Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a 1 year subscription to Relish! Canada and US only. - March 23rd
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a brand new copy of the book Eat Well Live Longer. This is a great reference book and cookbook. North American and UK okay. - March 24th
UV Skinz is giving away three UV Sun Hats! There will be three winners; each winner getting to choose one hat in the style of their choice. Canada and US only. - March 24th
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away is giving away an E-cloth Kitchen Pack to two winners! Canada and US only. - March 25th
Glimpse is giving away a Watergeeks Stainless Steel Sippy Cup. Worldwide entries accepted. - March 25th
A Nut in a Nutshell is giving away a Rain-X Windshield Wipers/Car Care Kit. US only, 18+. - March 25th @ 6pm EST
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a Microplane® Specialty Series 4-Sided Box Grater. US only. - March 26th
The Giveaway is giving away a Snack & Play Travel Tray from Star Kids Products! (ARV $19.95). US only. - March 26th @ 11:59pm PST
Glimpse is giving away a box of tea. Worldwide entries accepted. - March 26th
Kind Over Matter is giving away a 8 x 10 Daily Affirmation Print. Worldwide entries accepted, 18+. - March 26th
My Organized Chaos is giving away One book and shirt set from Nursery Rhyme Tease. US only. - March 26th
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is spreading the word about Cheerios Circle of Helping Hearts and giving away prizes to 3 winners. Each winner will receive a beautiful freshwater bracelet with a heart charm from Charity Charms. Canada and US only. - March 27th
Saving in Style is giving away the Winner's choice of 6x6 canvas art for kids: Bloom, Sprout, or Grow. US only, 18+. - March 27th @ midnight
Saving in Style is giving away a $20 gift certificate to Creations of Grace, specializing in prayer blankets, swing tops and totes. US only, 18+. - March 27th @ midnight
Saving in Style is giving away 3 items from Flowering Tree Botanicals - bath bomb and vegan soaps. US only, 18+. - March 27th @ midnight
Saving in Style is giving away 1 coupon/cash organizer and 1 boutique fashion cuff. US only, 18+. - March 27th @ midnight
Saving in Style is giving away One pair of custom kid's undies from Sublime Threads. US only, 18+. - March 27th @ midnight
Saving in Style is giving away An Ultimate Blog Party "Surprise" Goody Bag (Items include, but are not limited to Johnson's Soap Buddies, Coupons, Mom Totes for the car and MORE!. US only, 18+. - March 27th @ midnight
The Funky Monkey is giving away a Men's watch of your choice from Freestyle. - March 27th
Val's Views is giving away a Cleaning Mom Tee. US only. - March 27th
Fun, Crafts and Recipes is giving away a Better Than Moms Slow Cooker Recipes Cookbook. US only. - March 27th
A Novel Mind is giving away a baseball cap that says, "If Mama Don't Laugh, It Ain't Funny". US only. - March 27th
Glimpse is giving away a set of Handbound Notebooks. Worldwide entries accepted. - March 27th
The Laughs Will Go On is giving away an Expressiva Nursing top of your choice! Worldwide entries accepted. - March 27th
Here and There is giving away a Yoplait Tote. US only. - March 27th
Therapeutic Reviews & Giveaways is giving away a $20 gift card to Oliver's Labels. Canada and US only. - March 27th
Mom Knows It All is giving away an Avon Bath prize pack. Prize includes Avon bath pillow, bath brush, bath pouf and new scent bubble bath. US only. - March 27th
My Organized Chaos is giving away A Shirt of Winners' choice from The Trendy Tadpole. US only. - March 28th
My Organized Chaos is giving away a Bib from Giggles Bibs. Canada and US only. - March 28th
Ultimate Giveaways is giving away a t-shirt of the winners' choice to three lucky winners. Canada and US only. - March 28th @ midnight CST
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a vertical skillet rack from Swedish Designs. US only. - March 29th
Eighty MPH Mom is giving away a gift certificate for a 1 lb. box of See's Candy! US only, 18+. - March 29th
Designs by Vanessa is giving away a pair of Fly Away Earrings by Musette Made. Worldwide entries accepted. - March 29th @ midnight
My Organized Chaos is giving away a $25 GC to BellaBejeweled. Canada and US only. - March 30th
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away free product coupons for an 8 pack of 8oz. sippy top bottles or a 32oz. multi-serve refill bottle (your choice). By winning a free product coupon, this means you get to pick which flavor you (and your little one) would like to try! US only. - March 31st
Baby Loving Mama is giving away a Tiny Tots with Style $25 gift certificate. Canada and US only. - March 31st
Sweeps4Bloggers is giving away a Coupon for free Nature's Source cleaning product. US only+. - March 31st @ 8pm PST
Once Upon A Qpon... is giving away 200 coupons. US only, 18+. - March 31st
Contest Corner is giving away Two bottles of Nature's Source Natural Cleaners, to be awarded in the form of two (2) free product coupons. US only. - March 31st @ 11:59pm PST
Painter Mommy is giving away TWO Online Turbo Tax Deluxe Online Packages - worth $65 each. US only. - March 31st
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a Soup and Cornbread bundle from Women’s Bean Project. This is their best selling gift bundle. Worldwide entries accepted. - April 1st
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a Sweetheart Yellow Apron from Carolyn’s Kitchen. It's the perfect color for spring! Canada and US only. - April 2nd
100 Cafe Street is giving away 1 set of 3 CakeVases. US only, 18+. - April 3rd @ 10pm PST
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a GelPro mat in the winner's choice of style and color. Canada and US only. - April 4th
The Giveaway is giving away a 14k gold, gemstone 'Sierra' Necklace from Laura J. Designs! (ARV $156). US only. - April 4th
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Giveaway List - 3/21
Friday, March 20, 2009
Reliable Steamboy™ T1 Review & Giveaway!
Are you looking for a better way to clean your floors that it safe, effective, and reasonably priced? When Reliable offered to send me one of their new Steamboy™ T1 systems, I figured I would try it. I recently starting using eco-friendly cleaning products and have been enjoying my step in stewardship. However, when I found out that this system used the most eco-friendly liquid out there, water, I was even more interested.
The Reliable Steamboy™ T1 system is a steam cleaner that uses absolutely no harmful chemicals. By using the power of water, steam, and reusable microfiber pads, the Steamboy is able to remove stuck on dirt while sanitizing your floors. The Steamboy is safe to use on tiled, sealed hardwood, and ceramic floors. I was surprised to learn that this system can even be used to clean and deodorize your carpets. The Steamboy has a swivel head (180˚) and covers an 11-inch area in one swoop. Reliable states that these two aspects ensure that the system can make it’s way through small spaces and under furniture without missing any part of your floor.
To ensure your Steamboy lasts as long as possible, Reliable has included a demineralizing crystal water filter and reusable microfiber pads with the Steamboy. The demineralizing crystal filter can be replaced and the microfiber pads can be washed by hand or in your washing machine.
Here is a list of specifications and features of the Reliable Steamboy™ T1 found on Reliable’s website:
"SPECIFICATIONS
-Model: T1
-Electrical: 110V/120V
-Water capacity: 3.3 cups - 800ml
-Wattage: 1500W
-Steam ready time: Immediate
-Continuous steam: 30 minutes
-Power consumption: 13 amps
-Electrical approval: ETL
-Weight – net: 8 lbs
-Shipping dimensions: 8” x 28” x 7”
-Shipping weight: 9 lbs
FEATURES
-Steam starts immediately - No waiting
-Powerful 1500W heating element
-180ยบ swivel head to get into tight spaces and under furniture
-11" cleaning path with swivel head
-3.3 cup water capacity
-30 minutes continuous steam
-Ergonomically designed handle to reduce hand and wrist stress
-16' electrical cord with wrap around feature
-1 water filter
-1 carpet glide”
PRICING
The Steamboy T1 system sells for $99.95 (USD) on the Reliable website and comes with two microfiber pads.
You can also purchase the Steamboy T1 system with 6 microfiber pads for $138.80 (USD) on the Reliable website. This package is currently on sale for $129.95 (USD).
Reliable is currently offering a great shipping offer:“Free Shipping - Offer applicable to orders placed online and at retail pricing only; applicable to shipping address within the continental USA and Canada only. (Does not include Alaska, Hawaii, and Puerto Rico.)”
Review
First of all, I can’t say I have ever been excited about cleaning my floors...that is until the Reliable Steamboy T1 arrived on my doorstep. Since I love gadgets and this is unlike anything I have ever owned, I was really excited to use it for the first time. The first floor I tackled was our main bathroom floor. Since it was due for a cleaning when I received the Steamboy, this was a
perfect opportunity! After reading through all the instructions, I was ready to get started.The very first thing I did before washing my floors was swept. To make sure everything is picked up, including hair, dirt, etc., I would suggest giving your floor a quick sweep before using the Steamboy.Next, I had to attach the microfiber pad to base of the Steamboy. Each microfiber pad has a drawstring, which makes it simple to put on and take off. After using the system a few times, I found it easiest to tighten the drawstring and put a loose knot in it to make sure it stayed on throughout the entire cleaning process.
After the microfiber pad was attached to the unit, I had to fill up the water canister. The canister is small enough to fill up easily in almost any sink. Since the bottom of the water canister has a spring-loaded device, you don’t have to worry about spilling water all over when inserting the canister back into the device.
Next, I plugged in the Steamboy and placed it on my bathroom floor. I looked at the front of the Steamboy for a light, which indicates it is on and ready to go. I really like how this system doesn’t require much time to warm up. Just to make sure it was warm enough, I waited about 20 seconds. However, according to Reliable, the
steam is effective as soon as the system is turned on. I was very impressed with how fast this system works. I love things that are ready to go as soon as I am.Then came the exciting part, actually cleaning the floor. I was so happy with how easy this was to do. Because the machine is lightweight and the front of it has a handle, it is a breeze to move around. To clean, I simply pressed the trigger on and off to ensure the stream of steam continued. When I did this, I heard the sound of steam coming from the machine (the same sound as when you use the steam function on an iron). I also saw a bit of steam rising from the base of the machine. As I looked at my floors, I noticed that they were slightly wet. As I moved to different areas of my floor, I noticed that the Steamboy did a great job of removing stuck on messes. There was one spot with a bit of dried mud and it came off without any trouble at all. I slowly moved the Steamboy back and forth a few times over the area and it was gone.
After I finished the entire floor, I unplugged the machine, took off the water canister, and turned the machine upside down to take off the microfiber pad. I noticed that right after cleaning, the microfiber pad was quite hot so I waited awhile before taking it off. When I did finally take off the microfiber pad, I was very impressed with how much dirt it picked up. It did a great job of picking up not only dirt but also little pieces of hair that I missed when I swept.
** For safety reasons, I would suggest, for those of you with children, make sure they aren’t around when you are cleaning the floors with the Steamboy and taking off the pad. It does get fairly hot.Finally, after I finished the bathroom and took off the microfiber pad, I threw it in the wash. A few hours later, out it came clean and ready to use again.
Overall, I love this system. It has definitely exceeded my expectations. I was very surprised that how effective steam is for cleaning. My favorite aspect is that it effectively cleans and sanitizes my floors without the use of any chemicals at all. This is great because it saves the environment and doesn’t cost anything (except for the cost of the machine). In addition, I realize now that this machine will likely get me cleaning the floors more often. Generally, I hate cleaning the floors (who doesn’t?) but with the Steamboy, cleaning my floors is easy and actually kind of fun. I would definitely suggest this system to anyone looking for a more eco-friendly way to clean their floors.
What can you win? One winner will receive a Reliable Steamboy T1 steam floor mop with 6 microfiber pads and a carpet glider (a $138.30 value).
To enter, tell me what you think you would like to clean with steam and how it would benefit your family. This question must be answered to gain an entry in the giveaway.
Each of the following will give you one extra entry in the giveaway. Please make sure to leave a separate comment for each thing you do:
-Telling me the name of another Reliable product that you’d like to try.
-Reading this article, then coming back here and telling me one of the benefits of cleaning with steam.
-Subscribing to my blog via email.
-Adding my button to your blog sidebar.
-Entering one of my giveaways at Everything ‘In the Kitchen’ Up Close. Please state which giveaway you entered. This only counts as one bonus entry no matter how many giveaways you enter.
-Following me on Twitter (ihchicky). Please leave your Twitter name.
-Tweeting about this giveaway (with a link to this page) on Twitter. Please leave a link to your tweet. You can do this once a day.
-Blogging about this giveaway on your blog. Please leave a link to your blog post in your comment.
This giveaway will end on Wednesday, April 1st at 11:59pm (Central Standard Time). After the giveaway has ended, the winner will be picked randomly using random.org. EMAIL RULES: In order to win, you must provide a valid email. I will be notifying the winner by email only. Please make sure your blog profile includes your email address and make sure that it is visible. If you do not have a blogger account, please make sure you have included your email address in your post. If there is no email address provided, to contact the winner, another person will be chosen. The winner will have 48 hours to respond to the winning email notification with their complete mailing address (I will be forwarding all this information to the sponsor), If this information is not received within 48 hours, a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is open to residents of Canada and the US only!
Good Luck!
N-fini Discount!
N-fini Shape just notified me that they will be offering a special discount to all my readers as a way of saying thank you for entering the giveaway that occured a few weeks ago.
Between now and March 31st (2009), save 20% off any N-fini Shape order when you quote the coupon code 'everythingupclose03' during checkout!
Plus, "Shipping is FREE for orders over $75 shipped to U.S. addresses in the 50 states only, including Alaska and Hawaii, PO Boxes, and APO/FPO boxes. We will ship your order via US Postal Priority Flat Rate Mail with Delivery Confirmation." Detailed shipping information can be found here.
Have fun shopping!
Nubar Review!
Thanks to Mom Fuse and Nubar, I have been given the opportunity to review a couple of great beauty products! Nubar is a beauty company that carries a wide variety of products, with an emphasis on their line of nail products. Nubar is unique because all of their products are free of carcinogens, which are found in many other beauty products. Nubar prides itself in being free of toluene, formaldehyde, and DBP-Phthalate.
Nubar’s products have been featured in just about every beauty magazine you can imagine, everything from Elle to Flare…just to name a few. A complete list of press Nubar has received can be found here.
Review
Nubar sent me two products to review, a bottle of their Tea Rose Petal Nail Lacquer and a Toe TwinX toe ring. Since I do not often wear nail polish or toe rings, I was looking forward to experimenting with Nubar's products.
The first product I tried was the Tea Rose Petal Nail Lacquer. The first thing I noticed about this nail polish was it’s color. It is a lovely pink and I figured it would be perfect for summer. It also reminded me of my favorite color of nail polish when I was a little girl.
The first time I used this nail polish, I noticed that the color was much lighter once applied than I thought it would be. For me this is a good thing. Since I don't wear nail polish too often, it is nice to wear something a bit more subtle. This nail polish covered really well and I only had to apply one coat. In addition, I noticed that the nail polish dried very quickly. Within only a few minutes of waiting, I was able to put my socks back on (up here in Canada, it is still too cold to walk around with bare feet). Even though I loved the color and the quality of this nail polish, my favorite aspect was one that is quite unexpected: the design of the bottle. I absolutely loved the shape of the nail polish lid. Compared to other nail polishes I have used in the past, this one is much more comfortable to hold and it makes applying the nail polish easier. After trying this nail polish, I would love to try different shades in the future.
Next, I had the opportunity to try out one of Nubar’s Tow TwinX toe rings. I had tried a toe ring once before and I didn’t like it at all, I actually took it off immediately. The reason being is that it
was made completely out of metal and continuously pinched my toe (no fun). So, when I saw that the toe ring that Nubar sent me had a plastic ring (sort of like an elastic band), I was much happier. I knew this toe ring would likely be more comfortable, and it was. I also like that Nubar uses a ring that has a bit of stretch. This makes the ring stay on better and consequently, I do not have to worry about losing it. Finally, I loved the aesthetic design of the toe ring. This toe ring is made up of several little rhinestones, which from a distance look like tiny diamonds. Because of it’s simple design, this toe ring can be worn with almost anything. This is one toe ring I will definitely be wearing in the future. All I have to do now is wait for some warmer weather!Overall, my experience with Nubar has been great. Both products are great and I would be happy to try more of their products in the future. Most of all, I am happy to have found a company that cares about the ingredients they use in their products!
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Giveaway List - 3/19
Sandier Pastures is giving away a Dorothy Wristlet from 144 Collection. Worldwide entries accepted. - March 20th
An Island Review is giving away a copy of Turbo Tax Deluxe online. US only. - March 20th
Riding With No Hands Reviews is giving away a coupon for a free Farm Rich appetizer to 2 winners! US only. - March 20th
White Tangerine Dreams is giving away a vegetarian cookbook. Worldwide entries accepted. - March 20th
Riding With No Hands Reviews is giving away a First Juice gift box! US only. - March 21st
An Island Life is giving away The Mighty B! Dvd. Worldwide entries accepted. - March 21st
An Island Review is giving away a DaBib. US only. - March 21st
An Herbal Bedfellow is giving away One pair of Ethel Garden Gloves. Canada and US only, 18+. - March 22nd @ midnight EST
ParentsGear is giving away your choice of Spa Time Baby Cape/Mat/Cap1. US only, 18+. - March 22nd
Petit Elefant is giving away a set of stationery of your choice {an 8 pack of note cards}. - March 22nd @ midnight MST
An Island Review is giving away a copy of World Championship Games for Nintendo DS. US only. - March 22nd
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a 1 year subscription to Relish! Canada and US only. - March 23rd
An Island Review is giving away Lashfood. US only. - March 23rd
Sweet 'N' Sassy Girls is giving away a super cute fun apron that has a ruffle on the bottom, two pockets, and a flair skirt design. US only. - March 23rd @ 11am
An Island Review is giving away a copy of Chicken Soup for the Soul: Power Moms. Worldwide entries accepted. - March 24th
Gerritnow is giving away a Columbia Sportswear Women's Benton Springs Fleece! One runner up will receive a $10 Gift Certificate for SAVESPRO. - March 22nd @ 11:59pm EST
My Organized Chaos is giving away A 'b' blanket from RAIN OR SHINE KIDS. Canada and US only, 18+. - March 26th
ParentsGear is giving away Pearl Bracelets from Cheerios Circle of Hearts to 3 winners. US only, 18+. - March 23rd
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a brand new copy of the book Eat Well Live Longer. This is a great reference book and cookbook. North American and UK okay. - March 24th
The Musings of The Momma is giving away a 5x7 print of "Flutter". Worldwide entries accepted. - March 24th
Sandier Pastures is giving away a Laptop Messenger Bag from Casauri. Worldwide entries accepted. - March 24th
Playground for Parents is giving away a Gourmet Red Wine & Chocolate Easter Basket! Value up to $100! US only, 18+. - March 24th
Babies Gotta Have It is giving away a Sprig Toys Dunebug's Sand Truck Playset. US only, 18+. - March 24th
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away is giving away an E-cloth Kitchen Pack to two winners! Canada and US only. - March 25th
Mama's Money Savers is giving away a Tuthillo Plush. Canada and US only. - March 25th
The Funky Monkey is giving away a 18 oz Thermos Stainless Steel Purple Flower Straw Bottle. US only. - March 25th
Momma In Flip Flops2 is giving away a Marie Madeline Ilsa Handbag Pattern and Fabric choices. Worldwide entries accepted. - March 25th
Momma In Flip Flops2 is giving away a No-Cry Nap Solution Book. Canada and US only. - March 25th
Therapeutic Reviews & Giveaways is giving away a copy of Mommy Confidence. US only. - March 25th
Not Entirely British is giving away a copy of Award-winning author Annette Lyon's latest release - "Tower of Strength." - March 25th
Life Starring Ellie and Eve is giving away a goddess top; perfect to wear before, during and after pregnancy. Worldwide entries accepted, 18+. - March 25th
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a Microplane® Specialty Series 4-Sided Box Grater. US only. - March 26th
Prissy Green is giving away the Full Deluxe Organic line from Nature's Paradise. Canada and US only. - March 26th
My Organized Chaos is giving away a 'No-Compromise' Organic Cotton Ultra crib mattress (Retail Value $359 USD). Canada and US only, 18+. - March 26th
The Funky Monkey is giving away an Opus and the Red Chair Children's Book signed and inscribed by the author; just for you. - March 26th
Life Starring Ellie and Eve is giving away a nursing mom's giveaway package. Worldwide entries accepted, 18+. - March 26th
Tara's View of the World is giving away Skin Care products- Toki the Collagen you drink, AminoGenesis Tripeptinon capsules , and Fairhaven Health Dreambelly Stretch Mark Cream. Unlimited Entries! Canada and US only. - March 26th
Tara's View of the World is giving away a Zoom Album Kit. Unlimited Entries! Canada and US only. - March 26th
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is spread the word about Cheerios Circle of Helping Hearts and giving away prizes to 3 winners. Each winner will receive a beautiful freshwater bracelet with a heart charm from Charity Charms. Canada and US only. - March 27th
Tara's View of the World is giving away This is the Day by Nancy White Carlstrom and illustrated by Richard Cowdrey. Unlimited Entries! Canada and US only. - March 27th
Tara's View of the World is giving away Summer Soles. Unlimited Entries! Canada and US only. - March 27th
Prissy Green is giving away a John Master's Skin care prize. Canada and US only. - March 27th
Chefdruck Musings is giving away a Spongebob vs the Big One DVD. - March 27th
Eighty MPH Mom is giving away a Method prize pack. US only, 18+. - March 27th
Mommy In Pink is giving away An autographed Corneille CD. Canada and US only, 18+. - March 27th
Chefdruck Reviews is giving away a It's Hip Hop, Baby! CD and DVD. - March 27th
Life Starring Ellie and Eve is giving away a women's babydoll top, perfect for the coming warm months. Worldwide entries accepted, 18+. - March 27th
SAHM Reviews is giving away a Fiber One Spa Break Gift Basket – 3 Winners! US only. - March 28th
Tara's View of the World is giving away a Spa Break Gift Basket from Fiber One. Unlimited Entries! Canada and US only. - March 28th
Eighty MPH Mom is giving away a Guy and Eva 4 Point Aqua Ring (5 winners!). US only, 18+. - March 28th
The Giveaway is giving away a personalized Imaginabox! {ARV$49.99}. US only. - March 28th @ 11:59pm PST
Annies Home is giving away Al Dente Pasta. Canada and US only. - March 28th
Annies Home is giving away a pair of Bugaboo shoes. US only. - March 28th
Life Starring Ellie and Eve is giving away a yoplait gift set to 3 winners. Worldwide entries accepted, 18+. - March 28th
Life Starring Ellie and Eve is giving away a Bravado Nursing Tank Top. Worldwide entries accepted, 18+. - March 28th
Valerie Mitchell is giving away Pop Chips - Case of 24 bags. US only, 18+. - March 28th @ 8pm PST
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a vertical skillet rack from Swedish Designs. US only. - March 29th
Valerie Mitchell is giving away a Mad Hatter's Pottery - $30 gift certificate. US only, 18+. - March 29th @ 8pm PST
Life Starring Ellie and Eve is giving away a Spioled Mama Best of the Bump skincare set. Worldwide entries accepted, 18+. - March 29th
ParentsGear is giving away The Complete Laundry System ($49.95 value). US only, 18+. - March 29th
Mama's Money Savers is giving away The Shrunks Plush. US only. - March 30th
Tara's View of the World is giving away Preacher Creature Strikes on Sunday by Mike Thaler. Unlimited Entries! Canada and US only. - March 30th
Two Of A Kind, Working On A Full House is giving away A diaper case, Pacifier Gift Set, AND matching wet bag worth over $50 to 1 winner. US only, 18+. - March 30th
Baby Loving Mama is giving away a tinySunshine Personalized Onesie, Tee or Towel. Canada and US only. - March 30th
Tara's View of the World is giving away aMagic Senses Cheerful Butterfly soap! Canada and US only. - March 30th
Sweeps4Bloggers is giving away Cake Decorating DVD or Basic Crochet DVD - winner's choice. US only, 18+. - March 30th @ 8pm PST
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away free product coupons for an 8 pack of 8oz. sippy top bottles or a 32oz. multi-serve refill bottle (your choice). By winning a free product coupon, this means you get to pick which flavor you (and your little one) would like to try! US only. - March 31st
Tara's View of the World is giving away a Personalized Christian children's song CD from MyTunez! Canada and US only. - March 31st
Annies Home is giving away a Pocket purifier. US only. - March 31st
The Divine Miss Mommy is giving away a LeapFrog Tag Reader & Pledge to Read to your Child. Canada and US only, 18+. - March 31st @ 11:59pm
ParentsGear is giving away a Designer Baby Kerchief from boopalina + bebe. US only, 18+. - March 31st
Prissy Green is giving away 2 reusable drink containers "I Am Not A Paper Cup" and Klean Kanteen. Canada and US only. - March 31st
Nana's Box is giving away a 'HOPE' scrabble pendant from HomeStudios. Canada and US only. - March 31st
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a Soup and Cornbread bundle from Women’s Bean Project. This is their best selling gift bundle. Worldwide entries accepted. - April 1st
Prissy Green is giving away a 16oz Scrubz in your scent of choice!. Canada and US only. - April 1st
Prissy Green is giving away Three Ecover products -Lavender and Aloe Handsoap, Grapefruit and Green Tea Dishwashing Liquid, Bathroom Cleaner. Canada and US only. - April 1st
Annies Home is giving away Laura Brownies. Worldwide entries accepted. - April 1st
Simply Sweet Home is giving away Lavender Cottage Silver Hoop Earrings. Worldwide entries accepted. - April 1st
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a Sweetheart Yellow Apron from Carolyn’s Kitchen. It's the perfect color for spring! Canada and US only. - April 2nd
Momma's Review is giving away a Hana Elite Flat Iron. US only. - April 2nd
Nicole's Nickels is giving away a Pink Burberry watch. US only. - April 4th @ 9pm EST
Mrs. Cox's Slice o' Heaven is giving away A Boon Water Bugs bath set. "Kids can scoop up these colorful critters as they glide across the water. Set includes three floating bugs and a mesh net. US only, 18+. - April 8th @ 2pm PST
Mrs. Cox's Slice o' Heaven is giving away a pair of shoes from See Kai Run. Canada and US only, 18+. - April 8th @ 2pm PST
Mrs. Cox's Slice o' Heaven is giving away a selection of each chip flavor by Food Should Taste Good. US only, 18+. - April 8th @ 2pm PST
Thank you for your patience!
Since I found out a way to save, I figured I'd pass on this information to all of you. Hopefully the information will be helpful to many of you who are publishers of blogs and other websites.
How to get a free Photobucket Pro account
Step 1: Go to http://photobucket.com/upgrade. You will then come to a page that looks like this:
Step 2: Click where is says 'Go Pro for FREE.' In the picture above, you will see I circled in red where you need to click.
Step 3: Choose an offer to get Photobucket for free for 1 year (a savings of $39.95USD). See the picture below for an example of what this page looks like. Some of the offers you have to pay for, however many are free. I chose one that is a 7 day free trial for an online game site called GameHouse. All I have to do is cancel before the 7 days and I will not be charged, plus I get to keep a year of Photobucket Pro for free. I have done this kind of thing before and it has worked great. I use Roboform (a form filling software) all the time and this is how I got that for free. Not only will I have Photobucket Pro free for a year but I will also get to play some new games for the next week!
Step 4: Keep an eye on your email. Most of the offers will activate within 24 hours and you will get an email tited 'TrialPay Completed Transaction: How to Access Photobucket Pro.' Many offers do not take 24 hours to receive; I received mine within about 2 hours.
Step 5: The email you receive from Photobucket will provide you with step by step instructions on what to do next. Use the step by step instructions in the email you received from Photobucket to activate your Photobucket Pro subscription.
Step 6: Now that you have gone through all the above steps, when you go to your 'account options' on the top right hand side of the Photobucket page (make sure you are logged in), it should show your updated status. It will look like this but with your own information:
Finally, you will also receive an email from Photobucket welcoming you to your Photobucket Pro subscription.
I hope this helps a few of you. Today was a day that I actually hoped I had a lower number of visitors, just to reduce the number of people seeing my blog in the mess it was. I admit, it was slightly embarrassing having both of my blogs looking the way they did. Luckily, you all put up with this mishap! :) Again, I just want to thank everyone for hanging in there and continuing to read my blog and enter all my giveaways!
If any of you need more help with this process, please send me an email. I'd be happy to help you out!
Announcement: Problem with my images.
You may have noticed that recently a lot of people around the blogosphere have been having trouble with their blog images thanks to Photobucket. Either Photobucket has a glitch in their system or they have changed their regulations. Either way, I just wanted to let everyone know that this issue should be cleared up within 24 hours. I am currently in the process of getting a Photobucket Pro subscription. As soon as my subscription is confirmed, everything will be back to normal here and on my main blog Everything Up Close.
Thank you so much for your patience.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Happy Socks Review & Giveaway!
Do you wake up some days and just wish you could be (or act) like a kid again? Do you remember those days when there wasn’t much to worry about except the little things that didn’t really matter all that much? Recently, I found out about a company called Happy Socks. Happy Socks makes me feel young and full of energy. Instead of offering a bottle of potion that gives an instant fix, Happy Socks provides you with colorful, bright, and 
fun socks that allow you to be who you are. They aim to boost your mood with the natural and simple splashes of color! For me, these socks definitely do more than just keep my feet warm!Happy Socks is a Swedish company that offers over 100 different styles of socks, sure to match your personal style. Happy Socks is always coming up with new styles and designs. In their words, ‘We are always designing newer, sharper, and better socks.’ If you want to be one of the first to find out about their new styles, be sure to sign up for their newsletter!
Finally, Happy Socks truly believes that everyone, both men and women, should be able to wear socks in the colors and styles they like. Therefore, all of the socks that you find at Happy Socks are unisex! When you are looking through the many socks on their website, you will notice sizing information given for both US and UK men and women.
Review
I had the chance to try out four pairs of socks from Happy Socks. I chose the Stripe SA08-008, Stripe SA08-011, Melange & Color MC08-001, and Two Color TC08-005. When I received my review pairs in the mail, I was so excited; they instantly put a smile on my face. When I was a teenager, one thing I was obsessed with was pairs of socks. I loved to mix and match (although, they usually didn’t match) because it let me express myself and it was fun. Many of my friends did it
too, which made me feel like I wasn’t so alone in this adventure of self-expression. Therefore, as you can imagine, opening my review package brought back fun memories from more than a few years ago.All of the socks sold by Happy Socks are made of 80% combed cotton with 17% polyamide, and 3% elastane. By using combed cotton, it ensures that stronger, longer, and softer fibers are used for ultimate wear and comfort. In addition, by adding elastane to all of their socks, it makes them extremely comfortable to wear; they just form to your feet. When making their socks, Happy Socks combines computer technology with traditional hand sewing to ensure you get a perfect fit. Happy Socks are made by a family owned company in Turkey who is known for making socks that last (they also sew socks for the Belgian and Turkish Army). Happy Socks insures that all the people who construct their socks are treated fairly and work in ideal conditions.
My favorite thing about Happy Socks is definitely the wide assortment of patterns and colors available. I have never come across a sock company that is so diverse and that appeal to such a wide variety of people. After wearing each pair of socks a few times, I was happy to see they held up well and they were quite comfortable. At a closer glance, these socks appear to be very well made and of high quality. The weaving and the stitching of
these socks are perfect. They are also a bit thicker than other socks that are made with similar materials. I had a lot of fun wearing these because like I said, they made me feel young again and brought back so many fun memories.I wouldn't change anything about these socks and there is only one thing I’d add. I’d love to see Happy Socks come out with socks that were a bit warmer for colder climates and for winter. If they did start to make winter socks, I’d also like to see them include padded bottoms. That would just add to the luxury of these socks.After having the opportunity to review Happy Socks’ socks, I wish I had a whole bunch more! I know what I’ll be putting a gift certificate for Happy Socks on my next birthday and Christmas list. With so many fun patterns and colors, there is sure to be at least a few pairs that will match your personality perfectly! Take the chance to express yourself with Happy Socks!
What can you win? One winner will receive four pairs of socks from Happy Socks (Stripe SA08-008, Stripe SA08-011, Melange & Color MC08-001, and Two Color TC08-005) in size US 4-5.5 Women’s.
To enter, Visit Happy Socks and tell me which pair of socks would be most likely to boost your mood! This question must be answered to gain an entry in the giveaway.
Each of the following will give you one extra entry in the giveaway. Please make sure to leave a separate comment for each thing you do:
-Subscribing to my blog via email.-Adding my button to your blog sidebar.
-Entering one of my giveaways on Everything ‘In the Kitchen’ Up Close. You can enter as many giveaways as you would like but they are only work a maximum of one extra entry. Please leave the name of the giveaway you entered.
-Following me on Twitter (ihchicky). Please leave your Twitter name.
-Tweeting about this giveaway (with a link to this page) on Twitter. Please leave a link to your tweet. You can do this once a day.
-Blogging about this giveaway on your blog. Please leave a link to your blog post in your comment.
This giveaway will end on Friday, March 27th at 11:59pm (Central Standard Time). After the giveaway has ended, the winner will be picked randomly using random.org. EMAIL RULES: In order to win, you must provide a valid email. I will be notifying the winner by email only. Please make sure your blog profile includes your email address and make sure that it is visible. If you do not have a blogger account, please make sure you have included your email address in your post. If there is no email address provided, to contact the winner, another person will be chosen. The winner will have 48 hours to respond to the winning email notification with their complete mailing address (I will be forwarding all this information to the sponsor), If this information is not received within 48 hours, a new winner will be chosen. This giveaway is open to residents of Canada and the US only!
Good Luck!
Giveaway List - 3/18
Not Entirely British is giving away a Tiny Talks books, Volume 9: My Eternal Family by Lee Ann Setzer. -March 18th
Rockin' Mama is giving away 1 digital artwork with a 15 x 15 inch poster from Phokki. US only. -March 18th @10:00PM PST
Rockin' Mama is giving away a Shaklee Get Clean Starter Kit. US only. -March 19th @10:00PM PST
The Clever Mom is giving away 2 TurboTax Deluxe and 1 QuickTax Standard tax preparation packages. Three winners, Canada and US only, 18+. -March 19th @Midnight
She Became a Butterfly is giving away $20 Paypal to one winner, and a Triple Feature DVD with The Wedding Date, Wimbeldon & Prime to another winner. Worldwide entries, 18+. -March 20th @5:00PM
Eighty MPH Mom is giving away a BAM Bag Wristlet purse. US only, 18+. -March 20th
I Never Grew Up is giving away two $25 Gift Cards to CreatedByMom.com. -March 20th @7:00PM
Handmade in PA.net is giving away a custom business card holder & key fob in your choice of fabric. US only. -March 20th
The Funky Monkey is giving away a Skuut Bike for Kids. US only. -March 21st
Natural Mommie is giving away a $25 Starbucks gift card. Canada and US only. -March 21st
Once Upon A Qpon... is giving away a Division Designs-schoolbook that makes reviewing division lots of fun. US only, 18+. -March 22nd
Mrs. Cox's Slice o' Heaven is giving away a "Rabbit Tag" Gocco limited edition print. US only, 18+. -March 22nd
The Funky Monkey is giving away a Petunia Pickle Bottom Juniper Berry Plush Blanket. US only. -March 22nd
Eighty MPH Mom is giving away a Sally Beauty Belson Professional Hot Air Brush. US only, 18+. -March 22nd
1HappyCorner.com is giving away a dozen brownies from Fairytale Brownies. US only, 18+. -March 22nd
Glimpse is giving away PC Natural Care Products to three winners. Worldwide entries. -March 22nd
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a 1 year subscription to Relish! Canada and US only. - March 23rd
The Giveaway is giving away a Basket of Goodies from Boogie Wipes. Canada and US only. -March 23rd
The Funky Monkey is giving away a Colossal Cookie of your choice from Executive Basket. US only. -March 23rd
My Trendy Tykes is giving away a Music Learning Pal. US only, 18+. -March 23rd
Rockin' Mama is giving away a ZoomAlbum Photo Kit. US only. -March 23rd @10:00PM PST
Rockin' Mama is giving away a Woolite’s OxyDeep Power Shot. US only. -March 23rd @10:00PM PST
Rockin' Mama is giving away Perfect Curve Organizational Products. US only -March 23rd @10:00PM PST
Momma In Flip Flops2 is giving away a $30 GC to WordCandy Vinyl. Worldwide entries. -March 23rd
Eighty MPH Mom is giving away a three pack sampler of CHAKA's MMM Sauce Marinade. US only, 18+. -March 23rd
Life, Love, YARN! is giving away Pink Jade Hoop Earrings. Worldwide entries. -March 23rd
Delaney's World is giving away a pack of Uni-Ball Rollerball pens to two winners. US only, 18+. -March 23rd
Therapeutic Reviews & Giveaways is giving away a copy of the book, An Awesome Book! by Dallas Clayton. US only. -March 23rd
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a brand new copy of the book Eat Well Live Longer. This is a great reference book and cookbook. North American and UK okay. - March 24th
Peace and Quiet is giving away 10 products from Rudi's Organic Bakery Breads. US only, 18+. -March 24th
The Funky Monkey is giving away a pair of shoes and backpack of your choice from Graffeeti. US only. -March 24th
The Funky Monkey is giving away a hat of your choice from Wallaroo Hat Company. US only. -March 24th
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away is giving away an E-cloth Kitchen Pack to two winners! Canada and US only. - March 25th
Eighty MPH Mom is giving away a Vera Bradley Baby Bag/Tote. US only, 18+. -March 25th
Life Starring Ellie and Eve is giving away a Goddess Top. Worldwide entries, 18+. -March 25th @8:00PM EST
1HappyCorner.com is giving away a pair of stylish chicBuds earphones. US only, 18+. -March 25th
Sweeps4Bloggers is giving away a Digital Room Thermometer. US only, 18+. -March 25th @8:00PM PST
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a Microplane® Specialty Series 4-Sided Box Grater. US only. - March 26th
Mom's Most Wanted is giving away a Bumkins Super Bib 3 pack to two winners. -March 26th @11:59PM
Rockin' Mama is giving away a Bangerang Cupcakes $25 Gift Certificate. US only. -March 26th @10:00PM PST
Sweeps4Bloggers is giving away your choice of E-cloth Kitchen or Bathroom Pack. US only, 18+. -March 26th @8:00PM PST
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is spread the word about Cheerios Circle of Helping Hearts and giving away prizes to 3 winners. Each winner will receive a beautiful freshwater bracelet with a heart charm from Charity Charms. Canada and US only. - March 27th
Rockin' Mama is giving away Clorox Decor Canisters. US only. -March 27th @10:00PM PST
Rockin' Mama is giving away Kids Central Kitchen Baking Mixes. US only. -March 27th @10:00PM PST
3 Kids and Us is giving away a $20 Gift Card to Born 2 Impress, hair accessories for little girls. US only, 18+. -March 27th @9:00AM CST
Sweeps4Bloggers is giving away four Full Size Relax & Wax products. US only, 18+. -March 27th @8:00PM PST
The Giveaway is giving away a 4pc Baby Bedding Set from Nava's Designs. Continental US only. -March 28th
Ultimate Giveaways is giving away a t-shirt of your choice from iusedtobecool.com to three winners. Canada and US only, 18+. March 28th @Midnight CST
Nicole's Nickels is giving away 3 Fiber One Fiber Friend Fitness Baskets. US only. -March 28th @9:00PM EST
Mom2Ways is giving away a Book: Mommy Grace to five winners. Canada and US only. -March 28th
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away a vertical skillet rack from Swedish Designs. US only. - March 29th
Mommas Review is giving away a Platinum Keurig Coffee Maker. US only. -March 29th
Rockin' Mama is giving away Windex Outdoor All In One. US only. -March 29th @10:00PM PST
Rockin' Mama is giving away a Banana Nut Cheerios Gift Basket. US only. -March 30th @10:00PM PST
Rockin' Mama is giving away a Steamboy Steam Floor Mop. US only. -March 30th @10:00PM PST
Playground for Parents is giving away Mommy Cards. Canada and US only, 18+. -March 30th @11:59PM PST
Frugal Plus is giving away a $50 Gift Card to Handbag Heaven. US only, 18+. -March 30th
Contest Corner is giving away four premium memberships to TutorMatch.com. Grand prize winner receives a 1-year membership, three runners-up will each receive a six-month membership. Worldwide entries. -March 30th @11:59PM PST
Everything 'In the Kitchen' Up Close is giving away free product coupons for an 8 pack of 8oz. sippy top bottles or a 32oz. multi-serve refill bottle (your choice). By winning a free product coupon, this means you get to pick which flavor you (and your little one) would like to try! US only. - March 31st
Tales From A Shop*a*holic Mommy is giving away an Illia Designs Girls Boutique Swing Top. US only. -March 31st
Just Another New Blog is giving away two bottles of Country Bob's Sauce to two winners. US only. -March 31st
Rockin' Mama is giving away a Hoover Platinum Collection Hand Vac. US only. -March 31st @10:00PM PST
Organic Baby Resource is giving away Six flavors of Petite Palate frozen organic baby food and an organic baby onesie. US only, 18+. -March 31st
Maria’s Space is giving away a ring or earring set from Airy Fairy jewelry. -April 5th
Maria’s Space is giving away a doll of their choice from Friends Forever dolls. -April 6th
Mom's Most Wanted is giving away The Parent Trip -April 6th @11:59PM
Sunday, March 15, 2009
Keurig Platinum Winner!
Thank you to everyone for taking the time to enter and making this yet another successful giveaway. This giveaway received the highest number of comments I have ever received in a single giveaway: 1158 comments! Please remember to check back every week for more exciting reviews & giveaways!
'Just Be' Winner!
Thank you to everyone for taking the time to enter. Please remember to check back every week for more exciting reviews & giveaways!
Natura Winner!
Thank you to everyone for taking the time to enter. Please remember to check back every week for more exciting reviews & giveaways!
Sound Oasis Winner!
Thank you to everyone for taking the time to enter and making this giveaway such a huge success! During the giveaway, I received 1069 valid entries! That is amazing! :) Please remember to check back every week for more exciting reviews & giveaways!
Mette Vangso (1st giveaway) Winner!
Thank you to everyone for taking the time to enter! If you didn't win this one, please check out another giveaway I currently have running for the same sponsor. The current giveaway ends on March 19th. Click HERE to enter. Please remember to check back every week for more exciting reviews & giveaways!
