Fresh Wave Spray, Soy Candle, Fresh Wash, and Room Spray Review and Giveaway

     I consider myself to be a big animal lover but with having lots of them comes the smells on EVERYTHING.  Even though I have always had multiple animals, I have tried very hard to keep my home from smelling that way.  In the past this meant burning candles and air fresheners in every outlet.  Well, that was until I had kids. now candles are a rarity and only up high and the lower outlets have baby plugs in them.  Now I also have to worry about the additional smells that come with kids (oh and I have boys so I've got it even worse)!

     Ive been forced to search out either more options or stronger current ones and lets be honest no one wants to mask one smell with another.  That doesn't exactly get rid of the odor. As much as I like the pleasant smells of most air fresheners, I also want to get rid of the bad smells not just cover them up.  Fresh Wave helps with exactly that. Fresh wave "uses the power of nature for safe, non-toxic odor elimination without the use of perfumes or fragrances. Simple, natural, ingredients like Lime, Pine Needles, Aniseed Clove, Cedarwood and Water" are used.  Fresh Wave is created and distributed by OMI Industries, the world leader in odor control and management.  OMI Industries products can be found in solid waste facilities, asphalt factories, rubber manufacturing plants, hotel rooms,  and in rental cars.  These are some of the most odorous places!  I was given the opportunity to review Fresh Waves Soy Candle, Pearl Packs, Fresh Wash, and Spray.

     The Fresh Waves Soy Candle honestly didn't have a smell while burning.  However, I did think it had almost a citronella smell when up very close but I think that could have just been me.  Though it was not over powering, I couldn't notice a difference in the room.

     The Fresh Wave Spray was great, it had a very pleasant refreshing smell to it.  I used it in my bedroom on my linens and in the air around the room.  I felt as though my sheets had just been washed and we all know how great that feels!  I have a eucalyptus pillow mist that now has some major competition for my attention before climbing into bed.

     We put the Fresh Wave Pearl Packets in our master bathroom where our cats litter box is.  I have tried everything to keep this room "nasty smell" free and honestly the only thing that works is changing it as frequently as possible and loading up with baking soda.  With the Pearl Packets I can honestly say I noticed a difference. Not that I change it any less, but with the Pearl Packets near the box, the smells don't carry quite as far (like into my bedroom - yuck).

     Finally, we tried the Fresh Wave Fresh Wash in our front loader.  I was super pumped to see if this would work because it seems as though we have invited some musty odor into every load unless I load up on more detergent, fabric softener and even sometimes more bleach.  The directions tell you to completely rub the rubber gasket with a cloth and the Fresh Wash to eliminate the smell.  This unfortunately did nothing for my front loader even after a few rub downs.  When following the second set of instructions which tell you to put the Fresh Wash directly into the detergent compartment, I felt a definite difference in the smell of my towels the next load after.  I did run an empty load with the Fresh Wash and then laundry as usual.

      I love not having to purchase tons of air fresheners to fill up my plugs around the house or having burning candles around where my children could potentially burn themselves.  These are more natural solutions to everyday honest odor issues.

Cost: $15.99 Soy Candle
        $9.99 Home Spray
        $11.99 Fresh Wash
        $14.99 Pearl Packs
Available to purchase: Fresh Wave 
Recommendation:  Depending on your need for air freshening, I would recommend giving these a try.  If you aren't one who loves the over powering smells of candles or outlet plug ins then these are for you!  Although some of Fresh Wave's products are a little on the pricey side in my opinion so it depends on the price point you are looking for for each product whether it would be worth it.
Facebook: Fresh Wave
Twitter: @Fresh_Wave

Getting Started...How to Coupon - Key Points

How to Coupon - Key Points

1. Your coupons will come from your local newspapers in the Sunday delivery.  You can also acquire coupons from store loyalty mailers or inside purchased products.  Another great way to get coupons in through freebie sign ups - Not only do you get a free sample/product but you almost always get a coupon with it.  You can also get coupons off the Internet (sometimes abbreviated IP for Internet printable). 
2. Most companies have coupons on their sites to print as well as a couple sites I featured that compile all sorts in one place.  These include RedPlum, Coupons.com, Cellfire & Target.
   • If you are going to print your coupons, most will only allow 2 coupons/IP address (per computer)….. if you have a wireless printer, utilize your phone, ipod, laptop, desktop.
   • You can adjust your printer settings to save on ink.  Change your printer options to print black and white only, draft quality and you can even reduce the actual size of the coupons.
3. Smart Source (SS), Red Plum (RP), & Proctor & Gamble (PG) are your best sources for coupons. SS, RP are in most Sunday newspapers. PG is usually once a month, normally the 1st week of the month.
   • In case you are confused whether a coupon is a manufacturers or a store coupon - all Mfr coupons start with a 5 or a 9 in their bar code.  Store coupons can only be used in the specified store and Mfr coupons can be used at almost any store that accepts them.
4. Most sales start on Sundays, with Kroger as the exception, starting on Monday (Michigan/Midwest area)
5. Most items follow a 3 month sale cycle, meaning: If it is on sale now it will more than likely go on sale again in 3 month's.  So when purchasing items in bulk, purchase enough for a 3 month supply. 
   • Refer to my Managing Your Food Supply article for some food safety tips.
6. When heading to the store, PREPARE!  Know what you want, have a list, have your coupons clipped and ready for the items you are going to buy. 
   • Always bring your coupon binder/organizer - you never know what you may find on closeout, clearance, or an unlisted sale.
7. When heading to checkout, review your list & coupons.  Be sure there is nothing you missed and that everything you planned on having a coupon - has one. 
   • Be kind to your cashier - do not stack your coupons on each item, they don't like that and it slows them down. 
   • Know which coupons need prices written on them such as freebie items and let the cashier know so they don't have to go back through the entire order to find that specific item.
8. Profile your cashier. Young, male cashiers are far less likely to care about how many coupons you have and are less likely to be a Nazi about it.  This is in no way so you can use a fraudulent coupon or a coupon in a fraudulent way.  It is merely for the purposes of speeding the process up in a 100% legal way. 
9. Use reusable bags.  Not only is it green friendly but most stores will give you a monetary credit for each bag used.  The credit is usually $0.05/bag OR if you have the CVS green tea leaf, its scanned each use and every 4 scans earns you $1.00 Extra Care Bucks (ECB).  So essentially that is $0.25/bag - 5 times the amount other stores give!
10. Finally, thank your cashier (and bagger).  Always make friends with your cashiers and show them you appreciate their help and hard work.

Rainy Day Craft - Make Your Own Playdough

This is a super simple recipe that anyone can do with ingredients I bet you have at home.  Make playdough in less than a minute.

You Need:
1/4 Cup Salt
1/4 Cup Water
1 Cup Flour

Mix all ingredients until doughy and not sticky.  Add flour as needed to soften and lessen stickiness.
Splash lightly with food coloring for different colors. 

**Warning do not use a lot of food coloring - it will stain your child's hands and/or possibly light surfaces.

Pasta Casserole (Great planned leftovers or frozen meals)

Ingredients

16oz pasta of your choice (I like elbow macaroni or spirals)

1 ½ # ground beef or ground turkey

1 jar spaghetti sauce

1 can tomato sauce

1 can condensed cream of mushroom soup

1 ½ cup sour cream

2 cups shredded colby or mozzarella cheese

garlic salt

Cook pasta to el' dente' and drain

At the same time, in a large skillet cook ground beef or turkey until no longer pink.

Drain and Stir in spaghetti sauce and tomato sauce

In a separate bowl combine mushroom soup and sour cream.

In 2 casserole dishes layer meat, red sauce, white sauce, and cheese. Repeat until full.

Freeze one casserole and bake other at 350 for 20-25 minutes or until cheese is melted.

*I made this when I was pregnant with both my boys right before delivery. Each batch makes approximately two casseroles. Freeze and pull early in day to thaw. Can be heated in microwave or re-baked for a really quick dinner!

Serves 4

Approximately 35 minutes Prep/Cook Time

Cheesy Italian Chicken Spirals Quick Entree

Ingredients

4 skinless, boneless chicken breasts

1 cup fresh basil

1 garlic clove (minced or finely chopped)

salt and pepper

1 cup shredded mozzarella

Place wax paper over chicken or place inside a plastic baggy and beat with a rolling pin until flattened to approx. 3/4” thickness

Chop basil finely and mix with mozz, salt, and pepper (or blend all in a food processor with a splash of olive oil)

Spread over chicken and roll tightly from small end to larger.

Wrap tightly in foil pinching the ends of foil

For ultimate tenderness, steam chicken in a steam basket or colander above a boiling pot. Approx. 15 minutes from boil. Can also be baked at 350 for about 20-25 minutes (but chx may be drier)

Pierce chicken with a skewer to make sure juices are clear and not pink otherwise continue cooking

Remove from foil and slice chicken so you can see the wheels

*I usually serve with spiral pasta with a lite marinara or with with a very light Alfredo with sun-dried tomatoes added.

Serves 4

Approximately 25 minutes Prep/Cook Time

Uncommon Goods Quick Pop Maker Review and Giveaway

     Kevin and I not only want to have the coolest most up to date gadgets in our home but we are always checking out new sites to buy "uncommon" gifts for others.  You should know by now from reading my posts that my sister is getting married in the next two weeks and we have been searching for a totally awesome wedding gift.  As always in my search for something along those lines I discovered Uncommon Goods.  This is such a cool website!  They thrive on individuality so much I almost don't want to tell everyone about this site because I want everything to myself!  They provide everything from cool gardening gifts (here) to items for your office (here) to gifts for new parents (here) to gifts for cooks (here) and more...

     So I do know this is the end of summer we are nearing but I couldn't have chosen a more perfect item to review than the Quick Pop Maker from Uncommon Goods.  Declan recently got his first ear infection which caused his temperature to spike quite high.  One of the first things the emergency room doctors suggested (well besides Tylenol) was giving him a Popsicle to keep him hydrated.  The quick pop maker makes Popsicles by flash-freezing juice in up to 9 minutes without electricity.  And yes, I said juice!  You don't have to have your Popsicles with a ton o sugar anymore.  I can use juices and fruit pieces instead which I know are good for my children (and myself).  So as soon as we got home from the hospital I whipped a quick orange juice Popsicle to help comfort and hydrate my sick little baby.  The quick pop maker is also great for the other kids during the summer or just for an evening snack.  It can make up to nine Popsicles in one round and all I have to do is rinse it clean and keep it in the freezer for the next time around.

     Uncommon Goods also works with the environment when you look at their garden gifts.  Their print catalogs are printed on recycled paper and all of their merchandise is produced without harm to animals.  They even have a green recycled icon on several items throughout their website to represent products made of recycled materials.  Uncommon Goods also donates a portion of each order to your choice of non-profit organizations including American Forests, AmeriCares, City Harvest, and the Rape, Abuse & Incest National Network (RAINN).  This is really a great company with some great beliefs, ideas AND products.

Cost: $50 Quick Pop Maker
Available to purchase: Uncommon Goods

Recommendation: Go check this site out!  They have just about anything you can imagine and more.  Its totally worth a look and the prices are very reasonable.
Facebook: Uncommon Goods
Twitter: @UncommonGoods

Manna Organics Bread Review and Giveaway

     I have always considered myself to be a bread lover.  In fact I am pretty sure that's why I cannot lose the extra weight because I am not willing to give up breads.  Well in trying to lose weight and get healthier I thought it would be a great idea to give some other types of bread a try.  I came across Manna Organics while looking for an organic bread company.

     Manna Organics Bread is a cake-like, 100% sprouted whole grain bread.  It is yeast free, organic bread also free of salt, oils, sweeteners, and leavening agents.  This bread is high in fiber and protein.  I was given 4 loaves to give a try - Sunny Sourdough Bread, Multigrain Flax Sourdough Bread, Banana Walnut Hemp Sprouted Bread, and Carrot Raisin Sprouted Bread.

     Unfortunately I have to say this is the very first time I have truly disliked a bread.  I hate saying that because Manna Organics IS a great company but as a reviewer I owe it to my readers to be honest about my experiences.  The Banana Walnut Hemp Sprouted Bread was the first one we tried immediately after receiving the breads.  Myself, Alana, and Dane were terribly disappointed with how grainy and chewy it was.  I guess this opinion comes from never having tried a hemp bread as my mother told me I should have expected that taste.  In fact she was happy with the banana bread.  Second, both of the sourdoughs were just too dry for me.  When I added butter and toasted the slices it was a little better but still not quite to my taste.  And finally, the best for last was the Carrot Raisin Sprouted Bread.  This was by far the best of the four breads to me.  It was very moist, although still a little thick and chewy, the raisins made it very sweet.  When toasted and butter this made for a great after dinner snack or for a quick breakfast side.

Cost: $27.20/case of 8 loaves- Sprouted Breads
        $21.00/case of 7 loaves - Sourdough Presliced Breads
Available to purchase: Manna Organics

Recommendation:  Unfortunately, I would not purchase any of these again.  They just weren't to my taste although they will not go to waste since I will figure out a way to incorporate them into a recipe somehow.
Facebook: Manna Organics
Twitter: @MannaOrganics

Loopeez Shoe Tying Aid Giveaway Winner and more Low Entry Giveaways

Congrats Nyeasia for being selected as the Loopeez Shoe Tying Aid Giveaway Winner!!

Thank you Everyone for participating and for following A Lucky Ladybug!

I have several low entry GREAT giveaways going on right now.  Here are the direct links for more info.  There are more coming next week as well!!

DaVinci (ends 10/5) Rafflecopter

Halftee (ends 10/5) Rafflecopter

Tooth Tissues (ends 10/11) Rafflecopter

Mohawk Home Rugs (ends 10/11) Rafflecopter

Kidorable (ends 9/27) Rafflecopter

Dapple Baby Cleansing Wipes and Dish Liquid Review

 

     So with my first son, I went buck wild on a cleaning frenzy before he was born.  Every week after I would wash every toy, blanket, etc.  Then baby #2 came along, I cleaned but not as much since we had just moved into a new house and the toys honestly only get washed every month OR when I find them filthy!  But keeping them cleaned is very important to me.  If you had ever had any type of food safety class like I've had, you would be disgusted at the "things" that can be growing around your house and on your kids toys.  I know I am - these are the things that can make your kids sick and keep them sick over and over.  The only problem is in trying to sanitize my home effectively, I feel I am forced to use harsh chemicals that can be potentially dangerous to my babies.  I don't even like keeping these chemicals in my house let alone using them on toys.  I was pleasantly surprised to discover Dapple Baby maker of natural baby products.

     I was given the opportunity to review Dapple's travel size toy wipes and dish liquid.  I loved the wipes right away because I can take them anywhere, wipe my toys at a restaurant or store, and not worry about everyone else's germs on my children's toys!  The dish liquid is great although I really don't need it in a travel size.  I can use the dish liquid to wash a large batch of toys together in the sink or bath tub.  I feel confident using both of these.  I can immediately hand the toy to Declan (knowing its going right in his mouth) and not have to worry about poisoning him in any way.

     Dapple is a line of natural cleaning products for households with children.  Dapple products use non-toxic ingredients found in nature that are environmentally-safe, biodegradable, and free of parabens, SLES, and phthalates, as well as synthetic dyes or fragrances.  This is a company and products created by moms like me.  I can use ANY product from Dapple and know I am using something that's safe for the environment and more importantly safe for my children!

Cost: $23.88 Case/12 Travel Dish Liquid 

        $35.88 Case/12 Travel Dapple Toy Cleaner Wipes

Available to purchase: Dapple

Recommendation: Yes!  Take care of your children's toys in a way that is safe for both them and the environment.  These are not too pricey when you look at the quality and effects in the long run.
Facebook: Dapple
Twitter: @dapplebaby

Green Bumkin Giveaway Winner and Current Low Entry Giveaways

Congrats Crystal who was chosen as the Green Bumkin Giveaway Winner

 Thank you Everyone for participating and for following A Lucky Ladybug!

I have several low entry GREAT giveaways going on right now.  Here are the direct links for more info.  There are more coming next week as well!!

DaVinci (ends 10/5) Rafflecopter

Halftee (ends 10/5) Rafflecopter

Tooth Tissues (ends 10/11) Rafflecopter

Mohawk Home Rugs (ends 10/11) Rafflecopter

Kidorable (ends 9/27) Rafflecopter

Loopeez (ends 9/26) Rafflecopter

Pambras (ends 9/23) Rafflecopter

Tooth Tissues Dental Wipes Review and Giveaway

     Everyone knows we have an obligation as parents to take care of our children's health from the very beginning.  This includes their teeth from the very minute one pops out of the gums.  What some parents don't realize or I guess even think about it that they already have their adult teeth behind the baby teeth.  So even though we may think their only baby teeth and they'll be gone soon, that isn't quite true.  The health of the baby teeth determines the health of the adult teeth when they come in several years later.  Now coming from a family in dentristry, I already knew that but that doesn't mean I don't need a friendly little reminder every once in a while. 

     Dane and I brush our teeth together all the time, but I frequently forget Declan has teeth too.  Ten to be exact and they need the same attention. But lets be honest brushing an infants teeth is not exactly an easy task.  It can be quite messy and even quite the fight.  Declan really just wants to chew on the tooth brush and spit everything else out.  So when I heard about Tooth Tissues, I thought "its worth a shot!"  Tooth Tissues are a disposable textured dental wipes designed to help remove plaque from your toddler’s teeth and gums.  These are all natural, fluoride-free and paraben-free so you don't have to be concerned about it entering your baby's mouth.

     Ok so I first handed the pack to the "family dentist" and asked them what they thought.  Said dentist said they seemed like a good concept and to give them a try.  Still a little weary of Tooth Tissues and their effectiveness I gave them a try with Declan.  They appear to work the way you would think by just gently wiping their teeth.  I'm honestly not a huge fan of sticking a cloth in my son's mouth because he already sticks everything in there so I feel like I am just encouraging him.  Plus, Declan thinks that paper (especially coupons, ha) and tissue is like the greatest thing in the world to eat.  So again I don't want him to think this behavior is ok.  If I had a child though that fell asleep with the bottle in his mouth (mouth full of milk), I would insist on the use of a product such as these.  Bottle decay happens so easily and I would want to take every precaution to prevent any type of build up.

Cost: $6.99 for a pouch
Available to purchase: Tooth Tissues

Recommendation:  Eh, again I'm not convince for the kids because they don't sleep with bottles but maybe for yourself even between brushings.  It would be handy to have a pack in your purse or car.
Facebook: Tooth Tissues

DaVinci Gourmet Classic Flavored Syrups Review and Giveaway

     Now I consider myself to be pretty knowledgable in the coffee and tea beverage area.  I won't mention the name of the restaurant that I was a Training General Manager at but I had to be quite saavy in the beverage department.  I prepared gourmet coffee beverages, italian sodas, and dessert beverages daily.  After leaving this company I still have the taste for the same drinks (without of course the cost).  I don't want to have to go to Starbucks or the Coffee Beanery everyday to get a yummy snack.  So what do I do?  I create them at home like everyone else is forced to do (especially to save money).  I have always used Torani Syrups because thats what I used at the restaurant and had the most experience with.  That was though, until I was given the opportunity to try DaVinci Gourmets.

     I was given three bottles to try - Hazelnut, Vanilla, and Sugar Free Vanilla.  Although I would have loved to give their all new fruit innovations product line a try, I am a die hard hazelnut fan.  Honestly, the hazelnut was great!  It had a ton of flavor in my coffee (every morning since it came!)  I liked it so much I will probably be saving some to use in my baking this holiday season.  I make a killer pecan pie this would compliment great!  The vanilla I have been using in either my frozen coffees in the afternoons or in my kids fruit smoothies to add an extra creamy flavor.  It has nice and subtle enough taste that even my husband who loves his coffee black (and there is no convincing him otherwise) didn't even notice when I put it in his coffee the other morning.  Although, he will now know, he commented to me that morning that his coffee was "really good, did you change brands?" and I just shrugged saying no and then giggling to myself!  The sugar free vanilla tasted honestly the same, you wouldn't ever notice a difference.  I haven't used it a lot because I like the "real thing" but I probably should since I am trying to loose weight!

     DaVinci makes over 60 classic flavors, all made from pure cane sugar.  They also makes gourmet sauces such as white chocolate sauce, tea concentrates such as the yummy chai tea, a complete sugar free line, an all natural line with no artificial flavors, colors or preservatives, and their all new fruit innovations flavors such as the honey melon.  DaVinci Gourmets is the largest sponsor of Coffee Kids.  This organization improves the lives of children and families in coffee growing regions around the world.  A portion of the sale of each and every bottle of DaVinci Gourmets is donated to this organization.

Cost: $7.49 Each Bottle
Available to purchase: DaVinci Gourmet

Recommendation:  This is a company made here in  that helps out donating a portion of each sale.  I have to recommend them not only for this reason but for the wide variety, great tastes, and inexpensive cost.
Facebook: DaVinci Gourmet

Halftee Review, Giveaway and Exclusive Discount

 

     We are going into the football/fall weather season and I am always trying to layer up so I don't have to wear a coat.  Not only do I hate wearing a coat, I hate carrying a coat around.  The problem I have with layering my clothes is I feel really self conscious about my size.  I am not a tiny girl by all means and when I add even 2 shirts together I feel like it makes me look a little bigger than I would like to look.  The same goes for summer when I try to wear two tanks.  Besides looking a little "thicker" I have now made myself warmer by trying to cover up to look more age appropriate.  So when I discovered Halftee needless to say I was pretty psyched to give them a try.

     I decided to go with the 3/4 length halftee for my first go around since we are going into fall weather here in Michigan.  When my Halftee first arrived, the first thing I noticed was how amazingly soft the material was!  Wow, softer than most of the baby blankets I use for my children!  Halftee is made from 48% Cotton, 48% Modal, and 4% Spandex.  This shirt is great to wear under my favorite baby tees or sports jersey's.  These give you extra coverage while in my opinion making you look thinner.  I felt so much more comfortable wearing my Halftee and oh so cute!

     Halftee's are created by a mother and woman like many of us just looking for that extra coverage without having to manage two shirts at the same time.  My Halftee can be purchased in five colors - white, black, brown, pink, and cream (others have red and grey as an option).  Halftee also comes in long sleeve, boyfriend length, tank, and basic styles.  You can purchase your Halftee for your little girls, in maternity sizes, Body line, or of course the original.

Cost: $24.99 3/4 Length Sleeves
Available to purchase: Halftee
Recommendation:  I love mine and I'm sure you will love yours too if you got one.  Although I do think these are a little pricey the material is great and very comfortable.  I think I would purchase more if they were slightly cheaper.
Exclusive Discount: Enter code ALUCKYLADYBUG at checkout to receive a 10% off any purchase made from 9/21-9/28
Facebook: Halftee
Twitter: @Halftee

Mohawk Home Accent Rugs Review and Giveaway

     I have never really given much thought to rugs and or carpeting until our most recent move.  I mean, at the last house we had white carpeting so we used rugs throughout the home but I never paid attention to quality, thickness, or hardiness.  Then, we moved into a home where the carpet was destroyed so we had to replace it.  Then, in the move, our rugs somehow permanently wrinkled (even though rolled) and others frayed or just never went back to normal.  So when I was given the opportunity to review an item from Mohawk Home, I was not only thrilled but going to do my homework.

     After much research reading through specs and reading other reviews on several products I chose the Rouge Gray Accent Slice Kitchen Rug (18in x 30in) carried at Home Depot.  I have a contemporary look in my kitchen with both coffee and wine accents so the wine bottles pictured on the rug went very well with my decor.  Unfortunately, only more time will tell as to how this rug holds up against my children AND two dogs.  For now I will say it looks great, seems sturdily made, and cleans very easily (even with all the dog hair)!  Mohawk Home rugs can be purchased at Home Depot, Lowes, Bed Bath and Beyond, Kohls, Target, Menards, Sears, Anna's Linens, and Walmart.  So you shouldn't have any trouble finding one of their rugs (if you don't already own one)!

     Mohawk Home, the rug division of Mohawk Industries, is the largest manufacturer of area rugs, indoor and outdoor mats, and washable rugs in the United States.  Mohawk Home is "committed to building a more sustainable world by aligning our processes, products and people to produce safe and environmentally friendly flooring products." Mohawk Home has been dedicated to making superior quality area rugs that are manufactured right here in the USA (a major plus for me).  You can transform any room in your home instantly with one of their luxurious, chic, and durable area rugs.

Cost: $14.97
Available to purchase: Home Depot

Recommendation:  You shouldn't be surprised if you already owned a Mohawk Home rug and didn't know it.  These are very inexpensive and easily found everywhere so if you don't have one and you are in the market for a new rug to accent your home this is a good brand to buy from.
Facebook: Mohawk
Twitter: @Mohawk_Home

Boogie Wipes and Shoulder Buddies Giveaway Winners

Congrats Amy for being chosen as the Boogie Wipes Giveaway Winner!! 
Congrats Homestead for being chosen as the Shoulder Buddies Giveaway Winner!!

Thank you Everyone for participating and for following A Lucky Ladybug!

Molly Mutt Clean Line Dog Shampoo and Conditioner Review

     So we are big animal lovers in my household! I barely trust my dogs to stay with anyone but family. this includes the way I feel about grooming them. There is only one person who will ever touch my dogs and its Jenny (a friend from highschool) at Petco otherwise they are getting bathed at the house in the summer and in the shower during the winter. If I am cleaning them at home I don't want to use any harsh chemicals on them as I wouldn't do use them on my children either! I've been looking into more natural remedies and dog care products which is how I discovered Molly Mutt.

     Molly Mutt is a great company with some great ideas they try to share and help others with. On one of their pages there is a quote at the bottom that says, "Use your new dof or cat duvet to keep old blankets, pillows, & clothes out of landfills". What a great idea! Why throw away rags or tattered blankets when you could use them for your pets to sleep on. Besides dog beds Molly Mutt has created an entire line of certified natural dog care products using essential oils and recycled bottles for packaging. Their "Clean Line" is free of sulfates, parabens, artificial colors, and synthetic fragrances. I recieved the Wash Dog Shampoo and Soft Dog Coat Conditioner.

     Now as you see in the pictures, both of my dogs are short hair - one with a softer coat and the other more coarse. I was curious if the I was also sent the Soft Dog Coat Conditioner would really work as a "real" conditioner or just smell good and really how clean would the natural Wash Dog Shampoo actually get my dirty dogs?! Plus Capone has very sensitive skin so would these be gentle enough for him or would I have to rewash him in a couple days after watching him itch and breakout in hives?

      Your answer (or really mine), Capone handled the shampoo just fine! No itching or skin irritation and both smelled much better. Although I will say the smell was much more natural and not very powerful. They still smelled like dogs but clean dogs if that makes any sense. I mean that in a good way because as great as they smell with the "other" soaps it doesn't last long and really only masks their natural smell in an unsafe way. The Soft Dog Coat Conditioner made Rayne's already soft coat much softer and shinier! I think Capone is too coarse to really make a difference but after the bath the both were glowing!

Cost: $9.00 Wash Dog Shampoo

         $12.00 Soft Dog Coat Conditioner
Available to purchase: Molly Mutt
Recommendation: This is a really good company that is headed in a great direction. I wish I had gotten the dog bed duvet to try because I think that idea is the best ever! I will be purchasing from Molly Mutt again. Their prices are very reasonable and their Why or About section explains the importance of the three R's
Facebook: Molly Mutt
Twitter: @MollyMutt

Fracture Me Giveaway Winner

Congrats Coley who was chosen as the Fracture Me Giveaway Winner!!  Thank you everyone for participating and for following A Lucky Ladybug! Here are several more Low Entry Giveaways:

Kidorable (ends 9/27) Rafflecopter 65 entries

Loopeez (ends 9/26) Rafflecopter 7 entries

Pambras (ends 9/23) Rafflecopter 31 entries

Green Bumkin (ends 9/22) Rafflecopter 39 entries

Shoulder Buddies (ends 9/18) Rafflecopter - 57 entries

Boogie Wipes (ends 9/18) Rafflecopter - 93 entries

 

Flip Flop Wines Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and Chardonnay Review and Flippin Good Deeds Challenge

     Back in July, I was given the lucky opportunity to sample/review wine from a great company Flip Flop Wines.  Since then I am hooked on the brand.  Now not only are Flip Flop Wines inexpensive so that the average person can enjoy them but they are made by a company that gives back to the community.  Everyone who knows me knows I believe we need to do everything we can to protect our children and planet today so that there can be a tomorrow for everyone.  Flip Flop Wines is partnered with Soles4Souls, a non profit organization that helps put shoes on over 100,000 feet of children who aren't fortunate to have the most basic protection.  They have also supported several other charities such as Friends of the Forest, Netting Nations, and Habitat for Humanity.  Amazing.  This time around I received three different wines - Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, and a Chardonnay.

     Now, this isn't my first time trying a Chardonnay but I've been so hooked on the Flip Flop Wines Reisling that I haven't even given any others a chance.  Although Chardonnays are a dryer white wine I love the sweet taste of the pineapple in it.  Of course chilled, this wine goes perfectly with any salad which is what we tried it with along with several other finger foods.  I recently had a women only party night in with all of my fellow mommies and we all thoroughly enjoyed sipping on our glasses of Chardonnay while munching on our vege, cheese, and meat platters.

     Now if you read my last review you will know I am just not a fan of red wines at all!  I try and try different kinds and for some reason my little taste buds just can't get used to them.  However, I did get two reds this time that I had to give a try so first with the Merlot.  I'm sorry but this was just too dry and bitter for me.  It had a very strong plum flavor.  I even chilled the bottle to about 26 degrees and drank a glass with our grilled burgers the other day.  On a positive note my good friend who loves reds drank the Merlot at our party and thought it had fantastic flavor.  She thought it went very well with vege, cheese, and meat platters!

     On to the Cabernet Sauvignon.  This was actually not as bad for me as most of the reds I've tried in the past.  Funny thing is I tend to lean towards the sweeter wines and this is one of the driest of all.  I loved the blackberry and cherry flavor it had to it.  I know someone out there is going to kill me for doing this but I actually mixed my glass with a fruit juice which made this actually very enjoyable!  I chilled this wine as well to 26 degrees and paired with a spaghetti casserole.  Again even though it was dry, the berries were powerful enough to make it a fruity delight!

     I have to encourage you as well while you are reading this review to check out the Flippin Good Deeds Challenge.  The flippin’ good deeds Challenge is a program for communities to clean out their closets and donate gently worn footwear.  Sign up, collect as many shoes as you can and share your “flippin’ good deeds” and experiences from September 6, 2011 to November 15, 2011 for a chance to win!  All you need to do is share with me so I can blog about it for you (if you are not a blogger).  They will send you the boxes and materials as you log your amounts weekly.  The top 5 blogger's will be entered into the final.  I would love to win and reward one or all of my generous readers with a fantastic prize.

Cost: $7/bottle
Available to purchase: Flop Flop Wine Shop. You can also find them in my area at Kroger stores for 2/$10
Recommendation:  I honestly can't tell you enough great things about Flip Flop Wines.  This is truly a company I believe in and enjoy.  Give it a try if you have not before and if you have keep supporting them!
Facebook: Flip Flop Wines

Twitter: @flipflopwines

Wholesale Costume Club Boys Scream Bleeding Ghost Face Costume Review

     Well, if you know anything about myself or my husband, you know we are die hard Halloween freaks.  This is by far my favorite holiday for more reasons than I can count.  We start decorating Labor Day weekend since we have so many boxes of decorations.  We even leave up half of our "appropriate" decorations most of the year.  We throw a lil' party for the lil' ones and a big party for the adults each year.  Our decorations get more extreme each year as does our menus for each of the parties and Halloween.  Because we are always on the lookout for new or different props, decorations, and costumes, we recently started looking online throughout the rest of the year.  In doing so we came across the great site Wholesale Costume Club.

     Wholesale Costume Club if you choose is $5 a year for discounted everything on their site.  Of course you don't have to be a member to buy or even until you decide to buy.  These are some of the best prices I've seen on costumes (most over 50% off retail pricing)!  Most are under $50 and even a bunch are under $35.  I even was able to find several costumes that I couldn't find at most other retail stores in my area.  One being the Zombie Housewife which I fell in love with and am definitely going with for this Halloween season.  I did, however, promise Dane he could pick his costume first from the boys Halloween costume section.  I love that Wholesale Costume Club has tons of costumes for kids to choose from.

      He chose the Boys Scream Bleeding Ghost Face.  I'm actually confused and surprised that a three year old would pick this costume but he has fallen in love with it.  We had to try it on as soon as it came in the mail.  Honestly we've been running around in it ever since asking if today is Halloween yet!  It comes with everything you need for the full scary movie effect!  There is tubing connected to a "bleeding" heart which you can pump the blood through the mask with.  You can even add special affects by adding water with food coloring in the color of your choice.  The costume it great!  It fit him perfectly and honest to god doesn't seem to be cheaply made like a lot of costumes you tend to buy. 

Cost: $24.96 Member Price $27.98 Non-Member Price
Available to purchase:  Wholesale Costume Club
Recommendation:  If you are even remotely a Halloween fan I recommend at least giving them a looksy.  I will bet you find something if not several items and like I said before the prices are fantastic especially compared to retail stores!
Facebook: Wholesale Costume Club
Twitter: @CostumeClub

Kidorable Blue Dolphin Unbrella Review and Giveaway

     For some reason lately, Dane has an obsession with umbrellas.  I don't know if it is because he went to my grandmothers house a while ago and discovered her umbrella bucket by the front door or what.  Funny thing is we don't have any at home for him.  He loves to play with them anytime rain or shine, day or night, inside or out.  Its kind of weird (ha ha).  So when I was given the opportunity to review a product from the wonderful Kidorable my decision was easy.  Dane's not so much because I let him decide the pattern.  He wanted every pattern/color especially the pink kitty.  I think because my favorite color is pink and most of what I own is pink, my son now loves pink (sorry daddy).

     We picked the Blue Dolphin.  Perfect choice since he wears a lot of blue!  I love that Kidorable  refers to these as "umbrellas transformed it into imagination tents".  This is so true because honestly how often do children say, "I need my umbrella Mommy, its raining outside." unless they realize how much fun they can be.  I mean, Dane is kind of sensitive and hates his hair getting wet but he's not concerned about staying dry.  This umbrella could not have come at a better time either.  The Fedex guy dropped it off in the rain so we obviously had to try it out right away!  I love it!  There are no sharp points to worry about and the material seemed very sturdy for my crazy child.  I don't think it will ruin easily with some gentle play.

     Kidorable is such a a great company if you have little ones!  They make wearing necessities fun and exciting.  They carry everything from hats, raincoats, and boots to bookends, towels, and backpacks.  Each product comes in all sorts of designs for each and every kids individual interests.  They also carry baby sizes so you don't have to worry about even the littlest or your newest one.  Everything is pretty reasonable and affordable as well so you won't break the bank trying to match everything together.
  

Cost: $13.50
Available to purchase: Kidorable

Recommendation:  Um, yes check out the site I promise you won't be disappointed with the adorable selections.  I can't wait to get something else from them for Dane and maybe Declan this time.
Facebook: Kidorable