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High Quality Canvas {Canvas HQ Review & Giveaway}

Photography is a huge part of my life. Nothing makes me happier than snapping an image, editing it, making it perfect in my eyes and then seeing it displayed in my home. I display my photos in many ways around the house, but my favorite is, and I think always will be, a unique and simple photo canvas. Canvas HQ offers photo canvases in a variety of sizes at an affordable price. Perfect to add that personal touch to any room in your home or office!

Give us your photos and we’ll give you memories for life. We can turn any photo into a high quality, guaranteed-to-last-a-lifetime custom canvas print.

I was so excited to receive a 12X12 photo canvas from Canvas HQ! Photo canvases are one of my favorite ways to display my family photographs around our home. I love that they are perfect and can stand alone; no frame, no matting, just a simply beautiful photo to hang on a wall or place on a shelf. I chose one of my all time favorite photos of Hollis to have printed on the canvas. He was only a few days old when I snapped it, and it has always been one I love to look at. The whole online process with Canvas HQ was quite simple. I easily uploaded my photo to the site, chose the size, and ordered. Within a day I had a proof sent to my email account for approval. I did have a question about the print, which I asked through e-mail and quickly received a response. I love how personalized they make your experience. You have a designer working with you available to answer any questions you might have about your canvas. When my canvas arrived {quickly, I might add!} in the mail, it was nicely packaged and in perfect condition. I immediately hung it on the wall and every time I look at it it makes me happy. {You can see my canvas in the bottom left of the photo} Photo canvases are a fabulous way to display your photos in your home and with Canvas HQ you will get a beautiful canvas at a super affordable price!

Today One lucky RMRV reader will win a 16X20 Canvas from Canvas HQ! {a $79.95 value}

Want to enter to win? Here’s how!

Mandatory 1st entry:

1) Check out Canvas HQ and take a look around. Come back and tell us where you would hang your photo if you won!

Once the mandatory entry is completed you can gain additional entries from the following:

3 entries: Subscribe to RMRV emails or RSS feed.

5 entries: Follow RMRV Google+.

2 entries: “Like” RMRV on Facebook

2 entries: “Like” Canvas HQ on Facebook.

1 entry: Follow RMRV on Twitter.

1 entry: Follow Canvas HQ on Twitter.

1 entry per day-Tweet the following and leave us your tweet link:

#WIN a 16X20 Canvas from @canvashq @agiveawaydaily!

2 entries: Comment on any non-giveaway post on RMRV!

5 entries- Blog about this giveaway and leave us the link.

Canvas HQ is Real Mom Recommended!!

You have until February 23rd @ 11:59 PM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only.

Amanda February 10, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS , , , , ,

Sending lots of love! {Hallmark Review & Giveaway!}

Valentine’s Day is one of my favorite holidays. I have always loved it; just a fun day to celebrate love and all the people around you that you care about. With Valentine’s Day less than a week away, I know lots of men and women are out running around searching for the perfect cards and gifts for their loved ones; gifts that will say and show just how they feel! My favorite place to shop on Valentine’s Day, or any holiday for that matter is Hallmark! I grew up going to Hallmark Gold Crown stores with my mom always finding perfect cards for birthdays and holidays and I always had so much fun looking at all their unique and beautiful gifts!

We received a sweet Valentine’s Day box from Hallmark, and were so thrilled with the lovely contents! Hallmark generously sent over one of their new products, Blooming Expressions and a sweet recordable storybook, Love you Forever! The Blooming Expressions an adorable flower that will bloom over and over again with the push of a button revealing a sweet message of love! The Blooming Expression is going to be perfectly sweet way for Ava to show her preschool teacher how much she cares about her! I know Miss Vicki is going to feel so special receiving this gift from Ava and will love showing it off on her desk! I plan on giving the Recordable Storybook to my children. I love that I will be able to record my voice reading them one of my all time favorite children’s books, Love You Forever. It is such a precious story and one I always get emotional when reading! Ava loves it, too and I know she is going to think it is pretty cool to hear me reading her the story whenever she wants…even if I get a little choked up! Hallmark has a wide selection of treasured children’s books in recordable storybooks including Counting Kisses, Guess How Much I love You, and All the Ways I Love You! As far as Valentine cards go, Hallmark ahs come up with one of the coolest ideas I’ve seen in a long time! They have created new Classroom Valentines that allows your child to upload their photo and become the star of their Valentine Card! So personalized and SO CUTE! Hallmark is full of thoughtful gifts and beautifully written cards perfect for this Valentine’s Day! You can find anything you need in any of their Hallmark Gold Crown Stores or online!

Today One lucky RMRV reader will win one Blooming Expressions and one Recordable Storybook from Hallmark!

Want to enter to win? Here’s how!

Mandatory 1st entry:

1) Check out Hallmark and tell us another item you think would make a great Valentine gift.

Once the mandatory entry is completed you can gain additional entries from the following:

3 entries: Subscribe to RMRV emails or RSS feed.

5 entries: Follow RMRV Google+.

2 entries: “Like” RMRV on Facebook

2 entries: “Like” Hallmark on Facebook.

1 entry: Follow RMRV on Twitter.

1 entry per day-Tweet the following and leave us your tweet link:

#WIN a Blooming Expression and Recordable Storybook from Hallmark @agiveawaydaily!

2 entries: Comment on any non-giveaway post on RMRV!

5 entries- Blog about this giveaway and leave us the link.

Hallmark gifts and cards are Real Mom Recommended this Valentine’s Day!

You have until February 22nd @ 11:59 PM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only.

Amanda February 8, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS , , , ,

Healthy eating. Healthy spirit. {The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast by Kristen Feola Review}

Fasting. I had never really heard of anyone doing this when I was growing up. It wasn’t until I was teaching and I had a close teacher friend going through some ‘stuff’ and she decided to fast, listen to the lord, and decide on a path to take. It wasn’t until I saw her every day, remaining faithful to her fast, dealing with her issues, and coming out stronger in the end that I realized that not only was she healing her body, but she was also healing her heart. When I began reading The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast, by Kristen Feola, I wondered if this was her inspiration and guide helping her through her fast.

The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast is an inspiring resource for Christians who want to pursue a more intimate relationship with God through the 21-day commitment to prayer and fasting known as the Daniel Fast. As you deny yourself certain foods—such as sugars, processed ingredients, and solid fats—you will not only embrace healthier eating habits, you’ll also discover a greater awareness of God’s presence. Author Kristen Feola explains the Daniel Fast in easy-to-understand language, provides 21 thought-provoking devotionals for each day of the fast, and shares more than 100 tasty, easy-to-make recipes that follow fasting guidelines.In a conversational style, Feola helps you structure the fast so you can spend less time thinking about what to eat and more time focusing on God. You will also discover that ‘to fast’ means ‘to feast’ on the only thing that truly nourishes?God’s powerful Word.

Who knew that fasting could be so simple? Not me! I spent years thinking it was pretty much starving yourself. I had no clue the deeper purpose of the whole thing {& that you could actually eat} until I read through The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast by Kristen Feola. The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast is created to be a key to your success with the Daniel Diet. It is broken up into three parts: The Fast {explains what the Daniel Fast is}, The Focus {delves into the spiritual component} , & The Food {addresses the physical aspect}. With the three sections explained in detail and with a kitchen full of the appropriate foods, you are bound for success and after reading through the first two chapters you have all the details and can get started! I am still not ready to commit to the 21 day fast, but I know when I am ready this book, with the daily devotions, the many recipes, and the strength verses; it provided everything I need to make it through this journey. Along with an explanation from the author answering questions on how it’s done and why it’s done, she also lays out an eating plan and several recipes that look divine whether you are in the Daniel Fast process or not! Recipes are simple, fresh, healthy, and delicious! Foods to eat and foods to avoid are clearly listed, so there is no grey area. Either you can eat it or you can’t. I can definitely see how the Daniel Fast would be an amazing way to fast, get closer to the Lord, and cleanse your body and spirit. In this chaotic, crazy, and world full of material things, I am always trying to keep my focus on what is real and important. I’m sure fasting allows you even more focus and drive. I am looking forward to getting started with my Daniel Fast; I know it will be a great experience and will only get me closer to personal goals and the Lord.

In addition, Kristen’s blog is an invaluable resource to give you the added support to make it through each day of your own Daniel Fast.

You can pick up your own copy of The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast by Kristen Feola online or at your local bookstore! You can also “like” The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast on Facebook where you can ask questions and connect with others!

The Ultimate Guide to the Daniel Fast is Real Mom Approved!

Amanda February 7, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS , , ,

The Sifter, Sorter, Store-er {Box4Blox Review}

My little guy, Austin, is a Lego fanatic!  He loves to create according to the directions and make his creation look just like the picture, but he also likes to create on his own.  He loves all of the different sizes and colors.  He will sit in his room for hours creating something amazing.  I love the fact that he uses his imagination and his brain as he works on his masterpieces.  What I don’t love (or even like) is the huge mess that comes with building with Legos.  There are so many little pieces that get dropped, lost, or just plain dumped out.  Problem solved!! Box4Blox!

This 10 1/4″ inch cube is made of the same plastic that Lego uses for its pieces, so it is super high quality!  Austin loves the bright colors and thought the “sifting” part of the boxes were “super cool.”  I agree with my 8 year old 100% percent (for once:))  Our Lego storage has been and issue for a while now.  We have tried saving the boxes they come in only to have them fall apart and we ended up losing Legos out of the bottom of the boxes.  We tried plastic container- we ended up having Legos all over the floor while the search went on for the smaller Legos hiding in the bottom and corners of that box.  The Box4Blox has perfect sorting trays so all of the smaller blocks fall through leaving the largest on the top getting smaller and smaller with each tray.  I do wish the box had some way of clicking together or having a carrying handle, but after reading up on the product, I found out why there isn’t one.  Due to the fact that the Box4Blox can hold up to about 1600 legos, there is a weight issue.  With that many Legos, the box can get heavy and the best way to carry it is from the bottom for the most support.  They did say you will only pick it up wrong once :) Make sure you watch the YouTube video of the Box4Blox, it gives you a better idea of how genius this is!!  One of my favorite parts of the Box4Blox is that is made in the USA!  I also love that it was invented by a couple who had one too many spills of Legos and Ta-Da!!  The Box4Blox was born!   This is the perfect addition to any child’s Lego collection!  No wonder it was voted New Home Organizing Product of the Year!  It would make an incredible gift…any mom would thank you over and over!  The Box4Blox deserves my two thumbs way up, and they get Austins two thumbs even higher up….and my vacuum thanks you, too!!  REAL MOM APPROVED!!

 

Erin January 26, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS, Uncategorized , , , , , , , ,

Charge it up! {ChargeAll Wall Charger Review}

When I look back over my life at how much technology has evolved and improved, I am constantly amazed! It has come a long way in 31 years! Along with all this technology comes all the accessories and of course, the charger. From cell phones to netbooks, to kids handheld games; every outlet in the house can be occupied by a charger!  Before you know it they are moved all over the house and then eventually misplaced or even lost. Ugh! ChargeAll created a truly wonderful universal charger to solve the ‘too many chargers, not enough outlets issues’ that many families are facing!

ChargeAll is a universal cell phone charger that works with everything from the Apple iPhone and Blackberry to the Amazon Kindle and Nintendo DS; it literally charges thousands of devices! ChargeAll features 10-in-1 tip technology, fast charge capability, and fully customized designs for business owners.

When my ChargeAll Wall Charger arrived I couldn’t get it opened  fast enough! The thought of all these chargers in one outlet made me so happy! No more tangled mess of charger cords to sort through and no more moving my cell charger all over the house to different plugs for convenience. We decided to keep our ChargeAll wall charger in an outlet in the kitchen and I love that I always know exactly where it is and I love that the kids do, too! As soon as their iPod Touch goes dead, they know exactly where to drag me to get it plugged in and charging! This charger is great and gets our gadgets charged up quickly, which is so nice! Right now we only use three of the different charger options, but as technology continues to change and our collection of gadgets grows I know we will be using more in the future and it is so awesome that they are all in one place together!

A couple of my fellow Real Moms also got to give the ChargeAll wall charger a try! Here are their thoughts!

Cords, cords, and more cords.  Everywhere I look around the house there’s a charging cord to be found.  We have cords for cell phones, i-pods, kid toys, and more!  I even have a storage box full of old cords that I have kept on the chance that we “might” need them again someday.  Not anymore! I can toss them out thanks to our new ChargeAll.  This gadget is super great and I can’t believe it took this long for it to surface in the marketplace….and did I mention that we love it!  We have it hubbed in our kitchen, so we can use it for charging everything in one place.  No more searching for the cord that goes to the gadget.  We simply plug it in to our ChargeAll. You MUST get one! You will be so glad you did. ~ Hollie

Cell phone technology has come a long way since the giant bag phone my hubby and I (then boyfriend) used on road trips in college!  Who would have thought 15 years later we would be using “smart” phones that could fit in our pockets, complete with internet access, webcams, and a talking concierge!  With so many types of cell phones through the years, each requiring its own style charger, it’s no wonder why the folks at ChargeAll desired to bring us a universal charger.  Thanks ChargeAll!  My brother was excited to receive the ChargeAll wall charger from us for Christmas.  Now only one wall outlet is needed for his cellphone, separate work cellphone and iPod, freeing up the second outlet for his other electronics.  It also comes in handy when his friends visit…..with 10 different adapters he becomes the hero to save their dying batteries! ~Christina

I have had sooo many problems in the last year with my phone charger.  My original charger that came with the phone broke so I went and bought a new cord.  Unfortunately that was was about 6 inches too short and wouldn’t reach from the wall to the bed.  That is annoying when your phone is your alarm clock.  I used it but unfortunately it also broke.  I bought another cord, this time a longer one, and although it hasn’t broken yet it won’t stay firmly plugged in leaving me with a half charged phone in the morning.  When I got the chance to try out ChargeAll I am was elated….anything has to be better than what I was dealing with.  ChargeAll rocks!  The cord is long and stays in my phone.  Even better it charges my phone fast!  The ONLY bummer part, which could actually be a positive for some, is it can be kind of bulky if you just need the one adapter most of the time.  I appreciate having the other adapters because then my hubby can use it, I can take it to the cabin and others can use it, and I don’t have to have a drawer full of random chargers.  Perhaps this isn’t the best bedside charger for me but I DO love it.  ~Crissa

ChargeAll aslo offers a Charging Station that would be amazing in any cafe, restaurant, or hotel. Offering a place for patrons or workers to charge their phones!

ChargeAll is 10 chargers in 1 and Compatible with Apple iPhone & iPod, Micro USB, Mini USB, Samsung, LG, Nokia, Sony Ericsson, Sony PSP, Nintendo DSi, Nintendo DS Lite

Get the current news from ChargeAll about new products and product information by following them on Twitter and “liking” them on Facebook!

The ChargeAll Wall Charger is Real Mom Recommended!!

Amanda January 24, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS , , ,

Cool Those Aches & Pains {Bengay review}

 

Who out there has aches and pains from… from what? Sitting at a desk all day that results in a neck and shoulders that are as tight as rocks and feel as hot as coals? Lifting kiddos and then having said kiddo glued to that hip that results in a lower back that is screaming by the end of a day and spasms when you finally lay down? Maybe even getting some exercise in and having your knees sore and tender from running? How about all of the above? If that sounds like you… you are in luck! I recently had the opportunity to try Bengay’s new line of cold therapy. I was generously sent the cold therapy gel and also the pain relief + massage gel to try.

I am a licensed massage therapist. I still see clients out of my home, so I see my share of aches and pains coming through my door. I have this pain relieving gel that is professional strength and I was very curious to see how the Bengay compared to it! I was super impressed!!!! It was so similar I may not have been able to tell if I had put them both on at the same time! :-)

The cold therapy and pain relief + massage are both super cooling, thanks to Bengay’s pro- cool technology, which includes menthol, the secret ingredient! I have been struggling with some knee pain related to exercise, and let me tell you, both of these hit the spot. I felt the cooling sensation kick in within about 5 or so minutes and after that felt relief.

The pain relief + massage gel is perfect to keep by the bed. Perhaps a “willing” hubby or significant other would be up for rubbing  some on your shoulders and neck before bed?? The little massage head is perfect for that!! ( As I’m typing I’m fantasizing about how good that would feel! I’ll be asking my hubby for sure tonight!!) :-) How about even returning the favor as well to sweeten the deal!!

I am so excited to have discovered these little gems! These gels come REAL Mom Recommended and I will definitely be referring them to my massage clients in the future as well! Thanks Bengay!  Be sure to visit them online for coupons! The full line of Bengay products are available at retailers nationwide.

Audrey January 23, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS , , , ,

Exhale your excess weight {Breathslim review & giveaway}

 

We’ve made it past the holidays. New Year’s has come and gone and I can’t believe we are already more than half way through January! New Year resolutions are in full swing. One of mine every year seems to be to lose a couple more pounds, the ever elusive goal! I made it through the holidays and Mexico I’m happy to report with only a 3 pound increase. More than I would like, but I’ve yet to make it back to the gym in the two days I’ve been home so I’m attributing some of that to bloating from being on the plane and sitting in the car. Tomorrow I’m going for sure! Well, I had the very interesting opportunity to try something  back in December that helped me get ready for Mexico. It’s called Breathslim. It’s a device that is based on a breathing principle that helps you lose weight by training your lungs to be more effective, thereby increasing oxygen in the bloodstream, thereby increasing metabolism.

In the early 90’s, a group of international scientists and enthusiasts decided to turn their research to an ancient healing art that has been practiced for tens of thousands of years.

For 20 years, these dedicated scientists studied virtually every method of breathing exercise from the ancient Oriental systems to such modern spin-offs as Buteyko and Holotropic breathing.

Their research proved that while different breathing methods produce different results, all of them had a therapeutic effect. They concluded that practicing any breathing technique is better than practicing none at all.

Hippocrates, the father of the modern medicine, believed that “air is a pasture of life and a greatest ruler of all”. Early Oriental teachers called air “an ocean of energy” and advised everyone to use breathing exercises to increase their bodies’ vital power.

What these scientists discovered was that calmer and slower breathing allows the body to retain more of its vital resources. The average person takes 17 breaths per minute. By adapting your body to take no more than 10 breaths per minute, you get a 40% increase in your vital energy, even increasing your lifespan.

From the beginning, the focus of their research was to find out which breathing technique would best lead an untrained person to success. They wanted to know the best way to teach people to improve their breathing and optimize their breathing cycles.

In 1996, their research led to the development of the world’s first respiratory training device (FRTD). The FRTD, a state-of-the-art breathing device that remedies diseases of the respiratory, cardiovascular and nervous systems, is patented and registered in many countries including the United States. The Food and Drug Administration of U. S. (FDA) approved it in 1998. More than 3 million FRTD devices have been sold all over the world.

At the same time the FRTD was developed, an international association of scientists, doctors and other breathing enthusiasts was created. From the start, IntellectBreathing, had the mission of helping people overcome problems like bronchial asthma, shortness of breath, hypertension, smoking, insomnia, and diseases associated with cardiac activity.

Lab studies showed, during 12 years of monitoring, that there are absolutely NO negative side effects. The only known side effects are: increased energy and a dramatic decrease of sleep problems, stress and tiredness.

In 2006, at the annual meeting of IntellectBreathing in Prague, experts discussing lung and cardiac disease treatments noted one other, rather remarkable “side effect” of using the FRTD.

 

They discovered that not only was the FRTD effective at treating asthma and hypertension, but in the first month of treatment, more than 82% of patients using the FRTD also noticed a drop in excess weight.

Some of them lost as much as 44 pounds in just two months.

Certainly, these findings deserved further study.

A second team of scientists from the U. S., Europe and the Russian Federation began to conduct even more research, discovering that the delivery of extra oxygen burned through fat through a process called oxidation. They discovered that it takes about 16 pounds of oxygen to burn two pounds of excess weight. So with the FRTD, people’s blood streams were filled with about 24 percent oxygen which couldn’t help but increase the oxidation (or burning) of fat. They also discovered that with the delivery of extra oxygen also reduced food cravings.

Their research led to a modification of the original FRTD which resulted in the invention of Breathslim®, a safe, effective, healthy way to lose weight.

I’m not going to lie. When I first read about Breathslim, I was very skeptical. I decided to try it though. I followed the instructions carefully, which are very easy to do as there are only three steps required.

I noticed right away some differences after only about a week. I have  been a mouth breather as long as I can remember. I’ve tried several times to make an effort to breath continually out of my nose, knowing it is healthier, but have never been able to get it to stick. Also, when I have tried only breathing out of my nose, I feel like I can’t get enough air in my lungs and get short of breath, which makes me go back to mouth breathing. After only a couple days of using the Breathslim, I realized I was automatically breathing through my nose without feeling short of breath! Amazing!!!! I also noticed I had an easier time falling asleep at night as well. I only was able to use it consistently for about 2.5 weeks because then I left for vacation and it was hard to remember to do it every night, but before I left I had already lost 2 pounds. The scale had settled and not moved for about a month, and when I started using the Breathslim it starting moving again! This device is REAL Mom Recommended and I am exciting to get back to using it again! Here’s to a new year and to healthy breathing! Thanks Breathslim!

Breathslim can be ordered online!

Today Breathslim is generously giving away a breathslim!

Want to win?  Here’s how:

 

Mandatory 1st Entry- Visit Breathslim then come back and tell us your favorite item or something you learned from their website.

 

 

 

Once the mandatory entries are completed you can gain additional entries from the following:

 

4 entries-“Like” Breathslim on facebook.

 

2 entries- “Like” RMRV on facebook.

 

3 entries-Subscribe to RMRV emails.

 

3 entries-Follow Breathslim on Twitter.

 

2 entries- Follow RMRV on Twitter

 

1 entry per day-Tweet the following and leave us your tweet link:

 

#Enter to win a breathslim at @agiveawaydaily

 

5 entries- Blog about this entry and leave us the link

 

3 entries- Add RMRV on Google +

 

 

 

 

You have until February 2nd @ 11:59 PM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open toUSAonly.

 

Audrey January 17, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS , , , ,

Raising the Bar! {The Bar Method Workout DVD Review}

Yep. It’s true. This mama is on a mission to get back that pre-pre baby bod…yes, the one I had before I found out I was pregnant with Ava {that would be my first baby} and decided to loosen the reigns on the workout and become less strict on the diet. Yes, those choices did not work in my favor and gradually, I just kind of let things go as I got busy with the kids and life and put myself on the back burner! But that’s okay, I know I can get back to where I want to be, taking care of myself, and The Bar Method generously sent me several of their workout DVD’s to keep me challenged and motivated on my way back to a strong and healthy body! I had heard several positive things from friends about The Bar Method and after my first workout it was very clear as to why! These workouts are challenging, effective, and had muscles burning in places I didn’t even know had muscles!

The Bar Method is a unique workout that utilizes ballet bar fitness techniques and draws from the principles of isometrics, dance conditioning, interval training and physical therapy. It is the only bar workout that was designed under the guidance of physical therapists to ensure joint safety. The unique, non-impact exercises target all major muslce groups, improves posture ad increases physical grace. The result is a recognizable “Bar Method Body” that features sculpted arms, flat abs, a lifted seat and firm thighs.

Now fitness buffs can bring the bar home with them, thanks to three all new home DVD’s from Bar Method founder and creator Burr Leonard. According to Burr, “The Bar Method empowers you to push the limits of your potential for coordination, strength , beauty and mental toughness. It was my goal, while creating these at-home workouts, to give students and opportunity to have The Bar Method experience in their own home.”

The new Bar Method DVDs have been created for students of all fitness levels; one can choose from the beginner, advanced, or special pregnancy workout options. A bonus section featured on all three DVDs includes a how-to section on classic Bar Method exercises presented by Bar Method founder Burr Leonard. Users also have the option to select specific sections of the workout which focus on different target areas of the body. Each Bar Method DVD features some of the BAr method’s best master instructors forma round the country.

The Bar Method generously sent me five of their workout DVDs; Super Sculpting, Super Sculpting II, Beginners Workout, Dancer’s Body Advanced Workout, & Pregnancy Workout. All are designed to work your muscles using isometrics, dance conditioning, interval training and physical therapy resulting in a dancer’s body. I know I have always wanted to be a dancer, so I definitely won’t mind looking like one! I decided to start at square one with the Beginners Workout. This DVD features the Bar Method’s Basic Body Sculpting exercises and help beginners and more advanced students to brush up on their form. All you need is a bar or piece of furniture to act as your bar and a couple weights. If you don’t have weights, you can easily find items around your house to use as weights. {water bottles, water jugs, canned goods, anything that will add a little resistance will do the trick!} I must say, this workout was a challenge, but as it is low impact and I was determined to make it through, completing each set, I made it through to the end successfully! The instructor was motivating and really explained each exercise and it’s purpose well throughout the DVD. I felt so good when I finished and was excited to to it again a couple days later! Of course, the next morning I woke up sore, which feels so good and lets me know I did something fabulous for my body! I also worked in the Body Sculpting DVD and the Body Sculpting II DVD; I was totally blown away with both sculpting workouts! These workouts had my body burning and shaking and with the encouragement of the instructor I hung in there and made it through both of them. I worked every muscle and with dedication, I know this DVD will have a major part in getting me amazing results and the body I am working for. You can really feel each exercise and I couldn’t get enough! I am loving these workouts and am beyond thrilled to have them in my home workout library! I am even going to get my mom started with the beginners workout. I have told her all about it and she is ready to give it a go! So perfect as it is low impact and offers many modifications for all levels! The Bar Method DVds offer a wonderful selection of workouts for beginners to advanced, even a DVD for pregnant women! You are sure to find your perfect match, and your body will thank you!

the bar method — integrates the fat burning format of interval training, the muscle shaping technique of isometrics, the elongating principles of dance conditioning, and the science of physical therapy to create a revolutionary new workout that quickly and safely reshapes your entire body. Here are just a few benefits you will achieve by using The Bar Method:

firm, elongated muscles

reduced body fat

high muscle definition in the chest

improved posture

long, narrow thighs

a lifted seat and defined hamstrings

strong, flat abdominals

increased stamina and energy

extended youthfulness

Make sure to follow the Bar Method on Twitter, and Like them on Facebook to keep up news and updates!

The Bar Method is Real Mom Approved!!

 

Amanda January 9, 2012 PRODUCT REVIEWS , , , , ,

Protection for those you care about {Pong ipad 2 case review}

 

OK people. Who out there has kids/babies who get a hold of their cell phones or iPads? Maybe you will think I’m crazy, but my 14 month loves playing with our ipad. He loves touching the screen and seeing things move. He even knows that when the key pad comes up, he is supposed to type. He LOVES playing with it and it is a go to when I need to distract him for a minute. Now don’t worry, I don’t let him play with it without my supervision! (I don’t want some random thing from Amazon accidentally being ordered and arriving on my doorstep! :-) ) He is also equally obsessed with my smart phone, but I don’t let him have that because he is still putting EVERYTHING in his mouth and so that is a big NO NO. But the point is, kids are going to be exposed to technology. I heard rumors years ago that cell phones maybe could possibly… cause cancer? Then that was supposedly debunked and I didn’t hear more about it. Well, I just heard more about it. I was generously sent an ipad case to try by a research company called Pong and I am SO glad I have been “exposed” to this knowledge and so I want to share it with you! Get out your reading glasses… I’m just gonna throw it all at ya!

About Pong Research Corporation

Launched in 2011, Pong is the world’s leading maker of cell phone and iPad cases that protect smart phone and tablet users from the wireless device radiation that the World Health Organization classified in 2011 as a possible carcinogen. Developed by scientists out of Princeton, Harvard, UCLA and MIT, Pong cases have been tested and proven in FCC-certified labs to reduce the level of exposure to wireless device radiation by up to 95% below the target set by the FCC. Pong embeds in each case a patented and proprietary technology that redirects and redistributes the cell phone radiation that would otherwise be absorbed by the user’s head and body. Easy to put on and take off, Pong  cases fit a variety of iPhones, BlackBerrys and Android phones as well as the iPad and iPad 2, are available in a variety of colors and styles and have been designed and tested to work anywhere in the world.  For more information, visit www.pongresearch.com

About Cell Phone Radiation

In May 2011, the World Health Organization (WHO) classified cell phone radiation as “possibly carcinogenic to humans.” The WHO based its findings on a large, international study coordinated by the International Agency for Research on Cancer that showed an increased risk of a certain type of brain tumor called glioma from regular use of cell phones – defined in the study as 1,640 hours or more of cumulative use. In consumer terms, that equates to slightly less than a half hour of daily use over a 10-year period.  Adding to the evidence is a separate 2011 study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), which found that 50 minutes of cell phone use affected brain activity in the area nearest to the phone. Concerns about SAR have led the FCC to impose strict SAR limits on cell phones and tablets and mandate that Apple, Blackberry and other cellular device makers warn consumers not to put their cell phone directly against their head or body when using it. Unbeknownst to most consumers, these warnings can be found in all cellular device manuals. Suggestions on how to limit exposure to cell phone radiation, such as texting, using the speaker, or turning the cell phone off when not in use, are not always possible or practical. In addition, the FCC warns against the use of products that claim to shield or block cell phone radiation because they can actually increase the user’s radiation exposure. Making matters worse, shields can also negatively impact a device’s performance.

  • Pong cases have been prove in independent, FCC-certified labs to reduce radiation exposure up to 95% below the targets set by the FCC and ICNIRP (International Commission on Non-Ionizing Radiation Protection)
  • Pong cases are the only solution on the market that has been proven to protect consumers from unnecessary exposure to device radiation while also protecting a device’s performance
  • Pong embeds in each case a patented antenna technology that redirects and redistributes cell phone radiation that would otherwise be absorbed by the user’s head and body, which is of concern to the World Health Organization and medical experts and scientists worldwide
  • Pong’s patented technology was developed by a team of experts out of Princeton, Harvard, UCLA and MIT with backgrounds in in plasma physics, nuclear and radiation science, cell biology, electronics engineering and behavioral science
  • Pong cases easy to put on and take off and have been designed and tested to work anywhere in the world (Pong cases are currently in use in 50 countries)

Pong cases costs between $49.99 and $99.99 and are available at www.pongresearch.com  A small price to pay if you ask me considering it’s ours and especially our children’s health we are talking about! Why take chances??

What are your thoughts? I tend to be a Nervous Nelly about almost anything that involves my son, so I am not taking any chances. What about older kids who may be getting their first cell phones or getting an ipad for Christmas? This is a gift of love and concern you can’t go wrong with! These make the perfect gift to go with those other bigger gifts! It would also make a great gift for the guys in your life that are IMPOSSIBLE to shop for!  I love my Pong case. It literally snapped right on and can be used in about 5 different ways! This case is REAL Mom Recommended!  Happy Holidays! Here’s to a safe and healthy year! If you order by tomorrow, they will still get it to ya before Christmas!!

Pong cases can be purchased online. Follow them on facebook for more great information and promotions!

 

 

 

Audrey December 19, 2011 Holiday 2011, PRODUCT REVIEWS , , ,

Rockin’ around the Christmas tree {Phix energy drinks review & giveaway}

 

OK ladies… there is officially less than one week before Christmas. Christmas baking (and delivering of goodies) done?… check! Christmas shopping done?… (almost!!)… a few last minute things! Christmas wrapping done?… not even started! Cleaning of house before leaving for 3 weeks? Halfway, and it may stay at that point! Packing for 3 weeks done?…not even close! Whew… and those are just the big things! Not to mention just taking care of my family and trying to squeeze in a bit of exercise too! With all that running around, I need some serious energy! You  know you’re tired when you wake up at 8:45am and by 10:45am you are ready for a nap! That was me today! I have been going non-stop! Thankfully, I recently had the opportunity to try a new kind of drink that gives you increased energy without the jitters and crash of most energy drinks! It’s called Phix! And let me tell you, it’s totally helped me get through some of those crazy days!

Phix Energy is a sophisticated, natural energy drink mix blending green tea antioxidants, energy-restoring NADH, and yerba maté for enhanced vigor, plus we add vitamins and minerals to keep you feeling healthy.

Our natural energy drinks give you an immediate lift, but unlike other energy drink mix products, there are no spikes, jitters, or crashes. Phix Energy is smooth and sustained energy designed to give you a natural boost day in and day out.

Phix Energy – Drink for Energy and to Your Health

Phix Energy is a healthy, all natural energy drink mix that was designed by a leading naturopathic physician and licensed dietitians to enhance vis medicatrix naturae: the body’s natural healing power. The proprietary blend of herbs and nutraceuticals in Phix is based on therapeutic dosages found to be safe and effective in clinical research trials. Drink Phix for energy and to your health.

Enhanced energy and clarity:

Phix natural energy drink mix contains a small amount (80mg) of caffeine from yerba maté, a traditional drink in many countries. Green tea extract and NADH also have mild stimulant qualities. The result is a gentle and sustained pick-me-up — with no spikes and crashes.

Cellular support and protection:

Phix Energy contains several types of important antioxidants, which can help protect your DNA from oxidative damage.

Immune system support:

Phix’s natural energy ingredients, such as Vitamin C and Eleuthero, are designed to help support healthy immune function.

Blood sugar balance:

Phix natural energy drink contains chromium, which helps to balance blood sugar levels. By balancing out extremes of high and low blood sugar, chromium may also help prevent fatigue.

Muscle fatigue and recovery:

If you’re active, it’s important to replace electrolytes and water-soluble vitamins for optimal athletic performance and recovery. Just add Phix natural energy to water and drink for energy and to your health.

I tried one of these before I hit the gym one day. I didn’t feel the “rush” that I feel if I drink something from a can… (I fondly refer to them as “sleep in a can!”, but I will tell you I powered through my workout that day with extra energy and felt like I was able to push harder than usual! It was really nice having a gentle increase of energy rather than a huge burst where I felt like I was holding on for dear life! :-) I also received the counterpart of Phix Energy…Phix Sleep.

Phix Sleep – All-Natural Sleep Aid Drink

Phix Sleep aid drink formulas are designed by a leading naturopathic physician and licensed dietitians to enhance vis medicatrix naturae: the body’s natural healing power. The proprietary blend of herbs and nutraceuticals in Phix is based on therapeutic dosages found to be safe and effective in clinical research trials.

Gentle relaxation:

Phix natural sleep aid drink contains a unique and effective mixture of nutrients and herbs designed to help you gently drift to sleep. We start with a blend of the best and brightest naturopathic treatments from modern research studies, including lemon balm, sour jujube, and GABA. We then put these in a base of chamomile, an herbal tea that has been used for centuries as a traditional sleep aid drink.

Multiple effects:

Unlike pharmaceutical sleep aids, which work via strong action on a particular brain chemical, Phix natural sleep drink has multiple mechanisms of action. In addition to sedation mediated through neurotransmission, the herbs and nutrients in Phix Sleep help to relax muscles, modulate the stress response, and reset the body’s natural clock.

Not habit-forming:

Medications used as sleep aids can be dangerously habit-forming, and there can be rebound insomnia when the medications are discontinued. Phix sleep aid drinks are specially formulated to be strong enough to be used as needed, but also non-habit-forming, so they can be used every day.

Does not impair motor function:

Most sleep medications impair your ability to perform motor tasks such as driving. Although we suspect that you would rather sleep than drive after a helping of Phix Sleep, the herbs and nutrients used in this product do not impair your dexterity. Also unlike common medication treatments, Phix natural sleep aids do not suppress respiratory function or lead to unexpected behavioral changes.

All natural ingredients:

The ingredients in Phix Sleep are all naturally occurring herbs or nutrients. They were specifically chosen to have a high degree of safety as well as a good track record of efficacy. We specifically avoided any herbal medicines with a high risk of negative interaction with commonly used medications.

I tried these before bed. I woke up the next morning refreshed and ready to face the day. I also remember that it didn’t take me forever to fall asleep that night… something that seems to happen frequently with me because I just can’t stop thinking about everything I need to do the next day!

These  are perfect if you are always on the go, or if you need help relaxing at night!  They would also make the perfect stocking stuffer!! These drinks are REAL Mom Recommended! Here’s to a good’s night sleep and sailing through the next day!

Phix Energy and Phix Sleep are available online!

 

 Today Phix is generously giving away 2 boxes of Phix Energy variety, containing 12 stix – 4 of each flavor.

Want to win?  Here’s how:

Mandatory 1st Entry- Visit Phix  then come back and tell us your favorite item or something you learned from their website.

Once the mandatory entries are completed you can gain additional entries from the following:

4 entries-“Like” Phix on facebook.

2 entries- “Like” RMRV on facebook.

3 entries-Subscribe to RMRV emails.

3 entries-Follow Phix on Twitter.

2 entries- Follow RMRV on Twitter

1 entry per day-Tweet the following and leave us your tweet link:

#Enter to win a ?n at @agiveawaydaily

5 entries- Blog about this entry and leave us the link

3 entries- Add RMRV on Google +

You have until January 2 @ 11:59 PM EDT to enter the giveaway. All giveaways are open to USA only.

Audrey December 19, 2011 PRODUCT REVIEWS WITH GIVEAWAYS , , , ,

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