SFF #17 BTB Sunglasses Review and Coupon Code!

How many of you are looking forward to getting outside and playing your favorite sports, or getting back into running/jogging? I know I am! If you run or jog on a regular basis during warm weather, then you're probably in need of some running sunglasses. As the weather continues to warm up, I am so ready for outdoor sports! In preparation for that, I am excited to introduce this next company. BTB, or Be The Ball Sunglasses! 

I was given the opportunity to choose a pair of sunglasses for review. While browsing the choices, I saw a pair of Tennis Sunglasses, and knew they were perfect! As you probably already know, I play racquetball several times a week, and also quite a bit of other outdoor sports-volleyball, tennis, basketball, etc. So the BTB 170 Tennis Glasses were the obvious choice for me!
The glasses arrived well packaged, and in a micro-fiber pouch to protect them from scratches. 

They feature black frames, with ice blue lenses. This makes them perfect for outdoor sports; you're protected from the sun, and don't have to squint to see the ball, but the lenses aren't so dark that you can't see! I also like the curved arms, that give you a secure feeling; the glasses aren't going to fall off while playing active sports! The glasses themselves are very well made, and don't look like they'll fall apart the first time a ball hits them! (Thankfully I haven't been able to test this theory yet by being smashed in the face, and I'm not in any hurry to do so :)

If you're looking for a great place to find quality active sunglasses at very reasonable prices, I recommend you check out BTB Sunglasses! Whether you want some golf sunglasses or just a casual pair that won't break easily, they have it all!


BTB is offering my readers 30% off their order, simply by entering HOPES30 at checkout! 


Disclaimer: I was not monetarily compensated in any way for this review. I did receive product for the purpose of review. All thoughts and opinions are mine.

Fagor Cookware Soup Pot Review!

As you know, I love cooking, baking, and messing around with new recipes in the kitchen. Soup is one thing I haven't made from scratch very often; it just seemed easier to buy the cans, and have it ready to eat in 5 minutes. When I received a new Soup Pot from Fagor Cookware, though, I knew that a can of soup was not going to work for this-I needed to find a really good recipe for my first time using it! 

The Fagor Soup Pot is part of the Michelle B line, and includes a few recipes for the Soup Pot, from Michelle's recipe card collection. The pot is available in 3 colors, and I chose red since it matches our kitchen perfectly. This is a Cast Iron Lite pot, which means you get the same performance and benefit as cooking with cast iron, at only half the weight! The soup pot is 5 quart, and comes with a glass lid. What I really like about the pot is the oven-to-table ability! That's right; you can use this pot to cook on the stove top or in the oven, but it looks nice enough to sit on the table for serving! 

After much searching, I found a recipe for Broccoli Cheddar Soup that sounded delicious, so that was the first soup I made in this wonderful pot. It turned out great, and after my first experience with making soup at home, I am on the lookout for other recipes to try!


"Fagor America, Inc. is a wholly owned subsidiary of Fagor Electrodomesticos. Since opening their offices in 1992, the Fagor brand name has become synonymous with high-quality stainless steel pressure cookers. Fagor is currently positioned as a top cookware brand, sold at major retailers nationwide and our presence has been largely responsible for the resurgence of pressure cooker sales in the US. Along with Pressure cookers, Fagor America also offers a line of specialty cookware. In 2005, Fagor America established its appliance division in the US."


Fagor offers many other great cookware solutions, so check out their site today!

SFF #16 Clipa Handbag Hanger/Bracelet Review and Giveaway!!

What better way to add a unique accessory to your life than with a 2-in-1 functional, yet stylish piece? Introducing Clipa, the bracelet that turns into an instant handbag hanger!

If you're like me, you are tired of forever having to find a place for your purse when dining at a restaurant, or perhaps in the restroom. No more problems, though-now I simply remove my "bracelet" and hang my purse from the table, or the stall door! This also works great for traveling in the car; you can hook the Clipa to a headrest, and your bag isn't falling all over anymore. I received the Chloe Clipa for my review. 

The Carrie is a best-seller, and is a very simple, elegant polished silver. The Clipa has non-slip pads on both ends of the clip, so there's no reason why your purse should hit the ground ever again! With it's durable construction, the Clipa can hold up to 45 pounds, so it would probably work for just about any handbag or even a diaper bag! 

One of my readers will receive their own Carrie Clipa!!

Tilex Cancel The Mold Show In Your Bathroom Sweepstakes!

Cleaning the bathroom can be an ugly chore. And not just the toilet part, but making sure your shower/tub stays clean and free from any moldy growth, not to mention the sink and floor! In our family, it's one of the least desired chores, and I usually end up cleaning it myself. The funny thing is, it's probably one of my favorite areas to clean. I love going into a dirty room and making it sparkle and shine! Keeping the bathroom mold and mildew free, however, often requires a little more time and effort.


Probably the most important step in keeping your bathroom free from a "mold show" is consistency. I recently discovered a natural cleaner that you spray in the shower after each use, and it helps prevent mold, as well as cleaning up any streaks or dirt. You don't even have to wipe the cleaner off; it works as you spray! In addition to this, I deep clean the entire bathroom (including the tub) once a week. This means scrubbing the counters, floors, toilet, etc. Additionally, I wash any mats or rugs, as  these often gather moisture after showers or even from condensation gathering on the tub and toilet during the cold weather. 


Another thing I've started doing to prevent mold and mildew from growing in the bathroom is to hang up 


On the rare occasion that some mold or mildew does start growing, I usually use vinegar to clean it off. Yes, it smells a little while you're using it, but it works great to clean off the green stuff! Lemon juice works great too (and smells a little better) but it is more expensive than white vinegar. 


Another new way to kill mold and mildew that I'm going to have to check out is the Tilex Mold Stain and Mildew Stain Remover! This new product also has a "Refreshing Breeze" scent, so no more dealing with choking over the vinegar smell while trying to clean up the bathroom! This is one cleaning supply I am going to have to try very soon.


And guess what? In honor of the new Mold Stain and Mildew Stain Remover, Tilex is hosting an amazing sweepstakes! You can enter the sweepstakes on the Tilex Facebook page, and the prizes include 3 40 inch flat screen TVs, and 10 Netflix subscriptions! Hurry up and eneter, and share the news with your friends-for each friend you refer, you'll get another entry in the sweepstakes!



 I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Tilex blogging program, for 8,000 My SocialMoms Rewards Points. For more information on how you can participate, click here.

SFF #15 Lugz Boots Review and Giveaway!!

Need some new shoes for spring? Maybe you're planning on some hiking trips a the weather gets warmer, or maybe you're just wanting a new look. If so, then Lugz is the site for you!

I received a pair of Women's Drifter Boots from Lugz for review. These come in 3 different color combinations, and I chose the all-black. These are basically work boots, but also look great for casual everyday wear. Made of nubuck leather, and featuring a padded tongue and collar, these are extremely comfortable. They almost look like military boots, which I actually like. :)

These also came in very handy while camping last week. I realized that I had left my hiking boots home, but I didn't worry-the Drifter boots looked like they would hold up to the challenge. Sure enough, they did! I wore these boots on a 3-mile hike, and they were very comfortable and sturdy. Surprisingly they didn't chafe or rub at all; I was able to hike at a steady pace without any discomfort! Here's a shot of my new boots at a stop along the trail.

So, if you're looking for a new pair of shoes, be sure to check out Lugz for quality footwear at low prices!


"The Lugz brand came into the world in October of 1993. A family owned company who has over 63 years of experience in making shoes, the initial product launch for Lugz consisted of two styles of boots, a quilted vest and a pair of jeans and the brand has continued to soar from there.
Lugz product is aggressively styled using the highest quality materials for maximum durability and superior comfort. Our footwear features premium leathers and durable construction. Everything is designed with the fashion forward customer in mind.
Today Lugz has expanded beyond boots and has added casual shoes, sandals and athletics to the mix, and the brand can be found at major retailers across the country."

One of my readers will receive a pair of Drifter Boots in size and color of their choice! (Based on availability)

SFF #14 VeeShee Monogrammed Bags Review and Giveaway!!

Wouldn't you like to add a personalized touch to your closet this spring? There's no better way to do that than by shopping Veeshee!

Veeshee graciously allowed me to choose an item for review, and have it personalized. They offer monogramming or names/words on their products, which range from monogrammed totes and bags to baby blankets and onesies! I chose the Large Sport Duffel Bag in purple, and had my sister's name put on the front. Her current duffel bag that she uses when traveling is getting pretty worn, and since her birthday was coming up, I thought this would make the perfect gift! I was able to choose the font and color of the thread, which really gives you the ability to personalize your order, whether a gift or just for yourself.

When the duffel came in, I was very pleased with the overall look and feel of the bag, as well as the embroidery on the front pocket. 

The hot pink really stands out on the purple background, and makes it quite obvious that this is Charity's bag! When I gave this to my sister, she really appreciated it, and thought the added personalization was great! I was impressed with how roomy the bag is, as well as all the pockets (2 in front and 2 on the sides). The bag also features a removable shoulder strap, and a padded handle. Charity was very pleased with her gift, and I am very pleased with the knowledge of where to shop for personalized gifts from now on!

"What is Veeshee? Veeshee is not just about monogramming – it's about the ability to personalize. It's a classy, fun way to show someone that they are special. It's a way to give gifts that are memorable. It's about personalizing yourself and adding a unique touch to every gift you give. Whether it's a monogrammed graduation gift, baby shower gift, bridesmaid gift or just something for yourself, Veeshee gives you an easy and convenient way to make great products even better. Give Veeshee a whirl, you may just get addicted."

One of my readers will receive a product of their choice 

(up to $30.00 value) with free personalization!!

SFF #13-Activewear USA Review!!

One of the things I am always on the lookout for is some comfortable exercise clothing. I love being able to do my cardio workouts or weight training in something that is just comfy and easy to wear. That's why I was excited when Activewear USA offered to send me a piece of clothing for review!

I received a pair of ION Actif pants for my review. These are made of a stretchy material, so they aren't too bulky or loose while exercising. The best part is that they look like jeans, with pockets and contrasting stitching, yet they're much more comfortable while working out! These are perfect for wearing on my early morning aerobic walks, or for racquetball at the YMCA. Very soft, and they don't itch or scratch at all. When I first opened the package, they looked like capri pants, but when putting them on, the legs stretch so you can wear them to the ankle, or a little higher if you want. They look and feel great either way!

If you're looking for a way to brighten up your fitness wardrobe, check out Activewear USA! They have great tops and bottoms, from a variety of leading activewear brands! You can keep up to date on any sales or new offerings by liking Activewear USA on Facebook!


"ActivewearUSA.com was founded with the goal of providing the best yoga activewear and fitness clothing on the market, to encourage women to look and feel their best while enhancing their life through fitness."


Disclaimer: I was not monetarily compensated in any way for this review. I did receive product for the purpose of review. All thoughts and opinions are mine. All quotes taken from the Activewear USA website.

Clorox Clean Up Sweepstakes & Recipes For Fun Launch!

Hey all, remember how just a couple weeks ago I asked if you'd enjoy seeing some recipes on my blog, as well as the normal reviews and giveaways? It just so happens that SocialMoms has an opportunity that I'm participating in, and in addition to sharing some really great information with you all, I also get to share a fun recipe! What great timing! 


First of all, let me share the awesome announcement. Clorox just launched a really sweet website called Recipes For Fun. This is the perfect place to find creative crafts, wacky science project ideas, and -you guessed it- recipes for your and your kids! I just heard about the website and checked it out, and it definitely looks like something I will be using regularly, not just for the recipes, but also the other fun projects. The best part is that to announce the launching of this site, Clorox is having a Mess It Up-Clean It Up sweepstakes! The grand prize is $10,000 toawrds an Ultimate Mess Party! It's easy to enter, and just by registering, you're also eligible to win one of the $100.00 gift cards they're giving away daily! For more details, check out the Clorox Clean It Up Recipes For Fun website.


Now, on to the Kiddie Cooking recipe. This Peanut Butter Muffin recipe is one that I found a while back, and made some adjustments to. Of course when M heard what I was baking, she asked to help, and jumped right in. I turned these into PB & J Muffins (not a new idea I know, but I like this PB muffin recipe better than others I've tried). So, in case you'd like to try them with your children, here's the recipe. (Note: Be ready for the muffins to disappear! I doubled the recipe, and they were still gone in 1 day!).

Peanut Butter and Jelly Muffins

Ingredients:
6 tablespoons Butter, softened
1 cup Creamy Peanut Butter
2/3 cup Brown Sugar
2/3 cup Sugar
3 Eggs
1 tablespoon Vanilla
1 tablespoon Baking Powder
1 teaspoon Salt
3 cups Flour
1 cup Milk


1/2 cup Jelly


Frosting Ingredients:
1 cup Confectioners Sugar
2 tablespoons Peanut Butter
2 tablespoons Milk


Directions:
Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Grease muffin cups, or line muffin pan with paper cups.


In a large bowl, cream together butter, peanut butter and sugars. Add eggs, beat well. Add vanilla, baking powder and salt; mix. Add in flour 1 cup at a time, alternating with milk (1/3 cup at a time).


Fill cupcake cups about 2/3 full. Using a decorating bag and tip, insert about 1 teaspoon of jelly into the middle of each muffin. Be sure that the batter covers the jelly! Bake for 15-20 minutes. While baking, mix all frosting ingredients together. Cool the muffins, then frost. Store leftovers (if you have any) in the refrigerator. These can be reheated in the microwave if desired.

The muffins cooling

Frosted muffins

A shot of the inside!

So there you have it. Our family's newest favorite breakfast (and snack) muffin recipe! It's very easy, and the kids love to get involved, from the mixing and measuring, to the jelly-filling and frosting! It can get messy if you don't oversee the jelly step especially, so be sure to have plenty of Clorox cleaning supplies on hand for clean-up!


Check out the Clorox Recipes For Fun website, and tell me what you think. While you're there, make sure to enter the Ultimate Mess Party Contest! You can also stay updated on any news by liking Clorox on Facebook.





 I wrote this blog post while participating in the SocialMoms and Clorox Clean-Up Recipes for Fun blogging program, for 8,000 My SocialMoms Rewards Points. For more information on this program, click here and see the Terms link.

No-Name Steaks Review!!

Hey everyone, I have a wonderful company to share with you today. If you have never tasted a No-Name Steak, then you are seriously missing out! I had seen these steaks in grocery stores before, but never tried them. Now I wish I had! 


I received a package in the mail that contained some coupons, and a "tastefully" wrapped t-shirt. 

I seriously thought this was a steak at first!

I found the No-Name steaks at a SuperTarget, and went with the Petite Cut Steaks.

The steaks are individually sealed in plastic packages, so if you only need one or two steaks, you don't have to re-wrap the extras. 

I usually add my own seasoning or marinade, but the box said that these had already been marinaded. So, I simply added some onion and cooked them up in our electric skillet. Cooking the frozen steaks only took about 15-20 minutes, for a medium to medium-well steak. 

It's a little blurry, but this is me cooking my No-Name Steaks...in my No-Name Steaks t-shirt!

When I took the first bite, I could not believe how tasty they were! Very tender, and seasoned just right! I think everyone who tasted them commented on both the flavor and tenderness of the meat. No-Name Steaks will definitely be purchased again in our home! 

So, if you're looking for a fast easy way to serve your family some tasty steaks, you need to check your local grocery store for No-Name Steaks. Or, check the store locator on their website to find your closest place to buy! And, by the way, No-Name also offers chicken, seafood and other meats. Keep and eye out for a review of their chicken and seafood coming soon!


"Over thirty-five years ago, in a small neighborhood butcher shop, a local butcher began selling delicious, hand-cut steaks. These steaks cooked up tender and juicy and, as rumor had it, tasted incredible. Word began to spread. When his customers asked the butcher what these steaks were called, he simply replied, "They don't have a name." Soon, people were coming from miles around to get the steaks with "No Name," and a legend was born.

Fast forward to today. No Name^® still is famous for steaks, but now No Name^® has also become synonymous with quality dinners for all sorts of tastes. No matter what you're in the mood for, you know it will be delicious, guaranteed. Look for all the varieties in your grocer's frozen meat section."

Disclaimer: I was not monetarily compensated in any way for this review. I did receive product for the purpose of review. All thoughts and opinions are mine. All quotes taken from the No Name website.

TV Fitness With Gaiam!

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

I am sure most of you are familiar with Gaiam, the company that offers various health, fitness and eco-friendly products and services. However, you may not be aware of a new service they just recently came out with- GaiamTV!! 

I know, you're asking "What in the world is Gaiam TV?" Well, I am glad you asked! Gaiam TV is the first streaming video subscription designed to meet the needs of those interested in health and fitness. They offer over 2,000 titles with popular fitness instructors, including Jillian Michaels, The FIRM, and Mari Windsor. 

Gaiam TV gives you instant access anywhere to a wealth of exercise classes, whether you're traveling and need a quick way to get your cardio in for the day, or just in the comfort of your own home. It's available 24/7, so no matter what time of day or night, you can hit on your favorite fitness routine! You can also customize your profile to narrow searches only to topics you're interested in. For example, do you prefer cardio, muscle toning, sculpting, or increased energy? Are you in need of a certain level of expertise, or do you only have so much time to work out? Gaiam TV has all this and much more!

I for one will be taking advantage of the free 10-day trial that Gaiam TV is offering for new subscribers. It's a great way to check the program out and see if it's something you'd use! I will be checking out the aerobic and muscle toning workouts in the next few days. I would love having the needed instruction for my workout right at my fingertips. Not to mention being able to take my workouts on the road when traveling, without having to carry a whole library of dvds!

Gaiam TV is holding a special giveaway contest that you really should check out. The winner will receive a 1 month subscription to Gaiam TV, and a Gaiam yoga mat! You can find out more about on the Gaiam website.

And, if you'd like to keep up to date with Gaiam, be sure to follow them on Twitter. Just follow @GaiamTV!