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Reviews

Bobbie Brooks Jeans from Dollar General Review

by nicolesnickels on August 26, 2010

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Dollar General. All opinions are 100% mine.

Name of Product: bobbie brooks at Dollar General

Price of Product: jeans starting at $12

Where can the product be purchased: only at Dollar General stores

Description of Product: Dollar General recently rolled out a line of jeans from Bobbie Brooks. The jeans are only available at Dollar General and start at just $12. I selected a plus size pair to try and they are priced slightly higher at $14. The jeans say “comfort stretch, relaxed styling, and sits at the waist” on the tag. They come in various lengths, I chose average for mine.

Review of Product: I was first struck by how stretchy and lightweight these jeans are. Since I live in Florida I can’t stand heavy jeans in the heat. These are the perfect weight jeans. The dark wash is very flattering and makes wearing jeans a little more dressy. They do recommend that you wash them before wearing separately or with like colors. I washed mine first separately and was happy with how they washed and dried. I have worn them several times since and got a few compliments about my new jeans. I was asked where I got them and they were astonished when I said Dollar General! They both told me they were going to buy a pair right away because of the nice feel, good fit and amazing price! They sit at the waist which I like (hate those low riders!) but don’t look like mom jeans at all!The leg is straight and looks good with flats or a heel.

With other jeans costing around $50 these jeans really are a great deal at just $12 or $14 depending on your size. It’s hard to find any nice clothing under $20 these days! I’m excited to have found these jeans and look forward to getting a few more pairs.

Do you think you’ll be stopping by Dollar General soon to pick up a pair?

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Lands’ End FlightWise Duffel Review

by nicolesnickels on August 19, 2010

Name of Product: Lands’ End FlightWise Duffel

Price of Product: $69.50

Where can the product be purchased: online at Lands’ End

Description of Product: “Fees to check a bag can add $50 to the cost of a round trip. So the FlightWise Carry-on Duffle is designed to fit in all standard overhead storage spaces, saving you money with every flight. It’s made from 600 denier ballistic ripstop polyester lined in 210D polyester: a tough yet lightweight combination (because you also have to consider that 44 lb. weight limit). To help you breeze through inspections, we include a Travel Kit: a clear zippered bag holding unbreakable flip-top bottles, spray bottles and more for shampoo, lotion, etc. (Bag is sized at 1 quart and bottles are all 3 oz. or less, meeting TSA guidelines.) Web handles have leather padding. Imported.”

Review of Product: I was excited when Lands’ End contacted me to choose a piece from their new FlightWise luggage line to bring with me to BlogHer in NYC a few weeks ago! I chose the duffel since it worked as a carry on and would be easier to manage with the rolly bag I was already checking. The duffel fits so much inside of it, I was amazed. I loved the clear zippered case and bottles to put liquids into – makes security so much easier. The straps let me carry the duffel across my body and were extra long and easy to manage. I honestly don’t have anything negative to say about this bag. I chose the chili pepper because I thought having a bright colored bag would be fun and it is!

I received a sample of these products to review at no charge but my opinions remain my own.

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Seven Sisters Odelia Bukettraube Wine Review

by nicolesnickels on August 12, 2010

Name of Product: Seven Sisters Odelia Bukettraube Wine (2009)

Price of Product: $12

Where can the product be purchased: Various Sam’s Club, Albertson’s, Jewel Osco, and Whole Foods locations in 41 states, as well as at local retailers and online through the Heritage Link Brands website. Access your nearest location at http://www.heritagelinkbrands.com/locator, and visit our online wine store at http://www.heritagelinkbrands.com/store.html.

Description of Product: ““Odelia is a naturally sweet wine rich with honey flavor, yet it is perfectly balanced by high acidity and floral aromas. It has delicious notes of stone fruit and lychee, and makes for a perfect pairing with any slightly sweet dish, such as lobster in butter sauce. As a varietal, Bukettraube is often described as having a Muscat-like bouquet. ”

Review of Product: I pretty much only drink white wine since red wine tends to give me a headache and my taste runs the gamut from sweet to oaky and dry. The Bukettraube is a lovely South African wine that wasn’t too pale in color. It was sweet but not too sweet and I found it extremely refreshing on a hot Florida day. If you enjoy finding new wines, please try the Seven Sisters Odelia Bukettraube – the price was perfect and the flavor full-bodied and natural.

I received a sample of these products to review at no charge but my opinions remain my own.

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BlogHer 2010 Whirlwind Recap

by nicolesnickels on August 11, 2010

I attended BlogHer 2010 this weekend at the Hilton New York in Midtown Manhattan. There were 2,400 other (mostly women) bloggers and it was AMAZING! From the moment I landed until the moment I left, it was go-go-go. I got to meet some bloggers I had known online and some bloggers I hadn’t heard of but whose blogs I can’t wait to follow. I was particularly thrilled to see 2 of my fave bloggy buddies, Karen from Koupon Karen and Keri Lyn from She Saved again!

Before I move along to tell you what I did, I want to take a minute to thank my sponsor, Bumble Bee Foods. They sponsored Bee Squad members and threw an awesome party on Thursday night. They are a true class act and I am honored and proud to be part of their Bee Squad. They took care of everything, and for that I am truly thankful!

Thursday

I arrived at JFK (and used my awesome new Lands End carry-on duffel bag!) and was picked up in a super nice car by a friendly driver (the first of many!). I was whisked away to the hotel and had a few minutes to check in and unpack before I hit the Kodak Bus Tour party! We had lunch at Caroline’s Comedy Club and then took a double decker tour bus around the city. It was a HOT day and while I loved taking pictures of the city with the Kodak EasyShare M580 camera they had sent us, there were a few moments where I think even the camera became overheated!

After a few minutes at the hotel, it was time to head to Simply Smart where we got to sample treats made with Simply Smart milk (like corn chowder and mini chicken pot pies) and even got to met Chris Evert! I loved the autographed tennis ball in my cute swag bag!

Our next stop was Social Luxe. I was a little disappointed to wait outside (HOT!) in a line for 45 minutes but happy to get into the a/c and the terrific party. I wish I had been able to stay longer to take advantage of the beauty treatments but was happy to grab the custom made Avery binder from Zazzle while I was there.

I hopped into a waiting car (that took some planning) and off I went to the Bumble Bee event which was hosted in the Viking Demo kitchen. Chef Scott from Hell’s Kitchen was there to prepare some fabulously creative and delicious recipes using Bumble Bee products – this isn’t your mother’s old tuna casserole recipe! The setting was elegant and the food and company were delightful. I was happy to meet my fellow Bee Squad members and finally place faces with names and voices from conference calls.

After Bumble Bee, we headed back towards the hotel and attended the CraziBeautiful party in the Warwick Hotel. We were able to get our makeup done using the Luminesse system and had some time to relax and get to know some other bloggers. Super tired and with arms laden with swag bags, I headed back to the hotel where I may have had $40 room service hamburgers with 2 of your favorite deal bloggers. Ah, not frugal at all but we were tired and hungry with aching feet. It was a yummy hamburger.

Friday

I woke up and went down to the beginning of the conference. I admit, I didn’t attend every session but really feel like I got so much from connecting with bloggers and brands. There were too many awesome things planned to miss and it was hard to find a free second in each day!

I was honored to be chosen by Shop at Home to participate in their shopping spree trip to the Garment District with The Elegant Tightwad. We got to see private showrooms close up and shopped our hearts out!

After heading back to the conference for some time, I went to the Mom Select Swag Suite and Getting Gorgeous. Both events were at the Warwick. Mom Select’s Swag Suite was a large room where you could connect with brands and get some goodies to try. Most items were baby oriented but I did get to try Extra’s new Dessert Delights gum in Key Lime Pie – yummy! Getting Gorgeous was a phenomenal event put on by 2 amazing bloggers. They had a fashion room where we got to visit with folks from Lia Sophia and Kmart among others. In the beauty room, we chatted with e.l.f. makeup and Remington.

I headed back to the conference and was able to check out the sponsor suites. I loved making s’mores in the Hershey’s suite and My Blog Spark had some tasty new treats from General Mills. The conference was still going strong too – see what I mean, so much to do!

Friday night I headed to Aiming Low’s EZPZ Party in a gorgeous restaurant high above Columbus Circle where we chilled with delicious drinks, yummy appetizers and an awesome vibe. I also attended the Mouthy Housewives party with LG as their main sponsor – yay LG vacuum! I ended the night at Hallmark’s Christmas party on the penthouse rooftop of a gorgeous boutique hotel. I had a great time decorating cookies and sitting outside on the rooftop terrace on a lovely night talking to a few great bloggers! My bad ankle had now officially had it and I literally hobbled back to the hotel.

Saturday

I woke up and couldn’t believe it was only Saturday! I went to the Bacon Eggs and Coupons breakfast by Team Inexpensively. It was a lovely breakfast and I enjoyed meeting some new frugal bloggers. After was a nice cab ride to SoHo for the Scholastic brunch. Having been a teacher and a voracious reader my whole life, literacy is important to me. Scholastic headquarters is an inspiring place and shopping in their store was so much fun.

I checked into the conference again and headed to the expo hall. I was interviewed by Pepsi and The Balancing Act and got to connect with some PR peeps I had previously only “known” over email. I could have spent days in the expo hall but just had a couple of hours – not enough time!

Friday evening I spent at Unilever’s penthouse event where I was able to get an amazing reflexology massage on my super swollen ankle. I enjoyed relaxing at this event and trying some of Unilever’s products. I was too tired to enjoy some of the official BlogHer parties that evening and went to bed at a decent hour for the first time on the trip.

Sunday

On Sunday morning I could barely walk (the reflexology massage wasn’t a miracle) and so I had to skip FlatOut Bread’s walking event. I was touched to see they had sent a box of FlatOut Bread products to my house when I was gone and can’t wait to try all of their fabulous products.

I made it to the SoyJoy brunch overlooking the city. The food was yummy and we got to listen to experts talking about nutrition and the importance of snacking and making good snack choices. I am loving SoyJoy’s 2 newest flavors – they’re not out in stores yet but I bet you’ll love them too!

I really enjoyed myself and can’t really comprehend how much I did, how fast the weekend went and how many bloggers I met. It was truly overwhelming and so much fun. And I can’t wait to go again next year.

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Dove Men+Care Review

by nicolesnickels on July 29, 2010

Name of Product: Dove Men+Care

Price of Product: from $3.99

Where can the product be purchased: at stores nationwide where Dove products are sold.

Description of Product: “Dove has developed its first ever product line formulated specifically for men’s needs, built on its heritage in cleansing, moisturizing and care. Now, Dove Men + Care is showing fans never-before-seen moments that tell the “Journey to Comfort” of three baseball superstars, beginning with St. Louis Cardinals first basemen Albert Pujols! Now fans everywhere will experience what separates these off-field men from other on-field heroes! Fans will also have a chance to win an Ultimate Baseball Experience, which includes a trip to St. Louis and the chance to meet Albert Pujols himself!

Review of Product: From my brother who tested these products: “Dove has a new line of mens shower products including body wash, soap, and a loofah scrub. The great things about these products is that you get the same quality you trust from Dove in that the products contain 1/4 moisturizing cream. The loofah is not like others because it has two sides. One to scrub the rough spots and another for those more sensitive areas. Both the soap and body wash work up a good lather, smell manly and not perfumy, and do not dry out your skin. They are priced similarly to other mens care products from gilette or old spice.”

I received a sample of these products to review at no charge but my opinions remain my own.

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Crest & Oral B 3D White Collection Review

by nicolesnickels on July 9, 2010

Name of Product: Crest & Oral B 3D White Collection

Price of Product: starting at $3.49 for the toothbrush

Where can the product be purchased: at retailers nationwide

Description of Product: “Available in March 2010 , there’s a transformative solution for teeth that are not just white, they’re 3D White: Crest and Oral-B 3D White. This collection of revolutionary tooth whitening products provides dramatic, noticeable whitening results for a smile that makes heads turn. The lineup includes Whitestrips, toothpastes, toothbrushes and rinse that work in combination to clean, whiten and protect, plus provide the other benefits expected from Crest and Oral-B. Use the 3D White collection together to start seeing results in just 1-day!”

Review of Product: I was able to try all four (4) pieces of this collection. I first tried out the Oral B Advantage 3D Vivid White Toothbrush ($3.49) and found it to be super soft but it hit all the right places in my mouth. I will probably buy this toothbrush again because I really like it. I also tried the Crest 3D White Vivid Toothpaste ($3.25 for 4 oz.). I used it briefly but I have really sensitive teeth and need to use a specially formulated toothpaste for every day. The times I used it I liked the taste it left in my mouth and it wasn’t too gritty. I gave the tube to a friend to finish and she has been loving it. She even asked if I could get her some more! I also tried the Crest 3D White Multicare Whitening Rinse ($5.89 for 473 mL) and also liked it. It didn’t have a harsh chemical taste like some other whitening mouthwashes and was gentle enough to use every day. The last product of the collection I tried was the Crest 3D White Professional Effects Whitestrips with Advanced Seal Technology ($50) and got some great results. The strips are easy to use and come with specific instructions you need to follow. These are once a day strips to be worn for 30 minutes each for a total of 20 days.

I received a sample of these products to review at no charge but my opinions remain my own.

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Mission Menus Challenge

by nicolesnickels on July 8, 2010

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Mission Foods. All opinions are 100% mine.

Mission Foods is kicking off the summer with a fabulous contest called the Mission Menus Challenge. Beginning June 28, 2010, chef Sara Moulton is encouraging all home cooks to submit a budget-friendly recipe using Mission Tortillas. Winners will compete in a cook-off in Los Angeles for the grand prize – a $10,000 dream kitchen makeover. There are also great weekly prizes available for participants. You can submit recipes until August 9, 2010 and the grand prize winner will win round-trip airfare and hotel accommodations for two to the Mission Menus Challenge Cook-off on September 10, 2010 at the Hard Rock Café in Los Angeles. Recipes must include mission flour tortillas, be original, and feed a family of 5 for less than $10!

I was sent a package of Mission tortillas to try and prepared an easy and cheap dinner with them that I wanted to share with you all. I decided to make Mexican lasagna and created my own recipe – here it is:

1 lb. ground turkey breast (could sub other ground meat)
2 cans refried beans (I used fat free)
1 can enchilada sauce
pickled jalapenos (if you like it spicy)
shredded cheddar cheese (I used a Mexican blend)
1 can of corn
1 packet taco seasoning (I used low sodium)
Mission flour tortillas

Coat the bottom of a 9×13 baking dish with enough enchilada sauce to cover.
Brown ground turkey. Add taco seasoning and remaining enchilada sauce. Stir and add corn, jalapenos (if desired), and refried beans and cook together until heated through.
Layer tortillas on top of enchilada sauce coating and then layer meat mixture and cheese on top. Repeat and end with cheese layer on top.
bake at 350 for 45 minutes.

You can find other budget-friendly meals using Mission tortillas for under $10 for the whole family!

Mission Foods is proud to support Share Our Strength, a national organization committed to ending childhood hunger in this country. You can learn more about this important partnership by visiting the website.

Mission Tortillas have 0 grams of trans fat per serving and are cholesterol free! You can find them at your local grocery store in 3 sizes. I love the versatility of Mission tortillas. You can use them in a Mexican-inspired meal as I did or as part of a sandwich or as a snack. Think creatively!

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Summer Spectacular in Branson

by nicolesnickels on July 1, 2010

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Hiltons of Branson. All opinions are 100% mine.

I’ve never been to Branson but I watched a movie this weekend where the family was going on a vacation to Branson and had matching shirts made for their trip. I was curious to read more about Branson and all it has to offer and wow, I think I need to book a vacation there soon!

There are 2 Hilton hotels in Branson that look really nice and are centrally located to get you everywhere you need/want to be. The Hilton Promenade at Branson Landing is located in the heart of the shopping and entertainment district while the Hilton Branson Convention Center Hotel is in the heart of historic downtown Branson. Both hotels offer fist class amenities at affordable rates. Both hotels have fabulous packages available so you can easily see what Branson has to offer depending on your interests.

Some of the highlights of the summer season in Branson are: Branson Z Fest, National Kid’s Fest, Stage One National Dance Finals, performances by Travis Tritt and Tanya Tucker and the fun Father’s Day Bass Pro Boat Show, a series of amazing concerts conveniently located on the Branson Landing including shows from 65 South, Colgate Country Showdown with KHOZ 102.9, EXILE, The Nashvegas All Stars, and the Liz Moriondo Band. It’s a jam packed exciting agenda!

There is so much to do in Branson – with 49 live entertainment theaters plus multiple golf courses and lakes, museums and theme parks. It sounds like there really is something for everyone.

A day could include a round of golf, a trip to a museum, a gourmet dinner and a live show – sounds like a perfect day and if you’re no into golf or the museum there are many other options. Check out Branson today!

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Summer Fashions from Marshalls/TJ Maxx Review

June 30, 2010

Name of Product: Summer Fashions and Fun from TJ Maxx and Marshalls

Price of Product: prices vary but are rock bottom!

Where can the product be purchased: in TJ Maxx and Marshalls stores nationwide
Description of Product: “Here are a few swimsuit ideas that are perfect for the beach or poolside…Bold & Bright – Stand out at [...]

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Lands’ End Swimsuit Review

June 24, 2010

Name of Product: Lands’ End Swimsuit

Price of Product: from $22.50 for 1 piece of 2 piece suit, 1 pieces starting at $31.50

Where can the product be purchased: online at Lands’ End

Description of Product: ““It’s that time of year again – dreaded swimsuit season! According to a recent survey of more than 1,000 women conducted [...]

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Hampton Inn Chain of Friends Sweepstakes

June 23, 2010

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Hampton Hotels. All opinions are 100% mine.
Hampton Inn has an incredible sweepstakes going on right now called the Hampton Chain of Friends Sweepstakes. Every day they are selecting winners of a weekend stay at any Hampton Inn Hotel. They are giving this away once [...]

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Eyeslices Review

June 16, 2010

Name of Product: Eyeslices
Price of Product: $15.o0
Where can the product be purchased: online at Eyeslices – you can find retailers in the US

Description of Product: ““The eyeSlices® Biotanix Retail Range is an innovative creation from iSlicesTM – the natural essence of nature combined with bio-innovation to bring about a quick-fix solution to all common [...]

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Reminder – Bee Squad BeeWell Challenge Starts Now

June 16, 2010

This is a reminder that if you haven’t already please join my team for the BeeWell for Life Bee Squad Challenge that started yesterday. You’ll need to keep track of your miles and then report them to me so we can get a final tally. It’s easy to do and for a great cause!

You register [...]

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Ritz Crackerfuls

June 15, 2010

I get a definite lag in my step and thinking around 3 pm. My lunch is digested (or maybe I never even had the chance to eat it?) and I need a little something to eat, to carry me through. I typically make bad choices at this time – candy, chocolate, whatever is in the [...]

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Join Me for the Bee Squad BeeWell Challenge

June 10, 2010

I’m hoping each one of you will read this post and decide to join my “team” and participate in the Bee Squad BeeWell Challenge! Yes, it’s a mouthful to say but an easy concept to understand.

You register (for FREE) on the BeeWell for Life website which is Bumble Bee’s site geared towards fitness and healthy [...]

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Zenni Optical – Order Prescription Eyeglasses Online

June 9, 2010

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of Zenni Optical. All opinions are 100% mine.
I have terrible eyesight and rely on contact lenses during the days and eyeglasses at night and some weekends. I buy a new pair of eyeglasses almost every year, depending on whether there was a change in my [...]

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Stockpiling

June 4, 2010

I guest posted this week on stockpiling in Bumble Bee’s BeeMail newsletter. Many of you probably already receive it but maybe you didn’t notice my article.

I think it’s a pretty good introduction to stockpiling and the principle behind matching coupons to sales and stocking up when products are at their cheapest. If you’re trying to [...]

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Parent’s Choice Baby Formula Options

June 3, 2010

This is a Sponsored Post written by me on behalf of PBM Products. All opinions are 100% mine.
Parent’s Choice Baby Formula recently won a nearly $14 million lawsuit against a “brand label” formula for false advertising. There are other brands out there and Parent’s Choice is one of them.

One of the things I like best [...]

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Garage Sales Tracker IPhone App

May 26, 2010

I blogged a while ago about the site Garage Sales Tracker and how much I thought it fit a niche for those of you who enjoy garage/yard sales.

I’m happy to report that Garage Sales Tracker now has their own IPhone application! You just search in your applications for garage sale tracker and download the application. [...]

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Tassimo T20 Review

May 19, 2010

Name of Product: Tassimo T20 by Bosch

Price of Product: $129.99

Where can the product be purchased: at Target stores and on Target.com
Description of Product: “Whether it’s a latte in the morning or an afternoon cup of tea, there may not always be time for a trip to the coffeehouse. The new TASSIMO T20 by Bosch [...]

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