Hanes, sending a comfort package across the miles

Do you have a favorite tshirt or sweatshirt that you love to wear on days when you could use a little comfort?  I have a sweatshirt from college that is my go to item on cold, winter days. It feels like a warm hug. Instantly, I feel a little better.

The thought of sending a little comfort is the idea behind the Hanes Comfort Package promotion. 

When you visit the Hanes Comfort Facebook page, you can send a comfort package to a friend or loved one. For each comfort package created and sent, Hanes will donate $1 to National Breast Cancer Foundation. A total of up to $25,000 will be donated to the organization.

Since 2009, Hanes has made cash and in-kind donations totaling $1,000,000 to breast cancer charities. Join Hanes and National Breast Cancer Foundation, Inc. (NBCF) in the fight against breast cancer.

Each comfort package can be customized for the recipient. With photos, videos, or a simple phrase, these comfort packages can make someone's day a little brighter.

Visit the Hanes Comfort Package on Facebook and send someone a warm hug today.



Disclosure: I participated in this campaign as a member of One2One Network and am eligible for a prize drawing. All opinions stated in the post are my own. For my complete disclosure policy, please visit www.more4momsbuck.com/disclosure.

Get advice on your difficult decisions from Bounce It Off Millions

We've all been there. The choices are down to two. The red dress or the black dress. Vacation to the beach or skiing in the mountains. Packers or Bears (everyone knows the answer to that one - Packers).  Still, sometimes the final decision between two great choices can be difficult. What if you could get some unbiased opinions on the best decision? Now you can with Bounce It Off Millions.  Bounce It Off Millions is a Facebook app created by Bounce. 

After the success of its poll, sheets or bar, Bounce has decided to let you, the fans, submit your pending questions.  Visit facebook.com/bounce, click on "Bounce It Off Millions” and submit a choice or decision that you’re making in your life.  Your specific question will be turned into a poll for millions of Bounce fans to submit their opinion. Whether you like their opinions or not, you've received lots of input for your decision. 

The top 4 questions will be featured in a Facebook ad. Just think if 150 million fans gave you advice on your life changing question. 

Also, for all the Bounce Facebook fans, there is a giveaway of 5,000 Bounce Dryer Bars for you and a friend. 

So no more indecision in your life. Head to  facebook.com/bounce and submit your burning questions to Bounce It Off Millions. 

Disclosure: I wrote this post as part of a campaign with the One2One Network and may be eligible to win a prize for this post.. All opinions are 100% mine and not influenced by any person or entity. For my complete disclosure, please see www.more4momsbuck.com/disclosure.  

AMF bowling, take the kids bowling without opening your wallet

This Chicago summer has been unpredictable. It started hot and humid, but now the days have been cold and rainy. Bad weather is not a Mom's friend when the kids are out of school. Luckily AMF has me covered with free bowling for the kids all summer long.

At participating AMF locations kids are given free bowling all summer long. The kids can receive two free games of bowling per day. This offer is for kids ages 16 and under. Although the bowling is free, you will have to pay for shoe rental.

To register for this program, please visit, http://bit.ly/AMFfree to register for the program center near you. Free game coupons are emailed to you each Sunday.This offer will be available until September 5 (Memorial Day).

My kids love bowling. They don't care if they knock down one or all ten pins, the kids laugh and have fun. Since the bowling is free, I always have a back-up plan for when the weather is bad. Taking the kids to a movie is expensive, plus I would rather that did an activity. Free bowling is a fun way to spend a couple of hours while on vacation.

AMF has a great offers for the whole family too, AMF Summer 17 Plus Pass. For registered families, you can pay a one time fee of $27.95 and get 2 games of bowling for 4 people all summer long. That is less than $7 per person for a summer of bowling.

So this summer don't let your kids be bored. Sign them up for a summer of bowling without emptying your wallet.


Disclosure: I wrote this post as part of a program with the One2One Network. All opinions are 100% mine and have not be influenced by any person or entity. For my complete disclosure policy, please see www.more4momsbuck.com/disclosure. 

SELF Workout in Grant Park, getting active and making friends

Yesterday, I was given the opportunity to attend SELF Workout in the Park. Sponsored by SELF Magazine, this event was a gathering of women in the Chicago area who wanted to improve their fitness and learn new workout techniques. Chi-town Cheapstake and Sassie Irish Lasie for working out with me during the event.



From 11 am till 3 pm in Grant Park, we danced, jumped and sweated our way to lots of calories burned. The event showcased various workout programs from local fitness professionals. One of my favorite workouts was the Indian inspired Masla Bhangra. It was fun to incorporate Indian dance into a challenging workout.The instructor made the time fly by quickly.  While I'm not a strong dancer, I shaked and shimmied my way into a frenzy. My arms definitely felt wobbly after those 25 minutes.Who knew that a traditional dance could be such a challenging workout. I see this class becoming the new Zumba.


The event didn't just focus on cardio. There was a yoga/pilates quiet zone and a strength and toning area. My last class of the day was strength and tone. I'm not sure how I did all those squats, but my butt definitely thanked me for all the hard work. It was the best 25 minutes for my legs and arms. Thanks Kat for keeping me motivated all day! Knowing that I burned over 1000 calories was the icing on the cake.

In addition to all the classes, the event sponsors were on hand to share some of the latest and greatest products. The event sponsors included Garnier, Nivea, Lucy, Athela, Calvin Klein euphoria, Asics, Asclera Merz Aesthetics, CRUNCH Workouts, Jockey, PUMA, and Reebok. 

I was able to try on the Reebok Easy Tone walking shoes. I loved how comfortable they were. Plus, these toning shoes looked like regular workout shoes. I can see wearing these running errands with the kids. Comfortable shoes that help tone my legs are a win, win in my book.

The SELF Workout in the Park was an amazing experience. I tried new fitness techniques, checked out great fitness gear, learned about nutrition and beauty products, and met some amazing women.

Next year, I'll be sure to block off time on my calendar for next year's SELF Workout in the Park. Your health and body will thank you.


Disclosure:  One2OneNetwork provided me with entrance to the event and some additional items. All opinions are 100% mine and were not influenced by any person or entity. For my complete disclosure policy, please see www.more4momsbuck.com/disclosure.

Centrum wants you to get fit-tastic

Today is Mother's Day. What's a better gift to yourself than a commitment to a healthy lifestyle. Centrum has teamed with Harley Pasternak, creator of the 5 Factor Diet to share lifestyle tips and give you a trip to LA. 

I, like many of you, wonder how all the famous ladies can stay fit and in shape apparently effortlessly. Of course, we don't see all the effort and behind the scenes team of professionals that help them into that amazing shape.

Centrum is providing some great tips directly from Harley Pasternak, trainer to the stars, that can help your a resolution to a healthier lifestyle. 

Here are 5 tips that can put you on the path to success. 

1. Go global with your diet.: Branch out into new flavors, which can keep your diet from being bland. What about Greek yogurt, tofu or some African Bird peppers to spice up your palate. 
2. Look for simple solutions:  Why drive a block, when you can walk or ride your bike. Or making sure that you take a multi-vitamin to supplement all the good nutrition in your diet. 
3.  Drink more water. Why fill your diet with empty calories from soda and juice when water has so many health benefits. 
4. Get your steps. Did you know that we should take 10000 steps a day. Attach that pedometer to your belt and get walking for better health.
5. Pick a day to indulge. No healthy living plan should completely deny treats. Once a week give yourself a piece of dark chocolate or sleep in late. Basically give yourself a little something back to keep yourself ready for all the hard work. 

Centrum wants you to have a little motivation to get fit and healthy. That's why Centrum is sponsoring the GET FIT contest. 

What's the GET FIT contest?  It's a a trip to Los Angeles to receive a personal training session with Harley Pasterna.

To enter text the word "CENTRUM" along with an image of a Centrum multivitamin bottle to 89800

Hurry, the contest end June 14, 2011.  

 

Also, check out Centrum's Facebook page for healthy lifestyle tips and suggestions or check out Centrrum's GETFIT page. 

Want a head start?  Here's a a $3 coupon your next Centrum purchase
 
Let's all get FIT-Tastic ths summer with Centrum. 

I wrote this post as part of campaign from One2One Network and Centrum. I may receive a prize for my participation. All opinions are 100% my own and have not influenced by any person or entity. For my completely disclosure policy please see www.more4momsbuck.com/disclosure.

Home-Ec: 101 Skills for Everyday Living, use the skills you know, review

  In our mother's era, home-ec was a common course that many students took. Whether it was simple cooking techniques or home preparedness strategies, home-cc covered many useful topics. 

Since I didn't take these topics in school, I turn to books to help me learn. One such book is Home-Ec: 101 Skills for Everyday Living: Cook It, Clean It, Fix It, Wash It by Heather Solos, This book shares tips and tricks that can help the recent grad or the unwilling husband become skilled in numerous topics for a homeowner or apartment dweller. 

One chapter that stuck with me is the advice on cooking at home. We all know that cooking at home is cost-efficient and healthier than eating out, but many of us struggle with cooking well. I watch all the chef cooking shows. From Bobby Flay to Top Chef Masters, I know all the terms to appear knowledgeable in the kitchen. But, the true test is make a flavorful meal that my whole family will eat. 

The Home-Ec 101 tips include simple recipes that can be made by everyone and anyone. One of the most helpful ideas is how to make one meal transform into multiple dinners. Having useful leftovers is helpful to the family whose weekly schedule is beyond hectic. A home-cooked meal is better for your wallet and your waistline. In the end, it's a win win. 

So if you are looking for help in the kitchen or know someone who could use a boost in the cooking department, check out Heather Solos' book Home-Ec 101. You might just learn a trick or two in the process.

Disclosure: I reviewed a chapter of Home-Ec 101 as part of a campaign with the One2One Network. All opinions are 100% mine and are not influenced by any person or entity. For my complete disclosure policy, please see www.more4momsbuck.com/disclosure.

Yanni, Truth of Touch, new original music CD review

I am guessing what you are thinking Yanni? Really? You are listening to Yanni?

Yes, I'm listening to Yanni. I first started listening to Yanni in law school. See I could study or write in complete silence. So I would find music to play while studying. I needed relaxing music that would also keep me focused. Yanni fit the bill.

Yanni has just released his first new original compositions in eight years. Truth of Touch is that album.

“I work the rhythms in this album,” explains Yanni about the new material. “There is a beautiful complexity in these rhythms, a new sound design. I think the melodic content is very strong and very memorable. I was having fun with this album and that’s going to become apparent.”

Yanni has made a return to our family playlist. I've been playing Truth of Touch while I blog. It's been making less frazzled. Also, I've had the CD on in the background while the kids are doing their homework.  My favorite song from the album is Echo of a Dream. While the kids prefer Voyage.  

Yanni's Truth of Touch can be purchased on iTunes or at various other retailers. 

Yanni is currently touring the United States to promote Truth of Touch. For a complete list of tour dates, please see http://www.yanni.com/tour/.  



Disclosure: I received this CD as part of a promotion with One2One Network. Also, I will be entered into a drawing. All opinions are 100% mine and are not influenced by any person or entity. For my complete disclosure policy, please see www.more4momsbuck.com/disclosure. 

Crystal Light Pure, refresh yourself, REVIEW and GIVEAWAY

I've work out a lot. I do it to make me feel better and so I don't feel as guilty when I eat a cookie (or two). One of the hardest things for me after a tough workout, like spin class, is drinking enough water. Sure I go through my big water bottle but sometimes I need a little something more to revive me.

Recently I was given the opportunity to try Crystal Light Pure. It's a mix that you pour into water to give it some flavor. I've been drinking the grape flavor. I'm now hooked on Crystal Light Pure.

Crystal Light Pure is 15 calories per 8 oz serving. It contains no artificial sweeteners, flavors or preservatives. The sweetness comes from sugar and Truvia, the all-natural, no-calorie sweetener derived from the Stevia plant. The Crystal Light Pure is refreshing and not too sweet to drink.

Here's some information on Crystal Light Pure.

• Flavors: Grape, Strawberry Kiwi, Tropical Blend, Mixed Berry and Lemonade.
• Electrolytes: Grape and Strawberry flavors contain electrolytes. 
• Each serving contains 4 grams of sugar
• Crystal Light Pure comes in convenient On The Go packages.

One thing that I like about Crystal Light is that I can use my water bottle with it. When I would get Propel or Gatorade I would feel guilty about throwing away all those plastic bottles. With the Crystal Light I can use my refillable bottle.

Would you like to try Crystal Light Pure. I have 3 boxes of Crystal Light Pure in Grape Flavor (it's got electrolytes for your post-workout thirst)  to give away to one lucky person.

To enter: Tell me what where or when you might need a little extra hydration?

Want more entries? Please leave a separate comment for each bonus entry. The first entry is required before you can earn any bonus entries.

1. Subscribe to or follow my blog
2. Tweet this giveaway
3. Follow me on Twitter @ More4momsbuck
4. Blog about this giveaway (leave me the link in your comment) 
5. Like More 4 Mom's Buck on Facebook.   
6. Like Crystal Light Pure on Facebook

One entry (plus bonus entries) per person, per email address. This giveaway is open to residents of the United States who are 18 years old or older. This giveaway will end on March 24, 2011 at 11:59 p.m. C.S.T.  One winner will be chosen by random.org from all valid entries. The winner will be contacted via email. Please leave a valid email address if your email is not available in your profile. The potential winners will have 48 hours to respond by email or another potential winner will be chosen.

Disclosure: One2One Network  provided with the Crystal Light Pure to review & to giveaway.  All opinions expressed are 100% mine and have not been influenced by any person or entity. For my complete disclosure policy, please see www.more4momsbuck.com/disclosure.

Clorox,Get the Dirt, but Keep it Clean contest

Sometimes I need a little distraction. With all the cleaning and daily household chores, it’s nice to escape into the lives of the rich and famous. Clorox has some great cleaning tips so that you can get to all that Hollywood news. 

That's where Clorox's Get the Dirt, but Keep it Clean promotion comes into play.  

Here are some tips for using Clorox around the house.

Did you get some lovely roses for Valentine’s Day? Keep those roses fresh with a ¼ teaspoon of Clorox Regular Bleach to each quart of cold water in your vase.

Did some of chocolate end up on your blouse or table cloth? Don’t let that spill ruin your whites. Add ¾ cup of Clorox Regular Bleach to hot water and detergent in the washing machine.

So now that you have your cleaning tips, it’s time for gossip.

Clorox has the Get the Dirt, but Keep It Clean Sweepstakes running. The grand prize is a trip for 2 to Hollywood California.

Go to www.Clorox.com/GetTheDirt.to enter. This contest ends 3/11/11. 

Disclosure: I received information from the Clorox Company and One2One Network at no cost to me. For my complete disclosure policy, please see www.more4momsbuck.com/disclosure.

Power Rangers: Samurai, new rangers, time to joing the emPower movement, REVIEW

Go Go Power Rangers! I think that many of us know the song. For 19 years, Power Rangers have been a fixture in children's television. Now, Power Rangers: Samurai has a new network and a new cast. The first brand new episode premiered on Nickeloden, Monday at 7 pm. Weekly episodes will air on Sundays or the show is available on-demand.

What I like about Power Rangers: Samurai is that the Power Rangers have values. These values are: standing for what's right, teamwork and cooperation, confidence, health and physical fitness and caring and friendship. These values are similar to the mental training in martial arts.

My boys and I watched the premier episode of Power Ranger: Samurai. My boys were memorized. Since they take tae kwan do, I think that the action scenes really hit home. They were able to see how training and teamwork is necessary for success.


The Power Ranger series understands the importance of active children and has started the emPower Movement. The emPower Movement provides families and children the tools to keep kids healthy and support a healthy community. This program works with schools to keep kids focused on an active, healthy lifestyle that focuses on the Power Ranger values. In the upcoming months, Power Rangers will be giving out Gym Class Kits to over 4500 participating schools.

Be sure to check out Power Rangers: Samurai on Nickeldon. Go Go Power Rangers!




Disclosure: I wrote this post as part of a campaign with One2One Network. For my complete disclosure policy, please see www.more4momsbuck.com/disclosure.