Thursday, May 30, 2013

Enjoy the Good Life with Allstate

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

We all have our own personal struggles in life; things that we worry about as we try go about our daily lives. Some worry about having steady jobs that can help sustain their families, or having enough savings for their family’s future needs. There is also the fear of not knowing what would happen in the future particularly when it comes to how our family would cope in case we are faced with unemployment or severe health issues concerning any member of the family. Preparing for the future is essential but too much worrying can also be bad because it can cause us to lose focus on what is important – living life to the fullest.
Allstate is an insurance company that encourages optimism among their clients. Just like what see in the Allstate Good Life commercial, the company encourages people to celebrate all the good things in life, to remain optimistic despite all the trials and adversity. It reminds people to celebrate life and enjoy what they have. Allstate can help their customers deal with whatever obstacles or risks they may face in life and still be able to focus on the simple things that they should celebrate in life.
Celebrating the simple things in life is one of the things that I try to focus on. The fear of not knowing how life would be living in another country with my family is an obstacle that I had to deal with a couple of years ago. It’s a good thing that I have a great support group that helped me deal with the stress and anxiety that I have been feeling at the time. Nowadays, I have learned how to enjoy the simple life experiences of our family.
What types of tension do you often encounter that hinders you to appreciate the Good Life? Have you been in a situation where you continue to push forward even if things seem hopeless? Do leave a comment of your experience so that other will be inspired by your story.
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Tuesday, May 28, 2013

Tree Hut Hand & Foot Care Products

This post brought to you by Tree Hut. All opinions are 100% mine.
Are you looking for a great product that would make your skin so soft and smooth? You should try the Tree Hut Hand & Foot Care products!  These products are developed to keep hands and feet feeling smooth and healthy.  Tree Hut products are different from other products available on the market because every single Tree Hut product contains an array of natural oils and extracts to make skin smooth and soft.
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Foot Cream:
• Certified Organic Shea Butter: skin repairing & moisturizing, anti-aging, promotes elasticity
• Argan Oil: natural anti-aging properties
• Rose Hip Oil: natural anti-aging properties
• Non-greasy formula
• Paraben Free and No DMDM
• Made in the USA
• Do not test on animals

Hand Cream:
• Certified Organic Shea Butter: skin repairing & moisturizing, anti-aging, promotes elasticity
• Aloe Vera: Nature’s soothing moisturizer
• Peppermint Oil: Moisturizes skin
• Paraben Free and No DMDM
• Made in the USA
• Do not test on animals

Foot Scrub:
• Certified Organic Shea Butter: skin repairing & moisturizing, anti-aging, promotes elasticity
• Real Sugar: Natural sugar exfoliates skin smooth
• Peppermint Oil: Moisturizes skin
• Paraben Free and No DMDM
• Made in the USA
• Do not test on animals

I've been using the Tree Hut lotion for awhile now, but my husband would like to try the Tree Hut foot cream for his super dry feet. I also would like to try the new Tree Hut hand cream. These products are perfect to use since summer is fast approaching. 
For more details or would like to order, you should visit their website or check Tree Hut products at your local Walmart store. You might want to like Tree Hut on Facebook or follow Tree Hut on Twitter for updates and promotions. So what are you waiting for?

Saturday, May 25, 2013

The Dallas Move

Guest post by Gerard Mcdaniel

Moving to Dallas was probably the biggest change I’ve ever gone through. My family is all back in New York but in this economy I just couldn’t pass up the job opportunity I found there. Anyway, I love being here now but that first year was really hard. I missed my friends terribly and I was paying a mortgage for the first time in my life. Everything was different here than up north and I found myself asking silly questions like What is Brisket? And What is the Dallas Utility? People in my office made fun of me (good naturedly) because I was so out of the loop. Now that I’ve been here about 18 months I’m starting to get the hang of things. I know more about belt buckles than I ever wanted to know and I also learned how to tease my hair up big. I’m starting to look like a real Texan…even my family in New York say they hardly recognize me! I haven’t started using the lingo yet and I’m not sure I’ll ever be able to say “y’all” with a straight face but I do think my pallet has changed dramatically. I love eating grits for breakfast, for example, and I eat about three times more beef here than I ever did before. I have put on a few pounds since I’ve lived in Texas but that’s okay. People just seem to be bigger here by and large and that’s fine with me – no one’s worried about getting a side salad or whether or not the hummus is vegan. I mean, I don’t think I’ve met a single vegan since I moved here! I’m starting to get used to being in Texas and I see myself here in the long run, if we’re being honest. The men are so sweet and kind and I absolutely love my job so I really don’t see what would prompt me to move after all this time.


Friday, May 24, 2013

Central America Here We Come!

All our bags are packed and we're ready to go! My family and I will be leaving tomorrow for our Central America trip. We will be out of the country for 7 days. 
We can't wait to visit Belize, Honduras and Mexico. We went to Tulum last year, but this time we are going to Cancun, Mexico.
I'll keep you posted once we get back!  Thanks for dropping by. Happy SUMMER!

Hard Work Owning a Home

This guest post from Lewis Beck

Owning a home is a lot more work than I ever thought it would be. I figured I’d find the perfect place (in my price range, of course!) and move right in, never to worry about anything like signing up for utilities or whether or not I had rodents in the backyard. As it turns out you can’t just call the maintenance company every time your lightbulbs go out when YOU own the house. I guess I was naïve and I was young when I bought this place so I try to go easy on myself but geez! You’d think I would have known I had to actually switch my TXU Energy account from the condo to here (and open all the emails they sent me) or my power was going to get turned off. You’d think I would know that I had to have homeowner’s insurance before I showed up to closing and you’d THINK I would know that if a tree falls on my neighbor’s house from my yard, it’s my problem. But nope – these are all things it’s taken me this first year of living here to figure out and it’s been a long road. I feel like someone needs to write a book, and they probably already have, about exactly what it takes to be a first-time homeowner. I mean, I had my parents and a couple of friends who had bought homes but you don’t know the questions to ask if you’ve never even thought of the question, catch my drift? My real estate agent was unfortunately kind of checked out of the whole deal so it took me a long time to even find this place. Some people say their agents helped them with all the little details that I forgot but it seemed like all my agent wanted to do was unlock the doors and cash her check! Next time around I’ll know better, but I’m still learning.

Thursday, May 23, 2013

Last Day of School 2013

Daughter had a great field day with her classmates earlier. They had so much fun on their last day of school. Lots of games and foods. She was a bit sad though because she's not going to see her friends next school year, she's transferring to a new school this coming August. I'm sure she'll meet some new friends.
with her 1st grade teacher, Ms. Skelley
She also got her report card. Ayay, glad to see that she got promoted to second grade!

Prepaid Visa Credit Card

Becoming a part of the KAIKU prepaid Visa card holders team places users into a whole new arena of freedom. This next-generation card is reloadable and can be used anywhere that Visa debit cards are accepted. All it takes is a couple of simple steps to get set up and start onto the path of better money management. Prospective users can simply go to the www.kaiku.com website and apply for the card directly online. Next, they can load the card easily with either a direct bank deposit or cash and that is all there is to it! They are then ready to use their prepaid Visa credit card to make purchases. When they want to increase their available balances for purchases, all they have to do is add more funds. Having a prepaid Visa card is convenient, but the KAIKU card is so much more than that. Through the company’s online resources, users can keep track of their purchases and use all of the available tools on the site to stay abreast of their finances better. There are no monthly payments, so users do not spend more money than they have, so the card can actually help people to stay out of debt! The KAIKU prepaid Visa card is the perfect thing for students who live away from home and who rely on their parents for financial assistance. This is the perfect card for many other people who are finding new freedom in the way they spend and manage their money.

Oransi Ionic Fridge Air Purifier

Baking soda works on a lot of things. I also use it in my fridge to eliminate the smell, and it works pretty well. Recently, I discovered a better solution to get rid of the smell in my fridge. Introducing the innovative Ionic Fridge Air Purifier from Oransi!
At first, I was skeptical how this product would work. It's really small. So I tested it for a week to see how it works. Amazingly, it's effective! It keeps my refrigerator smelling fresh. I really love this little gadget. There is no filter to change and it's small enough to fit on the back of the shelf.
The air purifier uses 2 AA batteries that require replacement approximately every 45-90 days. Built-in micro processor controls the operation of the air purifier so it will cycle on and off to save battery life. I would highly recommend  Ionic Fridge Air Purifier to everyone.

For more details or would like to order, you should check out oransi.com. You might want to like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter for updates and promotions. So what are you waiting for?

By the way, how would you like to get one for FREE? All you have to do is enter the giveaway below. Giveaway is open to US residents only. Deadline of entries: June 23rd @ 11:59 pm Central Time.
a Rafflecopter giveaway


Disclosure: Products mentioned above were provided for FREE by Oransi for product endorsement/review purposes. I am disclosing this post in accordance with the FTC guidelines concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Sunday, May 19, 2013

Bamboo Entryway Organizer

Who doesn't want an organized home? If you want to start organizing your home and minimize clutter, you should visit honeycando.com! Honey-Can-Do has tons of great selection of closet accessories, hampers, kids storage, bins and much more.
Check out this Honey-Can-Do 4-tier bamboo entryway organizer that I got from them. This 4-tier entryway/shoe organizer works great for bags, shoes, umbrellas, books and other accessory items. I really like the large side compartment that provides ample space for umbrella and tall boots. Putting the pieces together was fairly easy.
This organizer has a durable surface that is moisture resistant, allowing you to store wet items without the risk of damage. It definitely creates free space near entry and hallways where usable space is limited. I would highly recommend this product to everyone.

So whether you have a few pair or so, this innovative solution will keep your shoes organized, accessible and scuff-free. For more details or would like to order, you should visit http://www.honeycando.com/ or shop for Honey-Can-Do products at any of these reputable retailers: Amazon, Target, Bed Bath and Beyond, Home Depot, Kmart, Linens n Things, Sams Club, Sears, and more. You might also want to like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter for updates and promotions.

Disclosure: Products mentioned above were provided for FREE by Honey Can Do  for product endorsement/review purposes.   I am disclosing this post in accordance with the FTC guidelines concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Thursday, May 16, 2013

Mombo Nursing Pillow

This post brought to you by Comfort and Harmony. All opinions are 100% mine.
Moms everywhere are aware of the many health benefits of breastfeeding. Even working moms choose to take a few months off of work just to be able to breastfeed their babies. Breastfeeding though does not come naturally to everyone at first. If you feel that it has become quite a struggle, you don’t have to get frustrated because there are certain products that you can use that can help make breastfeeding comfortable and convenient for both you and your baby.
Comfort & Harmony mombo Deluxe in Taggies Fashion Monkeys - Comfort & Harmony  - Babies"R"Us
Let me introduce to you a wonderful product that breastfeeding moms everywhere love, Mombo Nursing Pillow. Mombo has a unique shape and a two-sided design called Firrm2Soft. It’s like having two separate pillows because each side offers a different experience. The firm side gives essential support for the mommy and her baby. It gives more support and elevation to the baby. The softer side is extra cozy – it’s perfect for lounging or tummy time and provides the baby support in sitting up.
Mombo is the only nursing pillow with a vibration feature. The soft vibrations that it creates give babies the soothing feeling that makes them calm while lounging. This extra feature is one of the main reasons why Mombo Nursing Pillow has become one of the most preferred nursing pillows among moms (and babies) everywhere. Mombo comes in a variety of designs and colors to fit your needs and preference. Select your style from Standard, Deluxe or Nude. It has a slip cover for easy removal and cleaning. You can buy a spare or two so that you will have something to use while the other one is in the wash.
Mombo is available at Toys R Us and Babies R Us. You can also check out the other Mombo products and see which ones you would like for yourself and for your baby! For more details or would like to order, you should visit their website today. You might want to like Comfort & Harmony on Facebook or follow Comfort & Harmony on Twitter for updates and promotions.

Mother's Day 2013

I've been pretty occupied with personal stuff lately. I'm glad it's over now! I'm happy that I'm back to blogging again...well, maybe not for long. Anyhow, last Sunday was Mother's Day. We didn't celebrate because I was too busy with my ASVAB review, but hubby and daughter surprised me in the morning with these simple things. 
Thanks hon and Akesh! I love you both....:)

Tuesday, May 14, 2013

Sassy Sarongs

Summer break is the perfect opportunity for families to visit their favorite vacation destination and engage in various outdoor activities. For most people, summer vacation is never complete without a trip to their favorite beach. If you are among those who are uncomfortable with wearing a swimsuit in public, a sassy sarong will be the most practical accessory that you can bring with you this summer.

Sarongs are very popular because they are not just accessories that can be worn along with other summer accessories such as sunglasses and big floppy hats but also because they can help one feel less ‘exposed’ when wearing their swimsuit. At sassysarongs.com, you’ll find a wide range of sarongs in different designs, sizes, prints and colors. They can be worn long, folded or wrapped like a dress. They can also provide protection against the harmful rays of the sun.

Their sarongs come in a variety of fabrics including cotton, nylon, chiffon and crochet. They also come in solid colors and prints which can complement a person’s individual sense of style. They keep up with the latest in swimwear fashion trends and come up with sarongs that can reflect the same style. They offer a wide selection of quality sarongs with exclusive designs that are not available in any other shop. Their sarongs are offered at competitive prices which make them a more practical alternative than other retailers.

You should visit their website today to learn how you can buy that perfect sarong from their collection that can help you create that look that you want the next time you head to your favorite beach.

For more information about Sassy Sarongs:
You can visit their website at http://www.sassysarongs.com
Check out their Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/SassySarongs
Email the company at info@sassysarongs.com
Call their customer service line at 1-888-315-5244.

This has been brought to you by AdvertiseWithBloggers.com and SassySarongs.com.

Wednesday, May 8, 2013

Beauty Goodies from Cosmetique

I have to confess that I am not much of a makeup person. I'm happy with face powder and lip gloss, but every once in awhile I like to dolled up and put some colors on my face. How about you? Do you wear makeup? It's amazing how makeup could completely change a person's looks.
If you are wondering where to find a great selection of beauty products, you should check out Cosmetique.com. Cosmetique is packed with a variety of beauty goodies from makeup to skincare, to fragrances, and sunglasses. They have all kinds of brands for you to discover, from Madeleine Mono to Jean-Michelle to Energie Vitale and so on. 
Check out these Sistina beauty products that I got from them! I received a Sistina Tuscan Sun Contour Wand, Sistina Cafe Colori Eyeshadow Palette, and Sistina Duo-Tone Lipcolor in Paola Pink. I just loved them all!
The Café Colori Eyeshadows was inspired by the beauty of Italy. This unique and one of a kind compact has five fabulous and sophisticated neutral eyeshadows. 
The Sistina Tuscan Sun Contour Wand looks a lot like lipstick but it's actually a multipurpose product that can be worn on your cheeks, your eyes, or your lips. I like to apply it on my cheeks. It's so soft and it has this powder like finish. This is definitely a perfect product to wear when you want that sun kissed glow to your skin. Also, the neutral bronze shade is suitable for all skin tones.
The Sistina Duo-Tone Lipcolor is like two lipsticks in one! Split stick has color on one side and shimmer on the other. You can use it in three different ways, each color alone or blend all colors together. I think I just found my new favorite lipstick! I really love this duo-tone lipcolor. My lips look really fresh and it has this natural shine. I'll be wearing this one a lot for sure.

So if you are looking for a great gift to give this coming Mother's day, you might want to visit Cosmetique to order. They have all kinds of beauty items that wont break the bank. Shop now and receive a FREE surprise gift with every order. You might also want to like them on Facebook, follow them on Twitter for updates and promotions.


Disclosure: Products mentioned above were provided for FREE by CosmetiqueUS for product endorsement/review purposes. I am disclosing this post in accordance with the FTC guidelines concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Monday, May 6, 2013

Workout in STYLE with Ellie

Work out clothes are now fashionable! If you love fashion and fitness, why not combine them together? I believe that the clothes you wear for a workout can totally make a difference. Personally, wearing stylish and comfortable workout clothing helps me get motivated to exercise.


If you are still wearing t-shirts and sweatpants during workouts, I think this is the perfect time for an upgrade! You should check out Ellie.com today. Ellie offers high-quality, affordable women's fitness apparel inspired by the latest fashion trends from the runway to the gym. Each month, Ellie launches a new and unique piece collection. You can either buy each piece individually or sign up for their Fit Fashionista Club. Check out what I got from them!
I'm wearing a black Peek-A- Boo Tank and a black Heartbreaker Capri . I super love my new workout clothing. The Peek-A-Boo Tank is perfect layering piece. It's super light and airy. This loose and light piece can be styled over bra or cami. The Heartbreaker Capri is so soft and comfortable to wear. I can tell that it's made with durable and breathable fabric. Plus, this piece is water, wind and tear resistant. I would highly recommend these workout apparel to everyone!
Want to look good and feel great? Save 20% on Ellie.com. For more details or would like to order, you should check out ellie.com. You might also want to like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter for updates and promotions. So what are you waiting for?
20 percent of Ellie


Seriously Fashion-forward. Seriously On-trend. Seriously Comfortable. Seriously affordable. Be the "FIT" girl of fashion with Ellie, she'll get you to your fitness fashion goals!


Disclosure: Products mentioned above were provided for FREE by Ellie for product endorsement/review purposes. I am disclosing this post in accordance with the FTC guidelines concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Ivory® 2-IN-1 Hair & Body Wash

I was recently given the opportunity to try out the new Ivory 2-in-1 hair and body wash from Ivory via Influenster. I have to say that this dual formula truly exceeds my expectation. I really like its refreshing scent. It has conditioners to leave my hair soft and smooth. Now I don't have to worry about the 3-step hassle of applying shampoo, conditioner and then body wash. Ivory® 2-In-1 Hair & Body Wash cleans you from head to toe while leaving your hair conditioned, cleansing hair down to its roots. This hair and body wash is perfect for the whole family. I would highly recommend this product to everyone!
Product Highlights:
- Total body cleanser that leaves hair clean and conditioned.
- Free of dyes and heavy perfumes
- Saves shower space with one bottle
- 33% mover vs. the leading 2-in-1 brand
- Not watered down and doesn't easily seep through hands or into eyes

For more details or would like to order, you should visit pgestore.com. You might want to like them on Facebook or follow them on Twitter for updates and promotions. So what are you waiting for?

Teach Kids a Healthy Lifestyle

Exercising together as a family is a great way for parents to teach their children the value of having a healthy lifestyle. Families who exercise together also form a stronger bond because they are given more opportunities to communicate, enjoy each other’s company and encourage one another. There are many different activities that families can engage in. This includes various outdoor activities that are suitable for every member of the family. Aside from jogging, walking and biking, they can also train together if they want to participate in any local sporting activity such as fun runs and marathons.
Parents don’t always have to spend a lot just to be able to exercise together. Biking or walking around the local park is also a great way to bond and exercise as a family. To make their weekly visit to the nearby park more fun, they can go around the park using their quality scooters. Although scooters are primarily for adults, there are now scooters that are designed for children. There are scooters that are made for specific age groups so you are sure to find scooters that are suitable for your children. These scooters are also designed with all the necessary safety features that children need and come in a variety of colors that children will find appealing.

Whatever type of activity each family chooses, what is important is that they find an activity that will not only provide them with the exercise that they need but also the opportunity to spend more time together.

Sunday, May 5, 2013

Aveeno Positively Radiant Intensive Night Cream

Have you ever tried Aveeno intensive night cream yet? If you are having trouble looking for the right night cream, you might want to try this product. Positively Radiant night cream is a collection of facial skincare products uniquely formulated to target all 5 Factors of Radiance to leave your skin looking fresh, awake and luminous. This hydrating night cream contains a proven concentration of Active Naturals boosted with tone-evening vitamin B3.
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 It's so simple to apply. All you have to do is smooth cream over entire cleansed face and neck. Just easy as that. I got up in the morning feeling fresh, moist and clean! I've always loved Aveeno. I have to say that Aveeno makes awesome quality products!  This Intensive Night Cream Improves tone, dullness, brown spots, texture, and blotchiness. I would definitely recommend this to everyone.

For more details or would like to order, you should visit aveeno.com or like them on Facebook for updates and promotions.


Disclosure: Products mentioned above were provided for FREE by Aveeno via Influenster for product endorsement/review purposes. I am disclosing this post in accordance with the FTC guidelines concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.

Thursday, May 2, 2013

BPC 122/365: ASVAB Reviewer

For the last few months, I've been communicating with a recruiter. It's been over a year since I started inquiring about joining the Air Force Reserve. I waited that long because I have to get my citizenship change. 
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This morning I met up with the recruiter, and signed some paper works and other confidential infos. The process is not easy as 123. I'm aware that this is going to be the most challenging experience of my life. 
I was given 10 days to review and take the ASVAB and MEPS test. I'm just hoping and praying to pass the exam. Wish me LUCK!!!

I guess I have to give up my online agendas, and focus what is best for me. I've been a stay at home mom and blogging for 7 years, and now that my daughter is in elementary school I realized that it is time for me to do something for myself. Something that I can be proud of, and joining the military is one of my options to get a career.

It made me think sometimes that life in the real world is more important than online social life. I have to say that I'm gonna miss blogging and product reviews. But, I'll be around from time to time. I'll keep you posted once I get in!

For now I have to limit my online activities because I have to start my ASVAB review tomorrow.

P.S Thanks for the rescue mamiEmz! She's gonna be replacing me as a host for this month's Blog Photo Challenge.


Wednesday, May 1, 2013

BPC 121/365: My Baptismal Dress




For those of you who don't know me, my full maiden name was Demcy Tinoy Apdian. My family calls me "Lhil" and my friends call me"Dhemz". I was born on the 20th of August, 1983. I am the second of three children and the only girl in the family. I grew up in a small town in Misamis Oriental, Philippines where everyone knows everyone else...lol! Neither one of my parents graduated from college, but they're both hard workers and good providers. My parents may not have all the resources when me and my sibs are little but I have to say that we have some great childhood memories growing up.
Anyways, the photo above is my baptismal dress when I was 4 months old. My mother kept it for  many years, and it is still in good condition. I remember when she hand it to me during my 18th birthday. I was really touched and very emotional that day. I truly admire my mom for keeping our childhood stuff. Thanks Ma!
I found this baptismal photo of mine when I went to the Philippines last year. Too bad this picture got affected during typhoon Sendong (2011). The priest who officiates the ceremony was Father Flynn from the US.