Review: The Natural Dentist Whitening Plus Toothpaste

 

I am always looking for natural products to replace some of my old stand bys - like toothpaste. Many commercial toothpastes have chemicals in them that I just want to remove from my daily routine. So when I was contacted to try The Natural Dentist Whitening Plus Toothpaste I was really excited. (The Amazon link is for a three pack)

Here is some information from The Natural Dentist site regarding this great product:

• Gently removes stains with customized polishing silica
• Whitens teeth without bleach (most whitening products - toothpastes, strips and rinses - contain peroxide, a harsh bleaching agent)
• Strengthens teeth & prevents cavities
• Protects against acid erosion
• Freshens breath
• No Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
• No Artificial Ingredients

The Natural Dentist also offers:

Healthy Teeth & Gums Original - two great flavors that deliver cavity prevention without burning or staining
Healthy Teeth & Gums Fluoride-Free - an option without fluoride that helps to reduce plaque and prevent gingivitis
Healthy Teeth Sparkle Berry Blast for Kids - specially formulated gel toothpaste with a great kid-friendly flavor
Antiseptic Mouth Rinse - The only natural mouth rinse that carries the over-the-counter drug label for its antiseptic properties. Kills germs and keeps your mouth clean.
Healthy Gums Mouth Rinse - Our #1 mouth rinse available in Peppermint Twist and Orange Zest. Powerful blend of herbal ingredients to help control and reduce gingivitis, an early form of gum disease. Extra Aloe for soothing and plaque reduction.
Antigingivitis Mouth Rinse - Daily treatment for the prevention of gingivitis. Maintains positive gum health and helps to reduce plaque.
Pre-Brush Whitening Rinse - Naturally, and gently, removes surface stains to whiten teeth without bleach while helping to prevent and reduce gingivitis.
Healthy Teeth Anticavity Fluoride Rinse - Once a day treatment for cavity prevention. Awarded ADA Acceptance by the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs.
Cavity Zapper Fluoride Rinse - Specially formulated for kids help to prevent cavities and strengthen tooth enamel. Ideal for anyone with braces or other dental appliances. Also Awarded ADA Acceptance by the ADA Council on Scientific Affairs.

My Opinion:

My hubby and I have been using this toothpaste for the last week and we both like it. It has a nice minty flavor. The biggest difference from our usual brand - at least to me - is that it doesn't foam up as much when you use it. This took a bit of getting used to for me but now I don't notice any more. My teeth feel really clean when I am done brushing and they feel like I just left the dentist office. You can hear your toothbrush squeaking as it brushes your teeth so you know it's doing its job. I was a big girl and chose the mint flavor because I know I can use the whitening - it's my morning coffee - for my review but part of me really wanted to try the orange zest flavor. I think I might just try it anyway when I buy it when my review tube is done.

I want to thank The Natural Dentist for introducing me to this toothpaste.

Disclosure:  I received a gratis tube of toothpaste for review purposes. Any opinions expressed are my honest opinions and were not impacted by the receipt of the free toothpaste. I received no other compensation for this review.

Book Reveiw: Who Owns the World by Kevin Cahill with Rob McMahon

About the Book:

You don't have to be a student of geography or cartography to have an interest in the world around you, especially with globalization making our planet seem smaller than ever. Now you can IM someone in Alaska, purchase coffee beans from Timor-Leste, and visit Dubai. But what do we really know about these lands?

WHO OWNS THE WORLD presents the results of the first-ever landownership survey of all 197 states and 66 territories of the world, and reveals facts both startling and eye-opening. You'll learn that:

--Only 15% of the world's population lays claim to landownership, and that landownership in too few hands is probably the single greatest cause of poverty.
--Queen Elizabeth II owns 1/6 of the entire land surface on earth (nearly 3 times the size of the U.S.).
--The Lichtenstein royal family is wealthier than the Grimaldis of Monaco.
--80% of the American population is crammed in urban areas.
--The least crowded state is Alaska, with 670 acres per person. The most crowded is New Jersey, with .7 acres per person. --60% of America's population are property owners. That's behind the UK (69% homeownership).
--And much, much more!

With its relevance to contemporary issues and culture, WHO OWNS THE WORLD makes for fascinating reading. Both entertaining and educational, it provides cocktail party conversation for years to come and is guaranteed to change the way you view the U.S. and the world.

http://www.whoownstheworld.com





About the Authors:

Kevin Cahill was born in the Irish Republic, and now lives in Devon, in the UK, with his wife. They have three daughters. A former army officer, Kevin has worked in the House of Commons, the House of Lords, the Irish Parliament, and the European Parliament as an adviser and researcher. He is the author of a number of books on business, trade, and landownership and was a researcher on the original Sunday Times Rich List.






 Rob McMahon is a freelance writer and editor with more than fifteen years experience in book publishing.

My Opinion:

When the ability to review this book came up I immediately thought of my hubby. In his former life he was a real estate attorney and he did very specialized work for title companies so I thought this book would be of interest to him. It was and he has enjoyed paging through and reading about who owns what where. But I have surprised myself by wanting to look up information on the states where I have lived. The facts are very interesting and I am sure they would help if one was going on Jeopardy or some other trivia based game show.

It's written in an easy style and is full of very surprising information. For example; did you know that there are 24, 279 farms in Montana (I doubt the Happy Goats Farm is counted in that number :0 ) It's the little bits of information like this that makes the book fun. I'm sure if you had children at home it would be a good book for reports and the like. If nothing else it's just fascinating to learn these facts about the states of the Union and the countries of the world.

There is a quiz to test your knowledge...if you dare! Take the Quiz 

Disclosure:  I received a gratis copy of Who Owns the World from The Hachette Book Group for review. Any opinions expressed are my honest opinions and were not impacted by the receipt of the free book. I received no other compensation for this post.

Giveaway Winner: Old El Paso Tackle the Taste Gift Pack

Woo Hoo! I have a winner to announce tonight and just in time for the big Superbowl game. I don't think the prize will be there in time but hey! A party is a party, right?

Mr. Random picked:

True Random Number Generator Min: Max: Result: 7 

And the winner is:

rubynreba!

Yay! I will send an email and rubynreba will have 48hrs to respond or I will have to pick a new winner.

Thanks to everyone who entered and keep checking back for more great giveaways!

Review of Lip Clear Lysine and GIVEAWAY of OraMoist and Canker Cover

I have had trouble with fever blisters for as long as I can remember. I get them if I spend too much time in the sun without sunscreen on my lips and when I am stressed. With all due irony I developed a fever blister the day before my package arrived with these three oral care products. Timing, as they say, is everything. So I can give you a real time, honest opinion of Lip Clear Lysine.

Usually my fever blisters last over a week and turn into big ugly things that make me want to hide inside. When I used the Lip Clear Lysine the fever blister stayed almost invisible, didn't crack and was gone in 4 days. I only needed to use a tiny bit from the tube each morning and evening. I am truly impressed.  Here is some information from the manufacturer:

Cold sores are painful, unsightly blisters that form on the lips or just outside the mouth as a result of the herpes simplex virus 1 (HSV1). While many people may carry this virus (it lies dormant in some), upwards of 60 million people get cold sores annually as a result. Cold sores can last for up to two weeks, in some cases, and are very contagious. The virus can be spread through kissing, touching, sharing cups and utensils, towels, etc. Cold sores can be triggered by sunlight, arginine rich foods, fever, illness, stress, food allergies and hormonal changes. In addition to being embarrassing for sufferers, cold sores are often very painful, causing itching, burning and other discomfort. 

LIP CLEAR Lysine+ While there is no cure for HSV1 and the resulting cold sores, the best solution is to heal them as quickly as possible. LIP CLEAR Lysine+ Cold Sore Treatment utilizes the active zinc oxide, as well as lysine – an essential amino acid – and 14 other natural ingredients to help treat cold sores faster; according to a Southern California University of Health Sciences study. It is clinically shown to cut healing time in half, median time to complete cold sore healing was four days, and a remarkable 40% of participants had full cure by end of third day. LIP CLEAR’s unique combination of natural ingredients provides immediate relief from symptomatic burning, itching and tingling upon application. LIP CLEAR Lysine+ is all-natural, has a non-chemical flavor, goes on clear, can be worn under lipstick and doesn’t burn on application. It provides immediate soothing relief of burning and itching.

Quantum Health also makes OraMoist and Canker Cover and I have a package of each for one winner. Here is some information about each:

OraMoist: Dry mouth (xerostomia) is an under-diagnosed condition that affects 10% of the U.S. population, and can have a severe effect on oral health, causing tooth decay, gum disease and bad breath due to lack of oral moisture. Dry mouth is a symptom of several medical conditions, such as Sjogren’s Syndrome and diabetes, for example, and is a common side effect of many prescription and over-the-counter medications. In fact, people taking three or more medications have a 60% chance of suffering from dry mouth, making this a more common occurrence in mature adults.

OraMoist Dry Mouth Patch is a revolutionary, time-released, muco-adhesive patch powered by edible natural ingredients that adheres to the roof of the mouth or inside the cheek. As the patch dissolves over two to four hours, it releases ingredients that help increase saliva production alleviating parched, dry mouth. The increased moisture also helps restore a healthy oral environment, a significant benefit for dry mouth sufferers. 

Canker Cover: Canker sores are painful blisters that form on the inside of the mouth, cheeks, and inner lips, as well as on the tongue, affecting 56 million people annually. If left untreated, they can last from seven to 21 days, causing pain each time you eat, drink, chew, or move your mouth. While nobody knows for sure what causes canker sores, possibilities include increased stress, lower immunity, trauma (e.g. cheek bites, irritation from braces, etc.), vitamin B12 or iron deficiencies, hormonal changes or food allergies.

Canker Cover is the only over-the-counter canker sore treatment shown in clinical studies to significantly speed treatment. The pill shaped patch adheres to the sore and forms a gel patch that protects the sore, relieves the pain, and speeds treatment. In two separate clinical studies, Canker Cover was shown to heal most canker sores within 24 hours and to be more effective than benzocaine, the active ingredient in most canker sores products, at eliminating pain. No other canker sore products in the world have shown this result.

You want to know what's really cool? These products use all use Sustainable Packaging made from 100% recycled paperboard that contains 55-65% post-consumer waste. You know I like that!


OK - so to win. I'll make this an easy one - just leave me a comment saying you would like to win. Be sure to leave me an email address so I can contact you if you win. I am mailing these so US and Canada only please.


All entries need to be in by 9PM on February 12th when I will go to Random.org to pick the winner. He/she will have 48 hours to respond or I will pick a new winner. Good luck.


Disclosure.:  I received samples of all three products. I kept the Lysine for my personal use. I am giving away the OraMoist and the Canker Cover. I received no further compensation for this post.

GIVEAWAY: Old El Paso Prize Pack

A recent survey conducted for Old El Paso Green Chiles found that the majority of Americans will be gathering around the TV to watch the Big Game at home with friends and family on February 7, 2010.

61% of adults plan to watch the Big Game. Whether you´re planning a huge party or you´re just looking forward to kicking back at home with your friends and family, Old El Paso Green Chiles can help you spice up the festivities!

Old El Paso Green Chiles, which come in 4.5 and 7 oz cans, are a simple way to liven up your go-to favorites. Fat-free and with only 10 calories per serving, Green Chiles are not spicy, but will add a unique flavor to your dishes that the whole crowd will love! According to the survey, Americans will be clamoring for these great game time dishes :

• Chips and dip or salsa 67% 
• Wings 57%
• Nachos 33%
• Veggies and dip 29%
• Chili 24%

Perfect for your dips and salsas, as well as your nachos and chili, Old El Paso Green Chiles can help you score a mealtime touchdown with your guests this year. For more ideas, check out these quick (with a prep time of less than 30 minutes each!) and delicious recipes that incorporate Old El Paso Green Chiles and will have your fans cheering for more!

Nachos Green Chile Dip Green Chile Cornbread

Taco Nachos Black Bean Dip Slow Cooker Salsa Chili

Seven-Layer Bean Dip Skillet Nacho Chili Southwestern Dip

My hubby looooooooves chilis! He was so happy when this arrived

I think he would put chilis on just about anything! And isn't that football serving platter just the cutest? Well, guess what? I have an prize pack for one of my readers!

Since the Superbowl is so close I am going to make this a quick giveaway so here's how you can win, but first some info:

The Prize: a Tackle the Taste Gift Pack from Old El Paso which includes two free cans of Green Chiles, as well as a football-shaped ceramic serving platter, two sets of football-themed plates, cocktail napkins, and a themed table runner.
US only.


MANDATORY ENTRY:

Leave me a comment telling me if you are going to watch the Superbowl. Be sure to leave your email so I can contact you if you win.

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Follow my blog publicly. If you already follow, just say so. And thank you.
2. Follow me on twitter and tweet about the giveaway(one per day) - @BrokenTeepee and Old El Paso are giving away a Tackle the Taste Prize Pack @http://tinyurl.com/yz6q4aw #giveaway

3. Tell me how you would use your Old El Paso chilis to spark your favorite recipe.
4. Follow my goat Pricilla's Blog publicly. If you already do, just say so. And thank you. 
5. Enter any of my other current giveaways. Good for one entry per...

6. Put me on your blogroll and leave a link where I can find it.

7. Add my button to your blog and leave me a link where I can find it.(good for 5 entries so leave 5 comments)

All entries need to be in by 9PM MST on  January 29th (I told you it was a short one!) when I will go to Random.org to choose the winner.  He/she will have 48 hours to respond or I will choose a new winner.
Good Luck everyone.


Disclosure:  I received a Tackle the Taste prize pack from My Blog Spark and Old El Paso for hosting this giveaway. Any opinions expressed are my honest opinions and were not impacted by the receipt of the free prize pack. I received no further compensation for this post.

Blog Tour and Review: A Man and His Maniac, The Bunkie Story by Charles Franklin Emery III

From the Publisher's Website:

A Man and His Maniac: The Bunkie Story – Second Edition, is a heartfelt memoir about Bunkie, the yellow Labrador Retriever Wonder dog. The memoir contains highlights of a 14 year chronological voyage through Bunkie’s and the authors life.
It won’t take you 14 years to read it; but it’s got 14 years worth of love, laughs and tears buried within. The memoir is primarily a humor piece but has some serious components as well and deals with the positive aspects of pet ownership as well as the grief associated with losing a loved pet and family member.

About the Author:

Charles Franklin Emery III was born in Los Angeles, California in 1956. He joined the US Navy Submarine force in 1977 and spent the following six years on Fast Attack and Fleet Ballistic Missile submarines as a Sonar Technician and Sonar Supervisor. He forged a career in commercial Nuclear Power and is now a Consulting Engineer to various electric utilities. He is an avid fisherman and hunter, enjoys working on his 1964 Plymouth Savoy and collecting colonial American coins. Drag Racing is also a passion and his 1964 Plymouth Savoy Nostalgia Super Stocker provides the needed outlet. He now resides with a Boston Terrier horde and his wife Sherry in Port Saint Lucie, Florida.

A Man and His Maniac, The Bunkie Story is available at Amazon.com
and on Kindle

My Opinion:

In all honesty I am not quite sure how I feel about this book. I grew up with dogs and some of them were, let's just say less than well trained so I understand the whole lovable but incorrigible thing. I think my feelings might come from reading the stories of the dog separated from the family memories that surrounded them. This book is a second edition culled from Mr. Emery's memoir of of his father and Bunkie entitled "Dad, Dog and Fish." Without context it seems, at least to me, that many of the Bunkie stories, while entertaining, lack warmth. And with that photo on the cover I was expecting at the very least warm and exasperating. I got just mostly exasperating.  It's not that I didn't enjoy reading the book, I just wasn't left with a warm and fuzzy feeling.

Disclosure:  I received a gratis copy of A Man and His Maniac from Pump Up Your Book Promotions for review. Any opinions expressed are my honest opinions and were not impacted by the receipt of the free book.

Blog Tour and Review: A Highlander's Destiny by Melissa Mayhue

From the Publisher's Website:

JESSE CORYELL, a descendant of the Fae, is a man in search of his destiny. He's tried to lose himself in his work, taking on the worst mankind has to offer, but what he really needs to find is his true love. When he sets out to help a mysterious woman find her sister, what he gets is much more than he bargained for: battling an undeniable attraction to his sexy new client while fighting an ancient evil to keep her safe.
DESTINY NOBLE, abandoned by everyone she's ever loved, will stop at nothing in her desperate quest to find her sister. Authorities have declared Leah a runaway, but Destiny knows better. Her dream visions have shown her the frightening truth. They've also shown her Jesse. But finding her Soulmate could result in the most painful loss of all, when she's forced to choose between loving Jesse and saving Leah.
Jesse and Destiny race against time to save an innocent girl from a powerful ancient evil. Is true love their best weapon...or will they be required to sacrifice their own destiny?

About the Author:

Melissa Mayhue knows a great deal about men -- after all, she's wife to one and mother of three. She and her family live in Colorado, in the shadow of the beautiful Rocky Mountains, with three insanely spoiled dogs, one domineering cat, a turtle with an attitude, and way too many fish in their aquarium. Readers can visit her website at www.MelissaMayhue.com.

Author Revealed:

Q. What is your motto or maxim?

A. Soak up the joy, learn everything you can, share with everyone.

A Highlander's Destiny is available at Amazon.com

My Opinion:

I have to admit that the first chapter of this book was a bit challenging and I almost didn't want to continue with the book. But I am glad that I made the effort because I really did enjoy this book. I don't know if it was because of coming into the series without knowing the characters or what but after settling into the rhythm of the book I got all caught up in the tale of "soulmates" Jesse and Destiny. Nothing like a little magic with your romance, eh? The book ends with some time travel - another theme I love - that sets up the next book perfectly. It left me really wanting to find out what happens to the characters; it's a good thing when a book gets you invested in their lives. Oh, and the cover is just beautiful! When I opened the package the book just came to life with sparkles.

Disclosure:  I received a gratis copy of A Highlander's Destiny from Pocket Books. Any opinions expressed are my honest opinions and were not impacted by the receipt of the free book. I received no further compensation for this post.

Blog Tour and Review: The Choice by Suzanne Woods Fisher

From the Publisher's Website:

One moment, Carrie Weaver is planning to elope with Lancaster Barnstormer Solomon Riehl, leaving their Amish community behind. The next, she is staring into a future as broken as her heart. Now Carrie faces a choice. An opportunity. But will this decision, this moment in time, change her life forever? "Fisher kicks off a refreshing new series, Lancaster County Secrets, with characters that are strong, both in body and spirit. They also have weaknesses that develop into strengths with the choices they make."
4 stars, Romantic Times

About The Author:

Suzanne is a wife and mom, raiser of puppies for Guide Dogs for the Blind, and an author of Christian books, both non-fiction and fiction.

Her relatives on my mother's side are Old Order German Baptist Brethren, also known as Dunkards. That's where her interest in Anabaptist traditions began. Suzanne's grandfather was born into a family of 13 children, started his career as a teacher in a one-room school house in Franklin County, Pennsylvania, and ended it as one of the very first publishers of Christianity Today. "We called him "Deardad" even though he was a very stern fellow. Still, Deardad's life inspired me to write."

After college, Suzanne was a freelance writer for magazines and became a contributing editor to Christian Parenting Today. Her work has been featured in Today's Christian Woman, Marriage Partnership, Worldwide Challenge, among others. She took the plunge into books a few years ago and now she's hooked. To learn more about Suzanne, visit her website at www.suzannewoodsfisher.com

My Opinion:

Overall I enjoyed this book. It was a sweet romantic tale with a happy ending. I grew up in Philadelphia and then moved to the New Jersey shore so Lancaster and the Amish community are very familiar to me. My family would take trips out there when I was a child and my husband and I would take our trailer out for weekends away. It's beautiful country; peaceful and serene.

Most of the characters were well written and believable the only exception, at least to me, being the main "English" female. Every time she appeared on the page it was like I was hearing the "Psycho" music in my head. The awful screeching? She just didn't flow with the story, she wasn't believable. I have known many rude people in my life. City people and I have NEVER known one to act like this woman. With this one exception I found the book a pleasurable read.

The main themes include belief in God, love conquering all and faith.

LitFuse is having a Book Bomb and Author's Talk -  you can find all the details by clicking the button - there's a chance to win a $25 gift certificate to Amazon.com


Grab this button

 You can also enter to win a Signed copy of The Choice:

TWEET THIS: (must use hashtag #thechoice to be entered - no limit on entries! Tweet away!)


Psst... pass it on! Join @suzannewfisher for a Book Bomb & Author Talk! Details here http://ow.ly/W84r #thechoice



Disclosure:  I received a gratis copy of The Choice from LitFuse for review. Any opinions expressed are my honest opinion and were not impacted by the receipt of the free book. I received no further compensation for this post.

Two Recipes to Try from Lidia Bastianich author of Lidia Cooks from the Heart of Italy: A Feast of 175 Regional Recipes

 You all know that I love to cook and when given the opportunity to share these recipes with you I of course said YES!

Enjoy!

"Waste Not, Want Not" and Make it Delicious!
By Lidia Matticchio Bastianich and Tanya Bastianich Manuali,
Author of Lidia Cooks from the Heart of Italy: A Feast of 175 Regional Recipes

There is no more appropriate time than now to think about how and why we cook. Food is a way of connecting with the people who surround us. Through it, we communicate emotions like love, compassion and understanding, and there is no better opportunity to communicate with our children than at the table. It's where we can discuss our values of life that are important to us as individuals, as a family and as a part of the world we live in.
As overconsumption and greed have come to haunt us, now is a time for reflection. We should be looking back at the generations before us to understand their approach to the table. Growing food, shepherding animals, foraging for the gifts of nature is all part of respecting food. Nothing needs to be wasted. Bread can be recycled and used in soups, casseroles, lasagnas and desserts. Water is carefully conserved as in the pasta recipe I share below where the same water in which vegetables are cooked is used to cook the pasta that follows, and then that is saved for soups or for making risotto.
When one respects the food we prepare, it also leads to a more sensible and balanced intake of proteins, legumes and vegetables.
So "waste not, want not" and make it delicious!

Excerpt from Lidia Cooks from the Heart of Italy (Alfred A. Knopf, 2009)

FRESH CAVATELLI WITH CAULIFLOWER
Maccarun ch'I Hiucc

Serves 6
Cauliflower is one of my favorite vegetables, and I regret that many people don't sufficiently appreciate its unique flavor and nutritional value. This is not the case in Molise, where it is cooked often and creatively, as exemplified by the following two simple vegetarian pasta dishes. The first recipe, maccarun ch'i hiucc, is zesty with garlic and peperoncino.

½ teaspoon kosher salt, plus more for the pasta pot
½ cup extra-virgin olive oil
7 plump garlic cloves, peeled and sliced
½ teaspoon peperoncino flakes, or to taste
2 tablespoons chopped fresh Italian parsley
1 large head cauliflower, cut in small florets
1 batch (1½ pounds) Fresh Cavatelli (preceding recipe), or 1 pound dried pasta
1 cup freshly grated pecorino (or half pecorino and half Grana Padano or Parmigiano-Reggiano, for a milder flavor)

Recommended equipment: A large pasta pot; a heavy-bottomed skillet or sauté pan, 12 inch diameter or larger
Fill the large pot with salted water (at least 6 quarts water with 1 tablespoon salt), and heat to a boil.
Pour the olive oil into the skillet, set over medium-high heat, and scatter in the sliced garlic. Let the garlic start to sizzle, then toss in the peperoncino and parsley; stir and cook for a minute. Ladle in a cup of the pasta cooking water, stir well, and adjust the heat to keep the liquid in the skillet simmering and reducing gradually while you cook the cauliflower and pasta.
With the pasta water at a rolling boil, drop in the cauliflower florets, and cook them for about 3 minutes, until barely tender. Drop in the cavatelli, stir, and return the water quickly to a boil. Cook another 4 to 5 minutes, until the cauliflower is fully tender and the pasta is al dente (if you are using dried pasta, it will, of course, take longer).
Lift out the florets and cavatelli with a spider or strainer, drain briefly, and spill them into the skillet. Toss well, to coat all the pasta and vegetable pieces with the garlicky dressing, then turn off the heat, sprinkle over the skillet the grated cheese, and toss again. Heap the cauliflower and cavatelli in warm bowls, and serve immediately.

CHOCOLATE BREAD PARFAIT
Pane di Cioccolato al Cucchiaio

Serves 6
This recalls for me the chocolate-and-bread sandwiches that sometimes were my lunch, and always a special treat. And it is another inventive way surplus is used in Umbrian cuisine, with leftover country bread serving as the foundation of an elegant layered dessert. Though it is soaked with chocolate and espresso sauce and buried in whipped cream, the bread doesn't disintegrate, and provides a pleasing textural contrast in every heavenly spoonful.

8 ounces bittersweet or semisweet chocolate, finely chopped
8 ounces country-style white bread, crusts removed
½ cup freshly brewed espresso
2 tablespoons dark rum
2 tablespoons sugar
1 ½ cups chilled heavy cream
1 cup sliced almonds, toasted

Recommended equipment: A large rimmed tray or baking sheet, such as a half-sheet pan (12 by 18 inches); a spouted measuring cup, 1 pint or larger; 6 parfait glasses or wineglasses, preferably balloon-shaped
Put the chopped chocolate in a bowl set in a pan of hot (not boiling) water. When the chocolate begins to melt, stir until completely smooth. Keep it warm, over the water, off the heat.
Slice the bread into ½-inch-thick slices, and lay them flat in one layer, close together, on the tray or baking sheet.
Pour the warm espresso into a spouted measuring cup, stir in the rum and sugar until sugar dissolves, then stir in half the melted chocolate. Pour the sauce all over the bread slices, then flip them over and turn them on the tray, to make sure all the surfaces are coated. Let the bread absorb the sauce for a few minutes.
Meanwhile, whip the cream until soft peaks form, by hand or with an electric mixer.
To assemble the parfaits: Break the bread into 1-inch pieces. Use half the pieces to make the bottom parfait layer in the six serving glasses, dropping an equal amount of chocolatey bread into each. Scrape up some of the unabsorbed chocolate sauce that remains on the baking sheet, and drizzle a bit over the bread layers. Next, drop a layer of whipped cream in the glasses, using up half the cream. Top the cream layer with toasted almonds, using half the nuts.
Repeat the layering sequence: drop more soaked bread into each glass, drizzle over it the chocolate sauce from the tray and the remaining melted chocolate. Dollop another layer of whipped cream in the glasses, using it all up, and sprinkle the remaining almonds on top of each parfait. This dessert is best when served immediately while the melted chocolate is still warm and runny.
©2010 Lidia Matticchio Bastianich and Tanya Bastianich Manuali, authors of Lidia Cooks from the Heart of Italy: A Feast of 175 Regional Recipes
Author Bio
Lidia Matticchio Bastianich, coauthor of Lidia Cooks from the Heart of Italy: A Feast of 175 Regional Recipe, is the author of five previous books, four of them accompanied by nationally syndicated public television series. She is the owner of the New York City restaurant Felidia (among others), and she lectures on and demonstrates Italian cooking throughout the country. She lives on Long Island, and can be reached at her Web site, www.LidiasItaly.com
Tanya Bastianich Manuali, Lidia's daughter and coauthor of Lidia Cooks from the Heart of Italy: A Feast of 175 Regional Recipe, received her Ph.D. in Italian Renaissance art history from Oxford University. Since 1996 she has led food/wine/art tours of Italy. She lives with her husband and children on Long Island.


Yummy, huh? I know I am definitely going to try the cauliflower dish in the next few nights....
Thanks to FSB Associates for the post!

GIVEAWAY: Absolute Power (audiobook) by David Baldacci

From the Publisher's Website:

Available for the first time Unabridged on CD in an all-new recording by Scott Brick, the first of the blockbuster thrillers by New York Times bestselling author David Baldacci. The book that will change the way you think about Washington - and power - forever. In a heavily guarded mansion in a posh Virginia suburb, a man and a woman start to make love, trapping a burglar behind a secret wall. Then the passion turns deadly, and the witness is running into the night. Because what he has just seen is a brutal slaying involving the president of the United States.

Luther Whitney is the career break-in artist who's in the wrong place at the wrong time. Alan Richmond is the charming U.S. president with the power to commit any crime. And Jack Graham is the young attorney caught in a vortex between absolute truth and... ABSOLUTE POWER.

About the Author:

David Baldacci was born in Virginia, in 1960, where he currently resides. He received a Bachelor of Arts in political science from Virginia Commonwealth University and a law degree from the University of Virginia. Mr. Baldacci practiced law for nine years in Washington, D.C., as both a trial and corporate attorney.
David Baldacci has published seventeen novels: Absolute Power, Total Control, The Winner, The Simple Truth, Saving Faith, Wish You Well, Last Man Standing, The Christmas Train, Split Second, Hour Game, The Camel Club, The Collectors, Simple Genius, Stone Cold, and The Whole Truth; and in his young adult series, Freddy and the French Fries: Fries Alive! and Freddy and the French Fries: The Adventures of Silas Finklebean. He has also published a novella for the Dutch entitled Office Hours, written for Holland's Year 2000 "Month of the Thriller." Baldacci authored a short story, "The Mighty Johns," as part of a mystery anthology published in 2002.
His works have been in numerous worldwide magazines, newspapers, journals, and publications. Baldacci has authored seven original screenplays. His books have been translated into more than 45 languages and sold in more than 80 countries. All of his books have been national and international bestsellers. Over 60 million copies of Mr. Baldacci's books are in print worldwide.

Absolute Power is available at Amazon.com

Cool, huh? And thanks to Anna at The Hachette Book Group I have three copies to give away! Woo hoo! But first a few rules:

Only one copy per person
US and Canada only
No PO Boxes

OK - how do you win? It's easy!

MANDATORY ENTRY:

Leave me a comment with your email address so I can contact you if you win.

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Follow my blog publicly. If you already follow, just say so. And thank you.
2. Follow me on twitter and tweet about the giveaway(one per day) - @BrokenTeepee and Hachette Books are giving away 3 copies of Absolute Power(audio)@http://tinyurl.com/yfjckq4 #giveaway

3. Blog about this giveaway with a link back to Broken Teepee (this is good for 6 entries so leave 6 comments)
4. Follow my goat Pricilla's Blog publicly. If you already do, just say so. And thank you. 
5. Enter any of my other current giveaways. Good for one entry per...

6. Put me on your blogroll and leave a link where I can find it.

7. Add my button to your blog and leave me a link where I can find it.(good for 5 entries so leave 5 comments)


All entries need to be in by 9PM MST on February 9th when I will go to Random.org to choose the winners. They will have 48 hours to get back to me or I will choose new winners. Good luck everyone!


Disclosure:  I will be receiving a copy of Absolute Power for review. I will post a review of the audiobook at that time. I received no other compensation for this post.

Category: FICTION

Format: AUDIO BOOK

Subformat: CD (AUDIO)

Edition: Unabridged

Publish Date: 1/16/2010

Price: $24.98/$29.98

ISBN: 9781607883210

I'm Seeing Red....and It's a Good Thing

It took 4 coats but the kitchen is finally painted.
Four coats.
Red paint is a challenge to say the least but I am very happy with the rich cherry color.

Bold isn't it?

You can't really tell from these photos but it looks great next to the blue/grey/silver of the living area. The countertop is going to be black so that will tone it down quite a bit. The appliances are black as well. I am planning some manner of stainless looking backsplash behind the stove.

But you can't miss that red.....

Can you?
I can't wait 'til I get to finish it.

Have You Seen CSNStores?

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

I do a lot of my shopping online. I really don't have much choice; I can't drive and I live over an hour and a half from the nearest stores. I think the internet has been one of the biggest helps to the rural inhabitant.  What is really great is when you can find an online "mall." That's what you have with the CSNStores

You can buy almost anything you need for the home in one of the departments of the CSNStores
from furniture, home decor, housewares. You can even buy the cutest rain boots I have ever seen. There is even a whole section to help you shop for baby. Now how cool is that?

To help their customers stay abreast of all the specials and sales  CSNStores have started a Facebook page.
You can become a fan so you can get regular updates on all that is happening - and that includes the great sweepstakes that CSN sponsors. Right now I saw one for a years worth of toys - wouldn't you child love that?  You can go here to become a fan - I did and I can't wait to see what goes on sale next. I have a house to fill you know.

New Jewelry - Just in Time for February!

I stole a bit of time this weekend and was able to make a few pieces of jewelry. I don't have them all photographed so I will just show you what I have gotten done for now.  I figured since February was coming up I would work with amethyst and ametrine. I've had these ametrine ovals for quite a while; they are beautifully faceted and sparkle like mad. I first made a pair of earrings that just show off that sparkle. The gemstones swing from gold fill hooks.

Then I made a necklace to compliment. This was a bit more of a challenge because a certain kitten has a certain eye for things that sparkle. Every time I got up from my chair he would steal a stone and I would have to chase him around to retrieve it. Grrrrr. I finally got the necklace finished and the kitten still lives...
Three of those beautiful ametrine ovals drop from a gold fill circle. Shaded amethyst rondelles lead to gold fill figure eight chain with two asymmetrically set ovals. The larger of the two shows both yellow and purple.

These stones are really lovely and show different color in different light. They are not perfect - there are some minor inclusions in a couple of them but the faceting is so well done you hardly notice. And the sparkle!

I'm playing with using a piece of the slate from our new hearth as a background for my jewelry shots. What do you think? The citrines at the top are really a soft yellow and not that brown so I know I have work to do but the background is pretty, yes?

All items remain 20% in my shop so why not take advantage...you never know when I will get around to changing the listings. Heh heh.

Review and Giveaway: Tupperware; What's New?!

You will remember that I posted of my obsession with  love of Tupperware. It really has organized my kitchen and it is going to go a long way towards keeping my new kitchen organized as well. But I have to admit that it's been a while since I have bought anything other than my beloved Modular Mates. The great folks at Tupperware were kind enough to send me some classic items and some new items for review.

I will start with the storage pieces. Boy, do I wish they had these when the hubby and I took off in the trailer. These are about the coolest containers ever! They are called FlatOut™ containers and when not in use they squish down to take up almost no space at all! What a perfect product for a camper or boat! They are easy to manipulate and a most amazing tangerine color. I love using them!

When fully expanded they hold 4 cups. That's a lot of storage for something that folds down to almost nothing. In addition you can adjust their size to hold only 2 3/4 or 1 3/4 cup. How cool is that?

Another really cool storage container set Tupperware sent to me was the Stuffables® Mini Set. These are great because you can add oddly shaped food to them and the lids expand to adjust to the shape. How clever!

These will be perfect in the summer when I cut up my mini watermelon. And how can you not love that color?

Now on to the Tupperware classics.
The Quick Chef. I never owned a Quick Chef so it was fun for me to try one. It worked like a dream. The pieces switch out easily and I was able to whip cream with little effort. It's nice to have a light, easy piece to work with for something quick - when you don't want to pull out your mixer.

You can see that the great folks at Tupperware sent me lots of great products to try. AND there was one more. I am going to give that away to one lucky reader! It's a classic and I already have one.

It's the Quick Shake Container!
Great for measuring, for mixing up marinades and dressings!

So how do you win? It's easy!

MANDATORY ENTRY:

Go to Tupperware.com and tell me what else you would like own. Be sure to leave your email address so I can contact you if you win.

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1.  Follow my blog publicly. If you already do just say so, and thank you.
2.  Sign up for the Tupperware Newsletter - it's on the lower right hand side of the home page. Good for two entries so leave two comments and the email address you used.
3. Follow me on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway. @BrokenTeepee and Tupperware are giving away a Quick Shake Container@http://tinyurl.com/ygtkydh #giveaway
Please leave the url of your tweet.
4.  Follow my goat, Pricilla's blog publicly. If you already do just say so, and thank you.
5.  Blog about this giveaway with a link back to Broken Teepee and Tupperware. This is good for 6 entries so leave 6 comments.
6.  Add me to your blogroll and leave a link so I can find it.
7. Add my button to your blog. This is good for 3 entries so leave 3 comments.
8.  Enter any of my other current giveaways. This is good for one entry per...

All entries need to be in by 9PM MST on February 8th when I will go to Random.org to pick the winner. He/she will have 48hrs to respond or I will choose a new winner.  Good luck to everyone and thank you!

Disclosure:  I received a sample package gratis from Tupperware for review. Any opinions expressed are my honest opinions and they were not impacted by the receipt of the free Tupperware. I received no further compensation for this post.

Review: Cleverly Gifted

We all have to shop.
Sometimes it is just so hard to find unique presents for the special women in our lives.
Well, I have been introduced to delightful online boutique full of  original and thoughtful gifts to send to those women; to your mothers, your sisters, your girlfriends.

The site is called Cleverly Gifted - isn't that just the greatest name?  When you go to the home page you are encouraged to celebrate. And each "celebration" takes you to a series of gifts that you can send.  You can

celebrate life
celebrate spirit
celebrate strength
celebrate change
celebrate gratitude

How cool is that? There are truly unique gifts in each section. Since I am moving into a new house full of bright and beautiful colors I decided to try this G.O.R.G.E.O.U.S. platter.

When it arrived I was just thrilled. It is big and it is bold. It will go beautifully with all those bright bolors I have picked out for the yurt. I can't wait to use it. It is made of nice heavy melamine - not that cheap stuff you feel will crack the first time you use it. This platter will be around for a long time.

One of the services I REALLY like on the site is their gift wrapping - instead of a box and tissue paper that you will just throw away the site offers a reusable jute handbag for not much more than most sites charge for that cheap box.

It's really beautiful too - look!

Isn't that a clever idea? I sure think so. It's like getting two gifts in one.  So go check out all of the cool things that Cleverly Gifted has to offer. I don't think you will be disappointed.  I will be doing another post about this great site next month that will include a giveaway. So stay tuned....

The service I received from the site was exceptional as well. My samples were received very quickly after the owner contacted me for this review.

Disclosure:  I received several gratis samples from Cleaverly Gifted for review and giveaway. Any opinions expressed are my honest opinions and were not impacted by the receipt of the free samples. I received no further compensation for this post.

Giveaway Winners: Seduced by a Rogue

Oops! I MUST have been tired last night...I didn't post the winners of the Seduced by a Rogue giveaway.

Soooo sorry!

I drew the 5 lucky winners and they were:

14 -  rubynreba
9 - elaing8
40 - cherylS22
1 - fredamans
18 - DonnaC

Hooray for the winners!

Fredamans responded that she had won on another blog so I picked a new winner. Woo hoo!

BombasticBelle

So a big congratulations to all the winners and thank you to everyone who entered. And a great big THANK YOU to Hachette Book Group for the great books they provide for these giveaways!  Applause, applause!!
I am VERY sorry I forgot to post this last night.

Review and Giveaway: Tales 4 Tomorrow Plush Rhino Learning Toy

I am very excited to be able to tell you about this product. I am so in favor of giving gifts to children that educate; in fact all of my nieces and nephews know that when I ask them what they want for their birthday or for Christimas that I have rules. It has to a book, clothing or educational. Even the little ones. I have told them that they have enough people giving them plastic stuff they don't need it from me.

I was contacted by Tales 4 Tomorrow about their truly adorable line of plush toys and asked to do a review and giveaway. These are very much like Webkinz® but the computer code that comes with the plush toy takes your child to an educational site where they learn about endangered animals. Here, I will let them tell you:

Los Angeles, CA – Conservation International (CI) announced a three year partnership with Kango on the Tales 4 Tomorrow™ (T4T) brand, which combines animal conservation with games for kids in an online virtual world. The T4T toy line will be exclusively distributed by Fiesta to specialty and gift channels, and will include eco-friendly plush toys, trading cards and the interactive website www.tales4tomorrow.com. While online, kids will be able to help choose CI projects to save endangered species.  As a key component to the T4T brand, each plush (MSRP: $19.99) and Fun Pack (MSRP: $4.99) comes with access to the T4T website – an online world that educates children about Endangered animals, and what they need to thrive and survive. The web site uses games, videos and virtual animal habitats to entertain, educate and empower children to help save Endangered animals around the world. The website allows kids to select one of four Conservation International Endangered species programs to which 5% of the proceeds of their sale will be donated. Additionally, T4T strives to make the products in an environmentally conscious manner, with the outer coat of the plush toys made from soy and cotton, and product tags made from recycled paper.  “It’s an honor to be working with Conservation International on such an important issue,” said Adam Unger, Kango’s senior vice president and general manager. “They are simply the best organization to support our mission. Tales 4 Tomorrow will donate 5% of proceeds generated by the sale of the plush toys to help save Endangered species worldwide. Our hope is that Tales 4 Tomorrow will raise awareness and inspire the next generation of CI members to improve our planet.”  “We are so pleased that proceeds from Tales 4 Tomorrow will support important endangered species projects through CI,” said Laura Bowling, senior vice president of communication at CI. “In addition to providing critical funding, Tales 4 Tomorrow’s focus on Endangered species will help kids learn about the importance of saving some of the world’s most threatened animals.”  The four projects that kids will choose to support through CI include:  

• The Big-Eyed Tree Frog
• One of the cutest, most prolific frog species, the big-eyed tree frog is a dynamic animal that will help raise the awareness of the conservation importance of this group and its habitat within the Eastern Arc Mountains of Tanzania.
• Maintaining and Restoring Tiger and Rhino Habitat
• India's North Bank landscape is a vast area peppered with protected parks that harbor a host of animals and plants, including tigers and rhinos. The small size of some reserves means that animals must move between the protected areas, in search of food and water. This project will help maintain and restore important habitat linkages and promote practices that favor conservation.
• International Tiger Coalition
• The International Tiger Coalition (ITC) is an alliance of 39 non-governmental organizations (millions of people) united under the common aim of stopping trade in tiger parts and products from all sources in order to secure a long-term future for wild tigers.
• Panda Guardians
• The epicenter of the May 2008 Sichuan earthquake was in Wenchuan County, China, located at the eastern edge of the mountains in a biodiversity hotspot – a region where many endangered animals such as the giant panda and golden monkey live. CI is working with local partners and scientists to jumpstart a long-term project designed to help the local communities, wildlife, and natural ecosystems recover from this natural disaster.

Aside from the four projects, CI will advise the T4T team to ensure the animals and content represented in the product line are scientifically accurate, including the various activities included in the T4T website. The activities include games, videos, sending Tale Mail to friends and creating lush habitats where animal friends can live. T4T Plush and Fun Packs will be available in the first quarter of 2009 at toy and gift retailers as well as zoos, aquariums, and gift stores through Fiesta. For more information please consult www.fiestatoy.com. Conservation International applies innovations in science, economics, policy and community participation to protect the Earth's richest regions of plant and animal diversity in the biodiversity hotspots, high-biodiversity wilderness areas and key marine ecosystems. With headquarters in the Washington, DC metropolitan area, CI works in more than 40 countries on four continents. For more information about CI, visit www.conservation.org . Kango (www.kangoonline.com) is a division of the G8R Group, which produces socially conscious green toys and accessories for kids. The new company is headquartered in Dana Point, CA.  The Tales 4 Tomorrow™ brand was created to inspire children to “Save the animals!” that are endangered around the world. Tales 4 Tomorrow is a lifestyle brand that promotes socially conscious, green fun. The brand’s launch includes 16 plush animals made with soy and cotton materials. Each plush toy comes with a donation code that gives a child access to our website, www.tales4tomorrow.com,  where they can play games, watch videos, meet our characters, send Tale Mail to their friends, and create lush habitats where their animal friends live. Fun Pack Trading cards include an assortment of cards including sticker, tattoo, flapper, pop-up, and 3D model cards. Tales 4 Tomorrow donates 5% of all proceeds to Conservation International programs that save endangered species around the globe. For more information please consult; www.tales4tomorrow.com.   

Are these not the cutest, cleverest toys ever? I have a Rhino to giveaway to one of my lucky readers. I will tell you it is about the softest stuffed toy I have felt in a long time.  His cute little eyes are appliques so there are no buttons to worry about. The accompanying website is bright, colorful and fun.

Did I tell you how CUTE the rhino is...I almost don't want to give it away but I don't have kids here and someone's child will have a BLAST with this little guy.

So how do you win? It's easy!

MANDATORY ENTRY:

Go HERE and tell me what other animal you might like for your child. Please leave a comment with your email so I can contact you if you win. 

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Follow my blog publicly. If you already follow, just say so. And thank you.
2. Follow me on twitter and tweet about the giveaway(one per day) - @BrokenTeepee and Tales4Tomorrow.com are giving away a Plush Rhino @http://tinyurl.com/yggrc2k #giveaway

3. Blog about this giveaway with a link back to Broken Teepee and Tales4Tomorrow.com (this is good for 6 entries so leave 6 comments)
4. Follow my goat Pricilla's Blog publicly. If you already do, just say so. And thank you. 
5. Enter any of my other current giveaways. Good for one entry per...

6. Put me on your blogroll and leave a link where I can find it.

7. Add my button to your blog and leave me a link where I can find it.(good for 5 entries so leave 5 comments)

All entries need to be in by 9PM MST on  February 5th when I will go to Random.org to choose the winner. He/she will have 48 hours to respond or I will choose a new winner. Good luck to everyone!


Disclosure:  I received one plush Rhino for review that I am giving away. Any opinions expressed are my honest opinions and were not impacted by the receipt of the Rhino. I received no other compensation for this post.


 

Book Review and Giveaway: The Survivor's Club by Ben Sherwood

From the Publisher's Website:

Each second of the day, someone in America faces a crisis, whether it's a car accident, violent crime, serious illness, or financial trouble. Given the inevitability of adversity, we all wonder: Who beats the odds and who surrenders? Why do some people bound back and others give up? How can I become the kind of person who survives and thrives?

The fascinating, hopeful answers to these questions are found in THE SURVIVORS CLUB. In the tradition of Freakonomics and The Tipping Point, this book reveals the hidden side of survival by combining astonishing true stories, gripping scientific research, and the author's adventures inside the U.S. military's elite survival schools and the government's airplane crash evacuation course.

With THE SURVIVORS CLUB, you can also discover your own Survivor IQ through a powerful Internet-based test called the Survivor Profiler. Developed exclusively for this book, the test analyzes your personality and generates a customized report on your top survivor strengths.

There is no escaping life's inevitable struggles. But THE SURVIVORS CLUB can give you an edge when adversity strikes.


About the Author:


Ben Sherwood is a bestselling author and award-winning journalist. His novel The Man Who Ate the 747 was published in 13 languages and is being adapted as both a feature film and musical. A former broadcast producer for NBC Nightly News, he joined Good Morning America in April 2004 as executive producer and stayed in that position until Fall 06. He lives with his wife and son in Los Angeles.

Audio and Video

 

My Opinion:

In some ways this book is like the proverbial train wreck; you just can't stop reading because the stories are just so compelling. Admit it, we are all fascinated by stories of survival so why NOT learn from the people who have survived horrible accidents or terrifying imprisonments. The book shows how certain people react differently in crisis situations and the author goes on to show studies of the survivors. Of why they survived. I was drawn to this book because I was faced with a life threatening medical condition. Nothing nearly as bad as the subjects in the book but any time a doctor looks you in the face and says you should be dead it rather scrambles your though processes.

The book is written in a very compelling manner. It was hard to put down and I found the personal stories the most interesting. You can take a Survivor Profile to find out what type of survivor personality you have. Turns out I am a "realist" which really didn't surprise me.  I enjoyed reading the book and my husband is going to read the book next.

The Survivor's Club is available at Amazon.com

Now for the good news! I have 5 copies of the Survivor's Club to give away thanks to The Hachette Book Group! So five of you can learn all about The Secrets and Science that Could Save Your Life!  But first, some rules:

One book per person
No PO boxes
Available to the US and Canada

OK - so how do you win? It's easy!

MANDATORY ENTRY:
Leave me a comment with your email so I can contact you if you win.

EXTRA ENTRIES:

1. Follow my blog publicly. If you already follow, just say so. And thank you.
2. Follow me on twitter and tweet about the giveaway(one per day) - @BrokenTeepee and Hachette Books are giving away 5 copies of The Survivor's Club @http://tinyurl.com/yjexwm6 #giveaway

3. Blog about this giveaway with a link back to Broken Teepee (this is good for 6 entries so leave 6 comments)
4. Follow my goat Pricilla's Blog publicly. If you already do, just say so. And thank you. 
5. Enter any of my other current giveaways. Good for one entry per...

6. Put me on your blogroll and leave a link where I can find it.

7. Add my button to your blog and leave me a link where I can find it.(good for 5 entries so leave 5 comments)


All entries need to be in by 9PM MST on February 5th when I will go to Random.org to choose the winners. They will have 48 hours to get back to me or I will choose new winners.
Good luck to everyone!


Disclosure:  I received a gratis review copy of The Survivor's Club from The Hachette Book Group. Any opinions expressed are my honest opinions and were not impacted by the receipt of the free book. I received no other compensation for this post.

Category: SELF-HELP

Format: TRADE PAPERBACK

Publish Date: 2/3/2010

Price: $14.99/$17.99

ISBN: 9780446698856

Pages: 400

Size: 6" x 9"

Bathroom Vanity

I ordered the vanity for the bathroom. As you can tell from all of these posts it has been a busy week in the life of the yurt. That in itself is good news...lots of little things are just suddenly coming to the forefront. The bathroom is painted now. The hubby hung the light fixture. We have the toilets - they are in their boxes in the basement and the tub is installed already. The vanity, the fixtures and the shelving were all that was left.

I found the vanity at Costco and have lifted the photo from there...you can click the photo to go to the listing if you so care to.

Isn't it pretty? I just love it. It's simple yet a little bit different. We didn't order the mirror 'cause I already have one. We also have to get a faucet for it. But I'm really happy with it. It should arrive in a week. Costco was easy to order from and the shipping is included.

Woo Hoo!

Tuna and Pregnancy

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

I have never been pregnant and given my age the state of my reproductive system I am never going to be pregnant. I have, though gone through the pregnancies of my sisters in law and girlfriends. I have ten nieces and nephews so I have heard a lot of the tales of the cravings that come with being pregnant. And have listened to the discussions of the importance of eating healthy foods for the benefit of the mother and the growing baby.


One of the tasty things a pregnant woman can eat while pregnant is good, old fashioned healthy tuna. 
Fish is a very important part of a diet, pregnant or not and as long as it is eaten in moderation and it is cooked properly seafood can be very healthy for a pregnant woman. In fact studies show that pregnant woman and their babies to be can benefit from eating fish due to its omega 3 fats. These fats help the growing babies brains and eyes to develop normally and may help the moms to prevent or manage post partum depression. One of the best sources of these omega 3 fats is canned or pouched tuna.

I just hope no one craves tuna, banana and pickle sandwiches like my brother eats on a regular basis.
Y.U.C.K.