Moana Saves

We've Moved!

2011-08-24T22:45:00.000-07:00

We've moved!

Visit us on our new WordPress site at

www.MoanaSaves.com

Aloha!

Moana Saves Great Giveaways

2011-05-31T22:20:00.001-07:00

Ok,I LOVE giveaway linkys on other blogs so I decided that having a Wednesday giveaway linky would be a GREAT meme for us here at MS. Add your giveaways below,peeps,and we would love for you to leave a comment after adding your giveaways as

Blog Giveaway Links here

Moana Saves Great Giveaways

2011-05-31T22:16:00.001-07:00

Baby Bedding Zone, A Review

2011-05-16T12:57:00.000-07:00

When having a baby, bedding for the wee one always seems to be the last thing on my mind…until I need it!

With my first, my mom called me when I was 7 months pregnant and asked me if I had a crib and bedding set already picked out.

It surprised her to hear me say that I would worry about it when the baby came, because really, the baby needs a place to sleep as soon as you get him home!

(I was naïve.) Anyway, now that I have more kids, I’ve learned the importance of being prepared.

And it appears that Baby Bedding Zone is here to help! I’m impressed with their website which boasts a clean design as well as user friendly categories and pictures to help you find exactly what you are looking for.

Baby Bedding Zone has stock of over two-dozen designers including JoJo, Trend Lab, and Cotton Tale Designs.

You can search for bedding by gender, brand, pattern, color, or make of fabric! They have TONS to choose from including solids, modern prints, vintage (woo hoo!), and themed fabrics.

They offer crib sets with anywhere from 4-11 pieces each, as well as separate crib sheets, toddler bedding and blankets, and kids bedding in twin and queen sizes. It’s a pretty impressive collection!

Seeing as I just had a sweet little baby boy, I’m into searching the baby boy bedding collections. These sets of airplane crib bedding are adorable, and would definitely be keepsakes. Other favorites are this one, and this one… there are so many it’s hard to choose!

Baby Bedding Zone was founded by Laura Abro, who is also a full time mom to two kids. (So she knows what she’s talking about!)

And all of the bedding is high quality and slashed in price by quite a bit, so you’re really getting a bargain.

Baby Bedding Zone is a secure site, and they offer free shipping on orders over $99, a 110% price match guarantee, and a 365-day return policy.

I wish I knew about Baby Bedding Zone when I had my first!

*This is a sponsored post. Any and all opinions here are mine.

Orb Factory SparkleUps Cupcakes: A Review

2011-05-16T01:57:00.000-07:00

If you have a little princess at home (or two or three, like me), then I'm sure you know the absolute necessity for all things glitter, shine and SPARKLE. My girls can never (seriously, NEVER) get enough when it comes to sparkly wonders, especially when it involves any kind of craftiness. Orb Factory's new SparkleUps line is the perfect combination of both... and a practically no-mess craft for you moms that are tired of the bits and pieces many sparkly crafts can leave behind. SparkleUps are jewel-by-number stickers that allow your child to place self-adhesive jewels on super cute graphics in one of the following themes: Cupcakes, Unicorns or Butterflies. After the jewels are all in place, your child can peel off the bejeweled sticker and place it anywhere from her boots (like my oldest Princess did) to her mirror (like my 4 year-old did) to her folder, anywhere a sticker will stick.

I love SparkleUps Cupcakes! I'm a pretty crafty mom and love to do crafts with my girls. But, sometimes they are discouraged when their end products don't really measure up to mine (in THEIR eyes). While I try to convince them that their creations are unique and beautiful and that practice makes perfect, they are sometimes still discouraged. But, when we all did SparkleUps together, they were so excited, especially because their end product was exactly like mine... perfect! My 4 year-old was beside herself with the sparkling cupcake that she had created. They really are extremely cute and sparkly. Even my husband was impressed with their cuteness factor. My daughter asked, "We can't eat these, right? Even though they look very delicious, we can't eat them, right?" Yes, they're THAT cool!

The Orb Factory offers other great stick-by-number crafts like Sticky Mosaics and Stick 'n Style Jewelry. They even have a new Sticky Mosaics Butterflies iPad App. Check out all their great products here.

You can buy SparkleUps Cupcakes on the Orb Factory website for just $9.99!

WIN:

You can win a SparkleUps Cupcakes of your very own from The Orb Factory! For your mandatory entry, become a Google Friends Connect follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar). This is the mandatory entry for this giveaway and must be done before all of the additional entries.

To earn an additional entry, do one (or all) of the following and leave a separate comment for each thing you do:

1. Become a Networked Blogs follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
2. Follow Moana Saves on Twitter.

3. Follow The Orb Factory on Twitter.

4. Tweet about this giveaway (limit one tweet per day) using the following: #win SparkleUps Cupcakes from @theorbfactory and @moanasaves ends 6/6 http://bit.ly/jCtwsW
5. Subscribe to the Moana Saves feed via RSS reader and/or email updates (in the sidebar).
6. Like the Moana Saves Facebook page.

7. Like the The Orb Factory Facebook page.

Only one person per email/household/IPaddress can enter this giveaway. He/she must be 18+ years old and reside in the U.S. This giveaway ends on Monday 6/6 at 11:59 PM PST (Pacific Standard Time). One winner will be chosen randomly via Random.org. I will notify the winner via email and he/she must respond to claim the prize within 48 hours or I will draw another winner.

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive a sparkly product sample to facilitate my review. Any and all opinions here are my own.

I thought we had disappeared . . .

2011-05-15T21:29:00.000-07:00

but we're still here! We are in the process of becoming a self-hosted Word Press blog (WOOT!). The reason why the moanasaves URL doesn't work is because that domain has been transferred from this blog to the new blog host. Next, the blog will follow! But, in the meantime, if you miss your daily dose of us, check us out at this blogspot address.

We will try to finish out our current giveaways and post new reviews and giveaways as possible. Hopefully, we'll be done with this transition soon and back to normal on Word Press. Yesssss!

Store Brand Formulas Win Case over Enfamil

2011-05-14T22:01:00.001-07:00

This is a Sponsored post written by me on behalf of storebrandformula.com for SocialSpark. All opinions are 100% mine.

Yes, this is a sponsored post, but I wouldn’t discuss it, if I didn’t feel passionately about it.

First to be said: You are NOT a bad mom if you use generic brand anything.

Yes, you want to give your child the best of everything, but seeing a name brand doesn’t mean it’s the best, or that there’s not an equivalent that’s more affordable.

We all do what we can to get along, and the more kids you have the tighter the budget gets.

Fair deal.

Here’s the scoop:

Store brand infant formulas won a major victory this week when a U.S. Circuit Court upheld a $13.5 million false advertising claim against Enfamil maker Mead Johnson.

I have nothing bad to say about Enfamil formula itself. Their formula is great. But it’s not the only brand out there, and definitely not as nice to your wallet.

The case was based on the argument by PBM Products, Perrigo’s store brand infant formula business, that Enfamil’s advertisements of superiority to store brand formulas were false and misleading because store brand formulas offer the same nutrients at the same levels as Enfamil.

PBM Products provides most store brands including Walmart, Sam’s Club, Target, Kroger, Walgreens, and other major retailers.

Unless Enfamil could find serious manufacturing/ ingredient sourcing issues with store brand formulas, I’m not switching from the one I use. And yes, it’s unfair of them to claim that they are better because they are bigger.

All formulas that are sold in the United States are subject to inspection and the exacting standards of the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).

“This legislation vested FDA with the authority to ensure that all infant formula products sold in the United States provide the necessary levels of identified nutrients required for the growth of healthy babies.”

(pbmproducts.com)

"The Court has made it clear that national brand and store brand suppliers are entitled to fairly compete and advertising abuses will not be tolerated," said Perrigo Chairman and CEO Joseph C. Papa in a statement.

Can’t we all just play nicely? I feel like I’m talking to my kids.

more information on this case can be found in Business Week at http://www.businessweek.com/ne…

To learn more about store brand formulas and to find coupons, go to storebrandformula.com.

Which formula do you use? Why? Leave a comment!

CardiWrap: A Review

2011-05-14T20:46:00.000-07:00

My sister-in-law came into the house last week looking thoroughly anxious.

She had a blind date.

Her first blind date.

Ever.

I don’t blame her for being nervous. I hate blind dates, and for good reason.

You don’t know whom your going to end up spending the evening with.

It could be the most stomach-churning event ever,

it could be fairly pleasant,

or it could leave you gushing and swooning over the man of your dreams.

No matter which, the suspense and anxiety will kill you before you even walk out the door.

She told me she scolded her friend for not giving her time to lose 10 lbs. and find something to wear!

While I couldn’t help her in losing 10 lbs in 24 hours (she doesn’t need to anyway), I did remember that I had a CardiWrap in my closet!

I whipped it out and she looked at it curiously. I gave her the little book and accessories that came with it, and told her to go play with it. She came back very excited, and needless to say, quite a bit less anxious.

The first thing we both noticed was how comfortable, breathable, and light the fabric is (which we appreciate living in a place where it’s hot 24/7). The CardiWrap by Kymaro is made of 100% viscose, which has a silky feel, drapes beautifully, and doesn’t wrinkle. (Yeah!) We also loved the 50+ ways that you can wear it! She was stoked on the hoodie and jacket versions, while I was excited about the scarf and wrap variations. She’s young and fabulous, and I just had my fifth child. (Don’t get me wrong, I’m still fabulous, there’s just more of my fabulousness than I’m used to...) ;)

Luckily, the CardiWrap can be worn in so many different ways; it complimented both of our body types. It’s incredibly versatile. The CardiWrap comes with 3 bangles, a bow pin, and a flower pin that you can use to create more looks, and accent the wrap.It is truly a classic piece that can be altered to go with any season, fashion trend, or body type. I received the CardiWrap in Charcoal Grey and it really does goes with anything. You can wear it with your most comfy chillin’ jeans or your favorite dress and high heels.

The CardiWrap comes in seven different colors and has a 30 day money back guarantee.To learn more about the CardiWrap or to purchase it go HERE.

It a wardrobe investment!

*I was not paid to write this review, but did receive the CardiWrap to test drive! I can feel the wind in my hair. Totally. Mahalo nui to the Family Review Network for providing this opportunity.

Some Winners

2011-05-12T00:06:00.000-07:00

I've got some winners to announce so here we go:

The winner for the Your Present: A Half Hour of Peace Meditation CD is lucky #22, ktgonyea!

The winner for the Cover Your Hair $25 Assorted Hair Accessories is lucky #101, Kat. F!

The winner for the Lovable Labels Book Worm labels is lucky #21, lewalk!

Winners, watch your inbox for my email!

Camelbak Bottle: A Review and Giveaway

2011-05-11T01:59:00.000-07:00

I love drinking water. My favorite drink is ice cold water and I always bring a bottle of water to work. I have that huge 32 oz Nalgene Brita bottle from when it was advertised on The Biggest Loser. As much as I love that bottle, I think I'm gonna switch loyalties to the Camelbak.

Available at HeartRate Monitors USA, the Camelbak is 500 mL which is equivalent to 16 oz. I like the fact that it's smaller. It's a more manageable and lighter. It's not as bulky as my Nalgene. My absolute favorite thing about this bottle is the built in straw and the bottle bite valve at the top. With my other bottle, I had to get my own straw and put it in the bottle. (I really like drinking with straws!) When I got the bottle to review, I was super excited and thinking about riding my bike and being able to drink my water at the same time because now all I had to do was flip the valve on the top and drink. Unfortunately, I didn't get a chance to try that out.

My kids on the other hand LOVE the bottle. They constantly ask for it since it's so much easier for them to drink from it. My three year old can flip it easily and drink. My one year old can drink, leave it on the ground and if it gets knocked over, no worries, the water won't spill since the valve is only opened when you drink from it. AMAZING!

The one thing that I didn't like was the short straw...I still had some water left and I couldn't get it! I had to take my cap off. But I guess it's a sign that I need to refill! This spill proof, BPA free bottle, makes it easy to stay hydrated on the go. You can check out all of the great reviews on this bottle HERE.

I think I drink more water with this water bottle! I'm even considering getting my family their own bottles, especially for my kids so they won't keep stealing and drinking from my bottle!

SHOP: You can shop online on at Heart Rate Monitors USA to get the Camelbak bottle as well as other products to help you get and stay healthy. There's also a coupon code for you to use: Use "CLBK" at the checkout for 5% off all Camelbak products. Be sure to check out their blog as well for great lifestyle tips and previews of upcoming products.

WIN:

You can win a Camelbak bottle of your very own from Heart Rate Monitors USA! For your mandatory entry, become a Google Friends Connect follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar). This is the mandatory entry for this giveaway and must be done before all of the additional entries.

To earn an additional entry, do one (or all) of the following and leave a separate comment for each thing you do:

1. Become a Networked Blogs follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
2. Follow Moana Saves on Twitter.

3. Follow Heart Rate Monitors USA on Twitter.

4. Tweet about this giveaway (limit one tweet per day) using the following: #win a Camelbak water bottle from @HRM_USA and @moanasaves ends 6/1 http://bit.ly/ks9Wrp
5. Subscribe to the Moana Saves feed via RSS reader and/or email updates (in the sidebar).
6. Like the Moana Saves Facebook page.

7. Like the Heart Rate Monitors USA Facebook page.

Only one person per email/household/IPaddress can enter this giveaway. He/she must be 18+ years old and reside in the U.S. This giveaway ends on 6/1 at 11:59 PM PST (Pacific Standard Time). One winner will be chosen randomly via Random.org. I will notify the winner via email and he/she must respond to claim the prize within 48 hours or I will draw another winner.

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive a product sample to facilitate my review. Any and all opinions here are my own.

The Black & Decker Ultimate Sandwich Contest

2011-05-11T00:01:00.000-07:00

If you haven't noticed, I have an affinity for Thai food.

Ever since baby number five came along, I can't get enough of it.

When I was given the opportunity to enter Black & Decker's Ultimate Sandwich Contest, my brain went straight to it. I am also from Hawaii and l.o.v.e. Hawaiian sweet bread. Have you had it? You need to.

How do you put Thai food and local Hawaiian fare in a sammy and utilize a fabulous toaster oven? This is definitely a "fusion" recipe where East (Thai curry) meets West (pulled pork) and we get to enjoy the culinary collision.

I was inspired by a number of things. Blog posts, magazine articles, food photography, and here's the result:

Thai Curry Pulled Pork

(with Fresh Mango and Cilantro Dressing on a Toasted Hawaiian Sweet Roll)

Ingredients:

1 pork rump roast approx. 3 lb.

1 can (13.5 oz) coconut milk

1 tablespoon green thai curry paste

1 teaspoon red chili flakes

2 tablespoons brown sugar

2 tablespoons oyster sauce

1 mango, peeled and sliced in to 1/2" strips

1 small red onion, sliced into thin strips

1 package fresh mixed spring greens

(I love our local Nalo Spring Greens, from Waimanalo, Hawaii)

1 package Hawaiian sweet roll sandwich buns

Cilantro Dressing:

1 1/3 cups sour cream

3/4 cup mayonnaise

1 small bunch cilantro, stems removed

1 package ranch salad dressing mix

1/8 teaspoon Tabasco

2 cloves garlic

juice of one small lime

Mix in blender until smooth. Set aside.

In a large bowl, mix coconut milk, Thai curry paste, red chili flakes, brown sugar, and oyster sauce until well combined. Place pork roast in a crock pot, and pour coconut mixture over it. Turn crock pot on high heat for 6-8 hours or until pork is fork-tender, and pulls apart easily. Shred the pork, making sure to keep it moist.

In your Black & Decker toaster oven, toast a large Hawaiian sweet roll sandwich bun until golden brown.

Add pulled pork to the bun, and spoon some of the drippings from the crock pot onto the pork to keep meat moist and flavorful. (and more chili flakes, if desired).

Add freshly sliced (chilled) mango, red onion, a handful of fresh Nalo spring greens.

Add one tablespoon cilantro dressing to the top inside of the bun.

(A little goes a long way here, trust me!) And if you have picky eaters, this sammy tastes just as good without the cilantro dressing.

Voila!

The ULTIMATE sandwich!

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive a Black and Decker toaster oven to enable the development of my recipe. Any and all opinions here (and recipes!) are my own.

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES, A Prize Pack Giveaway

2011-05-10T00:28:00.000-07:00

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES sails into theaters May 20th, 2011 in Disney Digital 3D™. Are you excited? We are! Carol is going to an advance screening a few days before it opens and will write a review of the movie for you. Here is a brief synopsis of the fourth Pirates adventure:

Captain Jack Sparrow (Johnny Depp) finds himself on an unexpected journey to the fabled Fountain of Youth when a woman from his past (Penélope Cruz) forces him aboard the Queen Anne’s Revenge, the ship of the formidable pirate Blackbeard (Ian McShane).

WATCH: Here's taste of Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides, argh!

WIN: Disney Pictures is giving away a Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides Prize Pack to one lucky Moana Saves reader!

ITEMS FOR GIVEAWAY:

1 PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES T-SHIRT in adult sizes of S, M, L, XL

1 PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES bandana in black

2 PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES temporary tattoos

For your mandatory entry, become a Google Friends Connect follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar). This is the mandatory entry for this giveaway and must be done before all of the additional entries.

To earn an additional entry, do one (or all) of the following and leave a separate comment for each thing you do:

1. Become a Networked Blogs follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
2. Follow Moana Saves on Twitter.

3. Follow Disney Pictures on Twitter.

4. Tweet about this giveaway (limit one tweet per day) using the following: #win a Pirates of the Caribbean: On Stranger Tides prize pack from @disneypictures and @moanasaves ends 5/24 http://bit.ly/mGVp2Y
5. Subscribe to the Moana Saves feed via RSS reader and/or email updates (in the sidebar).
6. Like the Moana Saves Facebook page.

7. Like the Pirates of the Caribbean Facebook page.

Only one person per email/household/IPaddress can enter this giveaway. He/she must be 18+ years old and reside in the U.S. This giveaway ends on 5/24 at 11:59 PM PST (Pacific Standard Time). One winner will be chosen randomly via Random.org. I will notify the winner via email and he/she must respond to claim the prize within 48 hours or I will draw another winner.

I was not compensated for this post. Any and all opinions here are my own.

Feeling Campy? (A Review)

2011-05-10T00:10:00.000-07:00

Summer! My kids are counting the days until school gets out. Do you have big summer plans? Are your kids going to summer camp? Some of my favorite and least favorite childhood memories are of summer camp. What made camp great for me was the daytime activities, the campfire songs and the cute crafts. On the other hand camp can be lonely and the bugs...the bugs can be miserable! Bravery in a Bottle has a great solution for both of these camping blues. Their "Feeling Campy" aromatherapy spray with essential oils creates an actual soothing effect and a natural bug repellent. This bug away blend includes the following ingredients:

citronella

eucalyptus

catnip

cedar wood

lemongrass

lavender

litsea cubea

tea tree

patchouli

These essential oils have so many benefits. Antidepressant, fungicidal, insect repellent, heals insect bites & stings, treats headaches, etc. The best part? It's natural! No more spraying harmful chemicals on your kids. Just the thought of my kids spraying Deet on their sensitive skin night after night at camp makes me cringe. (As a side note, I'm so happy to spray this on my toddler because who knows when her little deet covered hands might make it in to her mouth. Yay!)

My kids use "Feeling Campy" every evening when they venture out to play. An added bonus (besides no bug bites) is that as my children repetitively use this spray they subconsciously associate the spray with home and pleasant feelings. This way I can pack "Feeling Campy" with my kids once they're old enough for over-night school camp-outs and they will have a scented remedy to homesickness that actually has therapeutic benefits to combat fear and anxiety. I was especially curious whether about the smell of this spray and if it would smell too 'woodsy'. The verdict? It does have a fresh outdoorsy smell but it's light and my kids like it.

As Bravery in a Bottle says: "The best way to solve childhood fears is to give children the feeling of control and power over what is frightening to them." I love this idea of a 100% natural essential oil spray that is multi-functional and empowering for my children. I reviewed the Monster Vapor in March but Bravery in a Bottle also sells Courage Concoction (a well-being blend for those days with big fears like tests or competitions) and Storm Squashers (clarity blend for overcoming those nights with thunderous spring showers). Head on over to their site to purchase your own bottle of a perfectly "scent-sational" solution to some of your child's biggest fears.

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive free product to facilitate my review. Any and all opinions here are mine.

STIKINS labels Review

2011-05-10T00:01:00.000-07:00

I love to label all sorts of things, but finding a label that STAYS ON clothes is such a hassle. I've used a few different kinds & they either come off too easy or if they do stay on they leave a yucky residue. I was anxious to try out LabelLightHouse.com's Stikins labels.

Here is The LabelLighthouse.com story

When Lena Grierson’s oldest daughter started school, and returned home one time too many without a glove, it was time to start labeling her daughter's things. Mrs Grierson was surprised to find that there was no fast and easy way of doing that.

“Why not a peel-and-stick label?” she thought. Why not, indeed! Thus LabelLighthouse.com was born. Mrs Grierson and her company are the exclusive distributors of Stikins™ self-sticking name labels in North America. The Stikins™ self-sticking ID label is a very easy to apply clothing, shoe and item label. The label sticks on to the wash care label of the garment and is washer and dryer safe. It couldn’t be any easier. And that of course is the idea.

Eager to try these labels out I put them on whatever I could find: water bottles, lunch sacks, hats, clothes. AND they stuck. They stick fabulously! And they are a perfect size. Not too small & not too big, just the right size to see but not be too annoying. I like that they have tons of colors & sizes, so the label can be perfect for whatever you need. I think these labels would be a great gift idea for any MOM, Labels are a Mom's Best Friend!

To PURCHASE:
Visit LabelLighthouse.com

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com created by WebBizIdeas a Minneapolis SEO and Web Design firm. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. Tomoson Product review & giveaway Disclosure.

Three Idiots (A New Bollywood Classic): Review and Giveaway

2011-05-09T00:11:00.000-07:00

3 IDIOTS 1-disc DVD (Catalog #2274044 US and Canada)

Street Date: April 26, 2011

Screen Format: Widescreen

Audio: English/Hindi 5.1 Dolby Digital

Subtitles: English, Spanish and French

U.S. Rating: PG-13

Total Run Time: 164 minutes

Closed Captioned: Yes

Own the award winning hit Bollywood film that had Indian audiences raving when 3 IDIOTS arrived on DVD April 26^th from Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment. Bollywood’s highest grossing film ever stars award winning actors Aamir Khan, Kareena Kapoor and Sharman Joshi. All-new, exclusive bonus features make this DVD a must for fans.

In the tradition of Ferris Bueller’s Day Off comes this refreshing comedy about a rebellious prankster with a crafty mind and a heart of gold. Rascal. Joker. Dreamer. Genius... You've never met a college student quite like "Rancho." From the moment he arrives at India's most prestigious university, Rancho's outlandish schemes turn the campus upside down—along with the lives of his two newfound best friends. Together, they make life miserable for "Virus," the school’s uptight and heartless dean. But when Rancho catches the eye of the dean's sexy daughter, Virus sets his sights on flunking out the "3 idiots" once and for all.

3 IDIOTS won 6 FilmFare Awards in India including Best Picture and Best director. It also swept the International Indian Film Academy Awards with an impressive 16 wins.

3 IDIOTS SPECIAL FEATURES:

Idiots in Ladakh
Aal Izz Well
100% Idiots
Making of Miss Idiot

Have you ever watched a Bollywood movie? Bollywood (the Bolly is Bombay/Mumbai in India) is a huge global movie industry and I'm excited to see more and more Bollywood movies being released on DVD in the U.S. 3 Idiots is the latest Hindi movie to cross the pond and, whether you've experienced the Bollywood genre before or not, this movie is definitely worth your time! I sat down with the hub and First Born to watch 3 Idiots. First Born and I love Bollywood films but between our schedules we rarely have time to watch them. The hub is not as big a fan (as I think he should be). He ended up watching the whole 164 minute movie and laughing several times throughout! 3 Idiots is about 3 young men who learn the value of friendship and what education really should be. Then they re-unite, 10 years later, to discover how that time at college shaped their lives. There are lots of laughs, some surprises, and a few songs along the way. This movie can be viewed with older kids (the PG-13 does apply here) and communicates a great message about learning and competition. Don't let subtitles intimidate you! Check out 3 Idiots!

SHOP: You can purchase 3 Idiots at any retail outlet carrying Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment releases.

WIN: Woot! Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment and ThinkJam are offering two Moana Saves winners their own copies of 3 Idiots. For your mandatory entry, tell us if you've watched a Bollywood movie before and, if so, which one. This is the mandatory entry for this giveaway and must be done before all of the additional entries.

To earn an additional entry, do one (or all) of the following and leave a separate comment for each thing you do:

1. Become a Google Friends Connect follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
2. Become a Networked Blogs follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
3. Follow Moana Saves on Twitter.
4. Follow Twentieth Century Fox Home Entertainment on Twitter.
5. Tweet about this giveaway (limit one tweet per day) using the following: #win 3 Idiots a #bollywood film (2 winners) from @foxhomeent and @moanasaves ends 5/30 http://bit.ly/ijaROn

6. Subscribe to the Moana Saves feed via RSS reader and/or email updates (in the sidebar).

7. Like the Moana Saves Facebook page.

Only one person per email/household/IPaddress can enter this giveaway. He/she must be 18+ years old and reside in the U.S. This giveaway ends on 5/30 at 11:59 PM HST (Hawaii Standard Time). One winner will be chosen randomly via Random.org. I will notify the winner via email and he/she must respond to claim the prize within 48 hours or I will draw another winner.

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive free product to facilitate my review. Any and all opinions here are mine.

Problem: Boring Bedroom; Solution: Cymax Bedroom Furniture!

2011-05-09T00:01:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I've always been more concerned with furnishing the more 'public' areas of my home rather than our bedroom. But when you think of it, with all of the multi-tasking and care you give to your family, you deserve to have a relaxing bedroom, complete with functional bedroom furniture. However, functional doesn't necessarily mean pricey. In fact, when you shop at Cymax, you can get cheap bedroom furniture that is functional and attractive!

Cymax has everything you need to create a calming yet efficient oasis in your bedroom. You can shop bedroom sets if you don't want to think through each piece, or mix and match beds, nightstands, dressers, chests, mattresses, headboards, bunk beds, and bedding. I like the idea of making different pieces work together in a room. Because Cymax's bedroom furniture is so affordable, you don't have to wait 20 years to re-style your bedroom! I would love to outfit our space with a shabby look. To that, Cymax offers this 5 drawer chest along with this fabric-covered blanket chest. Add a great fabric-covered headboard and a fresh coat of seafoam paint and we've created a new bedroom complete with storage. Cymax makes it all possible at a wonderful price! (pssst, Cymax is offering free shipping on almost everything through May16th--it's worth a look!)

This post was brought to you by Cymax. Any and all opinions here are my own.

Peter Pauper Press Review and Giveaway

2011-05-08T01:42:00.000-07:00

Let's just get one thing straight: I think paper is magical. I love the freshness of a white, lined (or unlined) page, the smell of a new book, the moment before I set pen to paper in a new journal or planner. My generation transitioned into computer technology (instead of being born with it) so while typing on a keyboard is faster than writing in longhand, the act of writing, of putting a piece of yourself down on paper, is still amazing to me.

And that's why I was a bit giddy when I got to review paper products from Peter Pauper Press. I was sent several things (a few I'm saving for our Spoiling Dad gift guide for Father's Day) and all of the ones I'm featuring here make wonderful Mother's Day, birthday and graduation presents for the special people in your life.

First some info about Peter Pauper Press from the website:

PETER PAUPER PRESS, founded in 1928, is one of America’s leading publishers of fine gift books, humor books, compact references, travel guides, unique journals, quality stationery, holiday cards, and innovative children’s activity books. We publish approximately 100 books and ancillary products per year.
Our product lines include:

Little Black Books. Hip little reference books on popular topics, from Barbecue and Beer to Casino Games, Cocktails, and Coffee to Sex, Sushi, and Wine.
Little Black Travel Books. Compact guides to top destinations with insider tips and foldout neighborhood maps. Available now: London, New York, Paris, Rome, San Francisco, and Washington, DC. Coming soon: Boston and Walt Disney World.
Our Little Pink Books are sophisticated guides to Elegance, Entertaining, Weddings, and more.
Charming Petites,™ our famous line of mini gift books with ribbon markers and 24K gold-plated charms.
Gift Kits, lively little Petites Plus and Holiday Petites Plus books combined with bonus gifts. New Petites Plush titles combine some of our most popular books with endearing toy animals.
BookNotes™ with Music CDs. Attractive gift books combined with set-the-mood music. For holidays and everyday.
Illustrated Keepsakes gift books, whether heartwarming or humorous, are perfect to treasure or share.
Pocket Gift Editions offer wisdom and wit on a variety of topics.
Stationery, including our new Letter-Perfect boxed stationery and our bestselling thank you and blank note cards, feature contemporary designs and inviting prices.
Personal Organizers. Perfect for brides, moms-to-be, new parents, new homeowners, creative cooks, and busy families.
Our popular Scratch & Sketch™ and other Kids' Activity Books entertain (and educate) kids at home or on the go!
Our Journals offer a variety of formats for inspired writing, including Artisan, Leather, Pocket, Locking, and Foldover.
Engagement Calendars include a variety of appealing design options and formats, featuring the practical weekly planner our customers prefer.
Holiday Cards. We’ve got lots of fresh, festive ways to say “Season’s Greetings!”

I looked at the opportunity to review some paper products from Peter Pauper as a badly-needed "organize me" opportunity just before the kids get out for summer break. And so just like a new piece of paper represents the potential of a new beginning for me, the products I reviewed from Peter Pauper Press provide me with spaces for reminders, quick notes, to-do lists, even feelings. For each product I received, I will include the basic info about it from the site as well as my take and evaluation of it. Ready?

Mom's Weekly Planner is an inspired 18-month planner that makes managing your family's activities and appointments a snap! (Well, almost.) View your weekly master plan on each two-page spread; there's a column for each family member. Monthly tabs, an elastic band place holder, address pages, and tear-out "To-Do" lists round out the package. It's indispensable! Concealed wire-o binding; 7" wide x 9" high.

I really love this organizer. It comes in two solid colors and two designs. I have the one pictured on the right and I love it. Because of the binding, it lays flat when you're using it and there is plenty of room to keep track of everyone's schedule. The one I have starts in July 2011 so for now I'm adding lots of info to the pre-schedule pages which keep track of importat contact info, etc. It will be our Master Book for the hub and I as well as the kids. I can leave it out and open to the current date to keep myself and everyone else up-to-date and on task (I love that!).

Compact Engagement Calendars: These tote-, backpack-, and purse-sized Compact Engagement Calendars come in a variety of appealing design options; all feature the practical weekly planner our customers tell us they prefer. Each engagement calendar covers 16 months (from September 2011 to December 2012) and provides space for notes and addresses. A handy elastic band marks your place, and binding lies flat for ease of use. Measures 5" wide x 7" high.

This compact calendar comes in several awesome designs (I received one that starts in January 2011). I kind of wanted more than one even though I didn't need them because they're gorgeous. I use this smaller calendar at work and take it to my classes I teach. Yes, I have a smartphone and I add appts, meetings, etc to it to keep up with my life but it's hard to jam appts or notes into my phone when I have 6 students waiting for me after class (I am so not a txtr). This is my teaching calendar. In it, I put in student appts, handouts I have to Xerox for the next class, notes about student behavior or about something I need to teach, etc. All the stuff that's easy to scribble down in a minute and that I'll forget if I don't write it all down. This small book helps me keep my head on at work and the design is beautifully calming. It is a visual oasis in my work day and my veritable collection of Post-its on the go.

Oversized Journals: Take pen in hand and spin your tales with bold ingenuity in our handsome bookbound Oversized Journals! Each journal features a beautiful design and its own special features, such as foil accents, a ribbon marker, classic corner and spine treatments, or gilded page edges. Each has 192 lined pages of acid-free, archival-quality paper that takes ink or pencil beautifully. 7-1/4" wide x 9" high.

This is the kind of journal that makes me want to write! First off, I love this design. To me it acknowledges the colorful potential of women who join hands to work together. I should be keeping a personal journal but I don't. I'm crazy busy (isn't every woman?). What I regret most about not keeping a journal is missing those moments with my family that are amazing and deserve to be retold over and over again but often fade with time. Or those moments when I want to tell my daughter how proud I am of her or my hub that I appreciated that thing he did but I get so busy putting out the next fire in our lives that I never follow through and the opportunity is lost. I'm making the unity journal my family slam book. I have already started recording those moments when I'm having fond thoughts about my family members and I'm going to try to pose a question every Sunday that each of us can answer. Maybe this is more of a family journal. I love the idea of my kids having something like this when I'm not around any more and, for me, it will be easier to build over time in the unity journal.

My overall verdict is that Peter Pauper Press makes beautiful tools to help you put pen to paper as well as wonderful gifts for all sorts of occasions. If I had a recommendation to make, it would be that Peter Pauper start a "green" line (if they don't already have one in development) where they offer journals and/or other gifts made from recycled materials. I would love that!

SHOP: You can shop online for Peter Pauper Press products here where orders of $30 or more ship free. Every day. No exceptions. No black-out dates.

WIN: You can win a Mom's Weekly Planner of your choice by telling us what Peter Pauper product you would love to try (check out their selection here) and then leaving a comment below about it. This is the mandatory entry for this giveaway and must be done before all of the additional entries.

To earn an additional entry, do one (or all) of the following and leave a separate comment for each thing you do:

1. Become a Google Friends Connect follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
2. Become a Networked Blogs follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
3. Follow Moana Saves on Twitter.
4. Follow Peter Pauper Press on Twitter.
5. Tweet about this giveaway (limit one tweet per day) using the following: #win a Mom's Weekly Planner from @peterpauperpres and @moanasaves ends 5/23 http://bit.ly/jud2OS

6. Subscribe to the Moana Saves feed via RSS reader and/or email updates (in the sidebar).

7. Like the Moana Saves Facebook page.

8. Like the Peter Pauper Press Facebook page.

Only one person per email/household/IPaddress can enter this giveaway. He/she must be 18+ years old and reside in the U.S. This giveaway ends on Monday, 5/23 at 11:59 PM HST (Hawaii Standard Time). One winner will be chosen randomly via Random.org. I will notify the winner via email and he/she must respond to claim the prize within 48 hours or I will draw another winner.

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive free products to facilitate my review. Any and all opinions here are mine.

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

2011-05-08T00:10:00.000-07:00

This image from World War II reminds me of the sacrifice and resilience of Moms. To all of the Moms out there today, Happy Mother's Day! You make great things happen!

Sharpay's Fabulous Adventure: A Review

2011-05-08T00:01:00.000-07:00

I have to admit that I'm not a fan of Sharpay (back in the High School Musical context) but Second Born really wanted to see this movie and so I was glad to review it when Sharpay's Fabulous Adventure was available.

Some info about the movie from IMDB: Sharpay Evans travels to New York where she is pursuing a Broadway career but it's her dog who lands an acting gig first.Director:Michael LembeckWriters:Robert Horn, Peter Barsocchini (characters)Stars:Ashley Tisdale, Austin Butler and Cameron Goodman. (90 mins)

To celebrate Disney's new Sharpay movie, Second Born invited two of her friends over to eat banana splits and watch it. I was surprised at how the 7-9 yr old set were fairly savvy movie critics! They could tell when a romantic moment or a twist in the plot was coming up.

First I want to talk about what works in the movie. Sharpay is still a flawed, self-centered character and Ashley Tisdale's performance reflects that well. Boi's subplot and performance were fresh and engaging. The spoken dialogue of Sharpay's Fabulous Adventure is pretty snappy which is something I appreciate in films especially when there is no accompanying vulgarity (this movie is rated G, peeps!). Plus the songs were great!

That said, the plot of Sharpay's Fabulous Adventure is fairly predictable for a girl's rite of passage film. I was surprised at how quickly Sharpay got used to being a subordinate (not saying how!)--it didn't feel like a convincing character transformation. And the ending was predictable as well.

Even with those flaws, Sharpay's Fabulous Adventure was a great movie for girls, reinforcing how one should reach for her dream and stay true to herself all the way. This film is a frothy, pink 90 minute girl-power-fest that parents can feel comfortable sharing with their tween daughters. Although Sharpay is as high maintenance as ever, her willingness to work hard for her dream is a great example for girls.

Here is a clip from Sharpay's Fabulous Adventure to whet your appetite for the movie:

Disney Movie Rewards currently has a $8 off coupon for the Sharpay's Fabulous Adventure Combo Pack HERE.

I was compensated for this post although I did receive a free copy of Sharpay's Fabulous Adventure to facilitate this review. Any and all opinions here are my own.

Two More Winners

2011-05-07T19:06:00.000-07:00

Our ProFlowers $50 GC winner is lucky #72, Kimberley!

Our Red Envelope $50 GC winner is lucky #181, Tracy R!

watch for my email, winners!

Winners

2011-05-07T17:40:00.000-07:00

The winner of the White Cabinet greeting card giveaway is #25, Aurora M.

I'm so sad. We had to select a new Bop-It winner because the previous winner never responded.

Our new winner is #167, Dana

Sunny Beadz Review and Giveaway

2011-05-07T00:53:00.000-07:00

Sun + Skin = Tan...or Sunburn depending on skin type and hours in the sun. If your kids ever disagree with you about whether or not to wear sunscreen, get them the Sunny Beadz. Sunny Beadz are made by the makers of Sunny SleeveZ. I had a chance to test out this super neat color changing jewelry. The sol beads change color in the sun! It's so cool! I chose this cute little octopus necklace to test out.

I wore it as I biked to work and as I biked, I realized that since it was a necklace, I couldn't see it change color which defeated the whole purpose! As the day went on and the sun got hotter, students and colleagues noticed that the beads on my necklace had changed colors when going from inside the classroom to outside. This gave me a chance to tell them about how the necklace works.

The ultraviolet light detection beads change color instantly in the sun to alert the user of harmful UV rays. The stronger the UV rays, the deeper the beads color. The beads turn off-white when there is no UV light to shine on them. This is a really neat product to help teach kids about wearing sunscreen and as well as remind them to wear it. You don't even have to wear it, you could attach it to a baby stroller, surfboard, golf bag, lunch box or purse! As you do your daily routine out in the sun, it's a cool color-changing signal to protect your skin!

I don't usually wear sunscreen but after wearing this necklace, I will definitely (attempt) to put sunscreen on more often. Even when I thought the sun wasn't that "hot" or "bright", the beads still changed color which shows me that there is a need to protect my skin.

If I had a chance to do this again, I'd change my choice of jewelery, I think I would choose a bracelet instead, this way I get to SEE the cool color change (and go put sunscreen on) and I can also put it on my family's wrists when they go outside. The necklace itself was difficult for me to determine if the beads had changed color but it was a good visual for others around me to see the color change.

Did you know that just ONE blistering sunburn doubles the risk of skin cancer in later life?

FACT: Skin cancer is the most common form of cancer in the USA today

FACT: UV rays cannot be felt and are present whether or not it is hot outside.

FACT: It takes less than 11 minutes for the sun to irreparably damage your skin

I'm assuming we all love our skin and wouldn't want to develop skin cancer so let's all minimize our risk and get some Sunny Beadz to help remind us, especially our little ones, to wear sunscreen to protect ourselves.

SHOP: Since May is Skin Cancer Awareness month, all Sunny Beadz necklaces have been discounted (from $14.99 to just $12.99), come with a free bracelet and FREE SHIPPING.

View the selection HERE.

WIN: You can win a Sunny Beadz necklace of your choice by liking Sunny Sleevz (the makers of Sunny Beadz) on Facebook and then leaving a comment below telling us you've done so. This is the mandatory entry for this giveaway and must be done before all of the additional entries.

To earn an additional entry, do one (or all) of the following and leave a separate comment for each thing you do:

1. Become a Google Friends Connect follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
2. Become a Networked Blogs follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
3. Follow Moana Saves on Twitter.
4. Follow Sunny Sleevz on Twitter.
5. Tweet about this giveaway (limit one tweet per day) using the following: #win a Sunny Beadz necklace of your choice from @sunnysleevez and @moanasaves ends 6/1 http://bit.ly/ipTx1b

6. Subscribe to the Moana Saves feed via RSS reader and/or email updates (in the sidebar).
7. Like the Moana Saves Facebook page.

Only one person per email/household/IPaddress can enter this giveaway. He/she must be 18+ years old and reside in the U.S. This giveaway ends on 6/1 at 11:59 PM HST (Hawaii Standard Time). One winner will be chosen randomly via Random.org. I will notify the winner via email and he/she must respond to claim the prize within 48 hours or I will draw another winner.

2 more winners

2011-05-07T00:17:00.000-07:00

The winner of the Choffy giveaway is lucky #112, ky2here!

The winner of the Skin MD Natural is lucky #4, Lindsay S!

Winners, watch for an email from me--(and congrats!)

Skintimate Sweeptakes (and a Giveaway!)

2011-05-06T01:28:00.000-07:00

I wanted to share the exciting news that the votinghas begun in the Skintimate Studiosdesign contest. Now through May 18^th you can vote on your favorite design online and be entered inthe Skintimate Ready for Everything Sweepstakes for a chance to win weekly prizes such as $100 giftcard, a Mara Hoffman scarf or a once in a lifetime trip for two to Miami,Florida for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim Show. One winner anda guest or chaperone will receive a two night, three day trip to Miami, wherethey will have a front row into the world of fashion and a meeting with MaraHoffman!

Some info about the previous stage of the Skintimate Ready for Everything Sweepstakes: A select panel of judges chose the top 10 finalists, Vanessa An Lim Greeson, Kara Fenoglietto, Larissa Meuhleder, Jacqueline Moran, Brittany Morganti, Kelsey Denczek-Kalczynski, Christine Tong, Ericka Howard, Olga Barladym, and Gabrielle Zwick. These women will now compete online through May 18th for a once in a lifetime opportunity to intern for two weeks with New York based fashion designer Mara Hoffman, both in New York and Miami, as she prepares for her 2012 fashion show at Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim. While only one Skintimate Studios designer will be part of Hoffman’s team, the other nine finalists will receive a deluxe fashion prize. “These top 10 women are extremely talented,” says Mara Hoffman. “I encourage America to look closely at each of their designs and select one that they feel embodies the “Ready for Everything” theme. I hope all of the finalists rest up because the internship will be filled with lots of interesting and exciting opportunities that they will not want to forget.”

In addition to the design search, fans 13 years of age and older can enter to win fun prizes in the Skintimate Ready for Everything Sweepstakes. Until May 18th, fans can enter to win a $100 gift card, a Mara Hoffman scarf or a once in a lifetime trip for two to Miami, Florida for the 2012 Mercedes-Benz Fashion Week Swim Show. One winner and a guest or chaperone will receive a two night, three day trip to Miami, where they will have a front row into the world of fashion and a meeting with Mara Hoffman!

You can vote once a day for your favorite design at Skintimate Ready for Everything Sweepstakes and Skintimate has also thrown in a Moana Saves giveaway as well!

WIN: One lucky Moana Saves reader will win 4 Skintimate Mara Hoffman cans in the various Signature Scents. To win the MS giveaway on this blog, go to the Skintimate Ready for Everything Sweepstakes, find the designer/design you like the best out of the ten finalists (oh, and vote while you're there so you can win!) and then come back here and tell us in a comment. This is the mandatory entry for this giveaway and must be completed before doing all of the additional ones.

To earn an additional entry, do one (or all) of the following and leave a separate comment for each thing you do:

1. Become a Google Friends Connect follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
2. Become a Networked Blogs follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
3. Follow Moana Saves on Twitter.
4. Tweet about this giveaway (limit one tweet per day) using the following: #win a set of 4 Skintimate Mara Hoffman cans in various signature scents ends 5/20 http://bit.ly/la3Cfp

5. Subscribe to the Moana Saves feed via RSS reader and/or email updates (in the sidebar).
6. Like the Moana Saves Facebook page.

Only one person per email/household/IP address can enter this giveaway. He/she must be 18+ years old and reside in the U.S. This giveaway ends on Friday, 5/20 at 11:59 PM HST (Hawaii Standard Time). One winner will be chosen randomly via Random.org. I will notify the winner via email and he/she must respond to claim the prize within 48 hours or I will draw another winner.

I was not compensated for this post. Any and all opinions here are my own.

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader DVD - A Review

2011-05-06T00:10:00.000-07:00

The Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader (2010) is a fun family movie filled with adventure and fun. In this third installment of the Narnia Chronicles, directed by Michael Apted, Lucy and Edmund Pevensie return to Narnia with their cousin Eustace where they meet up with Prince Caspian for a trip across the sea aboard the royal ship The Dawn Treader. Along the way, they encounter dragons, dwarves, merfolk, and a band of lost warriors before reaching the edge of the world (IMDB.com).

Rated PG (and under 2 hours) made this a very family-friendly movie, especially with my four rambunctious kids. Reepicheep, the large talking mouse, kept them laughing, while "the mist" and other sea creatures had them cuddling up next to me, even covering their eyes at times. Nothing too scary, though. The only thing that was really annoying, at least initially, was cousin Eustace. I guess it helped in making his transformation into a vital part of their survival all the more dramatic, but his voice and bratty antics were wearing on me. Other than that, I enjoyed watching Voyage of the Dawn Treader for our family movie night. There aren't too many adventurous and action-packed movies that I can watch with my kids, so it was nice to share with them the excitement of it all.

One last thing I liked about the movie was how it touched on the consequences of being selfish, greedy, bratty, and unhappy with yourself and who you are. It also showed what happens when you are the opposite of those things: selfless, giving, nice and happy with who you are. My kids made comments throughout the movie and afterward about these things, so it was nice to talk to them about making good choices and having them listen wholeheartedly because I was using examples from the movie! BONUS!

For more information about the movie as well as some fun Narnia games, go HERE. And, for now, here's a preview of The Chronicles of Narnia: Voyage of the Dawn Treader:

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive a free DVD to facilitate this review. Any and all opinions here are mine.

Aloha Friday: Mother's Day Edition

2011-05-06T00:01:00.000-07:00

Review: Emerson Creek Pottery-Iris Drizzle Bottle

2011-05-05T12:07:00.000-07:00

Oh lands. There I was, refilling the most beautiful drizzle bottle on the planet when I realized that I have to review this product! It's no longer just a product either. It's a member of the family!

I had been looking years. Yes, YEARS for a drizzle bottle with both form and function. And I'm not kidding when I say that browsing through the website of Emerson Creek Pottery made my heart patter. Their products are gorgeous. And when I received their Iris Drizzle Bottle, it was love. At first sight.

I use this bottle every day. The spout. Oh, the spout. It doesn't pour, it literally drizzles. Roasted potatoes are a big side dish in our family. Anna's daughters will attest to this. Roasting potatoes (or any other dish) really should be stress free. But for me, it wasn't. I always stressed out just a tad bit about pouring olive oil into a spoon and then attempting to distribute the oil evenly over the potatoes. And of course, there was always more oil on some parts of the pan then on others. But this bottle literally takes care of that. The oil definitely distributes evenly, but also because of this, I use less oil!

It's a beautiful piece of artwork too. Handmade, handcrafted, microwave and dishwasher safe, ovenproof, and lead free. This will keep forever and I'm excited to pass it on to generations after me. I feel so lucky to have been able to review this product. If I didn't get to review it, I would have purchased it as I have purchased other products from Emerson Creek Pottery.

And do not get me started on their Go Green Chili Bowls. I'm so getting me a set of six for Cinco De Mayo. Check out all of the Emerson Creek Pottery goodness HERE.

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive a free product to facilitate my review. Any and all opinions here are mine.

Review and Giveaway of SchoolHouse Kitchen Spreadable Fruit

2011-05-05T00:24:00.000-07:00

Ask the hub or my kids: I'm a saucy girl. As important as the dish I'm eating (or making) is the sauce I put on it, whether it's sweet or savory. So imagine my excitement when I got the opportunity to review a series of spreadable fruit spreads--each of which has an herb or spice partnered with it. As the website points out, "Wherever they are, the fruit drives and the herb rides shotgun. Enjoy the ride!"

SchoolHouse Kitchen sent me Fruit x4 which is a 4-pack of their low-sugar spreadable fruit. These are jam-like spreads that contain all natural ingredients. For instance, Strawberry Black Peppercorn (my current favorite!) contains strawberries, sugar, cranberries, lemon juice and black pepper. That's it! Now I have to admit that the "gentle infusion" of black peppercorn worried me before I tried it. After I tried it, I was sold on the herbal afternote paired with fruit. It is fairly light and enhances the flavor of whatever you eat with the spread. For my favorite, the pepper adds kind of an 'up' note at the end of your bite. (I know this doesn't make sense, just trust me!) Let's just say that my family ate a whole loaf of banana bread because it was SO GOOD with butter and Strawberry Black Peppercorn. As for the other flavors, my second fave is Peach Rosemary but they all are yummy and worth ~~hoarding~~ sharing.

If the products aren't enough to gush about, SchoolHouse Kitchen is a family-owned business that started with Patsy Smith's recipes and extended to include her children in various positions in the growing company. I love that the mission of SchoolHouse Kitchen is "to raise funds for educational organizations and to make [Patsy Smith's] gourmet products available to more people" Even better, their purpose is two-fold:

We create original, all-natural, specialty food products of superior quality.
Profits from the sale of our gourmet goods enable us to support educational causes.

Between the mouth-watering condiments and the company's giving-back goals, SchoolHouse Kitchen is a business venture that I'm very comfortable supporting. And did I mention how good their spreadable fruit is?

SHOP: SchoolHouse Kitchen also offers mustards, dressings and marinades as well as chutneys. Ordering a Festive Foursome or one of the Trios is a great way to introduce your favorite foodie to the creative sauces of SchoolHouse Kitchen--say for Mother's Day or Father's Day!

WIN: You can win your own Fruit x4 ($26 value!) from SchoolHouse Kitchen by going to their website and joining their mailing list (bottom of the main page towards the right) and then leaving a comment below telling us you've done so. This is the mandatory entry for this giveaway and must be done before all of the additional entries.

To earn an additional entry, do one (or all) of the following and leave a separate comment for each thing you do:

1. Become a Google Friends Connect follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
2. Become a Networked Blogs follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
3. Follow Moana Saves on Twitter.
4. Follow SchoolHouse Kitchen on Twitter.
5. Tweet about this giveaway (limit one tweet per day) using the following: #win a 4-pack of spreadable fruit from A@schoolhouserkitc and @moanasaves ends 5/30 http://bit.ly/kAgwHB

6. Subscribe to the Moana Saves feed via RSS reader and/or email updates (in the sidebar).
7. Like the Moana Saves Facebook page.

8. Like the SchoolHouse Kitchen Facebook page.

9. Tell us which SchoolHouse Kitchen mustards, dressing, marinade, chutney or spreadable fruit you'd love to try.

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive a free product in exchange for my review. Any and all opinions here are my own.

A Review of Sibu beauty products

2011-05-05T00:01:00.000-07:00

As someone with sensitive skin, I was excited to find something I could try for the Spoiling Mom gift guide for Mother's Day. When looking at the ingredients list, I felt comfortable with trying the Sibu beauty products made with Sea Buckthorn from Tibet. These products seemed right up my alley as an essential oils user also.

First I used the Sibu Cleanse & Detox Sea Buckthorn Facial Soap, 3.5-Ounce and my face felt definitely clean and ready for the day. What interested me is that it is 100% natural, has a natural astringent, promotes tissue recovery and revitalizes skin cells. Some of the ingredients in the soap: Coconut oil, palm oil, safflower oil, purified water, oatmeal, sea buckthorn puree, soybean protein, sea buckthorn leaves.

The Sea Buckthorn Facial Cream Repair & Protect is amazing- after using the soap, I applied the cream and felt everything tightening right up! My skin felt great! It also rejuvenates sun-damaged skin and protects it from environmental stress. This is a daytime cream, meant to put on in the morning before you get your day started.

I definitely want to look into other products by Sibu Beauty like the balancing facial cleanser for the end of the day to with exfoliation particles to help remove excess oil and impurities and also removes make-up. Sibu also offers supplements to treat your skin from the inside out as well!

Sibu beauty products are paraben-free and cruelty-free, and contain NO dairy, yeast, wheat, gluten, sodium or preservatives.

Check out their site http://www.sibubeauty.com/ for more products: eye cream, soft gels supplement, oil and even a supplement drink. These products are also sold at Amazon. Sibu skincare would be a great way to pamper the mom in your life--naturally!

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive free products in exchange for my review. Any and all opinions here are my own.

He Is We "My Forever" Album Review

2011-05-04T00:37:00.000-07:00

He Is We. Catchy band name, isn't it? Well their music is even catchier. I've been listening to this CD for a week and the songs are so catchy! Even my pre-teen likes the music as she has now snagged my CD and has it in her player. The story of He Is We began in the summer of 2008 when Rachel Taylor and Trevor Kelly worked at Tel Brown Music in Tacoma, Washington. The two became fast friends and the transition from music store co-workers to band mates happened naturally. Their quirky songwriting began to get attention when they posted "Pardon Me" online. At first the track got five or six plays a day but then thousands.

My Forever is one of this music duo's latest albums. It features 11 tracks including an acoustic version of "And Run." (See below) Here's a sampling of lines from this song:

Hard to admit it but now I'm thinking freely.

I'm going to open my mind to all these newfound exciting possibilities.

I'm making all my own plans.

Throwing all my old ones away.

Gotta grow up be someone.

Draw a map, find a path, take a breath and run."

Aren't those lyrics unique, empowering....FANTASTIC? The best part about their music is that all the songs are written by Rachel and Trevor. ALL! You are listening to Rachel’s words and Trevor’s music. I am so very impressed. These two artists have some definite natural talent.

One more preview of what you'll hear when you purchase the album. This was my favorite song and it's even more enjoyable when you see the humorous music video.

BUY: My Forever is available on Amazon and iTunes as well as other music outlets online and off.

I was not compensated for this post but I did receive a product sample to facilitate this review. Any and all opinions here are mine.

Glee Encore on DVD: A Review

2011-05-04T00:10:00.000-07:00

My family is a big fan of Glee and, when the opportunity came up to review Glee Encore, I knew I had to snatch it up! Glee Encore was released on April 19, 2011 for retail price at $26.98 and runs for 142 minutes - which is about 2 and a half hours of JUST Glee music! Just the amazing music styling of the cast, one right after the other! IF you want to know what songs are featured on the DVD, check it out here.

This is the product description from Amazon.com -

Put on your dancing shoes and get ready to Gleek Out! This full-length DVD features a set list of Season One’s most sensational musical numbers – back to back so the party never has to end! All your favorites are here, including Queen’s “Somebody To Love, Journey’s “Don’t Stop Believing” and Madonna’s “Express Yourself!”

Once I pressed play and the DVD began, I couldn't stop singing. I may not have the best voice but I love to sing along with the Glee cast! I loved watching the musical numbers and tried to remember the reasons why they were singing that particular song.It makes me want to watch Season 1 all over again! I really enjoyed how it made me feel like I was watching the music videos for the songs. I loved it!

Glee did a really good job picking the songs to feature in the DVD.

My kids danced along to the more upbeat songs like "Don't Stop Believing" and "Lean on Me".

My husband and I sang along to most of the songs together. I pretty much don't know all the words to the songs but I will sing along nonetheless! Husband knows all the words to the songs and sings along perfectly!

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive a free DVD to facilitate this review. Any and all opinions here are mine.

NOVICA Review and Giveaway

2011-05-04T00:01:00.000-07:00

Working with both visual (painters, sculptors, photographers) and performing artists (musicians and actors) on a daily basis at my job has helped me develop a sense of appreciation for the creative process, beauty, and value of ART.

When I came across the mission of NOVICA, I was impressed and felt fortunate for the opportunity to review one of their products. The mission of NOVICA is: "We want to give artists and artisans around the world a global platform to express their true artistic talents and to spur their creativity. And, we want to provide you with access to unique, hard-to-find items at great values that only the Internet infrastructure can allow."

NOVICA has a beautiful, wonderful, colorful assortment of home decor, handmade jewelry and apparel, paintings, and is just a great place for unique gifts! Plus Novica has started a consultant program at Novica Live where they can help folks celebrate world culture and fair trade in homes across the nation.

I chose to review a pair of sterling silver dangle earrings, named 'Tiger Lily' created by an artist named Wadarat Supasirisuk from Thailand. My cute earrings came by FEDEX express mail in a beautiful gift box with a handwritten note from the artist! I was very impressed by the quick delivery, presentation of the product, and happy that it was exactly as pictured and described on the website. My daughters were most impressed of all and they can't wait for the day when mommy lets them "borrow" her (my) jewelry.

SHOP: Earrings are probably the easiest accessory to buy as a gift as they are practical, take little space, thoughtful, and one of the accessories that I don't believe I'll ever have "too many" of. Check out NOVICA.com for awesome gifts for Mom!!

WIN: You can win a Novica $30 gift certificate by going to the Novica website and then leaving a comment below telling us what you love at Novica. This is the mandatory entry for this giveaway and must be done before all of the additional entries.

To earn an additional entry, do one (or all) of the following and leave a separate comment for each thing you do:

1. Become a Google Friends Connect follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).

2. Become a Networked Blogs follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
3. Follow Moana Saves on Twitter.

4. Follow Novica on Twitter.

5. Tweet about this giveaway (limit one tweet per day) using the following: #win a $30 GC from @novica and and @moanasaves ends 5/30 http://bit.ly/kKv1iY

6. Subscribe to the Moana Saves feed via RSS reader and/or email updates (in the sidebar).
7. Like the Moana Saves Facebook page.

8. Like the Novica Facebook page.

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive a free product in exchange for my review. Any and all opinions here are my own.

Winners

2011-05-03T16:54:00.000-07:00

The Bop-It Winner is #89, Ossmcalc (Christine W).

The Tropical Traditions coconut chips winner is #110, Renee G.

A Mothers Day Discount courtesy of Fox Home Entertainment

2011-05-03T16:11:00.000-07:00

To celebrate Mothers day this coming Sunday we’re offering a 24hr exclusive discount on a selection of Family Friendly titles courtesy of the Fox Home Entertainment catalogue.

In order to receive $3 off your purchase and FREE shipping in time for Mothers Day, simply visithttp://www.foxconnect.com/blogs and enter the promotion codeMOMMY

Treat your Mom to one of her favorite films from our large array including:

- Devil Wears Prada
- Ice Age
- Ice Age: Meltdown
- Romeo and Juliet
- Ever After
- Australia
- Mr. & Mrs. Smith
- Moulin Rouge
- Alvin & the Chipmunks
- Horton Hears a Who

Hurry fast though as DVD purchases are based on a first come first served basis.

I did not receive compensation for this post. Any and all opinions here are mine.

Seneca Farms Oatmeal & Fruit Review

2011-05-03T14:02:00.000-07:00

DID you know: That nearly 60% of U.S. parents of children ages 3-17 admit that their child skips breakfast, with more than half of U.S. moms wishing their child ate a more nutritious breakfast.

*Results of 2011 Children's Nutrition Survey, conducted by Harris Interactive for Seneca Farms

Breakfast, oh how I never prepare for this meal of the day. I mean it should be fairly simple to do...right?! Well I feel like it is often a hectic time of the day. Wake up, get dressed, eat, get ready for school....etc. I personally don't want to be part of that 60%, so we keep breakfast very simple, oatmeal or cereal. Well we eat oatmeal most of week & cereal only so often...if it was the kids way we'd have cereal EVERYDAY...but that would break the bank with 5 kids. So oatmeal it is....that gets pretty boring...plain oatmeal with brown sugar. When given the opportunity try out Seneca Farms Oatmeal & Fruit, I was anxious to have more breakfast options.

Here is some info about Seneca Farms Oatmeal & Fruit Product Details:

In less time than it takes to make a cup of coffee, heat the six-ounce microwaveable cup – no milk or water necessary – in the microwave for 45 seconds.
Seneca Farms Oatmeal & Fruit has no trans fats or cholesterol, and is a great source of Vitamin C.
Two initial flavors are being introduced - Apple Cinnamon and Vanilla Peach. More flavors will be added in the coming months.
Seneca Farms Oatmeal & Fruit is a quick and healthy breakfast option for the entire family, a satisfying after-school snack for kids and even works as part of a healthy weight loss plan for those looking to lose or maintain weight loss.

OH I cannot tell you how excited we ALL were when we got the samples to try. My kids quickly got to the table & even sat patiently....that NEVER happens. After heating the oatmeal, my husband snagged a quick bite of each flavors & the kids devoured the cups quickly. I've never seen them eat oatmeal so fast, and beg for more. A few quotes from our gang: "OOOO YUMMY," Shae 4 years old. "I love finding the fruit, its delicious," Klailea 7 years old.

Well the results are DEFINITE...I am going to have to stock up on Seneca Farms Oatmeal & Fruit.

TO BUY: Seneca Farms Oatmeal & Fruit can be found at Walmart and in a wide variety of retail grocery stores. For a detailed store list, visit www.seneca-farms.com.

I love COUPONS (get one when you like Seneca Snacks on Facebook!): http://on.fb.me/bloggertour.

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive product to facilitate my review. Any and all opinions here are my own.

Review and Giveaway of Do Tell Family Relationship Game

2011-05-03T00:45:00.000-07:00

We laughed, we cried, we barked like dogs! OK, we really only did two of the three but, hey, we almost cried! Do Tell, the Family Edition of the Relationship Game, is specifically designed for families to laugh, learn and relate to each other across generations. The game takes two to eight players on a wildly imaginative, laugh-out-loud, uniquely imaginative and deceptively thought-provoking journey. Playing time is approximately 45 minutes and the game itself is simple to play. For ages 8 to 88!

The goal of the game is to be the first one to reach middle sun symbol which is the end of the game. You move your token according to the roll of the die (dice if you have more than four players) and you choose the card according to the space you land on. There are Do cards which are action cards, Tell cards which require you to answer a question or share an experience, Risk cards which have you divulge or act out something a bit edgy and Wild cards which shake up the game in a big way.

We had a lot of fun following the instructions on the cards. We'd just had the average teenage blow-up before the game and so some of us were on shaky ground with each other. Through the game we were able to resolve the 'crisis' (thus, the almost crying part) and end up laughing about it (not the only laughing part in the game, by the way). And yes one Risk card required us to all bark like dogs which freaked out Chevy the Super Dog. Do Tell really drew all of us into the game (even the dog!) and helped us to connect with each other in new and interesting ways.

This game recently earned a coveted Kidlutions Preferred Product Award because it exemplifies what social-emotional development is all about. The obvious reason is that it brings families together to talk and laugh in a very meaningful kind of way. Do Tell may actually help your kids do better in school, too, because it encourages healthy social-emotional development which researchers believe leads to improvement in other areas. You can check out successful reviews of Do Tell HERE (some of them are from families with autistic and deaf children).

Overall, Do Tell, the Family Edition of the Relationship Game, is a great addition to our collection of board games. It will be loads of fun to play on a Sunday night when all of us are at home or when extended family visit us. This is one game I'm going to loan out to the other Moana Saves bloggers so they can experience the magic of the game with their families!

SHOP: You can buy Do Tell, the Family Edition of the Relationship Game, for your family's enjoyment online at Amazon HERE.

WIN: You can win Do Tell, the Family Edition of the Relationship Game by liking Do Tell's Facebook page here and then leaving a comment below telling us you've done so. This is the mandatory entry for this giveaway and must be done before all of the additional entries.

To earn an additional entry, do one (or all) of the following and leave a separate comment for each thing you do:

1. Become a Google Friends Connect follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).

2. Become a Networked Blogs follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
3. Follow Moana Saves on Twitter.

4. Tweet about this giveaway (limit one tweet per day) using the following: play DO TELL with your family! #win the game from @dotellkathy and @moanasaves ends 5/30 http://bit.ly/jIGScH

5. Subscribe to the Moana Saves feed via RSS reader and/or email updates (in the sidebar).
6. Like the Moana Saves Facebook page.

7. Follow Do Tell on Twitter.

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive a free product in exchange for my review. Any and all opinions here are my own.

doTERRA Cypress: 10 percent off in May!

2011-05-03T00:09:00.000-07:00

Cypress Essential Oil 10% Off During May
Cupressus sempervirens

Distilled from the twigs and foliage of the cypress tree, cypress essential oil is popularly used to ease breathing as well as a throat gargle. It can be used to ease tight, tense muscles, and used topically to support localized blood flow*. A blend of cypress and grapefruit is used in spa therapies for beautifying legs and hips. For aromatic or topical use.

15 ml 3005 (3005)

US$ 18.60

~~normally $20.67~~

Also 10% off in May: OnGuard Sanitizing Hand Wipes
On Guard Hand Sanitizing Wipes provide the protective properties of doTERRA’s proprietary On Guard blend of Certified Pure Therapeutic Grade essential oils in the convenience of a portable hand wipe. Each biodegradable wipe is formulated to kill 99.99% of most germs that can make you sick. The On Guard blend of wild orange, clove, cinnamon, eucalyptus, and rosemary can be an important part of a defensive hygiene strategy during seasons of flus, colds, and other infectious outbreaks.

3809 $15.33 retail 2 boxes, 40 wipes

Again there are different ways to order-
Retail (10% off the special),
Preferred Customer (17% off all retail + 27% off the special) or
Wholesale/IPC (25% off all retail + 35% off the special).

Go HERE to shop retail, Cypress is under Single Oils, wipes are under doTERRA Living.
Go HERE to join as either a Preferred Customer ($10 fee) or Wholesale member/IPC ($35 or purchase 100 Point kit) and you can also add this to your order and get your Loyalty reward program started.
*Oahu residents- let me know by May 15, I can add to my order and you won't have shipping or tax added.

Email me if you have questions about oils, purchasing, joining or anything I have discussed.

I am a wholesale member/IPC of doTERRA, all opinions are my own.
Get more Essential Oil updates on twitter @aboutoils

Cymax, a great online furniture retailer!

2011-05-02T01:04:00.000-07:00

Today I get to introduce you to a furniture e-tailer that is new to me: Cymax. Cymax has more than 100 specialty online stores--one of the largest selections of products on the web. Cymax Stores offer competitive pricing, helpful information, the best customer service and secure ordering. One of Cymax stores Computer Desks n More showcases a HUGE selection of computer desks! Need a new office desk? Cymax is the place to start (and end).

At the bottom of the Computer Desks n More homepage there is a great guide for choosing the kind of computer desk that will maximize your productivity and utilize the space in your office or home office. Looking for a U-shaped desk, L-shaped desk or a workstation? Cymax breaks down the parts of the desk, how to shop for them and which features make up a great office suite.

My personal favorite is the roll-top desk. I love the antique-y look of one, all of the nooks and crannies and how you can just roll the top down to cover your office. If I'm going to live in reality with the rest of the world, however, we probably only have room for this kind of workstation in our 1200 sq foot home (in Hawai'i so who's complaining?). Either way, I know I'll be able to shop for the best office desk at the best price at Cymax!

This post was brought to you by Cymax. Any and all opinions here are my own.

Aerobie Fun in the Sun! (Review and Giveaway)

2011-05-02T00:10:00.000-07:00

Spring is here! Or should I say: "Spring is here according to the calendar!" I hope the weather is cooperating in your area of the world. Some of my poor family members woke up to snow this morning. Hopefully you're experiencing warmer weather and as a result more outdoor play! My family and I have been playing all week with our newest toy, the Aerobie Sprint ring flier. This fun toy is like a frisbee in that it flies. The end. The qualities that make an Aerobie better than a frisbee are:

Compact and lightweight

Flies twice as far as conventional discs

Durable (doesn't crack like a frisbee after sun exposure)

Your throw flies much faster

Easier to catch than a frisbee

Made in the U.S.A. (Actually, I can't say where your little blue frisbee sitting in the garage was made but I always love to support products produced in America.)

While reading about the Aerobie I learned that the Sprint's smaller size is its only distinction from the otherwise identical Aerobie Pro flying ring which holds the Guinness World Record for the longest throw. Wow! As soon as my husband found out I had an Aerobie in the house he was so excited. He has many memories as a child playing with these fun toys. He prefers an Aerobie because of the speed and distance he can get in throwing the disc. What I really like is the minimized pain I had in attempting to catch his throws. With a frisbee I'm always jamming a finger as I try to catch the disc but with the Aerobie's soft rubber edge it's much easier to catch. Plus, I love to shoot my arm up through the center and catch it like I would a ring toss.

If you want to increase outdoor play for your children this is a great way to exercise and enjoy yourself at the same time. It's fun for throwers of all skill levels and is available in orange, magenta, and yellow.

BUY: Aerobie has a great application on their site where you can look up local retailers that sell the fliers.

WIN: You can win an Aerobie by leaving a comment below telling me why you want to win this giveaway.

To earn an additional entry, do one (or all) of the following and leave a separate comment for each thing you do:

1. Become a Google Friends Connect follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).

2. Become a Networked Blogs follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
3. Follow Moana Saves on Twitter.

4. Tweet about this giveaway (limit one tweet per day) using the following: get outside with the kids! #win an Aerobie from @moanasaves ends 5/16 http://bit.ly/ieLbYG

5. Subscribe to the Moana Saves feed via RSS reader and/or email updates (in the sidebar).
6. Like the Moana Saves Facebook page.

Only one person per email/household/IPaddress can enter this giveaway. He/she must be 18+ years old and reside in the U.S. or Canada. This giveaway ends on Monday, 5/16 at 11:59 PM HST (Hawaii Standard Time). One winner will be chosen randomly via Random.org. I will notify the winner via email and he/she must respond to claim the prize within 48 hours or I will draw another winner.

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive a free product through the Family Review Network in exchange for my review. Any and all opinions here are my own.

Punflay iPad Apps (A Review of Rafter and Puzzle Mania)

2011-05-02T00:09:00.000-07:00

My daughter had so much fun helping me with a Punflay iPhone math game review last January that we jumped at the opportunity to review again. This time we're reviewing some iPad game applications. (My kids LOVE more time on mom & dad's electronics!) Punflay has a wide selection of children's educational games from learning numbers and ABCs to a virtual dissection of a frog. (How cool is that!) Our games of choice were Rafter and Puzzle Mania.

Rafter was originally created for the iPhone. Due to it's popularity (it was featured on "What We Are Playing" and "New and Noteworthy" in the App Store) Punflay created an iPad version. This game appeals to a wide age audience with its challenging hundred-and-one levels of progressive puzzle difficulty. The player is tested by drawing blocks or balls (square, rectangle, long, short, thin, thick, small, large) and launching them at little red mines. My child's favorite? The balls BOUNCE! Creating them and watching as they slowly bounced their way to the red mine was so much fun and challenging for her. Here's a preview of the fun:

Puzzle Mania is not just a child's puzzle game but it's fun for the whole family! Included in Puzzle Mania are 4 puzzle games for the price of one.

Leaf Hopper (50 engaging levels of a math based puzzle with a unique solution)
Dragon Key (Open 50 Doors and 100’s of locks to complete this tricky task)
Beetle-Date (50 levels of this grid based puzzle will really get on your nerves)
Muscle it (25 levels of this ding puzzle is a treat for young ones)

My eldest child's favorite game was Muscle It. She loved trying to get the muscle through the obstacle course to the clam. Her second favorite? The crazy dating beetles! Select one beetle to move up and that other dog-gone beetle goes the opposite direction! It was a laugh-filled brain-teaser for the whole family. Here's the preview video:

I highly recommend these games for any person at ANY age. I spent a sleepless night of frustration as I tried to pass my husband's record in many of these puzzle games.

BUY: You can preview and purchase Punflay's games and educational apps at their website or the iTunes app store.

I was not compensated for this review although I did receive a free download of the app to facilitate the review. Any and all opinions here are mine.

Milkmakers, A Review! and Giveaway

2011-05-02T00:01:00.000-07:00

Another breast milk supplement...

Except this one is way more fun than most!

It's a cookie.

When I was asked if I wanted to review Milkmakers,

I believe my exact words were

"Shoot! I'll eat me a cookie!"

A lot more fun than taking a supplement,

or drinking tea,

or doing a milk-making mantra...

It's a cookie.

A good cookie.

Well, two good cookies.

I recieved the dairy free oatmeal raisin, and the oatmeal chocolate chip. I asked my hubby and kids if they wanted some, and they were a little skeptical looking at the logo. I think they were afraid that it would make them into the first males to be able to nurse a baby. Ha!

Finally I convinced them that it was just a healthy cookie with a few fun ingredients to help me (not neccessarily them) make milk. And Dad and kids like them too! They ate all of my chocolate chip cookies.

And then I regretted trying to get them to eat them.

The cookies did help my supply increase, and the best part was I didn't have to remember to "take" them! They're pretty tempting on their own.

Milkmakers are specially formulated lactation cookies designed to help moms increase their breast milk supply safely, healthily, and most of all, enjoyably.

The cookies are made with all natural ingredients including oatmeal, brewers yeast, and flaxseed, which all are known to help in producing milk. Here are the snippets from their site on each of these ingredients:

"Oats are eaten by nursing moms worldwide to boost breastmilk supply, and are a nutritional powerhouse providing plenty of whole grains, fiber, iron, and an abundance of healthy vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants.
Brewer's yeast is a traditional herbal remedy used to stimulate and increase the production of breastmilk and is a rich source of the B-vitamins and amino acids essential for nursing moms and their babies.
Flax seed provides an abundance of omega-3 fatty acids, necessary for brain development, which can be passed from mother to baby through breastmilk. These ingredients work together to make milkmakers a wholesome, beneficial treat for breastfeeding moms."

More perks: They are baked fresh, and sent straight to your door! They come in cute simple packaging, and the bags reseal for you to come back to later.

These are the perfect way to spoil any new mom! Milkmakers have been featured by KUOW NPR, The Doctors, Seattle Magazine, American Baby, Time.com, Glamour and others.

SHOP: To buy Milkmakers go HERE. Also available on the company's website are links to additional resources for breastfeeding moms as well as suggestions for finding a lactation consultant and dietician.

WIN: One lucky Moana Saves reader will win a supply of Milkmakers Cookies! To enter this giveaway, go to the Milkmakers home page and then come back to leave a comment saying which flavor of Milkmakers you'd love to try.

To earn an additional entry, do one (or all) of the following and leave a separate comment for each thing you do:

1. Become a Google Friends Connect follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).

2. Become a Networked Blogs follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
3. Follow Moana Saves on Twitter.

4. Follow Milkmakers on Twitter.

5. Tweet about this giveaway (limit one tweet per day) using the following: are you pregnant or nursing? #win @milkmakers cookies from @moanasaves ends 5/16 http://bit.ly/ldjS2U

6. Subscribe to the Moana Saves feed via RSS reader and/or email updates (in the sidebar).
7. Like the Moana Saves Facebook page.

8. Like the Milkmakers Facebook page.

Only one person per email/household/IPaddress can enter this giveaway. He/she must be 18+ years old and reside in the U.S. This giveaway ends on Monday, 5/16/11 at 11:59 PM HST (Hawaii Standard Time). One winner will be chosen randomly via Random.org. I will notify the winner via email and he/she must respond to claim the prize within 48 hours or I will draw another winner.

*I was not paid, but did recieve Milkmakers to facilitate this review. All opinions here are mine.

More Winners!

2011-05-01T04:00:00.000-07:00

Organize It! Mom chore charts: MomLovesDeals

Don't Throw Away Those Coupons! book: Renee G

Horrid Henry Rocks book: Raven In A Blue Room

All winners have been contacted by email and will have 48 hours to respond with their mailing address or a new winner will be chosen. Or email me HERE

Pink Dandy Vegan Whipped Satin Luxury Cream: A Review and Giveaway

2011-05-01T00:10:00.000-07:00

As I sit here typing this review, I feel pampered with my most recent application of Pink Dandy Whipped Satin Luxury Cream for Hands & Body (4 ounces - Vegan Friendly). This cream is color-free, vegan and phthalate-free. The product ingredients include:

Grapeseed Oil is rich in vitamins, minerals, linoleic acid and other essential fatty acids; which, help to strengthen tissue cells and preserve the natural moisture of the skin.
Coconut Oil is perfect for dry, itchy, sensitive skin. It will not clog pores and it absorbs readily into the skin.
Cocoa Butter is well known for healing sun burnt skin and softening the appearance of stretch marks and wrinkles. This butter also has a high reputation for providing a barrier on the skin, which helps retain moisture and to help restore hydration to the skin.

Pink Dandy Whipped Satin Luxury Cream for Hands & Body does the following:

• Thick formula that deeply penetrates the skin

• Does not leave an oily or greasy residue

• Does not clog pores

• Gentle formula which is great for sensitive skin types

• Aids with the appearance of stretch marks and wrinkles

• Great formula for extremely dry skin and every day use

• Extremely hydrates skin

How do I like Pink Dandy Whipped Satin Luxury Cream for Hands & Body? Thumbs up, peeps! The thickness of the cream feels a bit scandalous, like I'm spoiling myself, when I put it on. I chose the Relaxing Blend (Lavender, Bergamot & Sweet Orange) from the Scents page (you can seriously customize the scent of the cream or any other product Pink Dandy offers!)--the scent is wonderful and has serious staying power. I can apply the cream and smell good for hours! Even though the cream is thick, it is not greasy and really moisturizes my skin. I have some other habits I indulge in to relax and reward myself after a long day but Pink Dandy Whipped Satin Luxury Cream for Hands & Body is an affordable luxury for my mind and body. Plus, it's calorie-free! For Mother's Day, any of the products Pink Dandy offers would provide affordable luxury for the mom in your life.

SHOP: Go to Pink Dandy and take 15% off your next online purchase when you use this code: Summer22 (exp 6/30/11).

WIN: One lucky Moana Saves reader will win Pink Dandy Whipped Satin Luxury Cream for Hands & Body (4 ounces - Vegan Friendly) in the scent of her choice. To enter this giveaway, go to the Scents page and then come back to leave a comment saying which Pink Dandy scent you'd love to try.

To earn an additional entry, do one (or all) of the following and leave a separate comment for each thing you do:

1. Become a Google Friends Connect follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).

2. Become a Google Friends Connect follower of Pink Dandy Chatter.
3. Become a Networked Blogs follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
4. Follow Moana Saves on Twitter.

5. Follow Pink Dandy on Twitter.

6. Tweet about this giveaway (limit one tweet per day) using the following: #win the hand and body cream from @pinkdandy and @moanasaves ends 5/14 http://bit.ly/lhRkKN

7. Subscribe to the Moana Saves feed via RSS reader and/or email updates (in the sidebar).
8. Like the Moana Saves Facebook page.

9. Like the Pink Dandy Facebook page.

Only one person per email/household/IPaddress can enter this giveaway. He/she must be 18+ years old and reside in the U.S. This giveaway ends on 5/14/11 at 11:59 PM HST (Hawaii Standard Time). One winner will be chosen randomly via Random.org. I will notify the winner via email and he/she must respond to claim the prize within 48 hours or I will draw another winner.

Fit Kit

2011-05-01T00:01:00.000-07:00

How are you doing on your New Year's resolution. Sorry to bring it up but we're a quarter of the way through the year. (Can you believe it?!? April has come and gone!) One of my resolutions is to increase my daily exercise. You would think chasing kids around all day I would have a more lean physique but I don't. That's why I was glad to receive Fit Kit's home fitness kit for review. Here are the details of what is included in the kit:

Strength Training:

resistance tube with handles
flat resistance band
stability attachment

Cardiovascular Exercise:

jump rope
pedometer

Exercise Safety Features:

reflective arm band
ID tag
safety alarm on pedometer

Your purchase gives you exclusive access to their online exercise library.

What I liked: this kit provides a workout that can be done at home, it's compact and portable so if you do travel you can take your gym with you, it's useful for people of varying fitness levels and the online library provides a good variety of exercises. My favorite piece is the stability attachment. Basically this is a black band that can attach to the resistance bands and then placed in the frame of a closed door. This allows for more exercises like rows, chest flys and presses, extensions, etc. from one little resistance band. No more bulky exercise equipment taking up space in your home!

As part of the review I was also given access to the FitKitClub, an online fitness resource center that provides nutrition programs, healthy recipes, and access to dedicated FitKit coaches where you can learn more and get answers to your fitness questions. The FitKitClub also offers a 6 week FitKitSTART workout schedule, caloric burn charts depending on your exercise and level of intensity, and meal plans with calorie counts to get you started on your journey to weight-loss. I was impressed with the details of the 6 week program. I'm already into week 2 of tracking my calories and increasing my exercising dependent on the calculations made on the FitKitClub's site with my weight/height and goal caloric intake. FitKitClub costs only $24.99 a year or $19.99/year with your FitKit purchase.

BUY: Visit the FitKit website to purchase your exercise kit for $29.99. Be sure to enter the code MOANASAVES at checkout for a 20% discount. This is a great mother's day gift that keeps on giving!

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive a free product in exchange for my review. Any and all opinions here are my own.

PROM: Who are you going (to see it) with?

2011-04-29T16:29:00.000-07:00

Not sure about you- but I've got my date!

Prom (2011)

103 min - Comedy | Drama - 29 April 2011 (USA)

Director: Joe Nussbaum

Writer:Katie Wech

Stars: Aimee Teegarden, Thomas McDonell DeVaughn Nixon and

This movie has something for everyone- no matter which stereotype you fit in high school- you see yourself in one or more of the characters. Prom for most high schoolers is one of the most anticipated events of their school years. And it's all about who you're going with, what you're wearing, how you're going to get there and all those details that really make the night.

Some of the movie watchers got dressed up and into the spirit of the movie. This movie would be perfect in most places as it is PROM season most everywhere (except here in Hawaii- we do that during Spring Break and not in our gyms).

We all knew these people in high school who appear in PROM:

Nova: the super-achiever, prom planning committee chair and girl who just can't get asked
Jesse: the bad boy, uninterested in anything to do with school who just doesn't seem to care
Jordan: the popular girl
Tyler: Jordan's other half, the jock
Justin and Mei: that couple that has been together since middle school- already a given that they are going!
Lucas: the wanna-be cool kid, doing what it takes to fit in and get noticed
Corey: Lucas' best friend and definite band geek
Rolo: dude!
Ali: Nova's best friend and girl that keeps tabs on what everyone is doing
Simone: Sophomore, talented musician and confused about boys
Brandon: the other super-achiever, involved in everything and going places
Lloyd: the shy guy
Tess: Lloyd's step-sister and his personal cheerleader
Kranton: watch out!

There were some cute ways of the guys asking their dates to Prom, but Lloyd wins for most attempts and keeping them creative! Jesse just didn't get what the big deal about Prom was, but Nova tries to teach him that no matter who you were the last 4 years of high school, it's the one night that brings them all together. It's like their lives all finally intersect for this one big event they've been looking forward to. It hasn't been all ups either- it almost gets canceled when the decorations all get destroyed and they learn a neighboring high school is using almost the same exact theme!

This movie had us reliving the good times and the bad from our proms: picking out dresses and the rest of the ensemble, getting hair and nails done- all dolled up for pictures with our dates, cars breaking down, dates leaving with other people, after-prom parties.

After the movie, we talked about which PROM character we were most like during our high school years:

Jenny- "I was Ali, making sure all my friends had dates and preparations were taken care of, the matchmaker."

Erin- "I most liked Lloyd when he taught not to wait for the right moments to happen but to make them happen."

Megan- Didn't even have to ask- she is Corey, during the movie she was naming off the songs on the soundtrack!

Rach wants to think she's like Nova cause does a great job of looking put-together during the movie, but admits that her high school days she was most like Simone and fell for the smooth talkers even when the good guys were right there.


Rach and girls got dressed up for Premiere- they weren't the only ones!

I was very involved like Nova- class presidency, dance committees- finding a date to the prom was hardest part. I went through it all- saying "no", finally saying "yes" and going for Junior year then saying yes but bailing out and even asking someone (as it is pretty common here in Hawaii for girls to do) my Senior year. I still give my husband a hard time cause he never asked me, but he reminded me "how many people really end up with their prom dates?" So maybe I'll ease up on him.

Which character do you think you were most like in high school?

Overall, I thought this movie was fun, the characters relate-able and situations just cheesy enough to help us laugh at our own Prom experiences. It was also the type of movie that was funny with some drama and romance to it- a nice mixture. Also a fun movie for the younger ones who look forward to their proms someday!

“Prom” hits theaters April 29, 2011!

For more information, visit: disney.go.com/prom

Just to whet your appetite for PROM, here's one of the official trailers now:

We were not paid for this post although we did attend an advance showing of the movie free of charge. Any and all opinions here are our own.

Aloha Friday

2011-04-29T00:01:00.000-07:00

from Kailani's blog:

Welcome to this week’s edition of Aloha Friday. In Hawaii, Aloha Friday is the day that we take it easy and look forward to the weekend. So I thought that on Fridays I would take it easy on posting, too.

Therefore, I’ll ask a simple question for you to answer. Nothing that requires a lengthy response. If you’d like to participate, just post your own question on your blog and leave your link below. Don’t forget to visit the other participants! It’s a great way to make new bloggy friends!

This week's question: In case you're wondering, yes, I do have royal wedding fever. One reason is that I remember Princess Di's wedding that I watched at the crack of dawn as a 6th grader. Another reason is that I was in London last summer and stood outside Buckingham Palace to watch the Changing of the Guard. So the history of this moment means a lot to me. Will you, are you, did you watch the wedding this weekend of Prince William and Kate Middleton?

QUICKIE GIVEAWAY for iPAD app

2011-04-28T17:26:00.000-07:00

Electric Eggplant has just published a new iPad app. "Be Confident in Who You Are: A Middle School Confidential™ Graphic Novel” is for 8-14 year olds. We had hoped to review it here but the folks with the iPad have younger kids and the reviewer with the older kids (that's me, peeps) doesn't have an iPad. So we have a code for this app that is going to expire tomorrow at 11:59 pm.

Here is more info about the app: http://MiddleSchoolConfidential.com/be_confident.html

There is no mandatory entry for this giveaway. To enter you can do one of two things or you can do both (make sure you leave a comment for each thing you do):

1. Like Electric Eggplant on Facebook.

2. Follow Electric Eggplant on Twitter.

Only one person per email/household/IPaddress can enter this giveaway. He/she must be 18+ years old and reside in the U.S. This giveaway ends on 4/29/11 at 12:01AM HST (Hawaii Standard Time). One winner will be chosen randomly via Random.org. I will notify the winner via email and he/she must respond to claim the prize within 12 hours or I will draw another winner.

*I was not paid for this blog post. Any and all opinions here are my own.

Winners

2011-04-28T15:44:00.000-07:00

Winner, winner, winner! We just LOVE giving away free products here on Moana Saves that we have also tried and highly recommend. I just wanted to say that we wouldn't have a successful site for sharing our reviews if it wasn't for all of our loyal bloggy friends. Thanks for visiting Moana Saves!

The two Schick Disposable winners are: #17 Carolwegs and #28 Madonna. Congrats!

The two winners of a coupon for free Purex Complete with Zout are: #134 Mandy and #146 Michelle

Snorg T-Shirts: A Review and Giveaway

2011-04-28T01:17:00.000-07:00

Snorg. It's a fun word to say. It's also a fun site to shop! SnorgTees are all about the fun. Fun t-shirts for everyone! Some info about how Snorg was born provides insight into the business and the people who run it: "SnorgTees got its start back in May 2004 when our group of friends decided that we weren't meant for a real job. We got our options narrowed down to international jewel thieves or internet t-shirt tycoons. Since it was the middle of the summer, we weren't able to find enough ski masks, which left t-shirts as our only option. Fast forward a few years and we've grown to the point where people mistake us for an actual business. We've even shipped a shirt to NASA. That means space. So technically we're a universal company. But we are still just a group of friends who run Snorg because we enjoy it."

Me again. I'm dotting this review with some of my favorite Snorg t-shirt designs because they are uber-snarky and clever. The design on the left is the one that First Born requested. It is an American Apparel medium weight shirt which I really like--not too thin and not too heavy. It is true to size although it shrank a bit (as disclosed on SnorgTees.com) but holds up well after several washings. I tried to catch First Born actually wearing the shirt but she's a bit of a ninja teenager and this t-shirt is a part of her regular rotation which means that SnorgTees passes the teenage coolness test in my house. Their t-shirts are categorized topically and Snorg also sells hoodies, kids shirts and hats (have you seen the beardheads yet?).

You can sign up for the SnorgTees newsletter where you can get notified of the latest t-shirts on the site, when they're giving away free t-shirts and special discounts. Snorg accepts credit cards and Paypal plus they also ship internationally.

BUY: Check out all the fun t-shirts at SnorgTees.

WIN: One lucky Moana Saves reader will win the Snorg t-shirt of his or her choice! For your mandatory entry in this giveaway, go to SnorgTee's to shop the shirts then come back and leave a comment about which one is your favorite.

4. Follow SnorgTees on Twitter.

5. Tweet about this giveaway (limit one tweet per day) using the following: #win the t-shirt of your choice from @snorgtees and @moanasaves ends 5/12 http://bit.ly/ko16SD

6. Subscribe to the Moana Saves feed via RSS reader and/or email updates (in the sidebar).
7. Like the Moana Saves Facebook page.

8. Like the SnorgTees Facebook page.

Only one person per email/household/IPaddress can enter this giveaway. He/she must be 18+ years old and reside in the U.S. This giveaway ends on 5/12/11 at 11:59 PM HST (Hawaii Standard Time). One winner will be chosen randomly via Random.org. I will notify the winner via email and he/she must respond to claim the prize within 48 hours or I will draw another winner.

*I was not paid, but did recieve products to facilitate this review. Any and all opinions here are my own.

Royal Wedding Mania!

2011-04-28T00:37:00.000-07:00

Do you have Royal Wedding Fever yet? This is the biggest thing since Lady Di became Princess Di! And, honestly, a fairy tale royal wedding comes around about as often as Hailey's Comet so it's fun to get trending info from Yahoo about Prince William and Kate Middleton:

Kate Middleton Receives More Searches Than Barack Obama, Lady Gaga and Other Celebrities and Politicians This Week, According to Yahoo!

Plus, Watch the Royal Wedding Live on Yahoo!

SUNNYVALE, CA (April 27, 2011) – Americans are eagerly awaiting the wedding of Prince William and Kate Middleton, and interest in the future Princess is at an all-time high. According to searches on Yahoo!, “Kate Middleton” is still the top searched royal wedding-related term on Yahoo!. In both the U.S. and the UK, she receives more than double the searches Prince William receives. She is more searched in the U.S. than in the U.K, and she is sparking more interest than President Obama, Donald Trump, David Beckham, Lady Gaga, Britney Spears and other celebrities.

Another lady sparking Americans’ interest: Chelsy Davy, Prince Harry’s date to the royal wedding. In the U.S. this week, searches for “Chelsy Davy” have surpassed searches for Prince William on Yahoo!.

Additional search trends on Yahoo! this week:

· In the U.S. this week Kate Middleton is receiving more searches than:

o David Beckham

o Lady Gaga

o Katie Price

o Barack Obama

o Victoria Beckham

o Angelina Jolie

o Britney Spears

o Sarah Palin

o Donald Trump

· Prince Harry’s girlfriend Chelsy Davy is buzzing this week, as word that she will accompany the prince to the wedding. Searches for Chelsy are up 3713% this week on Yahoo!.

o Searches for “Prince Harry Girlfriend “ are up 898% this week

· Searches for the Royal Wedding Guest List are heating up. People are anxious to know who got the invite. Searches on Yahoo! are up 3107% this week.

o We are even seeing searches on Yahoo! for “Americans Invited To Royal Wedding”

o And searches are spiking for “is snoop dog a guest at the royal wedding”

o Searches are up for “royal wedding seating chart”

· When, Where and What Time? People are still looking for answers on when, where and what time the royal wedding is.

o Searches for “Royal Wedding Time” are up 2604% this week on Yahoo!

o Searches on Yahoo! for “What Time Is The Royal Wedding” are up 1132% this week

· There continues to be interest in how Kate is preparing her “look” for the big day.

o Searches for “Kate Middleton Diet” are still of interest this week. Up 1705% on Yahoo!.

o We also see searches on Yahoo! for her hair style, her hair color, her makeup and her style

o Searches are spiking for “Prince William bald”

· Questions - some quirky questions that people want answered:

o Searches on Yahoo! are off the charts* for “who is Prince Harry’s father”

o Searches are spiking for:

1. What Time Is It In London

2. Who Will Be The Next King Of England

3. What Will Kate Middleton’s Title Be

4. When Did Princess Diana Die

o Searches for “What Is Prince Williams Last Name” are up 1199% this week and “What Is Prince Williams Full Name “ are up 774% on Yahoo!

1. The big age question:

1. Searches for “How Old Is Kate Middleton “ are up 672% this week

2. “How Old Is Prince Harry” are off the charts*

3. “How Old Is Prince William” are up 224%

4. “How Old Is Queen Elizabeth” are off the charts*

2. The big height question:

1. “How Tall Is Kate Middleton” are off the charts*

2. “How Tall Is Prince Harry“ are off the charts*

3. “How Tall Is Prince William” are off the charts*

· Royal Wedding Party Ideas:

o Searches are off the charts* for “Royal Wedding party ideas”, searches are off the charts

1. Searches are spiking for “royal wedding cake recipe “

o Memorabilia (searches are up 485% this week):

1. Searches on Yahoo! up for “royal wedding 2011 shirts”

o Searches for “royal wedding party supplies” are spiking

· Wedding Dress:

o Searches for the “Royal Wedding dress” are up 999% this week

o Dresses of the past are spiking including searches for Queen Victoria’s wedding dress, Princess Diana wedding dress

Watch the wedding live at http://royalwedding.yahoo.com and check out the British Monarchy’s Official Flickr stream for behind-the-scenes photos of the wedding preparations: http://www.flickr.com/photos/britishmonarchy

Get Your Royal Wedding Information on Yahoo!:

Visit Yahoo!’s Royal Wedding website: http://royalwedding.yahoo.com

View the British Monarchy’s Official Flickr Stream: http://www.flickr.com/photos/britishmonarchy

Visit Shine From Yahoo!: http://shine.yahoo.com

Follow Yahoo!’s royal wedding coverage on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/yahooshine

Follow Yahoo!’s royal wedding coverage on Twitter: http://twitter.com/yahooshine

Should be fun to watch!

Miranda Cosgrove EP High Maintenance: A Review

2011-04-28T00:10:00.000-07:00

Miranda Cosgrove is undoubtedly one of my soon-to-be-8-year-old-daughter's favorite actresses. Miranda who? Miranda Cos... I mean Carly, from iCarly of course! I have to admit, even I enjoy the teen star in her Nickelodeon hit show. So, when I heard she had a new CD, I was excited to review it... for my daughter, of course! And, it's a good thing I listened to it before I let my daughter do so.

Cosgrove's new EP High Maintenance features five tracks:

Dancing Crazy

High Maintenance

Face of Love

Kiss You Up

Sayonara

While I actually enjoy the beats and music in the tracks, some of the lyrics are inappropriate (my own opinion) for my not-even-pre-teen-daughter. I guess I was just expecting a more iCarly-ish kid-friendly vibe, but when I realized that Miranda Cosgrove is actually 17 herself, I understood why the songs are a little more mature.

Overall, the songs are fun, catchy and danceworthy, but I know I wouldn't want my daughter singing along to "So what if I break a few glasses, kick a few a**es" -- lyrics from the title track, High Maintenance. I really liked the song Kiss You Up because it actually features her voice talent without all of the digital enhancements... and it is reminiscent of the crazy in love teenage feelings we've all experienced. *SIGH* However, the last track, Sayonara, while it starts out innocent enough with lyrics like, "Like a ninja out of the dark, I'll steal your heart," later in the song she sings, "Hands all over my body, Work me out like karate." Umm, yeah, I'll have to hold on to this CD for a while before I let my daughter listen to it.... like, maybe on her wedding night!

Good job Carly, uh I mean Miranda, but I'll censor my daughter's music for as long as I can. I would recommend this CD for an older teenage audience, but if your young daughters insist on having it, be wary of some of the lyrics. As for my daughter, I'll have to do the rockin' out myself for now!

High Maintenance is available on Amazon as well as other music outlets online and off.

I was not compensated for this post but I did receive a product sample to facilitate this review. Any and all opinions here are mine.

Swell Skin: A Review (for Mother's Day)

2011-04-27T00:11:00.000-07:00

Swell Skin Care is... well, pretty doggone SWELL! I was intrigued with the claims of this miraculous healing berry that is used in the facial soap and oil - Seabuckthorn - and wanted to see if it really did what it said it could. While I don't have really bad acne, I am no stranger to minor breakouts or the occasional, uh maybe frequent, ginormous pimple... especially when it's that time of the month. Lucky for me, I started using the Swell Face treatment a few days before that lovely time of the month, which was almost two weeks ago. My face is happy. No, really, it is. It feels good, but more importantly it looks good... thanks to the soap bar and amazing Oil of Seabuckthorn. Okay, so I usually get at least one honker around that time of the month in the most conspicuous place possible (think tip of my nose or smack dab in the middle of my forehead). This month, the pimplesaur was on my left cheek and was one of those under-the-skin-painful-bump-pimples... anyone feeling me here? Anyway, I was a little dubious that the seabuckthorn oil could make my blemishes magically disappear, but alas, it did. You won't believe it until you try it yourself. I am surprised that I hadn't heard of this extreme goodness before...
The REALLY cool thing about SWELL Skin Care is that it's just a two-step skin care regimen. Just two steps for awesome looking and feeling skin? That, in itself, makes this stuff worth a try... and then when you see the results you'll see it was more than worth it. And, it's not just for pimples, it's for all-around wonderful-looking skin, so use it for rashes, fine lines, and whatever other blemishes you might have. And let's face it, as crazy busy moms, we're prone

to a blemish or two every other hour, er, day. This will make a fabulous Mother's Day gift... if not for your own mother, for yourself, because you need to be spoiled, too!

You can buy the facial bar for $32 and the Swell Oil of Seabuckthorn for $22, if you buy them separately, OR you can save some money and purchase both - the Swell Union - for just $49. Okay, you might be thinking, "JUST $49?" but when you see what these products can do, you'll be saying the same thing. I will definitely be purchasing the Swell Union once I run out of my supply. Check out the SWELL website to find out more about (and buy) these Swellicious products!

I was not compensated to write this post although I did receive some products to facilitate my review here. Any and all opinions are mine.

Chuao Chocolatier Review and Giveaway

2011-04-27T00:10:00.000-07:00

CHOCOLATE! I love that I had the chance to try these out! Before I tell you what I thought, here's some background information about the company so you can see how awesome they are.

Chuao Chocolatier (pronounced chew-WOW) is the first Venezuelan Chocolatier based in the USA and Southern California's premier artisan chocolatier. Founded in 2002 by Master Chef Michael Antonorsi and his brother, CEO Richard Antonorsi, Chuao Chocolatier has pioneered “fusion chocolate” through a commitment to creating uniquely delicious chocolate experiences. Michael wanted to open a unique chocolate boutique that blended modern-day innovations with his Venezuelan family traditions.

Their signature flavor is Spicy Maya, a modern twist on the Mayan's ancient hot chocolate recipe made with pasilla chile and cayenne pepper. (Isn't your mouth just waiting to try some?)

Unusual flavor combinations, the heart of Chuao Chocolatier’s unique experience, include: Pan con Chocolate: a dark chocolate bonbon filled with toasted panko breadcrumbs, olive oil ganache and a touch of sea salt and Firecracker: caramel fudge with chipotle chile and salt, rolled in popping candy and enrobed in dark chocolate. (You know you want to try it!)

I was given four samples to try out. The first two I tried were the Choco Pods, Spicy Maya and Firecracker. Choco Pods are .39 oz (11g) and shaped like a chocolate bean pod (at least that's what I'm getting - the picture is not the actual Choco Pod I tasted).

I tried Spicy Maya first, it's dark chocolate with pasilla chile, cayenne pepper and cinnamon. When I first took a bite, I thought to myself, it's not spicy at all and it tasted like a regular chocolate bar. But as I passed around the pod to my family, the spiciness crept up on me and it hit me! The spice is subtle and doesn't kick you in the face with its flavor. It sneaks up on you and when it shows up, you're pleasantly surprised. You can definitely taste the cinnamon which doesn't overpower the other flavors.

The next Choco Pod was the Firecracker - (dark chocolate chipotle, salt and popping candy) The wrapper described it as unusual, unexpected and delicious, which is a perfect description. I was excited to try this one because I wanted to see what the popping candy would do to the chocolate. My first bite and the popping candy did it's job. I love the popping candy! The little tingles of the candy with the taste of chocolate and chipotle is amazing! The chipotle spice is a lot more prominent, not an "in-your-face" kind of way but it's definitely more powerful and more flavorful. Since I like spicy food, chocolate and candy, the Firecracker is the winner. However if you're more into subtle spice and chocolate, the Spicy Maya is for you!

Next up on the list were two bars, MORE chocolate! I was excited and unsure of what to expect. The bars are 60% cacao (yum! I love me some dark chocolate!) and 2.8 oz (80g). First up the Panko (dark chocolate bar with toasted panko breadcrumbs and sea salt). When I first read panko breadcrumbs, I pictured the chocolate covered in panko crumbs like tempura batter. Silly me! The panko is mixed in with the chocolate! I took a bite and I could definitely taste the panko breadcrumbs, not in a bad way. It reminded me of a Crunch bar but with much better tasting chocolate and less rice crispiness. My husband liked how the salt brought out the chocolate flavor and I have to agree with him. It is really chocolatey and yummy.

I was quite sad when I ate the last bar because that would mean that the review was over. The Honeycomb bar is dark chocolate with caramelized honey. I thought it tasted just like a chocolate bar and wondered what those little bits were doing in the bar and then I realized it was the honey! It reminds me of little toffee bits but better! They don't get stuck in your teeth! It melts in your mouth along with the chocolate like one smooth chocolate ride!

These chocolate bars are amazing!

Oh and did I tell you? These guys are so awesome! They are so committed to their roots and strive to sustain and revitalize the cacao industry in Venezuela that their company has an initiative called Aguasanta Growth Initiative. It provides needed funding to the Venezuelan cacao farmers for plant seedlings as well as training to increase growth of their cacao crops.

If you are unsure of what to get your mom/wife/sister/girlfriend/female for fill-in-the-blank Day, ahem, Mother's Day and you know they like/love/obsess/crave chocolate, you need to walk, no, sprint to the closest computer (or store) and get some of these chocolates! It's unusual, unique, one-of-a-kind and (did I mention) delicious chocolate! They have fun flavors for all kinds of tastes! When you go check out their website, you'll see that there are so many different options besides chocolate, there are brownie mixes - for the moms who love to bake (which would most likely be your mom), hot chocolate, gift boxes and more!

Right now, there's even a page of goodies dedicated to making your mom/wife happy!

BUY: You can go online at www.chuaochocolatier.com. While you're there, can you get me some Firecracker? Thanks. If you'd rather go to a physical store, you can find Chuao Chocolatier creations at fine specialty retailers including Whole Foods Market, Pier 1 Imports, Wegman's and Crate and Barrel, as well as premier restaurants, select hotels and resorts including Omni Hotels, La Costa Resort & Spa, Four Seasons, Hard Rock Hotel and more.

WIN: One lucky Moana Saves reader will win the ChocoPod 8 piece Assorted Gift Box! Experience all 8 ChocoPods in one cute box- Coco, Coffee & Anise, Firecracker, Honeycomb, Leche, Oscuro, Panko and Spicy Maya! All natural & just 50 calories each! For your mandatory entry in this giveaway, go to Chuao's homepage and sign up for their newsletter (lower right hand side).

4. Follow Chuao Chocolatier on Twitter.

5. Tweet about this giveaway (limit one tweet per day) using the following: #win the chocopod 8 piece gift box from @chuaochocoholic and @moanasaves ends 5/11 http://bit.ly/eapQwg

6. Subscribe to the Moana Saves feed via RSS reader and/or email updates (in the sidebar).
7. Like the Moana Saves Facebook page.

8. Like the Chuao Chocolatier Facebook page.

Only one person per email/household/IPaddress can enter this giveaway. He/she must be 18+ years old and reside in the U.S. This giveaway ends on 5/11/11 at 11:59 PM HST (Hawaii Standard Time). One winner will be chosen randomly via Random.org. I will notify the winner via email and he/she must respond to claim the prize within 48 hours or I will draw another winner.

*I was not paid, but did recieve products to facilitate this review. Any and all opinions here are my own.

Scandle Candle Review & Giveaway

2011-04-27T00:01:00.000-07:00

Do you want to be pampered this Mother's Day? I have just the gift for you! I was privileged to test out a fabulous massage product made by Scandle Candle, their shimmering lotion candle. This isn't just any ordinary massage candle but a candle that burns at 2 degrees above body temperature. Just light the wick, wait a few minutes, and enjoy the scented ambience and the wonderfully smooth massage oils.

Scandle Candle has a very informative website which includes an in-depth FAQ page with answers to questions like who shouldn't use Scandle (those with nut allergies), the average burn time of the candle and how you can tell when a massage candle is made mostly of soy wax. (Soy wax is a bad thing, by the way. Massaging with wax? Ew.) I love a good massage but I was especially pleased with the foot rub my husband gave me. We're sandal wearing people but I hate dry heels. This oil was so luxurious it left me feeling moisturized and soft for days!

What I loved about my lotion candle:
*Made from all natural ingredients including soy, shea butter, jojoba & vitamin E.
*I sampled the shimmering lotion candle and honestly the shimmer isn't overpowering. I live in a very sunny environment and I had to look closely in the sunlight to see the shimmer. Supposedly it hides imperfections by deflecting light. How cool is that? Filling my wrinkles and aged skin with soft & slightly luminescent oils. What a genius idea!
*The oil feels so light and soothing. I was afraid of feeling sticky like I was coated in something but instead my skin felt soft to the touch.
*I like the candle holder design with the lip. My sample was actually the travel sized container without a lip and I found that I struggled to pour precisely where I wanted without spilling. Definitely order the lipped candle.
I must admit that the Lily of the Valley wasn't my favorite scent but that's because I'm not a floral girl. I would love to smell their vanilla or fig & brown sugar scents.

BUY: You can purchase Scandle Candle products online at their site. Plus, for the month of April, Scandle is donating $1 from all orders to the Arbor Day Foundation in celebration of Earth Month. Show your support and purchase eco-friendly candles today!

WIN: Scandle Candle is offering one Moana Saves winner the chance to win their very own travel-sized tin in Lilly of the Valley scent. To enter tell me one thing you like about Scandle Candle's product. Is it their eco-friendly soy candle, the lipped canister or the idea of a smooth massage oil that comes in the form of an aromatic candle?

To earn an additional entry, do one (or all) of the following and leave a separate comment for each thing you do:

1. Become a Google Friends Connect follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
2. Become a Networked Blogs follower of Moana Saves (in the sidebar).
3. Follow Moana Saves on Twitter.
4. Follow Scandle Candle on Twitter
5. Subscribe to the Moana Saves feed via RSS reader and/or email updates (in the sidebar).
6. Like the Moana Saves Facebook page.

7. Like Scandle Candle on Facebook

8. Tweet about this giveaway (limit one tweet per day) using the following: #win a travel scandle candle from @scandlecandle and @moanasaves ends 5/11 http://bit.ly/ehgg3T

I was not compensated for this post although I did receive product to facilitate my review. Any and all opinions here are my own.

Moana Saves

We've Moved!

Moana Saves Great Giveaways

Moana Saves Great Giveaways

Baby Bedding Zone, A Review

Orb Factory SparkleUps Cupcakes: A Review

I thought we had disappeared . . .

Store Brand Formulas Win Case over Enfamil

CardiWrap: A Review

Some Winners

Camelbak Bottle: A Review and Giveaway

The Black & Decker Ultimate Sandwich Contest

PIRATES OF THE CARIBBEAN: ON STRANGER TIDES, A Prize Pack Giveaway

Feeling Campy? (A Review)

STIKINS labels Review

Three Idiots (A New Bollywood Classic): Review and Giveaway

Problem: Boring Bedroom; Solution: Cymax Bedroom Furniture!

Peter Pauper Press Review and Giveaway

HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY

Sharpay's Fabulous Adventure: A Review

Two More Winners

Winners

Sunny Beadz Review and Giveaway

2 more winners

Skintimate Sweeptakes (and a Giveaway!)

The Chronicles of Narnia: The Voyage of the Dawn Treader DVD - A Review

Aloha Friday: Mother's Day Edition

Review: Emerson Creek Pottery-Iris Drizzle Bottle

Review and Giveaway of SchoolHouse Kitchen Spreadable Fruit

A Review of Sibu beauty products

He Is We "My Forever" Album Review

Glee Encore on DVD: A Review

NOVICA Review and Giveaway

Winners

A Mothers Day Discount courtesy of Fox Home Entertainment

Seneca Farms Oatmeal & Fruit Review

Review and Giveaway of Do Tell Family Relationship Game

doTERRA Cypress: 10 percent off in May!

Cymax, a great online furniture retailer!

Aerobie Fun in the Sun! (Review and Giveaway)

Punflay iPad Apps (A Review of Rafter and Puzzle Mania)

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