How To Achieve Extraordinary Hair Status

This post was sponsored by L’Oreal Paris Advanced Haircare as part of a sampling activation for Crowdtap. I received complimentary products to facilitate my review.


I can't even think of enough adjectives to describe these fab products I recently tried! 

If you ever suffer from dry, frizzy hair, straight or curly, well, this line and more importantly, this product, deserves the next few minutes of your attention. 

L'Oreal Paris Advanced Haircare created some of the most intriguing products out there right now! I can't get enough of their Extraordinary Oil line!! 

I Wish I Had These Scented Markers When I Was A Kid!

"This post was sponsored by Mr. Sketch® as part of a sampling activation for Crowdtap. I received complimentary products to facilitate my review."

I remember scented markers from when I was a little kid. (A long time ago, like back in the 70's and 80's!) and I remember the whole class being super ecstatic, every time our teacher pulled the scented markers out. They smelled so much like chocolate, and chemicals, and omg! You could smell the black marker from a mile away! Sometimes, if you were close enough and it was being used a lot, your eyes would water. But, we didn't care! Because, it was scented markers! They were almost as cool as scratch and sniff stickers! So, I was more then pleased when I smelled these markers. They certainly don't have that gross eye watering, chemical scent to them at all. Actually, they smell very similar to what the package lists them as smelling like.

My kids love these markers and they use them a great deal! They work well, smell good, they actually are washable, and the colors are bold and bright! I'm not a fan of banana scent. I would have preferred lemon, but, the banana scented marker is my 5 year old son's very favorite one! My favorites are the cinnamon (brown) and blueberry (the darker, brighter blue.)

I intend on grabbing a bigger pack and having them on hand for birthday gift add ons, prizes for parties, and for my own kids, so when they run out (they will at some point.), they can open another pack. I think these go well for rainy day arts and crafts, gifts, just regular artwork days when your kids want to draw and color for hours and hours, (seems like this is everyday!) and of course, my 9 year old daughter just has to use them to color coordinate her journals, book covers, notebooks, and anything else that needs a splash of bright color and a fruity or candy scent.

Oh yeah, if you check the back of the pack, you will see this really awesome label!! It reads, "Assembled in the USA!" This seems to be so rare these days and whenever I do see a label similar to this, I'm a fan for life.

Amope Electronic Foot File Review (Yes, I LOVE This Product!)

** I received this product for free in return for my honest review, thanks to Crowdtap and Amope. All opinions and statements are my own. **

I have a few obscure disorders and diseases that affect my legs, feet and ankles. This all started from having broken and sprained feet and ankles, years ago, and bartending for over 20 years and finally, failed reconstructive foot and ankle surgeries that caused severe nerve damage, drop foot, RSD/CRPS, and some other nonsense that won't heal. Due to this, I am in severe pain almost 24/7 and my skin is very sensitive and extremely dry. The only time I can remember having silky soft skin on my feet was longer then 10 years ago. I have tried several creams, files, scrubs, nothing helps and this is with daily work. I can't use the metal files and some files due to the pain they cause. I was a little worried about Amope because it looked more rough then it actually is and I just can't believe how easy this is to use or how comfortable it is!!

Amope claims this will help instantly and it really does. I am surprised to be honest and I just can't imagine not having this on hand. I am very pleased with this product, it has given me the confidence to actually not wear socks 24 hours a day!! Oh, speaking of this, I am not able to wear shoes due to my conditions so, I am always wearing slippers. As long as they don't touch the tops of my feet. I have hyper active, hyper sensitive nerves and even just the wind blowing on my legs, is painful. I also live in Pennsylvania where we actually have winter weather and of course, rain. So, being out when it's wet, in slippers, just adds to my problems. I can say that Amope has changed this aspect of my life and I just can't thank them enough.

I do use this every other day, at least and I usually just use it dry. It seems to work better dry then wet. I think the handle is perfect and it charges fairly quickly. This does have 2 speeds, which is great and it is super easy to operate. (Another plus!) I also think the price for a 2 pack of replacement heads is reasonable.

Of course, it is quite messy, which is something I find with most products like this and it is expected. I mean, you are basically sanding off dry skin and it will leave a mess which is not at fault of the product itself. It's just one of those annoying things that happens. The fact that I am not embarrassed by my heels, means much more to me then my own icky, dead skin flying around.

The only other con I can think of is the packaging. I really, really, really wish that nothing was put in these annoying plastic boxes that are such a pain to open and I know there have got to be other ways to box this up and make it look pretty at the store. (Whoever invented this crazy packaging that brands seem to think is the best choice, needs to find a new line of work!)

Other then that, I love everything about this product and I am ecstatic that I was able to try it! I haven't been bothering with new files for a while, due to so many bad investments. Oh, I also should mention that this electronic file has a safety feature that will automatically shut the file off if you are pressing to hard. I understand some people have a problem with this feature but for somebody like me, with chronic pain and other health issues, it is superb!

Ok, so, I don't mean to gross anybody out but I have to include a few pictures so you can see the results!! (Don't mind my crazy dry skin. Especially since it is no longer there!! WOOHOO!) 

So, the top left is my before picture. The one at the top right is an instant picture because it seriously smooths the driest of skin, in an instant, just as they say! 
The next 2 pictures are from a few days later and as long as I keep up with at least every couple of days, I am golden! 

What do you think of Amope products? Have you tried their new Pedi Perfect Wet Dry Electronic Foot File? What do you think? 

Garnier Color Sensation Hair Color Review

** I received a box of Garnier Color Sensation hair color thanks to Crowdtap and Garnier, in return for my honest review. All opinions and statements are my own. **

I color my hair pretty often. A little less often now then when I was younger but, I don't really have the time to sit long enough or even bother starting the color process. So, I just save these times for special occasions anymore. My usually hair color routine tends to take a bit long, even though I  have short hair. When I opened Garnier Color Sensations, there was 1 sheet of instructions so, that's 1 side in English and half of that side with instructions for coloring and then the other side is for retouch. Literally, 3 usual steps without all of the jibberish and nonsense. Just simple instructions! and then I noticed that the wait time was 25 minutes! 

Quick and easy contents of my hair color box. The plastic gloves are on the instruction page. 

I figured I would use a burgundy towel for my Deep Burgundy shade! I just sort of gop it on and whoosh it around until my hair is completely saturated and this sometimes leaves a bit of a mess. If any color gets on my hand towel, lol, maybe I won't notice! (Update: After careful inspection, there are no stains on my towel!)

This is my icky brown and gray hair. I tried to get the better picture so you can see the difference so, I apologize that my hair is all over the place and not done as it usually is. (Yeah, when I have time to do it!)


So, now yuo got to see my hair when I let it go and just don't bother coloring or doing anything. (Not that I ever do a whole lot to my hair anyway!) I have a pretty simple, carefree style and I don't recall the last time I even brushed it! I just put hair paste or putty in my hair, whoosh it around, make it spiky and I'm all set! This does require a lot of texturizing and a lot of haircuts since my hair tends to grow extremely fast. Sometimes, I can't get to the salon for my usual 3 to 4 week haircut and my stick straight hair doesn't go where I want it to, so, I'm left with just hair that I can hold back with barrettes or small clips. (I am always in search of clips and barrettes so, if anybody knows of any cute ones, please comment and let me know!!)

Let the coloring begin!

I waited a few extra weeks to bother with color when I learned about this campaign through Crowdtap. I was literally freaking out but, managed to survive with this gray hair long enough for my box of Garnier Color Sensation hair color to arrive so I could quickly hide all of this!

Of course it didn't take much to figure out. If you have used one hair color kit, you have used them all, eh? Not so fast! Garnier Color Sensation is even more simplified and I swear, an insanely busy mom who doesn't even get to pee by herself, had to have written the instructions for this! It's all very easy: Put on your gloves. Open bottle A, open tube B, pour tube B into bottle A, mix, use immediately, saturate hair, leave on for 25 minutes, add water, make suds, rinse, add conditioner, rinse, dry. That's all we need to know, really. If you are a hair color instruction writer, please take note!

I did all of these things and I am sorta sloppy since I am always in a rush. Even when I don't necessarily have to be. But, us moms know that if we try to relax or sit down, somebody will need a snack, chocolate milk, help wiping a nose, or all of your kids will start fighting inside their Minecraft worlds! I have just learned over the years to always act and react like I am in a marathon and I am in first place and my life depends on me winning that race! So, this fast hair color preparation is a perfect fit for me!

I set the oven timer, since I live in the kitchen. (No really, I DO live in the kitchen.) I have a really cool office setup, thanks to my husband. 2 office desks, 2 desktop computers, a fancy light, flashy keyboard, mouse, the whole deal! But, if I sit down, all I hear is, "MOM! Blah blah hit me and blah blah fruit snacks, toast, cut my pizza, I spilled milk, I need scissors, STOP TAKING OVER MY WORLD!, I need help with the bathroom wipes and can you wipe my butt?" It's ridiculous to even think about sitting anywhere else but right here, in the middle of it all. I can keep my eye on everybody and everything and I can jump at the drop of a dime and make sure everybody has what they need out here. So, I have a mini office. Right here at the corner of the table. It has my laptop, lots of tablets, a binder, agendas, pens, paperwork from school, just everything I need in one section, all organized. (But so terribly annoying!) When do we get at least an hour of our lives back?

In the time you read the above paragraphs, your timer went off and you can grab a towel and start adding water to make those colorful suds appear! Oh, I do have to mention how much of a difference Garnier Color Sensation hair color's scent is, when compared to well, almost every other hair color I have ever used! There are no itchy, watery, burning eyes. No dyed nails because your scalp itches from time to time and you didn't think to grab an extra pair of gloves. It is just a light, pleasant scent. It doesn't even feel like you have hair color in! (It is indeed, recommended to check for allergic reactions, stains, and all of those other things that suck.) Just be sure to test everything out before jumping in!

I used the burgundy towel just in case it stained everything, which it didn't! I also used the kitchen sink, (my home.) and the big, purple, blobs in the sink just wiped away instantly. Really though, I draped the towel around me figuring some would start dripping out of my short hair. (I tend to dump the whole bottle of color in my short hair, just so I don't waste it!) But, it didn't drip. The only thing that sort of, kind of annoyed me, was that somehow, my fingernails were dyed along with my hair. I will take some of the blame for this, however, I have seen better gloves in hair color kits. Maybe Garnier will work on this? Maybe it's just me? I don't know. I did check for any slits, holes, anything but, alas, they were still intact at the end. I guess a good idea would be to invest in a box of your own back up gloves anyway. I should do this and I often think of it because I have a few brands I use and 1 brand in particular, has almost invisible gloves that are already coming apart when I open the box and once your hand is inside, it comes straight out the other end! (No, not Garnier and yes, this comes from a well known brand.)

The gloves are my only "negative" experience with Garnier Color Sensation hair color kits. Everything else was on par with being a classy hair color kit that is especially great for busy people, mom or not.                                                                                                                                                                                                                      

Onto my results!! 

I tried to make my hair as messy as before so that you could see that Garnier held up to their word. 100% GRAY COVERAGE! Yes, indeed, it IS 100% gray coverage. I have since went for a haircut and my hairdresser will vouch for this. She adores this color and was pretty surprised that this came from a box that anybody can buy! (I think she may end up trying this herself by the way she was talking!) 

I had a couple of issues with my cell phone over the past week and I lost a lot of pictures and I will update as soon as my apps are done updating in my replacement phone I just received. I am annoyed that these SIM cards don't seem to do much of anything when I thought that my pictures that didn't make it to my cloud before my phone turned off and never started back up. But, hopefully you can see the difference in this photo! 

Have you used Garnier Color Sensation hair color? What shade would you suggest? 

My Little Pony Toys From Playskool

** We received a few My Little Pony toys thanks to Crowdtap and Playskool, in return for our review. All opinions are our own!**

I am sure a lot of you remember having My Little Ponies as a kid or maybe your own children or younger siblings. My little sisters had these toys and just loved them! I don't know how many times we had to run through the house, trying to help find those teeny tiny combs and brushes they came with!!

As a member of Crowdtap, sometimes we get to sample new products and much to my surprise, being in the Playskool Crew, we were offered an opportunity to review some new My Little Pony toys! (Yes please!)

First up, is the My Little Pony Rainbow Dash Friendship Bus! This is such a cute toy and full of colorful fun for little ones. The price is pretty snazzy for this bus! Especially when you find out that it includes, Rainbow Dash herself! Of course you will have to buy a couple more My Little Pony toys because the bus seats 3 of them and your little one will need to be sure that this is filled to capacity. That's ok though, because, the prices on all of the new My Little Pony toys are more then reasonable.

The Rainbow Dash Friendship Bus, has a button for little ones to push, a little roller, and a door that swings open. They can also open and close the sign on the bus and yes, indeed, they can carry this easily too!

I do really like technology but there comes a time when toys without screens and even batteries are more important, Mainly for imagination and learning how to play with others. Children need to play with boxes and blocks and make crafts and play with cars and trucks and dolls and My Little Pony Friends! Besides the fact that you don't have to set up a bunch of passwords, connect a credit card, and worry about your toddler making several hundred dollars in purchases at the Google Play Store, (yes, this has happened to me!), the packaging won't make your eyes bleed! It's fairly simple and Playskool has kept it fairly simple. Maybe because they know that little kids just like to play and use their imaginations!

If you have a couple toddlers, be sure to grab a collector's set or 2! You're going to want to have plenty of My Little Pony Friends around for everybody. They can fit one in each tiny fist :)

I am buying a few of the collector's sets and I also need a castle or 2 so, I have been checking prices and sure enough, these are usually found somewhere on sale so it wouldn't take much to just go right ahead and stock up for every little girl (and even big brothers and little brothers will play too!), that you know. We are adding these little cuties to our gift guide and what a fabulous gift they would make for your special Valentine!

What do you think of the new My Little Pony Friend line? Did you play with My Little Ponies when you were a kid? Or are you one of the lucky ones who had to search sofa cushions for those itty bitty brushes and combs?

Need Another Reason To Host A Cookout?

** I received a free product of Johnsonville Grillers, through Crowdtap, in return for my honest review. All statements are my own. **

Yes! I was just about jumping out of my seat when I received an email from Crowdtap that I was accepted for the Johnsonville Grillers Sample and Share! Of course we grill food and burgers and hot dogs are top of our list for summer meals. Plus, I get a night off from cooking dinner since my husband will grill and I just have to worry about getting everything out of the freezer, on plates and maybe set the table. Oh and then, the kids all run outside with their dad while he grills so that is a nice bonus! Free time! Woohoo! So, yeah, you can probably see why this was just like getting a bouquet of flowers delivered!


I know, you're probably sitting there, thinking, "Ok, like, were they good burgers or what?" Yes. I would say so. But, I have to tell you about the grocery store trip first!


I was just out and about running errands, not expecting to see Johnsonville Grillers already, at our local grocery store. We live in a rural area and it seems to take our grocery store a bit longer to get most new products in but, these were highlighted the very same week I was out and just got word I would be trying these out so, I grabbed several boxes.


There was a sale and Johnsonville Grillers are already reasonably priced and they had a display with $1 off 1 box coupons so, I figured I would stock up while I was shopping. Johnsonville offers 5 flavors/types and I grabbed up 2 of each of 3 of those 5. We tried: Cheddar and Bacon, Mushroom and Swiss and Steakhouse Onion. They also have: Original Brat and Cheddar.


As soon as I came home with all of the groceries and our 6 boxes of burgers, of course, everybody was like, "Woohoo! Dad should cook dinner tonight!" (Grill dinner.) Thankfully, he did and we were able to try these much anticipated, flavorful burgers. This is the kid's favorite time of year for many reasons. School is almost out (out for the summer now.) and it's burger, hot dog and roasting marshmellow time.


I'm the only one who will eat a mushroom and swiss burger so, I rarely, very rarely get the chance to have one so this was starting to seem more like a holiday or a vacation then anything! I still wonder now, looking back, if maybe I was to anxious and expecting something that was going to just be so out of this world that I would never change back to any other brand. I don't know exactly what happened but I feel like I was let down. Again, I don't know how much of this was my fault.

I went back to the grocery store the next week and bought out usual brand of cheddar and bacon burgers and we decided to have a taste test grill party. The kids were definitely up for this and another night off from cooking a whole meal on my own, absolutely!!


We had the 2 Cheddar and Bacon brands, our usual and Johnsonville Grillers, Mushroom and Swiss and the yummiest of all, Steakhouse Onion. Now, we did enjoy the Steakhouse Onion quite a bit. Out of all of the flavor varieties we tried by Johnsonville, that is the one we will buy regularly because it does have a good taste to it and it tastes like what it says it is on the box.


The Johnsonville Cheddar and Bacon and Mushroom and Swiss, sort of just tasted the same but they weren't bad tasting, They just didn't seem to be as exceptionally tasty as first thought. I wouldn't rush to the store to buy them and I wouldn't purchase them but I would buy them to have for a gathering with family, neighbors and friends since they are reasonably priced and they are worth the money. I would probably stick with Steakhouse Onion and then offer toppings although, I believe Cheddar and Bacon will be a big hit for some too.


One of the reasons Johnsonville Grillers won't be replacing our regular brand, for now, is because all of the flavors seem to taste similar and have the same "grill like" flavor already wrapped into them. No matter how you cook them, you will have the fresh off of the grill taste, which some will love. However, I think that the "grill like" taste is slightly overpowering and takes away from the other flavors in the burgers.

They do look so tempting and  flavorful it really is a shame that we didn't fall in love with them at first bite. The Johnsonville Grillers also had a bit more grease inside for some reason, then other burgers and maybe that is the "grill like" flavor, all locked up and is to be meant as juicy? I don't know. But, we just weren't fans.

This was my 2nd Johnsonville Mushroom and Swiss burger, as you can see, I did have to add some mushrooms and swiss cheese to make it taste more like a mushroom and swiss burger. I ate one without extra toppings and if it weren't for the fact that I could see the little bits of toppings inside, I would have never known it was a Mushroom and Swiss Griller.


I would recommend the Johnsonville Griller line to people who want something better then a plain old burger for when a lot of company is stopping by. If you are on a budget, these will be perfect! I would also recommend to people who love the grill taste whether they make them inside in a pan or in a George Foreman grill or on the grill. If you are sick of regular, bland burgers but you aren't really into burgers that have cheese dripping off and come extra loaded, then these may be the perfect fit! I didn't expect them to be super duper bursting with cheddar cheese and bacon or anything but I did expect to be able to tell the difference with my eyes closed.


More pros about Johnsonville Grillers: Johnsonville is a trusted, well known brand that has been around for awhile. We do purchase other Johnsville products and we love them a lot. But, they are the Johnsonville sausage products. Although, I am still searching for the Italian sausage slices in a store near me!! Another pro, they are fast and simple to make! Perfect for a quick dinner when your schedule is busy with baseball, soccer, whatever your kids are busy with this summer. and again, these are perfect for the person who wants something just a little more then a plain hamburger or cheeseburger. You may like the locked in grill taste and if you doctor these babies up just right, they may end up being your new favorite!


I would love to hear your thoughts on Johnsonville Grillers. Have you tried them? What do you think? Are you a fan of Johnsonville sausage products like we are? Do you have any suggestions or recipes for the Griller varieties?

Cottonelle Mega Roll

** I received a sample of Cottenelle Mega Roll through Crowdtap in return for my honest review. All statements are my own. **

This is a little ridiculous, I know. I am writing a blog post about toilet paper. Well, I mean, this new mega Roll is quite amazing (Yes, amazing is an overused adjective these days.) But, I can't really think of another way to put it. Fabulous? Fantastic? Awesome? (another overused adjective), Radical? Gnarly? (Ok, now I'm showing my age.) You know what I mean.

I received this 9 roll pack of Mega Roll toilet paper and believe me, in a house of 5 (was 6 and sometimes feels like 20), a 9 roll pack doesn't last much longer then a week. Sometimes, it wouldn't even last a full week. Cottonelle says each Mega Roll is equal to 4 rolls of toilet paper. Ok, I thought this was absurd at first too. It ends up, they are correct and it will be hard to change back to any Ultra, Double, Triple roll, ever again. Of course, we have a stockpile of ultra triple rolls toilet paper. I order so much online when I find a good sale so, we have to get through that pile first. As soon as we do, I am switching to Cottonelle Mega Roll. (Oh yeah, the price is nice too. It also helped that there was a $1.50 off coupon, attached to the pack I received from Crowdtap!)


I never did understand why the toilet paper holders always have more room, plenty of room, for BIGGER ROLLS! So many stepped up to the plate, but here we are, no matter how ultra, triple, quadruple they get, there is still room to expand. It seems Cottonelle just figured this out.


When my 11 year old asked what I was writing about tonight, I said, "I have to write about the new toilet paper we have been using." and he said, "Well, like you always say, look at that roll and think about the type of personality that roll would have if you were writing a story. What do you see?" I said, "Well, it reminds me of a superhero. The kind that saw a tired, super busy mom who finally had a break to run to the bathroom and just sat down and for the first time ever, the roll wasn't empty. Matter of fact, it was like an endless supply of toilet paper and when your kids and husband are to lazy to change it, it's ok, because, it's the MEGA ROLL!" My cartoon loving, video game addict just nodded and said, "Yeah, I was thinking something like that. and if he had a name, it would be, Larry, Larry the Mega Roll!" So, yeah, see? Even the little ones agree!


One of my favorite ways to get essential oils in our everyday lives, is to make everything scented. I always add a few drops of lime, lemon or orange oil on the tube and when it rolls, you get a nice scent of citrus! Most days, I end up doing this at least once. But, with the Mega Rolls, it hasn't been a daily, "Oh, I have to grab my oil to put in the tube!" task. Because, it actually lasts!


I can't help it. Little things make me so ecstatically happy that sometimes I can't stop talking about it! Something as little as the size of a toilet paper roll, does matter and it does help in many areas of our lives. (Unless I'm just crazy.) But, I do believe that Cottonelle totally saved me a lot of unnecessary stress.

My Undercover Lover aka Brookside Dark Chocolate Crunchy Clusters

** I received a free sample from Brookside and Crowdtap, in return for my honest review. All of my opinions are my own. **

It all started the day the mail woman stopped at the mailbox for longer than the typical fly by drop off. She hesitated for a moment before opening the door and as I watched from the window, trying to rush to get my slippers on, she had already flung a couple boxes onto my porch as she always does when she can't overstuff my mailbox.


"If only she were a little friendlier", I thought, "I might open the door and meet her halfway but I can't deal with her callousness today."


I opened the door as she stomped away, as if she thought her stomps were crushing the dreamy goodies that were nestled inside my Crowdtap box. But, she is just a tiny thing and she can't throw a fastball as she may make her friends and co workers believe as she sits at the gas station each day while she sips her diet soda and picks the peppers she ordered off of her sub she ordered with extra peppers. I will never understand those people.


I picked the package from the porch and brought it safely inside to get warm and cozy. "I'm so sorry my dear. I know it's winter time and we have been getting colder than normal temperatures out there. I certainly don't want you to suffer any longer then you have too."


Of course, the package didn't respond. But, that's ok. I could already tell what it was thinking....


I went for the scissors but immediately decided that wasn't the best option for such a delicate treasure. So, I grabbed a pen instead and followed the line of the tape between the two, cold flaps of cardboard and gently poked the tiniest hole through the tape.


My heart was pounding a mile a minute, because I knew what was inside! I knew that in just a few minutes, all of my wildest dreams would come true and I would be holding some of the universe's finest chocolates that my hard earned money could buy.... But, this was making my heart pitter patter even more then usual. Because, I didn't pay for these, not at all. Just a simple promise to try this simple yet splendid, fine luxury and in return, I would share my thoughts and honest opinions.


I must have opened the wrong side of the box first because, the precious 5oz bag of Brookside Dark Chocolate Crunchy Clusters (Berry Medley Flavor), was backwards. "How sweet!", I thought to myself as I turned the package over to read what was inside of these scrumptious, misshapen, divine gems!


"OH MY GOD!", I shrieked in sheer delight, as I read the label on the front of the bright purple and white bag.... "Clusters of crispy multigrains and soft fruit flavored centers, all covered in smooth dark chocolate"
I had to read it again as I tore the top of the resealable bag right off as fast as I could!


I couldn't believe my eyes (or nose.)! How did I get to be so lucky?
We had an instant connection, Brookside Dark Chocolate Crunchy Clusters and I.

 Thinking back, I guess maybe I was blinded by the smooth, silky chocolate covered crispy multigrains and fruits. But, at the time, there was just the 2 of us, nobody else.


I wondered, "How could I feel so much affection for a bag of chocolates? Is this lust? Infatuation? Or is this bag of delectable temptations, the real deal?"
Right away I knew what had to be done! I absolutely had to know for sure!
So, I turned the unblemished bag over to read the nutrition facts...

"Yes!! Yes!!" I cried as I read that there were 3.5 servings inside this bag, 22 pieces per serving! 190 calories per serving and 80 calories from fat.
"Perfect! Impeccable, superb itsy bits of heaven!"
and then the unthinkable happened. I didn't have a choice. I had to taste these flawless, teeny, tidbits of fruits and multigrains and DARK CHOCOLATE!
Not one of them matched, every piece was unique and a different size, as if I would have made these at home. "So imperfect", I said, "So imperfect they are the ideal snack!"

The last thing I can remember about life before, Brookside Dark Chocolate Crunchy Clusters, was that first bite. The strange, yet so delicious, morsels, crunching in my mouth and delivering such a supreme kick of harmony and mismatched nirvana, I can only remember exactly how I almost couldn't stop myself and continued to eat these crunchy clusters as if it was a game. Each piece was different then the last. Each delivering a different order of dark chocolate, berries and crispy multigrains.

I can remember putting the bag down after I carefully counted out my 22 pieces and my 4 year old son came into the kitchen to ask what I was eating...
"NOTHING!!!" I screamed, "NOTHING AT ALL!!" as he stared at me as if I belonged in a straight jacket.

That was the end of my quaint, content life that I loved so much. (Or so I thought it was the end.)

I stuffed the bag into a special, secret cabinet where I store these secrets where my husband and children will never look. I folded the bag up to make it as small as I could and slid it into a slight crevice I found between all of my chocolate covered biscuits, cheese making ingredients and a few caramels I have found along the way.

Very few things have made it into this cabinet. I call it, "Mom's secret stash". But, I won't ever share a thing from it, it doesn't matter who you are. Cute bottom lip face or not, you will not get between me and my favorite snacks!!

If you have a secret mommy cabinet or a secret daddy cabinet or any kind of secrets that you keep, Brookside Dark Chocolate Crunchy Clusters will keep that secret for you. The bag, if handled properly, is very quiet and will not perk up the ears on even the most sensitive child! They are also just the right size so that if you quickly grab a few and shove them in your mouth and a kid or a husband or anybody comes out into the kitchen and asks, "What are you eating?", you can have it chewed, swallowed and completely gone from sight in a matter of seconds! Just learn to say, "I have no idea what you are talking about?" and start talking about something else, while you chuckle and think about how funny it is that nobody knows......



** I wanted to add a couple favorite pair ups I have found that work together wonderfully with, Brookside Dark Chocolate Crunchy Clusters:

Strawberry Greek Yogurt with Crunchy Clusters as a topping! YUM!!
A mug of coffee. (Always a fine pair up!)
A cup of hot tea. (Any kind will do, just choose your favorite! Although, I enjoy Crunchy Clusters with a breakfast blend.)

Pistachios. (Sometimes I am in the mood for something salty and sweet. These 2 are probably my most favorite combo!)

#FastAdvil Please!!

* I received a sample and coupons from, Advil and Crowdtap, in exchange for my honest review of this product. My opinions and views are always my own. Free products, samples, affiliates and paid posts  will never change my honest opinion about any product or service.*


As many of you are fully aware, I have RSD. What is RSD, you ask? Well, it is usually pretty hard to explain, but I will try for the gazillionith time....
It is a neurological chronic pain disorder. Many people suffer from this but not all of us have the exact same symptoms, so I will share some of mine.
I have burning pain from my hips down through my toes. This is the most painful part and can last for hours or even days on end when I have an outbreak. Outbreaks are everyday, sometimes they don't seem to end. I also have electrical shock pain and this just comes and goes, as well as regular old soreness, aches, irreversible bone, tissue and muscle damage and rashes, discolorations, welts, hyper sensitive nerves, hyper active senses, hmmm, I actually keep a pain diary and have 43 different layers of pain but I won't force you to read all of that! This isn't school and if I were to list them all with descriptions, I would need an overhead projector and a pointer and I don't, so....
Anyway, on top of my alien like disorder, I was also diagnosed with MS a couple of years ago, after an accident. I can't claim expert on MS because, I really don't know much about what I am dealing with in that realm just yet.
I can tell you that I have had a long history of broken bones in my feet and ankles and some torn tendons, heel spurs and drop foot. All of this finally led to re constructive foot and ankle surgery, which led to this horrific chronic pain disorder.
I have a hard time finding any sort of pain relief, especially after a night of work or even a night at home. (One weird thing about all of my disorders and injuries is that it seems to hurt much, much more if I am resting and then stand up.) I also have a severe problem with swelling. I also can't shave very often due to my skin and nerves being so super sensitive.
I rely on pain medications to help me move, even though they don't work so well. So, I tend to try and find healthier approaches but again, there isn't much out there that alleviates all of this pain. I simply would like to find the perfect combo so that I can keep my pain levels down a bit so I can be a regular person.
(Well, I don't really want to be to regular, that would be super boring!!)
I have found that a good mix of hot water, elevation, no electricity, or at least a small amount of electricity, (I have a strange sensitivity to electricity that becomes very painful as well.) and sometimes heat pads, but most of all, something to make it possible to go to sleep and stay asleep.
I often use, Advil, it has always helped with swelling and made it easier to move and function throughout the day. I do like to have as much help as I can find, to get the edge off a bit.
A lot of people think a pain medication will take all of their pain away... this is not the case. Pain medicines, even prescribed medications, only take away the most brutal, sharp, stinging, excruciating pain that you sometimes deal with, or all the time deal with.
Advil is good for this. I have been a long time, Advil fan, for everything from headaches to after having a baby to migraines to breaks and sprains. Out of everything I have tried over my years on this planet, Advil was already the fastest acting medicine that I could find.
Another reason I always preferred, Advil, over all of the rest, was because of the coating. I have a hard time swallowing pills and can take a few minutes just to down one. This sucks, because, it starts to melt and taste chalky and that is one of the grossest things I have ever tasted.
Advil is coated, which makes it much easier for somebody like me to cope with.
Now, Advil came out with this new product, Fast Acting Advil Film Coated.
First of all, I was pleased with them to begin with and at first I thought, well, maybe it's just me and I won't notice much of a difference. So, I put these heaven sent pills to the ultimate test, after a 9 hour shift bartending.
I have a 30 minute drive home from work and when I get home, I can't get out of my truck very well. I end up sitting there for a while and trying to decide which foot to land on. I usually end up crawling to the porch steps to get into my house since my left foot will not move up at all, I have to use my right leg for support. Well, after a busy Saturday night at the bar, that side isn't even good enough to rely on.
I figured since the old Advil, worked fast enough, I would be able to take 2 of the new Advil, drive home and notice a difference by the time I got home.
(Oh, another form of pain relief for me is music, anything to help me escape.) I drove home listening to the newest 311 CD, screaming along with the lyrics as loud as I can. (That's just another form of therapy I like to use!), got home, parked and wondered how this was going to work....
I did notice the throbbing had calmed down some, I didn't even have the usual problems trying to press the gas and brake pedals and my ankles weren't as inflated as they usually are after work.
BONUS!!!
I am not going to lie and say, I was pain free! (That doesn't happen) but I will say, I am very impressed with, Fast Acting Advil. I didn't take my prescription medicine before I left for home, just the Advil, so I could have a proper review and the funny thing is that I noticed more of a difference with the swelling and throbbing more then with prescribed medications.
I have one more sample pack left and will be using this in the morning which is when my pain levels are through the roof! Plus, it is supposed to rain all night and day and I have a busy day filled with errands and a Halloween parade.
Would I recommend Fast Acting Advil? Of course. I would recommend this to anybody who has to deal with any amount of pain, no matter how big or small. My husband used a pack of these for his back pain and his headaches he seems to have every morning. He also reported that they helped quite a bit with swelling, which, we all know, leads to less pain!
I would highly suggest that you speak with your doctor regarding any possible allergies, drug interactions or pre existing conditions that would make it that you would not benefit with Advil, as you should do with any medicines.
Will I purchase Fast Acting Advil? Yes, matter of fact, I will be using one of the coupons I received, tomorrow.
I will be adding these with my pain regimen, mainly for weekends at work and for rainy or snowy weather.
I am not a doctor and I do not know the pain you may have, but I hope this review has helped you in some way. Maybe you relate to me or maybe you don't. I would love to read comments about your pain relief regimens, have you tried Fast Acting Advil? Did you notice the difference in the time relief starts? Have you ever thought about adding Advil for fast relief from swelling. headaches or minor pain or even breakthrough pain?

Ragu Sauces #NewTraDish

* I received a free product from Ragu through Crowdtap in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own and are always my own. My own opinions, reviews and thoughts will never be changed because I received a free product, sample or money in exchange for a post or review.*

I love Crowdtap and yes, I know, you guys have heard this a gazillion times from me but, I can't help it. Out of all of the marketing groups I do any kind of work for online, Crowdtap is one of my top 2 favorites. I've been a member for a little over 4 years and have had nothing but a wonderful experience and have been treated fair and with respect. (Yes, our opinions do matter and that, my friend, is a pretty neato feeling!)
So, this month, I was approved for 2 sample and shares, the first is, Ragu Sauces.
I received a coupon to use for my choice of Ragu Sauce, which I used at my new favorite store, Wegmans!!
I decided upon a classic sauce, (since I absolutely love to make sauces my very own by adding some herbs and spices!)

I like these newer, updated, more classy labels! I also have to mention that we are big fans of Ragu Pizza Sauce. Our little ones love making homemade pizza and Ragu is our prime choice, so, I figured their newly revised sauces would be a big hit at our house.
I planned on making something totally, "saucesome" (haha I just love this word. The card that came with our coupon said we were picked because we are, "saucesome"! Anyway, I decided to ask the kids what they want for dinner. (I knew they would say, "SPAGHETTI!!" and yes, yes, they did.
I thought I'd give this good looking jar of tasty sounding sauce a chance and just not add anything but salt, pepper and ground beef (and colored bell peppers. SHHHHHHHH! I sneak something extra in everything I make, even my husband isn't always aware of it! So, double, SHHHHHHHH!)
I just made the typical old spaghetti meal that is loved by all and allows for enough leftovers for another meal, baked spaghetti! (It's not a secret really. I just top with mozzarella cheese and bake until the cheese is melted.) But, spaghetti has a tendency to taste even better the next day. (That is about the only time you'll ever hear me say that. I am not to keen on leftovers.)
Ok, so, I browned the ground beef, added some salt and pepper, red onion and cooked up some pasta. We used those cute little fans, rather then spaghetti noodles for this dinner. (I like to keep it fun and fancy!)
When the ground beef was cooked through, I added our Ragu Sauce and some yellow and orange bell peppers for some extra veggies and cooked until the pasta was done.
My oldest daughter made, Ranch Bread once while she was still in high school and I fell in love with it ever since. Yes, of course I added that too!
Ranch Bread is a beautiful little side dish and a good way to get rid of any odds and ends you may have hanging around. I use hamburger rolls, hot dog rolls, leftover bread, tortillas, pitas, even flatbreads. I think flatbreads are definitely my top pick!
All you do is spread ranch dressing on the bread and top with cheddar or mozzarella cheese and bake until the edges are browned and the cheese melted. MMMMMM it is delightful!!
Ok, back to the skettis!

See? Nothing to out of the ordinary, but such a classic, easy and quick weeknight meal that your kids will usually go crazy for!
I love meals like this because you can hide veggies, you can keep them fun by not always using those boring spaghetti noodles and you have all sorts of options for sides, breads and salads.
Oh and again, it is always so quick!
Ok, here is my review!!
The price is excellent! Ragu has always had reasonably priced products and that is pretty important to any family.
I am more of a "organic" "green mom" when it comes to food, however, I'm not 100% all natural. (I do miss some things) and I happen to trust and know this brand for many years. They have been around since 1937! Of course, I am not that old lol! But, I arrived in 1974 so, I've been here for a little while...
There is just something about, Ragu, that reminds me of the good old days when I was home with my mom and dad and siblings, back when we used to walk  40 miles to school without shoes, in 4 feet of snow....I'm just kidding!! But, really, Ragu just brings back those warm, fuzzy, happy feelings and I love that about them.
That being said, no, I probably will not replace another product or homemade sauce with Ragu, but, they still won our hearts with their pizza sauce and you will always find a jar of Ragu sauce in my house for times when I like to bring back the more, "simple times" when things were not so busy and everything reminded you of a Happy Days episode. Ok, now, I'm showing my age!
Remember I said I like to make things my own and add all kinds of goodies? and remember I said I decided not to do that here since I wanted to keep it all classic? Well, this was not a win with my husband or myself since, it was fairly bland. BUT it was simple and we dig that.
I'll tell you who ate it all up, hidden veggies and all! Our 3 little ones! Yep! That made me smile ;) They are just kids and they don't always want or even need mom to prepare dinner for an extra hour, chopping garlic, tearing oregano from the herb garden, making everything full of flavor, (even though, that's my style, I love lots of different flavors!) No, they like things just the way they are and their cute, smiling faces, saying, "Mom, this is the best spaghetti ever!", always makes my heart sing.
Would I recommend this? Yes, oh yes. (and remember, I opted for the plain jane  sauce. I know there are other options so, I'm certain you'll find one you will enjoy.) I plan to stick with just the traditional sauce because it isn't just an all around, simple, happy, sit down together and talk kind of sauce to use for a simple dinner, it's actually our new tradition. That is the main reason I will continue to use, Ragu sauces for my family. I think that was the most important lesson I learned with this sample and share and I think I'm going to keep it that way.

Tasty Skinny Drink Ideas

I'm sure most of my readers know by now, how much I love, Crowdtap. If you don't know, well, it's the coolest website for anybody who has an opinion. The more opinions, feedback, the more talkative you are, online and offline, the better your chances of getting cool stuff to post, share, tweet, pin, instagram, bookmark, and try.
I'm also certain, most of you know by now, I'm a bartender.
I've been a bartender for 21 years now, and even with my disability, (which is in my feet, the whole way through my hips), I still work part time weekends, because I love my job, and love talking to people. I usually say it's my time off of work, lol! It is hard work, but blogging, cleaning, cooking, and a big family with nutty kids, seems to be much more hectic than a busy bar.
Anyway, I scored this #TeamSweetNLow sample and share through, Crowdtap, and I wanted to share my drink recipes I came up with for Sweet N Low!

This was my sampling kit, complete with some super yummy drink recipes created by, Sweet N Low, along with some coupons and samples, and a box for moi!

I'm a sugar addict, so I figured this would be interesting to try, especially for some delicious martinis!

I prepared all of the fresh fruit! (I ate most of the mango and nectarine!!)

and then prepared and plated the Sweet N Low...

I always like to rim the glasses with either colored sugar, or now, Sweet N Low, or if you are having a margarita of course, you would use salt. 

I always slide the fruit chunk around the rim of the glass, and then dip in the Sweet N Low....

You can also just dip your fruit garnishes, into the Sweet N Low, and slid that around, or not..and just let it set on your glass.

I needed pineapples for my evening of skinny drinks and Sweet N Low, but after a trip to my local grocery store, I realized, I'd have to make do with the fruit I already had. (We live in nowhereland, and have 1 store closeby. Most of our groceries are bought online, yes, even produce. But, I do visit this store each week. They were just out of pineapples.)

This is a classic creamsicle martini. 

I used Skky vodka, light cream, fresh orange juice, a packet of Sweet N Low for the orange garnish, (I also dipped the orange garnish into the drink to get some more sweetness in there)

This is one of my favorites! Normally, I would garnish with some orange sugar, but I'm liking the whole, less is more deal, that Sweet N Low has to offer!

This is quite the tasty, very healthy, skinny, cocktail!
I came up with this when I threw some strawberries, blueberries, nectarine pulp, and raspberries, into the blender, (just as I would a smoothie), and added just 1 packet of Sweet N Low, and some Skky vodka!
I apologize for the toothpick garnish. I would use a cocktail stirrer, or "little swords" as my kids call them, lol!
But, I'm all out of those and it isn't something I usually have on hand.
(I am thinking of grabbing more accessories and adding a drink recipe series on 1 of my blogs, but, more on that later!)
I really, really, really loved this drink! I cubed some nectarines, and used those on the side! YUM!

 I love these ice cubes!! They will never water down your drink, and they come in a handy little bag. You just throw them in the freezer, and voila! They stay cold forever, and they won't affect the flavors in your yummy cocktails!

Can you see those sweet non watery, ice cold cubes in there??

Now, this drink is just fabulous!!!

I threw this together, and wish I could have a 2nd, but, the kids have summer camp early in the morning!

I used, Captain Morgan's Parrot Bay Pineapple flavor, (again, I would usually use a pineapple, along with the mango, orange and lime) and I used 2 special ingredients, along with just a half of a pack of Sweet N Low...

Rooibee Roo Orange Tea and Rooibee Roo Mango Tea. 

WOW! Now, this is something I wouldn't mind drinking on a hot, summer day, or um, every, hot, summer day!

I am very pleased with all 3 of these drinks, and, I'm even more than interested in using Sweet N Low for even more creations, drinks and desserts!!

You only need a very small amount of Sweet N Low, to sweeten your desserts, teas, cocktails, coffee, tomato sauce, the possibilities are endless!!

Please leave comments about what you would create by replacing sugar with a skinnier, sweeter version!

I'll be back soon, to name these drinks! (I have to think a bit, but I'll add my names for the last 2)

My Much Deserved Girls Night Out in Atlantic City

Last week, I had the awesome opportunity to spend a night in, Atlantic City, NJ.
Crowdtap sent some of it's members, some bloggers, some social media junkies, to stay at a few different casinos, right on the boardwalk.
My itinerary stated to arrive between 3 and 4pm, at, Trump Plaza.

This was the view from my room at Trump Plaza Casino. It was a beautiful view of the beach, especially at nighttime! The one thing that really bothered me most of all was that there wasn't a balcony, and these windows didn't open. There was no fresh air, beach smell, you couldn't hear anything from the beach, it was just silent, and that bothered me a little. I'm not sure why a hotel would have such a gorgeous view but not have windows that open.

This was the nighttime view! Absolutely stunning!! But again, no open windows. 

I don't know, it may be because I'm used to camping, or because I love fresh air, and to hear all the sounds, but, this even bothered me more at night. So, I ended up walking up and down the boardwalk until a little after 4am and went about trying to find some more beauty in this loud, crowded, sometimes sad, casino town. But, more about that later! 

After check in, we went to our room, (I brought my co worker/friend with me, since Atlantic City so generously told us to bring a guest!!), and unpacked, freshened up, and went back downstairs to meet up with the rest of our Crowdtap crew, for, A COCKTAIL PARTY! Yes! Atlantic City, took care of us very well!

We were on the 14th floor, and being the camper chic that I am, I was totally losing it over the absence of a 13th floor. I always swore this was a myth, but here is proof! There really was no 13th floor and I was just, well, floored ;)

Back to the party.....

We found our Crowdtap, Atlantic City party rep downstairs in the lobby, and met a few other fellow, Crowdtappers. That was pretty cool! 

After waiting a bit for a few more to arrive, we hopped aboard Atlantic City's, 24 hour transportation, Jitney. (I loved Jitney! They have stops, all day, all night, and fare is more than reasonable, at $2.25 a ride. (You can save even more if you buy a frequent rider ticket!)

The Jitney van was super clean and comfy and our driver was very sweet, kind and courteous. I was really impressed with this service, and would love to have something similar where I live!

Jitney dropped us off at, The Golden Nugget's H2o bar. Guess what? It was on the roof! H2o was so awesome! Poolside bar, clever, friendly, and funny bartender, (us bartenders have to stick together!).

Once we were past the pool, we were taken onto this uber sweet patio, with some of the most hip lounge furniture, bright reds, and more relaxing than my own bed! 

If that wasn't enough, oh my God! They had this long buffet table set up, with bins filled to the brim with the cutest mini bottles of wine, aluminum bottles of beer, tiny chubby bottles of sodas and waters, and lots of amazing smelling (and looking), food!

This was my first plate! Veggie sliders, cole slaw, potato salad, onion rings, french fries, pickles, cheeseburger sliders, and oh, some delightful chicken and veggies on a stick! I grabbed a second plate, and thought of taking a third, but, I had to think ahead! Walking all night will get a bit tiring if I'm to stuffed. (I would've taken some of the cheeseburgers and chicken to go though!)

I also had a couple of these ;)

After meeting our leaders, (lol, really, we got a chance  to meet couple pretty important people from Crowdtap, and hear a bit about what, Atlantic City has to offer. 

We hopped aboard Jitney again, to take us back to the boardwalk, so we could check out, World Cup Sand Sculpting. 

Amazing, isn't it??

This was one of my favorites, (I drooled over about 3 for sure!)

I have been sharing so many photos, I can't remember which ones I shared and possibly drove people nuts with across my networks, so, I'll lay off some photos for now....

I never realized that there was a World Cup, for sand sculpting, but I am so grateful I was able to witness the beauty behind such a beautiful art!

After snapping tons of pictures, and Instagramming, Tweeting, Pinning, posting and sharing, we walked up on the boardwalk, to start bar hopping.

I am a sucker for appetizers and fancy foods and local foods, and of course, boardwalk food! 

Of course, after a few stops, my phone died and I was in dire need of a charge, so, we went back to Trump Plaza and charged my phone for a bit, and my friend ran down to the casino for a bit.

I ended up watching some tv, and posting more about our trip, and after my phone was charged, I went out on the boardwalk, to try and find something other than closed windows, loud bathrooms, and ladies with their eyes glued to the slot machines, and big bags of change. 

I walked up and down a few times, thinking about going to a few bars to grab some food, but decided to walk on the beach and watch the light and sound show that was right next to Trump Plaza.

The light show was so much fun! I think I misunderstood a bit, and ended up not getting the pictures I really wanted, but I got the end of it for you!
I also found some very cool people, the most memorable was a hilarious 63 year old waitress, who is more badass than any of the  bouncers or security inside any of the casinos I checked out.
I also found something really funny!!

A police sub station for rent! Don't ask me why, but this made me laugh like crazy, I swear some of the other people on the boardwalk were most likely thinking I was an escapee from an insane asylum.
It was the perfect night for sightseeing and beach walking. There was a refreshing breeze, clear skies, plenty of people for people watching, and lots of entertaining personalities to chat with up and down the boardwalk. Very interesting and genuine people for sure!
I realized I would love to come back to Atlantic City, and bring a friend or maybe 5, and have a girls night out, or a moms night out, and dress up like the mobster wives from, Casino, and spend a few hundred at the Blackjack table, wear a cute, little, black dress and put a bunch of jewels in my hair, and smoke a long, fancy cigarette, and have a few martinis.
Then, I want to go hang out at the Margaritaville bar again, and have some fruity drinks with tons of fruit chunks on the side, and be able to feel free for a night! (No kids? Yes, thank you!)
Oh, by the way, the bars don't close til the party is over, which by my observations, weren't until after 3am!
There is also tons of food available for every taste, all night long! and if you're really having a fun girls night out, you can walk on the boardwalk with drinks!!
I'm very much contemplating the wine and cheese festival that is coming up in a couple weeks.......I just may make it.

My Love Affair with Herbal Essences Body Wash

Yes, I may be kind of a geek, and I do sometimes fall in love with simple things and get all giddy and excited over them, that's just me ;)
I recently received a sample of Herbal Essences body wash, through Crowdtap, (my favorite website of them all!!), and from Herbal Essences, and I wasn't forced to write this post, BUT, I felt I had to after the heavenly experience I had with their, Hello Hydration body wash.
I am a sucker for bath and body products, and I grab up all of those beauty subscription boxes and deals on certain websites, so I have been around, if you know what I'm saying :O
I haven't tried this stuff until I received this sample, even though I was fully aware of the new body wash, and had my fair share of P&G inserts that came with coupons for it. I just didn't get around to hunting them down in the small town stores I frequent, and I haven't ordered any online yet... (my other addiction)
I wish the bottle would've been 10 times the size, since it's all now.... but I did save the empty bottle because the scent is so pure and fresh and just a whiff of it makes me remember the lathery, bubbly goodness!!
I don't know where to start here...I guess I'll go with the scent.
First off, it's blue, which is my favorite color! So, that was a huge plus!!
When I opened it, for some reason, I automatically thought of fairies and springtime and clouds and I think I saw a butterfly floating around the bathroom too! It was love at first sniff! I dumped a quarter of the bottle on my yellow body puffy sponge, and that was more than enough to have a layer of suds by my feet! (Which is one of the best feelings in the world to me!)
The whole bathroom smelled so fresh and clean, almost as if I just finished cleaning it myself! (Yes, I'm serious! It lasted for quite some time, and was long enough that I even pretended that I was in there scrubbing after my shower, shhhh!!!!)
Another bonus with this body wash, is the long lasting, moisturizing,tingly, silky feeling you get. I have extremely dry skin, and even I noticed a difference after just 1 use.
My legs are especially dry, (due in part to my RSD) but that didn't stop my Herbal Essences Hello Hydration body wash from making my legs look smooth and not feel so itchy!
I want to buy my favorite blue body wash again, but I think I'm going to try the rest of the scents too!
The other cool thing, possibly the coolest thing, is the price!
Compared to a few other brands I use, this is much more inexpensive and if you didn't know this, you would think it cost more than  the other body washes you may have used!
Oh! I almost forgot! I'm sure you have used their shampoos and conditioners before, right?? Well, these scents go hand in hand and can be fused together for some real delicious scents, way beyond your imagination!! (I love mixing and matching) mixing more, but either way, you go about it, you can't lose!!

Woolite Don't Torture Your Jeans

I recently received a sample pack with some coupons from Crowdtap, for this new Woolite detergent, geared for jeans.
At first I was a little concerned since I don't really like or care for dark jeans, although I figure it must be one of the newer trends.
I love faded jeans and even some with holes in them, lol, the more worn out, the better!
What I did find, is that this stuff works wonders for ALL darks! So, any concert t shirts, black capris, stretch pants, skirts, ( Yeah, I am a little old I guess:) But, I love the scent, the availability of coupons and sales, and the price isn't as bad even though it is a bit higher then other detergents. If you think about the amount of money saved by saving your dark clothes, and not having to replace as much.
I really have lots of darks, and between the 5 of us, I can certainly make at least 1 load per week where I can use Woolite Extra Dark Care.
If you are a fan of Woolite on Facebook, you can grab a super high value coupon here!
I received 12 samples, 1 for me and 11 to hand out, and really, I kind of thought they could have been just a tiny bit more generous with the samples since it takes more then 1 load to do a proper review before you buy. Although, they did include a $1 off Woolite Extra dark Care with each sample pack, so it wasn't that bad. (PS The coupon on their Facebook page is for $2 off!!)

Just in case you are a Rob Zombie fan, (I love his movies!!!), here is a super reason to love Woolite, Rob Zombie is the director of their newest commercial!! Super creative and original!! I love this ad!!
So, I made a purchase, using my coupon of course, and it has been almost 3 weeks, and I can still say I get more impressed with each load of darks that I wash with Woolite.
Besides already being a fan of the brand, I recently have been re structuring how we make purchases, what we "invest" in and how we go about house and vehicle repairs.
We own our own trucking company, very small, just 1 truck and my husband is the driver:) But, we are responsible for all of the repairs, fuel, taxes, tolls, everything you can think of and plus more, is what we pay. We always are looking for steals and deals on anything for our business. Just as we do for everything else.
What we recently learned from this, is the fact that we can go ahead and pay less at first, but it certainly doesn't mean we are getting top of the line repairs or parts!
You get what you pay for, and it does not pay to grab the least quality for less money when you will end up replacing this a few months later. Compared to paying a little more and replacing maybe in 2 years. You always end up spending more for the cheaper version. This recently became true with coupon clipping scissors that I purchased from the same cheaper store, 4 times! The handle just literally fell apart right in my hands! What did I do? Well, I wanted them replaced and so I ran back to this store and bought another, and another and another, because they were almost half the price as a good quality pair at a different store. I ended up going to the better value store and paying the higher price after I already paid more then 2 times what they would have cost for the better pair! Why am I blabbing about this? Because something as important as our families clothing and making them last as much as possible. If I pay $40 for a pair of jeans, (well that is to much in my book, lol, I will wait for a sale for sure!! ) But, you know what I mean......
I want those jeans to last a few years if possible!! The same with keeping concert shirts and things nice and new looking. I don't want to have faded, old, worn out clothes, and if that means I have to spend more on detergent, and look for better deals and coupons for Woolite, then so be it. But Woolite Extra Dark care, is now a regular staple at my house and will continue to be.
You can check out Woolite on Twitter here!
and check them out on Facebook!!