -IV also included two rare but severe autistic-like conditions -- Rett syndrome and childhood disintegrative disorder. 
The new diagnostic manual has made some major changes in this list of disorders. It's unclear, though, how these changes will affect the way health professionals define exactly what is an autistic spectrum disorder.

Asperger's Syndrome

The mildest form of autism, Asperger's syndrome (AS) affects boys three times more often than girls. Children with AS become obsessively interested in a single object or topic. They often learn all about their preferred subject and discuss it nonstop. Their social skills, however, are markedly impaired, and they are often awkward and uncoordinated.
Asperger's syndrome is mild compared to other ASDs. Also, children with AS frequently have normal to above average intelligence. As a result, some doctors call it "high-functioning autism." As children with AS enter adulthood, though, they are at high risk for anxiety and depression.

Pervasive Developmental Disorder, Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS)

This mouthful of a diagnosis applies to most children with autistic spectrum disorder. Children whose autism is more severe than Asperger's syndrome but not as severe as autistic disorder are diagnosed with PDD-NOS.
Autism symptoms in kids with PDD-NOS vary widely, making it hard to generalize. Overall, compared to children with other autistic spectrum disorders, children with PDD-NOS have:
  • Impaired social interaction (like all children with autistic spectrum disorder)
  • Better language skills than kids with autistic disorder but not as good as those with Asperger's syndrome
  • Fewer repetitive behaviors than children with Asperger's syndrome or autistic disorder
  • A later age of onset
No two children with PDD-NOS are exactly alike in their symptoms. In fact, there are no agreed-upon criteria for diagnosing PDD-NOS. In effect, if a child seems autistic to professional evaluators but doesn't meet all the criteria for autistic disorder, he or she has PDD-NOS.

Autistic Disorder

Children who meet more rigid criteria for a diagnosis of autism have autistic disorder. They have more severe impairments involving social and language functioning as well as repetitive behaviors. Often, they also have mental retardation and seizures.

Rett Syndrome

Almost exclusively affecting girls, Rett syndrome is rare. About one in 10,000 to 15,000 girls develop this severe form of autism. Between 6 and 18 months of age, the child stops responding socially, wrings her hands habitually, and loses language skills. Coordination problems appear and can become severe. Head growth slows down significantly and by the age of two is far below normal.
Rett syndrome is usually caused by a genetic mutation. The mutation usually occurs randomly, rather than being inherited. Treatment focuses on physical therapy and speech therapy to improve function.

Childhood Disintegrative Disorder

The most severe autistic spectrum disorder, childhood disintegrative disorder (CDD), is also the least common.
After a period of normal development, usually between age 2 and 4, a child with CDD rapidly loses multiple areas of function. Social and language skills are lost as well as intellectual abilities. Often, the child develops a seizure disorder. Children with childhood disintegrative disorder are severely impaired and don't recover their lost function.
Fewer than two children per 100,000 with an autistic spectrum disorder meet criteria for childhood disintegrative disorder. Boys are affected by CDD more often than girls.
**This is just an informational post** My family as well as many others are affected by this disability that has so many faces.

Sunday, November 24, 2013

** TheraFit Review and Giveaway**

I was intrigued when I found Therafit Shoes because of my bad back. The appeared like they would be very comfortable and perhaps help me straighten out my back when I walk. Therafit kindly sent me a pair of my choice to review so I picked the Silver Sandals. They arrived really quickly and I was so impressed with how they looked! They are so pretty!


I received my Therafit shoes about 15 minutes before I had to go walk two miles to get my son from his bus stop, a mile each way. I debated... Should I try the new shoes with such an adventure? Most of the time new shoes hurt until you break them in, but I had faith in Therafit. So I did it. I slipped them on and prepared for my two mile walk.


They looked so adorable on my feet! And they are the most comfortable shoes I have EVER worn. No bull. So I got ready to set out on my adventure. Not only did my feet not get sore from wearing new shoes, but they NEVER hurt from the shoes at all. Not even after getting back home. To this day I wear my Therafit shoes every single day and they have done nothing but make my feet feel great and they DO help my back!
These are such a cute shoe and so versatile with outfits.

I recommend Therafit shoes to everyone, not just those with back problems. Your feet would thank you big time! They have so many styles to choose from too, sandals, tennis shoes. I honestly can't even fathom wearing "regular" sole shoes ever again!

Check out Therafit at this links here:





Disclaimer: I was sent a pair of TheraFit Shoes to review. I was not compensated. All opinions stated are honest and mine alone.**The Life and Times of a Stay at Home MOM :) was not compensated or responsible for providing the prize to winner.

And now to even more exciting news from Therafit! They would like to give one lucky Illustrated Mom follower a free pair of Therafit shoes of their choice! I am SO thrilled to be able to offer this to all of you!!! Remember, you can't win if you don't enter the contest below! It's super easy to enter!






Disclaimer: I was sent a pair of TheraFit Shoes to review. I was not compensated. All opinions stated are honest and mine alone.

Saturday, November 23, 2013

** #TheSelfie Review by Gabba Goods **Holiday Gifting IDEA!!**

GabbaGoods
#TheSelfie by GabbaGoods -  Remote Shutter Release for Apple Products.
     I received this handy little camera remote for review and it is perfect for the Apple iPhone,iPad or iPod touch(which is what I reviewed it on). The remote shutter release is an easy way to snap a pic of yourself or a group with just the click of a button. It was super easy to carry with me and small enough to fit in my purse or even jacket pocket.
 The shutter closes as if you are taking the picture direct from iPod.
 The button is perfectly sized and easy to push.
 The cable attaches to the ear phone plug on the iPod

The cable has a good length and easy for another person to hold to snap a picture.
  • NO SOFTWARE, NO INSTRUCTION MANUAL, NO INSTALLATION NECCESSARY!
  • Works with both camera and video mode!
  • Cable length approximately 4.5 ft long!
  • Works with Apple device only! 

     The ARV of this handy little gadget is $19.99 and can be found at Gabba Goods, The Urban Outfitters and these other participating retailers. So if you are looking for that perfect techie gift for that Apple enthusiast this Holiday season..LOOK NO FURTHER!!
**I received the product to review, I feel this is a perfect addition to the Holiday Gift guide or any occasion. The product does as stated, I am not being compensated for this review.

Friday, November 22, 2013

Pajanimals $70 Holiday Prize Pack Giveaway

Blogger Opp - Pajanimals $70 Holiday Prize Pack Giveaway
Hosted by: Queen of Savings
Bedtime Routine Board from TOMY (SRP: $29.99): Parents/caregivers and kids will both love getting ready for bedtime with this fun activity board. As you start your activity slide, move the corresponding character halfway to hear the start sound. When you finish, push him into the bed at the bottom and hear a fun sound for completion! Once you finish all your tasks and it’s time for bed, the Lalalullaby song will sooth you to sleep. Four tasks include take a bath, put on pajamas, brush your teeth, and read a book. Submarine Flashlight from TOMY (SRP: $12.99): A fun flashlight toy that is perfect next to the bed and plays a fun submarine underwater sound when you turn the light on. The bottom glows in the dark even when the flashlight is off. Squacky and the Gift of Christmas holiday board and sticker book from Running Press (SRP: $7.95) The Pajanimals are excited that Christmas is coming! Squacky really hopes he gets the new Fantastic Splash Super Sub, but then becomes worried that Santa won’t bring it. The Pajanimals travel to The Night Sky where the moon reminds Squacky that Christmas isn’t about the presents you get, it’s about spending time with the ones you love and sharing Christmas traditions together. Sweet Pea Sue Makes a New Friend from Running Press (SRP: $7.95) Sweet Pea Sue can’t sleep because she’s scared of a picture of an octopus she saw in a book. When the Pajanimals go to the Big, Blue Sea, they meet Ellie, a real octopus. To Sweet Pea Sue’s surprise, Ellie is scared of the Pajanimals. The two realize that there’s nothing to be afraid of because they just want to be friends. Pajanimals’ Pajama Party! DVD from NCircle Entertainment (SRP: $9.99) Pajanimals love to celebrate birthdays, sing songs and enjoy pajama dance parties with friends. You and your pre-schoolers can join Cowbella, Apollo,Sweet Pea Sue and Squacky as they travel to Birthday Land to learn the true importance of why birthdays are so special! Then it’s time to enjoy a pajama dance party and sing our favorite songs! Join the Pajanimals on these fun adventures before it’s time for bedtime in “Pajanimals Pajama Party!”
Prizes:Bedtime Routine Board from TOMY, Submarine Flashlight from TOMY, Squacky and the Gift of Christmas holiday board and sticker book from Running Press , Sweet Pea Sue Makes a New Friend from Running Press and Pajanimals’ Pajama Party! DVD from NCircle Entertainment.
Dates: 11/18-11/30
Open to: US Residents 18+
Enter to win using the Giveaway Tools Widget below. Good luck!
Because I was removed from the entry form I am NOT promoting:)

ChristmasForest.com Wreath Giveaway

Blogger Opp - ChristmasForest.com Wreath Giveaway
Hosted by: Queen of Savings
Welcome to Christmas Forest, a place where magic happens every day, and the sights and scents of the holidays are alive year-round. From our very first handmade Christmas wreath sold back in 1976 at Pike Place Farmer’s Market until now, we have made it our mission to bring the very essence of Christmas into every wreath that we create. Alive with the fresh evergreen scent of the Cascade Mountains, each of our hand crafted wreaths is a one-of-a-kind creation, and a unique representation of who we are. To put it simply, we love Christmas and look forward to it with childlike wide-eyed wonder every year…and that’s what we want to bring to each of our customers. That’s why our products, our outstanding customer service and environmental commitment are all equally important—because Christmas is more than just a season—it’s an ideal, an experience and an expression of the truest feelings.
Prize: Wreath from ChristmasForest.com
Dates: 11/18-11/30
Open to: US Residents 18+
Enter to win using the Giveaway Tools Widget below. Good luck!
Because I was removed from the entry form I am NOT promoting.

Saturday, November 16, 2013

**Best Buy your Holiday Shopping Destination** #sponsored




Best Buy is the authority and destination for all your technology and appliance product gifting needs this holiday
The assortment is second to none:
  • Feature more than 100 products sold only at Best Buy this Holiday
  • Offer a market-leading selection of the hottest tablets, smartphones, gaming consoles and titles, wearable technology, health and fitness gear, mobile accessories and much more.
Blue Shirts and Geek Squad Agents are passionate, highly trained, knowledgeable and impartial so they can help ensure you get the perfect gifts for your family and friends…and yourself
They know price is important to us, and frankly it’s important to them too. Their Low Price Guarantee will ensure you’re getting the most competitive price possible.


The combination of bestbuy.com and their 1,400 stores offers the ultimate showroom to touch, test, try and buy the latest technology.

     You can find more gift ideas at the Best Buy Gift Center
  I know this year some of the hottest toys are sold at your local Best Buy retailer whether you are in the market for video games and systems, or like my household my daughter is looking for the newest and hottest Barbie Digital Makeover Kit. If you have smaller ones be sure to check out those great Fisher Price products in store and look at the comparable pricing to other retailers.
   Something for everyone on that Christmas list young or old is found at Best Buy in store or online. Starting December 1st they are offering an exclusive offer for 15% off Speakers, Headphones, Health & Fitness, Mattel and Fisher Price tech toys for all my readers.As well as 10% off Headphones & Portable Speakers (excludes beats, bose and Sony  This offer will be valid 12/1 to 1/15.  So its the perfect time to get that shopping done for everyone on your list(I know I will be).
Technology is evolving quickly and becoming increasingly complex- Best Buy is here to help make it easy for your to choose the products and services that work best for you.
  • Phones: At Best Buy you can see and try all of the phones, carriers, plans and accessories under one roof with industry-leading trade-in options
  • Tablets: Best Buy is the only place in America where customers can see all of the latest and greatest tablets. 
  • Computing: Best Buy features the best selection, advise, services and support in computing. They help set the market by working with the industry's tech leaders to develop a highly specialized and innovative assortment of laptops, many of which are only available at Best Buy.
  • Mobile Accessories: Best Buy has one of the largest selections of accessories and wearables this holiday. Bluetooth speakers, smartwatches, health & fitness gear and headphones will truly rule holiday. 
  • Home Theater: Best Buy offers the world's newest technology, best assortment and service in home theater.
  • Appliances: Best Buy is better positioned than ever to bring the latest small appliances and special deals to you.
  • Gaming: Best Buy is THE destination for gaming this holiday. Not only dodo they have the latest Xbox and PlayStation consoles, but the hottest game releases and everything else you need for a great gaming experience.
  • Music/Movies/Musical Instruments: Best Buy offers terrific deals on the best entertainment stocking stuffers.
  • Digital Imaging: Best Buy features the newest selection of cameras, accessories and advise so you can find the perfect gift or capture your own holiday memories.
  • Tech Services: Best Buy is home of the Geek Squad for help installing, repairing, troubleshooting, optimizing and offering all sorts of technical advice from every Best Buy store, in-home, online and by phone
 The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free

Thursday, November 14, 2013

**My Pacific Pearls** #MyPacificPearls

Pearl Earrings and Necklaces - Genuine High Quality Pearl Jewelry

     I had the opportunity to review a beautiful piece of jewelry from My Pacific Pearls, a family owned and a global leader in the pearl jewelry industry. I have to say, I had never owned a pearl necklace and it was something on my "bucket list" and now i can cross that off because now I have a beautiful, real, piece of hand made beauty.
     The my Pacific Pearls offers one of the lowest prices and chances are no other company can beat their price, but if you do find it cheaper elsewhere they will beat it. The pearls are of the highest quality and each piece is individually made so it is unique with the utmost attention paid to every detail.
     I received the product less than a week after providing the color of necklace I preferred:
Mine was the 7-8mm Lilac Princess Necklace with 14karat gold filled clasp from the The Bua Bay Collection.
It came via USPS in a brown packing envelope(kind of surprising with the item being jewelry) delivered by my post man. The box was wrapped in bubble wrap and the outer box is a nice simple gold deco box and on the inside of the box is the actual box that is black and flips up to reveal the necklace. I felt it was professionally wrapped for a jewelry company. It has a nice little draw string bag attached to inside.
All the pearls were strung and attached to the gold filled clasp, the clasp was the hardest thing for me to figure out(sorry I'm not used to pearls), it is called a fish clasp and unless you know the pinch, pull and twist method you will find it a headache:)  I felt the pearls were very shiny and smooth, the color was very pretty and true to the chosen..all pearls seemed to be the same or nearly size(none looked off to my eye). The necklace was a lot easier to work with than I expected a delicate piece of jewelry to be. It was approximate 50 pearls with an AA+ rating.
Yes after much researching I figured out the clasp and was able to put it on and I felt like a princess ready for a party. The necklace was so light weight and dressy but simple and would sure make a great piece to show off for the holidays. 
I did have an issue with the first necklace that was sent it was totally able to be fixed without any problems. The customer service was extremely helpful and easy to work with. The relay of messages was very quick and response time timely, this is definitely something you want with jewelry. I did review their reviews on the site and they have some amazing customers who could not be happier with their piece just as I was. The My Pacific Pearls strives for customer happiness and provides "you" the consumer with the quality you are looking for at a reasonable price. So if YOU are in the market for that nice piece of jewelry for that Christmas Party or even NEW YEARS date look no further than My Pacific Pearls.
What will I get with my order?
 
· You Buy a Deal. We Gift a Meal.· Fast, FREE Shipping within the US and Canada
· Certificate of Authenticity and Valuation
· Premium Black Leatherette Jewelry Box
· Luxurious Satin or Velour Storage Pouch
· Pearl Care Instructions
· Lifetime VIP Discount Card

**I received this product for review purposes, the receipt of product does not promise a good review. All opinions stated are my own and I feel the product is portrayed as stated. I receive no affiliations with company nor am I paid for this review**


Monday, November 11, 2013

**Thanksgiving Recipes and COUPON**

***Click for coupon****

Easy Classic Thanksgiving Recipes

Arkansas Holiday Green Beans

Ingredients

5 cans (15 oz) Allens Green Beans, drained
8 slices Bacon
1/2 Cup Brown sugar
1/4 Cup Butter, melted
7 tsp Soy sauce
1 clove Garlic, minced

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°. Place the drained Allens Green Beans in a 9x13" baking pan. Microwave bacon on high 2 minutes until slightly cooked. Place bacon on top of Allens Green Beans. Combine brown sugar, melted butter, soy sauce, and minced garlic and pour over the Allens Green Beans and bacon. Bake uncovered for 40 minutes.
Serves 10.

Creamy Sweet Potato Soup

Ingredients

2 cans (15 oz) Princella Cut Sweet Potatoes 
2 Cups Chicken bouillon
Dash cloves
1 1/2 Cups Milk
1/2 Cup Apple Cider
1 tsp Brown sugar
1/8 tsp Nutmeg, freshly grated
Salt to taste
Whipping cream

Directions

Drain sweet potatoes and simmer with chicken bouillon until hot. Puree in blender, processor or sieve. Add remainder of ingredients except whipping cream. Whip cream until stiff; fold gently into soup just before serving. Serve hot or cold.
Serves 6.

Thursday, November 7, 2013

**Doc McStuffins All Better Game** #wonderforge


     The biggest girls trend in my household as many other households across the country, Doc McStuffins, and her ability to treat sick and injured toys. I know when I was little I sure wish we had a Doc McStuffins in our house it would have saved a lot of tears when it came to that favorite broken toy :)







     This Doc McStuffins All Better Game is rated 3 and up, for 2 to 4 players and I'm going to say it is fun for the whole family, boys and girls alike. My daughter was so excited to see all the related items to what she sees on TV included with the game, from medical instruments to bandages and let me tell you she has diagnosed everyone in this house with an ailment.
     The doctors bag is included, for game time you store the game pieces and for clean up time you can put almost everything in there for easier storage.
     The bandages are clearly marked each one different for a different diagnosis, scoring tiles will be all face down, get spinner and tools handy.
     This was a great game for the kids as it kept them entertained for hours, you can do so much with all the included pieces and when they were done playing by the rules they took turns treating their toys and animals. If you have kids that are interested in Doc, this is definitely a must have for the Christmas stash > for retailers.
**I received the products mentioned to review with my family all opinions are 100% our own. I was not compensated outside of the product for review purposes**

**Madison Street Beauty** #MadisonSBeauty


 Wide Variety of shadows

Competitive pricing great product lots of color and sparkle:)

Wednesday, November 6, 2013

**California Delicious Gift Baskets** #caldelicious Review and Giveaway


California Delicious

        Well it's that time of year again, the holiday in which you are looking for that perfect present for that hard to shop for individual. You can't go wrong when you give a basket of goodies that one person or family enjoys and can share. I know how hard it is to find that special gift but do not want to look to sappy or too cheap and this is the perfect gift for anyone on my list. Whether you want nuts, fruit, chocolate, organics, wines, cheese or all those in one the California Delicious website has them all, for any budget and almost any taste.





       I had the chance to try a basket with my family and after searching over hundreds of choices I chose a fruit and nut basket called the California Healthy Gift Basket. It was most appealing to the kids who cannot get enough fruit without the extra chocolates we don't need so soon after Halloween. This amazing basket contained 6 fruits(apples and oranges) and 6 boxes of nuts(mixed, almonds, cashews). The fruit was so fresh as if it was just picked, the apples we cut into were green and red and both were juicy and flavorful. The nuts were plain, or salted and even a seasoned(which was a little more spicy than I assumed:), spicy but very good and flavorful). These all came packed in cellophane in a wooden basket and even shipped to your recipient would make an awesome gift. This is most definitely you're go to shop for that perfect someone. The best part is when you visit the site it offers you money saving specials, perfect for saving while shopping.

       Make sure you visit them for announcements on Facebook and twitter, pinterest and Instagram. They also have a contest on their Facebook page make sure you visit, it's worth $100 all for a picture.
My California Delicious Photo Contest
The lovely people at California Delicious are giving you a giveaway of a $50 credit to their online store, $50 would get a great basket to surprise someone with.
a Rafflecopter giveaway



  **I was given the ability to browse the wide array of gift baskets and choose one to review with my family.All opinions are my own, as well as pictures(except for the 2 stock at top), others opinions may vary. I was not and will not be compensated outside of the basket I received.**