Get Spicy This Holiday Season With RawSpice Bar

If you are looking for an affordable and unique gift option this holiday season, consider a RawSpice Bar monthly subscription. They start at $8 a month and if you get a full year, it works out to only $6 a month. So what do you get? 

You will receive 3 pouches of high quality spice blends that are recipe ready. A recipe card is included for each packet of spices so you don't have to try to figure out what to do with them. Genius! 

I have tried these spices before and was blown away by how potent they were. It's a great way to try something new without the commitment of having an entire bottle of spices that can potentially go to waste. I am looking forward to making the German Chicken Schnitzel recipe. It doesn't require a lot of ingredients and I am happy to try Schnitzel for the first time. 

To get the details, visit RawSpiceBar.com. I think this would make a unique holiday gift for friends, family, neighbors, or coworkers. 

I received product samples in exchange for a review. All opinions are my own as always. 

Get myCharge Portable Charger For Your Small Digital Devices

I am sure that most everyone is familiar with or owns a wearable fitness device that tracks your physical activity. We are a Fitbit family and we all try our best to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. Okay, I lied a little. We love to compete and talk trash over who took the most steps each day. Hey, there's nothing wrong with a little family competition that contributes to better physical health! 😉

The one downside to fitness trackers is when you are running low on battery power. Now there is a convenient, portable item that will charge and store your devices and cords with ease. Introducing the PowerGear Sport by myCharge. The PowerGear Sport has a built-in USB port so that a variety of devices can be charged, including most smartphones as well as wearables. So this item is a must if you’re always on the go and find your devices are in need of extra battery life. 

This case is so great because you can keep your charging cords and extra bands organized and easy to find when you need it! This is a must-have if you travel a lot.

We have a few road trips to go on before the year is over, and I will be taking this along for the ride. It is so convenient and is rechargeable too! All you have to do is insert the included USB cord into the side of case and then into an electric power plug. It will juice it back up in no time.

I love how my charging case matches my Fitbit 

The PowerGear Sport retails for $29.99 and would make a great gift for teens, college students, fitness lovers, gadget geeks or just about anyone on your holiday list. I believe practical and useful gifts are the way to go! You can purchase one here. They come in either grey or grey/pink. I'm confident the recipient will LOVE this gift. 😍

Disclosure: I received a product sample in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own as always. 

Give the Gift of Fun With LEGOLAND® Florida Resort Deals From Black Friday - Cyber Monday

This holiday shopping season, LEGOLAND® Florida Resort is giving thanks to fans with an awesome assortment of deals and discounts starting on Black Friday (Friday, Nov. 25) and continuing through Cyber Monday (Monday, Nov. 28).

Brick FridayThat’s right — instead of one can’t-miss deal on each of the traditional days for extraordinary savings, the place #BuiltForKids is launching multiple, simultaneous offers on the day we’ve dubbed Brick Friday. Give the gift of fun with savings on everything from multiple-use tickets to annual passes, and stays at the popular LEGOLAND Hotel and the eagerly awaited LEGOLAND Beach Retreat.

Here’s what’s in store:

Visit twice and the second day is free!

Purchase a theme park ticket for the low price of $71 (plus tax) to enjoy all the festive fun of our annual holiday party, Christmas Bricktacular, then come back for free to “become the ninja” when the all-new LEGO® NINJAGO® World opens Thursday, Jan. 12, 2017!

This exclusive ticket only can be purchased online and cannot be combined with other offers or transferred to existing reservations. The first theme park visit must occur Dec. 17-18, 24-31, and the second visit must occur between Jan. 1 and April 6, 2017. Admission to LEGOLAND Water Park is not included. Maximum six tickets per purchase.

Get an Awesomer Annual Pass at the Awesome Pass price!

Purchase an Awesomer Annual Pass (valued at $149 plus tax) for the Awesome Annual Pass price of $99 plus tax — a $50 savings! Benefits include a year of unlimited admission to LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park, LEGOLAND Water Park, The Coca-Cola Orlando Eye, Madame Tussauds Orlando, SEA LIFE Aquarium Orlando, and Atlanta’s LEGOLAND Discovery Center.

You also get free parking, a collector’s edition welcome kit, early access to LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park, a 10 percent discount on theme park dining, retail purchases, stays at LEGOLAND Hotel and the all-new LEGOLAND Beach Retreat, VIP Experiences, Premium Upgrades and Premium Play Bands, plus $15 off theme park tickets for up to six guests.

The special $99 price is only available online and is valid only for new annual pass purchases and cannot be combined with other offers. Maximum six Awesomer Annual Passes per purchase. Please note that passes must be activated in person at the theme park within 60 days of purchase.

Annual passholders save big at LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Beach Retreat!

Current annual passholders can save 30 percent off a stay at the “Five-Gazillion-Star” LEGOLAND Hotel, including all room types and themes, and the whimsical bungalows at LEGOLAND Beach Retreat, which is set to open in mid-2017. This unbeatable deal is valid for LEGOLAND Hotel stays from Jan. 1 through April 6, 2017, and for LEGOLAND Beach Retreat stays from June 1 through Sept. 3, 2017.

These discounts cannot be combined with other offers or transferred to existing reservations. An active annual pass must be presented at check-in to receive the discounted rate.

Stay awhile and save!

Meanwhile, through the end of December, non-passholders can take 20 percent off an exclusive room-and-ticket package for stays at LEGOLAND Hotel and LEGOLAND Beach Retreat.

Each package requires a minimum two-night stay and includes a two-day ticket to LEGOLAND Florida Theme Park per person, with the second day free! Admission to LEGOLAND Water Park is sold separately.

Stays at both accommodations include a buffet breakfast each morning for all guests listed on the reservation (not including check-in day) and exclusive early access to the theme park.

The 20 percent discount is available for LEGOLAND Hotel packages from Jan. 2 through May 26, 2017, and for LEGOLAND Beach Retreat packages from June 1 through Sept. 3, 2017. Be sure to check the resort’s operating calendar online before booking as the theme park is closed Tuesdays and Wednesdays during select seasons.

The fine print:

To be among the first to participate in these incredible deals, sign up now at www.LEGOLAND.com/brickfriday. Everyone signed up as of Thursday, Nov. 24 will receive an email with links to the eligible offers starting Friday, Nov. 25.

All offers are subject to limited availability and may sell out. Note that due to fraud protections, the same credit card cannot be used more than once within a 24-hour period, so shop wisely!

For more information about visiting LEGOLAND Florida Resort, including savings on advance purchase of admission tickets, multi-tier annual passes, special events, educational programs, services for guests with disabilities, VIP Experiences, Premium Upgrades, military discounts, on-site accommodations and much more, visit www.LEGOLAND.com/florida.

$130 Amazon or PayPal Giveaway

It's that time of year again-- the holiday season is here. I am pretty sure our tree will be going up the week of Thanksgiving which happens to be a couple weeks away. I have been buying up affordable gifts here and there and have them stashed away to make things a bit easier on myself. I am thrilled to be teamed up with some amazing bloggers for a BIG giveaway to help offset some of those holiday costs. You can enter to win your choice of $130 in Amazon GC or PayPal cash! I'm sure that $130 would help a whole lot. Enter below and good luck! 

a Rafflecopter giveaway

This giveaway starts November 11 at midnight EST and ends November 24 at midnight EST. USA, 18+. One winner will be randomly selected from all qualifying entries and contacted via the email they provide. The winner has 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen. The winner will be announced on the rafflecopter after they have responded.

How To Name Your Dog

HOW TO NAME YOUR DOG

Infographic by Hot Dog Collars

Give The Gift Of Tervis This Holiday Season

Do you feel completely stuck when you have to buy a gift for someone? I find myself coming up with the greatest ideas when I don't have to buy something, but draw a blank when I do! I finally found a gift idea that is perfect for every person on your list regardless of age or gender. A Tervis tumbler is the ideal choice! I'm sure you're thinking, "is she for real? A tumbler?" Hear me out. Tervis offers so many choices for every taste. Whether you love floral patterns, collegiate sports, Disney, Superheroes, NFL, MLB, Hello Kitty (and the choices go on and on), you will find the perfect Tervis for your gifting.

I learned recently that you can even customize your Tervis with personal images, text, and theme wraps. Now that would make a unique gift for the person who has everything. I have received a few Tervis tumblers as gift over the last few years and I LOVE them! They are super sturdy and you can purchase new lids in different colors or styles if you need or want to. They even have a straw lid that doesn't leak and is perfect to take when you are on the go.  It has gotten to the point in my life that we have a section in one of my kitchen cabinets that houses all Tervis items. I also have a standing rule with my college daughters that the ONLY drink-ware they are allowed to bring home must be Tervis otherwise it goes in the donation or recycling bin.

I received a couple of fun new items to add to our growing collection-- A 24-ounce hot/cold tumbler and 9-ounce stemless wine glass. Aren't they great? We are big sports fans in my home, so I chose a Miami Hurricanes tumbler for the husband, and Carolina Panthers stemless wine glass for me!

You can always rely on the best quality for all Tervis products. 

This stemless wine glass comes in different colors and designs. There are so many choices! perfect for the wine-lover in your life! I'm sure your mom friends would LOVE one if you participate in a gift exchange :) 

What sports fan wouldn't love showing off his or her team as they sip on their beverage at work? 

I think a Tervis tumbler would be a great choice to give friends, family, coworkers or neighbors this holiday season! You can purchase them at stores including Bed Bath & Beyond, some college campus shops and specialty stores, and of course order directly from the Tervis site or a Tervis store if you are lucky to have one nearby. Seriously, this is the most stress-free idea. Be sure to follow Tervis on Facebook and Twitter for product updates and promotions.

I received product samples in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own as always. 

IHOP Offers Free Pancakes For Veterans and Active Duty This Friday

On Friday November 11th, IHOP is offering a free stack of their famous Red, White, & Blue Pancakes to all veterans and active duty military to show their appreciation this Veteran's Day. IHOP's Red, White, & Blue Pancakes feature 3 of their world famous buttermilk pancakes, topped with glazed strawberries, blueberry compote, and whipped cream. These patriotic pancakes will be available from 7 a.m. - 7 p.m. for any veteran or active duty military. Share a moment with your favorite veteran this holiday with IHOP's Red, White, & Blue Pancakes!

Wear SlimSation Pants For A Flatter Tummy

I have come to a point in my life where I realize that it's time to start dressing like a grown-up. Days of shopping the Juniors department have come to a close and I have to venture into wearing "ladies" apparel. Although I have been on the tiny side for most of my life, having three kids has really changed my body quite a bit. I have that annoying belly that hinders me from wearing certain things ::cries::. Well, lucky for me and ladies everywhere, there is a line of pants from SlimSation that allows us to be as cute as can be without feeling self-conscious about our tummy. SlimSation offers pants, jeans, and leggings that have a built-in tummy flattening panel. The have a higher waist so you get better coverage.

I really love their Narrow pant with pockets and ankle pants in black. Every woman must have a couple pairs of black pants in her wardrobe. I really love SlimSation's pants because they can be worn in a casual setting or dressed up, making them versatile. You can't go wrong with having garments that can be changed up and worn in different ways.

My current favorite is the Ankle Pant. I absolutely love the cut and the back pockets. It's as if these pants were made especially just for me! The fit my curves perfectly and make my butt look great. The little notch at the bottom gives it an added touch of style while keeping with a classic look.

SlimSation offers many styles and colors to choose from. If you are looking for some comfortable black pants that can be worn both casual and dressy, I recommend the Ankle Pant. I will have to order an additional pair because these have easily become my favorite! Visit SlimSation today and check out their amazing apparel. Not sure about sizing? Their size chart is a big help. SlimSation pants are a wardrobe must-have!

I received complimentary items in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own as always. 

The 2016 Hess Toy Truck Has Been Revealed

Many of you might be familiar with the collectible Hess Toy Trucks that come out every year. The Hess Toy Truck has been a holiday tradition since 1964, and is one of the longest running toy brands on the market. My son has at least a dozen of them and a few are from before he was even born. They are a classic holiday gift for recipeients of all ages. My husband is usually the first one who is on the floor Christmas morning, ready to play!

Introducing the 2016 Hess Toy Truck and Dragster

The 2016 truck features LED lights, a slide-out ramp, and four realistic sounds, including a race starting countdown. The dragster’s innovative weight-transfer design and pull-back friction motor enable launch in either a flat or wheelie position. Together, the duo features green accents, sleek chrome styling, and more than 50 brilliant lights. You can purchase one here for $31.99 plus tax with FREE Standard Shipping & 5 Energizer® Batteries Included. 

To stay up to date with the Hess Toy Truck, sign up for alerts at www.hesstoytruck.com and follow Hess Toy Truck on Facebook , Twitter, and Instagram @HessToyTruck.

7 Hacks For The Perfect Road Trip

Going on a road trip has its pros and cons. Pros, you’re going on an awesome adventure; cons, it can be costly. Here are some hacks you can try to balance those pros and cons to reach vacation nirvana.

1. Download a gas app: One of the most costly aspects of any road trip, especially in this economy, is gas. When you’re travelling in an unfamiliar area, it’s hard to know where to stop for the most frugal fill-up. To aid in your decision, you can download GasBuddy or Gas Guru, only two of the several gas pricing apps. These apps display the location and gas prices of gas stations near you. Most apps like these are free and update pretty regularly, so you won’t be deceived when you pull up at the pump.

2. Take side stops: Have you ever gone on a trip and passed signs for museums or monuments that you think would be awesome to see in person? Allot time in your travel to make a few stops on the way to your destination. It will not only keep you entertained throughout your trip, but it will also give you a chance to stretch your legs and learn something new.

3. Gassing up a rented or borrowed car: Chances are, if you’ve never driven a car, you probably don’t remember which side the gas tank is on. If you do forget, look at the gas gauge. There is an arrow that will point to whichever side of the car the gas tank is on. This will save you a tiny bit of time and hassle when you have to stop at the pump.

4. Stay awake while night driving: If you’re feeling sleepy, it’s probably best to switch drivers or check in to a hotel. But if you’re feeling only a little drowsy, try listening to comedians on your road trip. Odds are, the comedian will keep you laughing and their jokes will keep you engaged, chuckling and most importantly, awake, all the way home.

5. Know North from South: If you’re old school and like following paper directions instead of having a little square computer yell at you to turn, you know that your passenger might end up telling you a wrong direction by mistake. Remember that interstates and highways with odd numbers run North to South, and interstates with even numbers run East to West. If you get mixed up, this will help you get back on track, or at least in the right direction, in a jiffy.

6. Cool down hot cars quickly: In the dead of summer, stopping for only five minutes for a quick bathroom break can leave your car unbearably hot. To cool down a hot car in seconds, roll down one window all the way and open and close the car door directly across from that window a few times. This will force hot air out of the car.

7. Know where to get directions: When asking for directions, some people gravitate towards gas stations. However, the best place to ask for directions is a restaurant with a delivery service. Stop in at Pizza Hut or Dominos to ask for directions. Odds are, they have a driver waiting for a delivery who can give you quick and easy directions to a destination in the area.

With these seven road trip travel hacks, you’ll be ready to hit the road for the vacay of a lifetime. For more tips on all things car related, visit Blitzify.com, check out their blog, and download the Blitzify app that is revolutionizing the way motorists search and shop for automotive services.

About Blitzify 
Blitzify is a new mobile application that connects customers and automotive service providers through a comprehensive and innovative mobile platform that is changing the way people buy and sell automotive services. The app merges data from local market research, information from service providers, special offers, testimonials and ratings and reviews from customers into a user-friendly interface giving the user out-the-door, real time price comparisons.  For more information, visit www.blitzify.com.

Get An Early Start On Your Holiday Cards With CardsDirect.com

We have been sending out holiday cards for many years now. It's a great way to send a nice message to those near and far to let them know they are thought of during the holiday season. Most of us can't buy every person we know a gift, so a card is a great gesture. I admit, some years I procrastinate wait way too long and my cards almost don't make it out on time. This year is different. I already have my cards ready for the recipients' addresses and a stamp. We do plan on having family photos taken and I will have them printed to include in the envelope.

We tried CardsDirect for the first time. The site is super easy to use and you can customize your cards to your liking. Whether you want to go with photo cards or standard cards, you will find exactly what you want. I went with a standard card this time around. The only reason I did not make photo cards this year is because as mentioned earlier, we still have to get family photos taken. The hardest part in the card ordering process is deciding from the thousands of styles. Seriously, I got to the point that I had to yell at myself to pick something fast! I decided on this beautiful design called the Grand Snowflake Tree. I always go for elegant and festive at the same time. What do you think?

There are several options that I had when ordering these cards. You can use the prewritten message inside or create your own. You are also able to choose from different fonts and can adjust the size and colors too. Also, for an extra fee, you can have the envelopes printed with your return address to make things a little easier. This means you don't have to put labels on or hand-write your address a million times. I am all for convenience and saving time. The quality of the cards can't be beat. They are super sturdy and are perfect to send out to family, friends, or coworkers. And if you own your own business, they are very professional looking and a great choice to send out to clients and colleagues. Another upgrade for an extra cost is the gold-lined envelope for that added look of elegance.

If you have been thinking about ordering personalized holiday cards, CardsDirect.com is your place to go. From now until 12/31/2016 you can get 15% off your order by using the discount code: MOMFILES16. Don't wait, get this done early so you can have it crossed off your to-do list. Not sure which card is right for you? You can order free samples especially since it's still early. You can see for yourself how good the quality really is.

Disclosure: I received cards for review purposes at no charge from CardsDirect.com. All opinions are my own as always. 

Top 10 Christmas Gifts for the Special Guy On Your List

Women get a bad rap for being picky present-openers but, when it comes down to it, men can present their own challenges during the holidays. They certainly don’t drop as many—ahem—hints as women do about what they might want. Plus, men tend to be more the type to go ahead and buy themselves the things they think they need. If you’ve reached your “challenge accepted” moment in the relationship, we can help. Read on for 10 Christmas gifts for the special guy on your list.

1. Totally Ticket Time 

While something your man can physically open is great, an experiential gift can be equally as wonderful (if not more!). Get your main squeeze tickets to see his longtime sports team, his favorite band, or a play at your local theater. The huge bonus of going this route is that you get to go, too!

2. The Way to His Heart is Through His Tummy

You’ve heard this a million times and, unless you’ve found the exception, most men really love to eat. Hopefully you’ve scored one who loves to cook as well. Even if you have, though, you could turn the tables and make him a meal. Another alternative would be to hire a private chef to cook a romantic dinner in. Lastly, the health nut guy in your life would likely love a membership to a home meal service, like Blue Apron or Home Chef.

3. Accessories, Accessories, Accessories

These are the kinds of thing that men often forget to buy themselves. From a new watch that he’s wanted to replace for some time like this hyper masculine JORD wood watch to jewelry (personally, we think men don’t wear this enough), this will be something he’ll love because he likely wouldn’t have gotten it for himself. Allow him to let his personality shine through with a men’s underwear from Stance. These undies definitely put the “fun” in “functional”.

4. Trip the Light Fantastic

Have you been itching for a trip? Of course, buying your loved one a vacation is no small gift by any means, but if you’ve both been talking about it for a long time and you’ve got the means, there’s nothing better than a weekend (or week!) away together. Whether it’s a quick jaunt to the mountains or a trip overseas, this will be something you’ll both treasure forever.

5. Go for the Gadgets

Again with our sweeping generalizations, but there’s no denying that a lot of guys love their gadgets. A new iPod touch, a super sleek smart phone case, or an iPad mini are rarely, if ever, going to go to waste in the hands of a man. Need some inspiration? Simply head into your Sharper Image for gift ideas you might not have come up with on your own.

6. Man Crates

Have you heard about these things yet? This is the dude version of the gift basket. From the Grill Master Crate and NFL Barware Crate to the Personalized Whiskey Crate and the Slaughterhouse Crate (don’t ask), there literally is a man crate for everyone.

7. Clothes

Your man would likely prefer to watch whatever sporting event is being televised than go shopping, so buying him clothes is doubly awesome. You’ll not only help him to be more stylish (right, ladies?), but you’ll also save him from a chore he likely does not enjoy.

8.  Let Him Choose With Bespoke Post

A monthly subscription service like Birchbox for Men is already fantastic, but the reason Bespoke Post takes it to the next level as there are a number of different gifts that men can choose from. So you’re getting him a gift but he still gets the metaphorical remote. It’s a win/win, right?

9. Booze, Bro

While this probably isn’t recommended if you’ve been dating for years (when something a bit more intimate might be appropriate), booze is a great gift for guys when it’s early on in the relationship. If you’ve already done the whiskey thing, opt for tequila.

10. Grown Up Stuff

Let’s face it—many men are resistant to growing up, so they might still be carrying their money in a big wad of cash and their work papers in a backpack. Help your man move on to the next level with a stylish money clip and/or briefcase.

Have a special guy in your life? Get him one of these special gifts during the holidays this year and watch him react with delight.

4 Ways Your Cellphone Might Be Making You Ugly

Our cellphones have become so vital to our daily lives. Research has shown that the average person checks their phone 85 times a day and that we spend a total of five hours using our cellphones to browse the web or use apps. For many, our smartphone is the first thing we look at in the morning and the last thing we check at bedtime. Although quick glances at our phone may seem harmless, it can in fact be affecting us physically, mentally and emotionally. We caught up with some experts who help explain the ugly side of excessive cellphones use.

1. Ugly posture
When we look down at our cellphones we are straining our necks and slouching our shoulders. Doing this can cause some serious damage to our overall posture even leading us to lose up to an inch to an inch and a half of height. “I see up to 10 patients a week complaining of severe neck and shoulder pain. When asked how often they use their phones the typical response is all the time. When pain becomes chronic and severe, surgery has to be considered,” explains Dr. Richard Samperisi, CoFounder of Campus Chiropractic Center at Florida International University & Functional Medicine Practitioner.

2. Ugly eye strain, bags and wrinkles
Not only can staring at your phone all day cause serious neck and shoulder pain, the extreme use of our phones is leading to various eye conditions such as blurred vision, eye strain, headaches and dry eyes as well as to a condition they like to call “tech neck.” For those concerned with cosmetics and eye appearance constant squinting leads to wrinkles and under eye bags. New Bern, North Carolina plastic surgeon Dr. John Zannis explains that a combination of surgical and non-surgical procedures that address under eye bags, drooping and sagging usually range from 5 - $10,000 with a recovery time of up to 2 weeks. He’s also seen a rise in complaints about neck lines and wrinkling skin attributed to excessive cell phone use.

3. Ugly skin
Are you constantly struggling with breakouts around your cheeks or chin? Instead of blaming hormones, junk food or a bad skincare routine consider looking at the device in your hand. “Our cellphones are filled with bacteria. We are continuously touching them with dirty hands, throwing them in our bags, stuffing them in our pockets or putting them on counter tops. Then without even thinking twice we put our phones right up to our ears where all of that bacterium from those dirty areas wreak havoc on our face,” offers Board Certified Dermatologist Dr. Kaly Papantoniou.  She suggests frequently wiping the phone screen and using a face wash with benzoyl peroxide or salicylic acid to rid bacteria from building up.

4. Ugly Manners
We see people at restaurants who are more focused on snapping a pic of their meal than enjoying each other’s company. Our persistent use of our cellphones can be affecting our relationships with the people and world around us. “When we focus more on our digital lives rather than the individuals we are with; we are not only giving off the impression that we do not care about what they have to say, we are also letting valuable and meaningful moments pass us by,” explains Dr. Sanam Hafeez a New York City based neuropsychologist and teaching faculty at Columbia University. She suggests putting the phone down and even going cell free twice a week.

Give it a try and see how cutting down on your phone use can also cut down on the ugly.

This article is courtesy of Dr. John Zannis. Follow him on Twitter and check out his website at http://www.zannisplasticsurgery.com/

Give The Gift Of Home Chef For The Holidays ($50 Giveaway)

CLOSED- Winner is Ms. K 

One thing I feel we can all agree on is that we know that one person who seems to have everything. When it comes to buying a gift for them you are left with a huge burden of giving something meaningful that they will actually like or have use for. I have the ideal solution for that-- A Home Chef gift certificate. I did a full review last month in case you missed it. I think that anyone would love the gift of high quality ingredients that are pre-measured and ready to go to cook up your own gourmet meal at home.

You can personalize your tastes according to dietary needs or allergies to assure you get exactly what you want. This is such a great way to be able to experience new dishes you might not otherwise think to try. I absolutely loved the dishes I 'cheffed' up!

Parisian Bistro Steak with dauphinoise potatoes and green beans

Thai Red Curry Shrimp with jasmine rice and snow peas

Giving a Home Chef gift certificate makes the perfect gift for the holidays. I'm sure the recipient would be delighted. Who wouldn't want the gift of good food?
How would you like to try out Home Chef for yourself? I am thrilled to be able offer my wonderful readers the chance to win a Home Chef gift certificate valued at $50. This will cover the cost of 2 gourmet meals for 2 people. You can keep it for yourself or give it as a gift. Enter below:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway is open to U.S. Residents only and will end on Nov 7, 2016. Follow Rafflecopter rules for entries to count. One winner will be selected and contacted via email to be awarded prize. Good luck!

Gift code for winner is provided by Home Chef. All opinions are my own as always.

Brain Food: Tips For Studying

The moments are very crucial at the time of studying. Your brain is considered as a king of your body and sometimes does not show stability when the pressure of failure is somewhat on the higher side. Recently, research has proven that over-thinking on the respective subject will lead you nowhere and you will be left empty-handed. Instead of stressing, there are other methods that can help you find a way out as suggested by the experts. If college classes or school is an issue, you can get some paper writing help which would be an ideal to reform your study material and give your brain a break. With the right guidance, you can get back on track. Below are some of the precautions and actions you need to consider in terms of achieving big and overcoming the stress. 

The Consumption of Healthy Food

It has been noticed that when the time crunch of studying comes along, 80% of students give up their regular diet in order to cope up with their studies. That is the biggest mistake they commit. Always remember consuming appropriate food is the only way out and the food is your best buddy during the this time. For stimulating the proper functionality of your body, you need to consume more of the food that contains high in protein, vitamin and minerals as well. For example, the quantity of food like eggs, fish, chicken or meat are very rich in protein. Mornings can always be started with fruits like apple, guava and fresh oranges with an energetic glass of fresh juice. Always keep space for the rich food during the lunchtime, as studies show that the level of heat of the sun is on the higher side and whatever the amount of food gets consumed during this time gets easily digested. As soon the night arrives,  make it habit of consuming small meals because during the night the power of our immune system is somewhat on the lower side. The less you eat, the better you will feel for your next day. Make sure that you consume at least 3 liters of water a day as the water is the best source of minerals for the human body. 

Have An Organized Agenda 

Eating nutritional food will help you meet your goal of success. Instead of being in the stage of panic, all you have to do is take some time out to build an appropriate timetable for your respective studies. This will help you to focus and have more positive energy towards your studies. Students who prepare well-planned and well-organized form of structure in regards to their studies are set up for success.

A Consultation 

Recent studies show that the human race is not able to utilize the brain power at the utmost. Even one of the greatest scientists of history, Albert Einstein used only 6% of his brain during his lifetime. This proves that we do carry the capability, but aren’t always aware how and when to implement it. One of the best things students need to implement is getting the session of consultation with a counselor, as it will help them a lot truly recognize of their capability and they will learn skills to kill the negative vibes. Positivity leads to success. Getting some extra help won’t hurt.

Getting Appropriate Sleep 

A human mind is just not made of nerves; in fact, the hidden things reside inside somewhere that we are not able to recognize. The power of thinking, sense of feeling, and ability to choose between right and wrong go hand-in-hand with the amount of sleep you get. To improve memory and to increase brain function in the healthier way all you need to do is take enough sleep, around 6 to 8 hours each night. We know you might be thinking how I am going to do that as l have to memorize the entire syllabus? Don’t worry, if you get the appropriate amount of sleep, you would not be forcing or pushing your mind to store the entire syllabus in your mind. In fact, things will work in more accurate and sharp manner because of the enough sleep. 

Heal With Music

Music is the most authentic and best way to shift your brain from stress to relief. Music is the best mind diet recommended by the expert. Not only moments of relaxation, but the power of regaining positive energy are some of its advantages you can take.

How Having Kids Changes Your Taxes

Having a child changes everything. Your relationship with your partner, your work schedule, your sleeping patterns—there are few things a new baby doesn’t have an effect on. Many parents are prepared for the sleepless nights, the need to switch to the minivan, and the decrease in social hours with friends, but have you thought about how your new little bundle of joy will affect your taxes? While you often hear how expensive it can be to raise a child, there are also numerous tax breaks and credits to take advantage of. Keep the following facets of the tax system in mind and give your finances the boost they need, from your little one’s birth to their college days.

Use Exemptions to Your Favor

After having a child, you’re allowed to claim them as a dependent on your taxes to receive an extra exemption. This can help reduce your AGI, or adjusted gross income. The government uses your AGI to determine how much you owe, therefore, the lower your income (after exemptions), the lower your tax bill. There are limitations to this, but most can look to save thousands of dollars. Siphon those saved dollars into a college savings account and you’ll be amazed at the difference it makes in paying for your child’s upcoming educational career.

In the Case of Adoption

Perhaps you’re adopting a child. This process is not an inexpensive one, but the IRS recognizes these costly expenses by offering the opportunity to claim these expenses on your income taxes. Last year, any adoptions completed in 2015 allowed a federal adoption tax credit of up to a $13,400 per child. The amount you receive depends on your income. If you and your spouse make less than $291,919, you’re eligible. However, there are limitations. Because this is a tax credit, it isn’t refundable. That means you must owe the federal government some type of income tax, and you won’t be paid out the extra money left over, if any. The adopted child cannot be a stepchild, and they must be under the age of 18 or unable to take care of themselves to qualify.

Child Tax Credit

This refundable credit is designed to reduce the taxes you’re liable for, and can be awarded in amounts up to $1,000 per child. The amount of the credit awarded depends on income and the number of children living in your home. If you claim singly or as the head of the household, you’re ineligible for this credit if you make above $75,000. If you’re married, filing jointly, you must make less than $110,000 to qualify. If you’re confused about what will best work in your financial favor, speak with a professional who can help you determine your filing status.

When it Comes to College

If your child is already in college, take advantage of the American Opportunity Credit. This credit covers certain expenses associated with the first four years of college. There are regulations about how and who qualifies for this tax credit: your child must be in pursuit of a credential or a degree, and must be enrolled as a half-time student at least for tax year. They must also have no felony drug convictions on their record. For each student, the maximum credit you can procure annually is $2,500.

You should also keep the Lifetime Learning Credit in mind. This can help cover undergraduate costs for a student that does not qualify for the American Opportunity Credit, whether that be because they have a limited course load (are enrolled in school less than half-time status) or they’ve already completed their first four years of college credit. This credit can cover expenses including tuition and enrollment fees, along with books and course materials.
Child Care Credit

If you work full time and you must enroll your child in day care, most of those expenses are deductible on your income taxes. This is a nonrefundable tax credit. In order to qualify for the Child Care Credit, you must show proof of payment to a licensed childcare provider while you’re working or in search of employment. The child must be under 13 years old, and you cannot claim this credit if you’re married, but filing separately. This credit can award more than $3,000 per child per year.

The ins and outs of the tax process become more convoluted after having a child. If you’re unsure about which credits and exemptions you qualify for, don’t be afraid to talk with a professional to discover how you can get on the right financial foot- there are probably more than you think!

$125 Amazon or PayPal Giveaway

Are you starting to feel a little chill in the air? It's time for apple picking, hayrides, and haunted houses. Don't you just love Fall? This time of year also reminds us that the holidays are right around the corner. It sneaks up on you so quickly and you want to be prepared. I've teamed up with a group of amazing bloggers to bring you a great giveaway that is perfect to help with those holiday purchases. The prize is your choice of $125 Amazon gift card or PayPal cash. I know you want to win! 

Enter here:
a Rafflecopter giveaway
This giveaway starts October 16 at 12:00 AM EST and ends October 30 at 12:00 AM EST. USA, 18+. One winner will be randomly selected from all qualifying entries and contacted via the email they provide. The winner has 48 hours to respond or new winner will be chosen. The winner will be announced on the Rafflecopter after they have responded.

Good luck!