MyCharge.com Energy Shot Portable Rechargeable Smartphone Charger

 

Holiday season is near, which means it’s time to stock up on gear. The upside of living in a tech world with so many digital devices such as tablets and smartphones is knowledge. We have so much potential lying at our fingertips just waiting to be typed into a search engine. We can read as many books as we want without lugging around all those books.The downside is that they die, unlike books.

I am a reader by nature, I love to read. I spend most of my time reading. I love to learn but when I’m waiting at the doctors office I just can’t whip out a textbook and read it. I mean, I CAN but I can’t stick in my purse can I? My smartphone is my lifeline as a writer, so don’t need the battery drained and no way to charge it. I also let my kids play games, read books, and do learning apps on my phone, so that means extra drainage.

              

Now I don’t have to worry about it. The My Charge Energy Shot is the right name for this portable battery charger. It’s about the size of a real energy shot, which is amazing. I can carry this even in the smallest pocket of my purse. There are other battery chargers out there, but I don’t think I’ve seen one quite this small before. It works efficiently, quickly, and takes up almost no space. WIN!

The Mycharge Energy Shot comes in different colors, but I received the black one with the silver tip. It resembles a larger version of an AA battery, which is pretty cool. Silver on one end, black on the other. It retails for about $25 and comes with 9+ hours of talk time (while being connected to your phone) and 7+ hours of browsing on a 3G network. My phones are both 4G so we get about 5.5-6 hours of browsing when we’re connected. Just depends on what your phone browsing network is.

It is nothing short of amazing. Big punch in such a small device. It works with any smartphone, which is also a win. I have a Galaxy S4 & my hubs has a Nokia Lumia Icon and it charges both very quickly. My phone was on 35% and I really needed to do some research for a craft piece I’m working on. I connected this and it was 40% within 5 minutes of me scrolling and reading a ton of websites which was pretty cool.

I love that it doesn’t get got when it’s charging, which makes it easier to place in a hoodie or jacket pocket. It has multiple levels of protection from getting overheated and spazzing out or shortcirciting. I absolutely love that it has a light indicator at the top of the battery. It shows different colored lights depending on how charged it is. Makes it so much easier to know when it needs to be plugged up. I don’t unexpectedly have to deal with a dead phone AND dead charger, whew would that be horrible.

There are three way that this can be recharged. It comes with a short recharging cord, but my Galaxy S4 charger recharges it as well. Just place the smaller side of the USB cord into the mycharge port. You can then attach the other larger side of the cord to a computer USB port, a car charger port, or even a wall charger port. Simple and easy with a variety of options, my kind of amazing right there.

Adam loves this mycharge Energy Shot. He works 12 hours at a factory and it gets extremely boring. He doesn’t work somewhere where there could be emergencies, so they are allowed to wear headphone earbuds in one ear. He listens to music and football/basketball games while he works, so it can drain his battery throughout that 12 hours. He gets an hour lunch, so he also watches movies on his phone, so that drains the battery life as well.

He was having to put the phone in the truck after his lunch break (connected to our car charger) so that he could use it later on in the night. We have a portable phone charger but it’s actually pretty big. It isn’t something he could connect and put in his pocket, to charge while working though. This one he said is perfect. He can connect this one, putting both his phone and the charger in his pocket without it being bulky.

connect online:

Twitter & Facebook

 

 

 

 

Jessica

Ocean Adventures Not to Miss with Your Family

If you’re getting away to a warmer climate this winter there are plenty of ocean adventures you can enjoy. Sailing, kayaking, surfing, and building a sand castle are just a few activities that you can do. If the entire family is coming on the trip pack the right clothing and accessories. Bring plenty of tee-shirts, sweaters, and waterproof gear. Also don’t forget about flip flops and closed toed shoes that will protect feet from rocks depending on the activities you plan to do. Besides what to bring it’s important to have fun! Enjoy your time away and look forward to ocean adventures you won’t forget.

Out to Sea on a Sailing Yacht

          Image Source: Wikimedia Commons; Yacht

If you don’t know how to sail on your own you can join a group on a sailing yacht. While on board you will need appropriate shoes. Reef Coastal Cruisers are quality boat shoes that are made with a vulcanized mid sole tape for added durability. Choose your boat shoes accordingly for the entire family and also layer your clothing. If you don’t own a sailing jacket start layering with a tee-shirt followed by a sweater and then a water proof jacket. You can take a layer off if you get warm but depending on the season you will most likely be cool so wear enough clothing during this adventure.

Once you’re on the boat you’ll be amazed of the size. Some yachts are 51 feet, which is ample room for you to explore but still be careful when you’re out to sea! Ask the person in charge if you can take the helm. You’ll love being in charge temporarily. Also relax under the covered cockpit, and don’t forget to watch wildlife up close from the bow or take it all in from a private setting on the deck.

Kayaking to an Island

            Image Source: Wikimedia Commons; Kayaking

Depending on where you vacation kayaking to an island may be available. Enjoy this grand adventure with a family member as you make your way to a sandy island that you can explore. Once you’re out of the kayak explore the sandy dunes. However, don’t take your shoes off because depending on the day your feet may burn on the sand. A little girl should wear girl’s essential shoes that keep her feet protected. Have her wear flip flops made with an EVA construction with anatomical arch support.

Building a Sand Castle

Image Source: Wikimedia Commons; Sand Castle

Building a sand castle with your kids never gets old. Have a beach day with your family and bring all the supplies your kids need to build a fun sand castle. Of course they can just use their hands, but plastic castles that they can fill with sand can help them build a sand castle more quickly.

When having a beach day it’s important to put sunscreen on your little ones. They should also wear durable flip flops so that their feet won’t burn. Just like with sailing layering is important. The day may start out cool but later get really warm. Having a swimming suit, a tee shirt, sweater, and even waterproof gear will prepare you for any weather situation. Have fun on your ocean adventures by being prepared and making long lasting memories with your family!

 

What would you do out on the ocean if time or money wasn’t a factor? Let me know!

 

-Jessica

Facts and Figures About Pumpkins, America’s Favorite Halloween Fruit [Infographic]

 Image Source: Sparefoot.com

Pumpkins are deceiving. The orange gourds look so rough and tough, but they’re actually rather delicate.

The rind is the only protection a pumpkin has, agriculture experts say. Once the rind is bruised or pierced, organisms will invade and quickly eat away at the pumpkin. That’s frightening. Given their fragile nature, pumpkins must be stored properly.

Growers are advised to store pumpkins on wooden pallets in cool, dry places. Pumpkins aren’t supposed to be put on concrete floors, and they’re not supposed to touch each other. The ideal storage temperature is roughly 50 degrees to 60 degrees, with relative humidity at 50 percent to 70 percent.

Fun Pumpkin Facts:

• 6 out of the 7 continents can produce pumpkins, which includes Alaska. Brr.. The only continent the pumpkin can’t flourish in is Antarctica.

             
                   Image Source: worldrecordacademy.com

• A 5 foot wide pumpkin pie weighing in at 350 pounds? Can you imagine that? That is how big the world’s largest pumpkin is.

          
 Image Source: BigPumpkins.com

• What about the World’s Largest Pumpkin ever grown? 2032 pounds and

In this infographic, SpareFoot carves out various facts and figures about our favorite Halloween fruit. (Yes, it’s a fruit).

Hope you enjoyed learning about Pumpkins!
Until next time,

-Jessica

DIY Halloween Looks with Makeup You Already Own with Sarah Tanno, Celebrity Makeup Artist |

Halloween makeup needs to endure hours and hours of performance and wear. Can you share some of your best products, tips or tricks to make highly pigmented makeup stay on and stay bright all night long?

You have to have the right long-wear products and set them correctly so you don't fade, smudge or crease. My favorite for bright pigment and long-wear is MAC Chromaline Creme Pots, they can work as liner, shadow, whatever you want and are waterproof and smudge-proof. 

They are so easy to apply in any design and once they dry they don't move. When finished applying seal the entire look with a few sprays of Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray that holds through long hours and intense heat for a look that will last all night long.


Popular DIY costume looks for this Halloween season you can recreate with makeup you already own.


Zombie as "Walking Dead" Costume:

Image Source: FoxNews.com
This look is all about lightening the skin. Start by mixing your regular matte foundation, I recommend high-resistance foundation like Armani Lasting Silk UV Foundation with MAC Studio Face and Body Foundation in white. This will subtlety lighten and make skin look pale.

 For a more drastic look, try just the white MAC Face and Body Foundation with a white setting powder and finish with Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray in Oil Control to avoid any shine. For dark, ox-blood lips, try black liner blended with matte lip color like NARS Velvet Matte Lip Pencil in Train Bleu. Its super pigmented and last forever, apply messy for a scary look.

Nicki Minaj "Anaconda" Costume:
             
Image Source: MTV.com
To achieve a green smokey eye like Nicki Minaj had for the Anaconda VMA performance, first apply Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Eye Pencil in Mildew heavily on lash line and blend out over most of your eyelid.

Follow by using Urban Decay 24/7 Glide-On Pencil in Perversion just at the base of the lash line and blend together with a smudging brush. For extra long-wear I like to spray my smudging brush with a spray of Skindinavia Makeup Finishing Spray to really get the color to stay and prevents creasing.

Finish with heavy mascara, my favorite is Dior Addict It-Lash Mascara. Or try some false lashes for a more dramatic glam look, my favorite are Eylure Exaggerate #140.

These tips are from Sarah Tanno, who asked to Guest Post on the blog.
Disclosure: This isn’t a sponsored post in any way.

Giveaway: First Birthday Celebration (Tons of Toys!!)

 

Welcome to the First Birthday Gift Guide Giveaway!

Sponsors:

Kids ii | Freshly Picked | Menucha Jewelry | Austin Lloyd | Funbites | Yummi Pouch | Usborne Consultant Alyssa

Hosted by: Moms and Crafters

Co-hosts: Simply Sherryl, Coupons and Freebies Mom, and Sweepstakes Fanatics

Moms and Crafter's big boy has just turned one! With so many people asking around about the perfect first birthday gift, Moms and Crafters has put together a 1st birthday gift guide, together with the ultimate list of best gifts for a first birthday, from the perspective of a mom. You can check out more of the features of the Year of Parenthood Celebration event, including loads of 1st birthday resources, with more coming soon! To top it off, Moms and Crafters arranged this amazing giveaway! One winner will receive the entire prize pack, valued at approximately $258! Check out the reviews on each of the prizes below, then enter to win.

First Birthday Gift Guide Giveaway Prize List:

Bright Starts Hide n Spin Monkey | ARV $40

This fun, friendly monkey is a favorite! Put the balls in the monkey's hat, and watch them spill out of the barrel. With loads of lights and sounds, baby is sure to be entertained for hours.

Bright Starts 3 in 1 Step n Ride Li0n | ARV $40

Another great toy from Bright Starts! A year is the perfect time to learn new skills such as walking and riding... This versatile convertible toy will save you lots of space as it converts from a ride-on to a walker!

Freshly Picked Moccasins | ARV $60

These fun leather soft shoes are perfect to keep feet warm! They are great for new walkers who do better then they can feel the floor.

Menucha Mommy 'n Me Bracelet Set | ARV $30

A great gift for a little girl, this adorable gift set indulges Mommy as well. Because, isn't she the one who has been investing lots of love this past year?

Austin Lloyd Mystery Box | ARV $50

This subscription box is full of age-appropriate toys. Everything in it is eco-friendly and non-electronic. It features high quality toys that will delight baby again and again.

Funbites | ARV $13

This easy to use food cutter will cut baby's food to bite size pieces in one quick, easy step. It comes with a popper to pop the food out of the holes. Available in 3 shapes and many vivid colors.

Yummi Pouch Brights Set | ARV $15

Reusable food pouches are a great way to do teach baby to self-feed while saving money. You can choose what your baby eats, while doing something good for our earth.

That's Not My Tractor | ARV $10

This fun book is a touchy feely book by Usborne to develop sensory awareness. It's a board book so it's more durable for little ones. (If out of stock, it will be replaced with a different book of similar value.) Open to residents of the US ages 18+. Enter to win using the giveaway tools form below:

First Birthday Gift Guide

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Terms & Conditions

By submitting an entry to this giveaway you agree to the following Terms & Conditions:
Open to residents of the US ages 18+. Sponsors mentioned above are responsible for prize fulfillment. Moms and Crafters and the participating blogs can not be held responsible for sponsors who do not follow through. Moms and Crafters received these items free from the company for review purposes. No compensation monetary or otherwise was received for the running of this giveaway. If you'd like to see your brand featured on Moms and Crafters, contact Menucha at menucha@momsandcrafters.com This giveaway is not associated with Twitter, Pinterest, Facebook, or any other social media sites.
You also agree to the Giveaway Tools' Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.

 

Disclaimer: Sponsors mentioned above are responsible for prize fulfillment. Moms and Crafters and the participating blogs can not be held responsible for sponsors who do not follow through. Moms and Crafters received these items free from the company for review purposes. No compensation monetary or otherwise was received for the running of this giveaway. If you'd like to see your brand featured on Moms and Crafters, contact Menucha at menucha@momsandcrafters.com

Good Luck (and you can see more giveaways on the left hand side of my blog in the sidebar)

 

Jessica

Hair Hack: 7 Secrets for Longer-Lasting Hair color

 

Do you color your hair only to find it fading shortly after? Whether you seek out store-bought hair coloring kits or have it professionally colored, you want it to last as long as possible right? There’s absolutely nothing that compares to adding a new color to change up your look. Be it a daring dark black, a beautiful auburn hued brown, or a warm honey blonde a new look every now and then is good. But it can wreck havoc on your hair, so making it last as long as possible is a must. It’s recommended to wait at least 6 weeks in between coloring, so preventing it from discoloring and fading is also essential.

Here are some tricks and tips to keep that color locked in and vibrant!

Boxed Blends Quality

I mostly dye my hair from a box. It’s cheaper and I love doing it myself. It’s my own personal pampering time, and I love re-creating my hair. You don’t have to go to a salon to get vibrant, beautiful, healthy looking color- you can certainly get it from a box. Just don’t choose the cheapest on the shelf. You might be spending a few extra dollars on a name brand color, but it’s worth it. The color will stay vibrant longer because they use higher quality ingredients.

Pre-Conditioning

Deep conditioning you hair a week or so before you color it will help your color stay longer. It will help the color latch onto the strands of hair, keeping it from discoloring and fading shortly after you color it. The deep conditioning treatment will also help because your hair will be less likely to become damaged from the dye. The conditioner protects your hair from the coloring chemicals, which can be quite harsh.

Washing

Not washing your hair the day (or a couple, if you can manage it) before you decide to color it will also protect your hair. Your hair has built-in oils that will naturally protect itself from the damage from the chemicals. Shampooing your hair before dying it will rinse all those natural oils out, leaving your hair free a mark for damage and fast fading. Those same oils will also snatch those color particles up and suck them in, so leave them be! Those oils will keep your hair from fading in the longer-run. Also AFTER coloring, try to not shampoo for as long as possible. Whip out that dry shampoo if you have to (just lightly spritz it, don’t soak your hair in it).

Burr... Cold Water Wash

Make sure that when you’re rinsing your hair color out, that the water is cold. The cold water seals the follicles of your hair, making the color stay in longer. You should be doing this anyway, even when washing your hair on a day-to-day basis. After you get done with your shower or bath, flip on the cold water and give your hair a rinse. Cold water works wonders for sealing vitamins from your hair care in your hair. (It also helps with keeping frizz to a minimum, while boosting your natural hair health).

Color-Enhanced Hair Care

Between touch-ups you can use color-enhanced hair care. John Frieda has an entire line for color-enhanced hair. I have dark hair so I use their Brilliant Brunette Blend, but they have versions for every shade of color. They are very creamy, rich, and smell absolutely amazing. The Brilliant Brunette shampoo and conditioner are both dark in color, just like the Blonde version is a yellowish tint. It matches your hair shade!

If you have blonde hair you can also use a clarifying shampoo (for example: Suave Daily Clarifying Shampoo & Conditioner) to help release and remove chemicals and product build-up which can change the hue of light hair. It will make your blonde hair extremely more vibrant.

Deep Condition

Deep conditioning your hair once a week, or every other week is a major factor. I don’t know how many people who have asked me if I recently colored my hair. I had to say “Nope, like 4 months ago”. I’ve only been doing root touch-ups here lately, because my hair looks freshly colored. The trick is hair health. Take care of your hair, and it will show.

Protect Against Sunlight & Chlorine Exposure

The UV rays from the sun not only wreck extreme havoc on the health of your hair, it will fade your color. It will make your hair look damaged, dry, and lifeless pretty quickly. If you know you’ll be spending time out in direct sunlight apply a UV protective conditioner or hair spritz. For extra protection, get yourself a hat.

The chemicals and chlorine in pools and hot tubs will do the same thing, fade and discolor your hair. The longer you expose yourself to the chemicals, the worse your hair will fade. You can apply a heavy conditioner or coconut oil to your hair before hopping in to protect yourself. For longer hair, tie it tightly in a bun or ponytail.

There are also caps specifically for this as well. Ever been to a swim-meet and see the swimmers wearing those funny little hats? That isn’t just for style, it’s for their hair protection. They spend a lot of time practicing and their hair will show it if not protected correctly. Chlorine can make hair very brittle, so brittle in fact that it will break off. So, make sure you wear a hat (if you don’t mind looking like a bald mannequin).

 

Do you have any tips for longer-lasting hair color? I’d love for you to link them up!

 

Hope you Enjoy

Must-Have Halloween Beauty Prep Products

It’s finally cooling down which means it’s time for fall and Halloween! Whether you’re sewing a skirt with sequins for your Queen Bey costume, sticking to the traditional yet classic ghost or ghoul, or even if you are planning to stay home and hand out candy, don’t forget to primp and prepare for Halloween night with these hot beauty essentials.

 

Mineral Fusion Nail Polish

Mineral Fusion has your nails covered for all of your crazy costume ideas this Halloween. With over 60 gorgeous shades, including bright metallics, basic neutrals, deep reds and blues, spunky sparkles and top and base coats, Mineral Fusion is the one-stop destination to complete your look for this spooky time of year!

Each formula is 100% Vegan and free of Formaldehyde, toluene, camphor and dibutyl phthalate.

Price: $7.99

Availablity: Whole Foods Markets nationwide, as well as other fine health food stores and MineralFusion.com.

 

Walk Like An Egyptian with Milani

Perfect your Cleopatra cat-eye with Milani’s cutting-edge Eye Tech Collection, made specifically to help women achieve this timeless beauty charm.  Use in combination with the Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadow in Bella Teal and Runway Lashes to complete the look.

Bella Eyes Gel Powder Eyeshadow($3.99)

Rich, vibrant color that glides on in a single stroke, delivering a stunning multi-dimensional effect. This eyeshadow can be used wet or dry as a shadow or highlighter.

Eye Tech Perfection Liquid Liner($6.99): The ergonomic handle is designed to be used by everyone and to line the eyes with ease

Eye Tech Extreme Liquid Eye Liner($7.29): The Extreme fine felt-tip point designs beautiful lines and is non-feathering, waterproof and paraben-free.

Runway Lashes Instant Volume Mascara ($3.99): For lashes that look like they could leap right off the catwalk, swipe on this instant-impact mascara that lasts for hours.

Available at CVS or Get the Look at MilaniCosmetics.com.

 

                                      

Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day Serum

The Drunk Elephant C-Firma Day serum is this season’s pick of the patch! Formulated with a powerful dose of Pumpkin Ferment Extract and packaged in orange, this super potent Vitamin C serum improves ceullular renewal and works to enzymatically digest dead skin cells and decongest pores. With the help of powerful antioxidant complex, essential nutrients and anti-aging chronopeptide, this revolutionary serum evens skin tone, fights cellular UV damage, stimulates collagen synthesis and optimizes skin physiological activities of defense and cell regeneration.     

Price: $80
Availability:www.drunkelephant.com

 

eos Medicated Tangerine Lip Balm Smooth Sphere

This pumpkin-inspired lip balm not only provides medicated, anti-bacterial protection while helping to soothe dry lips and alleviate symptoms of cold sores. This lip Balm pampers your smile and will protect it during the colder fall months.  No need for tricks because this antioxidant, zinc, vitamins C and E, shea butter and jojoba oil packed lip balm is such a treat!

Price: $3.29

Availability: Target, EvolutionofSmooth.com, Drugstore.com

         

Whish Flawless Swipes

This Halloween prepare your legs for a night on the town with the Whish Flawless Swipes. Perfect for your entire body or spot treating affected areas, you will easily banish the curse of ingrown hairs and bumps.

Price: $7

Availability: Nordstrom.com

 

     

Acne Clearing Blue Light

After a night of heavy Halloween makeup, let the TRIA Acne Clearing Blue Light keep blemishes at bay.  The TRIA Acne Clearing Blue Light clears acne quickly and helps prevent future breakouts.  Results are comparable to the leading acneprescription. The TRIA Acne Clearing Blue Light delivers the same levels of blue light therapy found in the doctor’s office and is FDA-cleared.  Unlike other at-home acnetreatments, The TRIA Acne Clearing Blue Light treats the very source ofacne: bacteria.  By targeting acne-causing bacteria, the TRIA AcneClearing Blue Light eliminates clogged pores, pimples and breakouts.

Price: $299

Availability: www.TRIABeauty.com

 

Blog 101: Tips for a Creating a Stand-Out Holiday Gift Guide Pitch

Christmas is definitely my favorite time of year, but it’s also my busiest. When it comes to PR reps, it’s also their busiest time of year. Many PR reps inboxes are loaded with pitches on a daily basis and that’s why you need to stand out from the crowd. It might be a little harder with so many pitches for them to choose from, but it isn’t impossible.

A Holiday Guide pitch is simply a brief email you send to the PR reps to get their items featured in your guide. In your email you are definitely going to have to show them why working with you and your blog will benefit them. They aren’t going to send you something if you aren’t going to do your part on advertising their products.

I’ve been blogging for close to 6 years now, and I’ve done Holiday Guides 4 out of those 6. You live and learn, right? Over these 4 years, I’ve developed some well sought out tactics that will definitely get you noticed by those PR Reps. Here they are-

1. Keep it Simple

You don’t have to write a 1,000 word email to get their attention. Actually, keeping it simple is your best bet. PR reps don’t have the time to sit and read everything that comes through their email, so you want to catch their attention and get to the point pretty quickly.

Come up with an interesting headline for your email. Try to go for something quirky, that will definitely catch their attention. You don’t want to sound boring or over-the-top. You want them to see it and think “huh? what could this be?” You want to draw them in.

If you’re blog isn’t well known, you aren’t going to want to add that in the subject header. It isn’t going to mean anything to the PR rep and they might just delete it before they read it.

2. Pitch Story Ideas

Think “roundups”- Before you start thinking of a pitch list plan, think about the stories that you could create from these products that you are wanting to feature. PR Reps love getting story pitches, more than just a regular “I want to review this product please”.

For example:

• Top Baby Toys
• Amazing Kitchen Gadgets
• Best Electronic Gifts
• Best Learning Toys for Kids
• Top Items for Her/Him/Baby/Kid

Get the idea?

3. Get Creative

Break through the noise of the holidays with something creative. Chances are those PR reps that you’re pitching have seen just about everything once or twice in their careers. Remember that other bloggers are probably trying for the same things that you are, so you have to make yourself stand out from those others. Be original and be who you are, don’t overcompensate even if you have a smaller blog.

Chances are, if your writing style is beyond those of a bigger blog- you might just get the product you are wanting. PR reps want their products seen and shared. If you have amazing readers who are loyal and keep coming back, the PR reps will notice.

Do NOT in any way try and recycle those pitches that you had circling around last year. Scrap them and brainstorm an entirely NEW idea. Put your thinking cap on and get that creative juice flying around!

4. Plan WAY ahead (like JULY way ahead)

Yes, I am not exaggerating in the slightest. Other bloggers have probably been pitching for Holiday Items this entire year. WHY? When you walk into a store before Halloween and see Christmas stuff, that’s why. Christmas is EVERYTHING to most people and companies know that. This is their time to shine and get their products in your hand, so there is a better chance of long-term advertising.

Their stuff hits the shelf way before the holidays. This gives those people who are on a budget to buy gifts without breaking their backs trying to stay within their means. If you haven’t put a Holiday pitch together by the time those ghosts and goblins hit the shelf there is a pretty good chance you’ll be getting the PR leftovers (if there are any).

5. Create a Template

Writing a pitch is an art form in itself because you are marketing YOU, your blog, and how the company can benefit from working with you. To save time and the hassle of thinking of new words for EVERY single item you would like to feature, create a template instead.

What is it? A template is a pre-made pitch that you can just re-organize and change up the wordings for each PR company. You need to personalize each pitch for every company that  you are emailing. You just change up a few key words for different companies. For instance, you aren’t going to want to send the same pitch to a PR rep who represents electronics that you would books.

Make sure you keep it short though. You don’t want to send them a long, detailed version of something. Think summarizing. This is why I’d love to work with you, this is how you would benefit, here are my stats, and you might like to send some sample work as well.

6. You, Your Stats, & Followers

You are going to want to list who you are, what your blog is, and what kind of relationship you’re seeking. You want to let them know what you need so they can decide if whatever you’re asking is doable. List if you want to review, feature, host a giveaway, or a discount for  your readers.

You need to include your most popular blog stats. You need to be completely honest and up-front with the company. Most of the reps aren’t looking for sky-rocket numbers, they just need to know about how much coverage they can expect.

For instance:

• Your Monthly pageviews and unique visitors
• Follower/Subscriber numbers
• You’ll also need to include links at the bottom to your social media and blog so they can check you out.
• List companies you’ve worked with in the past (you’ll want to add the most impressive to draw them in). If you’re pitching a toy company include some other toy companies (and maybe a link to a post or two)
• Sign off with a Thank you.

7.Proof Read, Proof Read, Proof Read

You’ll especially want to do this if you are working with a template. You need to make sure that you have the right company name inserted and which products you want to feature correctly. There’s nothing like sending something totally irrelevant and making you look like a class fool. So, check it time and time again before you jump on that send button!

I will be making you guys a downloadable and editable template, so keep on the lookout!

 

 

Until next time,

Jess

New Suave Family Perks Program + $50 Walmart Gift Card Giveaway!

                  
Disclosure: This is a sponsored post on behalf of Global Influence Network, all opinions are my own and completely honest.

I have always been a huge Suave fan. Their products aren’t only budget-friendly but they smell absolutely amazing. They are great quality and come in a variety of fragrances. Where else can you buy a great quality, amazing smelling deodorant for a dollar? Or great quality, non-sticky dry shampoo for $2? Every product they have is under $7, can’t beat that. Now with Suave Family Perks you earn points for each Suave product you buy.

I love the Suave Damage Care & Daily Clarifying products. I buy the damage care to keep my long hair healthy and vibrant. I color it about every 2-3 months, so the damage care keeps my hair from getting split ends or drying out from coloring it. I also have oily hair so I immediately fell in love with the Daily Clarifying duo. It keeps my hair shiny and oil-free, while washing out product build-up. How could I resist buying them?

I also love the Suave Sweet Pea deodorant & the Sweet Pea/Violet body wash. I worked my way through high school and college and when there isn’t much money to budget, you look at the highest quality products for less. The deodorant was only $1 and the body wash $2. They both work amazing and smell amazing.The deodorant really does smell like walking into a field of Sweet Pea flowers, I love it.

No matter what fragrance draws you in and makes you stop for a second, they offer a huge variety. Rainforest fresh, Mango Mandarin, Black Raspberry, Lavender, and many more. I also love their entire kids collection. Strawberry for my daughter, blueberry for my son. They love their great smelling bubble-heads when I lather up their hair. Smiles, smiles.. everywhere.

How does it work?
You go to Walmart and look through all the amazing products Suave has to offer. Choose which ones you’d like to buy and purchase them. Take a very clear picture of your receipt (or packing slip) and then upload it to the website. Make sure that the text on the receipt can be read.

Products & Points
$0-.99 product gets you 10 points
$1.-1.99 product -20 points
$2-2.99 product- 30 points
$3-3.99 product- 40 points
$4-4.99 product- 50 points
$5-5.99 product- 60 points

When you receive 150 Suave Family Perks, you can visit the reward page to trade them in for a $5 Walmart eGift Card.

You will be rewarded for every single Suave product that you purchase. They don’t have to be bought separately, you can buy as many items at a time that you need/want at a time. For instance, you go shopping and buy Suave Shampoo & Conditioner, deodorant, body wash, & lotion. You will receive points for buying all 5 products.

Once you make a purchase of a Suave product, you have 30 days from the in-store receipt buy date to add it to the perks system before it expires and becomes invalid. In any event all receipts must be added before December 31, 2014.

Suave family perks only accept receipts from the retailers that are listed under the “snap” section of the website (Right now they only accept Walmart). Also know that they can only accept receipts that are original and have not been tampered with in any way. They have to be printed in-store or contain the products on a shipment summary (packing slip) that come with purchases made online.
What are your favorite Suave products?


The Giveaway

Suave Family Perks - Resourceful Mommy




-Jessica

Giveaway: Coach Purse

  Welcome to the Monthly Coach Handbag Fan Appreciation Giveaway!

Jenns Blah Blah Blog and all her amazing blogging buddies have come together to give you a chance to win one of the four handbags shown in the giveaway image! Before we get started I wanted to be sure and say thank you to the following bloggers, they are amazing and we love each and every one of them! This giveaway is hosted and sponsored by us (Jenns Blah Blah Blog), and co-hosted by  Just Free Stuff, Coupon Hauls, Pink Ninja Media, Pink Ninja Blogger, Everything Mommyhood, Barefoot in Bluejeans, Mama Mission, Thrifty 4NSIC Gal, Bay Area Mommy, Momma Lew, Budget Earth, Powered By Mom and all the other amazing bloggers who are helping promote this giveaway!  Every single month we team up for this awesome giveaway for our readers!  We want to say thank you for everything you do for us, every single day!  We wouldn't be able to have these great blogs if we didn't have our amazing readership, the heart of it all.   NOW, WHO'S READY FOR THE GIVEAWAY!   Since Jenns Blah Blah Blog started doing her monthly handbag giveaway she has started a nice collection of handbags.  Rather than choosing the bag for you, we want you to choose the one that fits you and your style!  WINNER PICKS from Jenns Blah Blah Blogs collection of Coach handbags.  Once winner has been confirmed Jenn will email them images of all the handbag she has on hand. All Coach handbags are brand new still in packaging some of them can be seen in the giveaway image.  One very lucky person will win their choice of handbag from Jenns Blah Blah Blog's collection.  The giveaway will run until 11/27/2014 at 11:59pm EST, is open worldwide, must be 18 + to enter, and use the Giveaway Tools widget below. Good Luck!

 

COACH HANDBAG GIVEAWAY Sep - Nov

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By submitting an entry to this giveaway you agree to the following Terms & Conditions:
Jenns Blah Blah Blog reserves the right to make revisions to cancel or suspend this contest for any reason. Jenns Blah Blah Blog will not be responsible for shipping the prize. This event is in no way associated with Facebook, Twitter, Google, Pinterest, or any other social media network. Social media networks are not responsible for prize fulfillment. We were not compensated in any way for this giveaway. Winner will have 48 hours to respond to winning email send from jennsblahblahblog@hotmail.com before another winner will be drawn. Question or comments can be sent to jennsblahblahblog@hotmail.com. Giveaway is open to Worldwide, no purchase needed to enter, must be at least 18 years old Void in Puerto Rico and where restricted or prohibited by law. Winner will be selected using random.org.
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Disclosure: I have not been compensated for this post. All opinions and experiences are my own. Open Worldwide, must be 18+. Confirmed Winner(s) will be contacted by email and have 48 hours to respond before a new winner will be drawn. No purchase necessary. Void where prohibited by law. The sponsor(s), Jenns Blah Blah Blog will be responsible for prize fulfillment. My blog is not responsible for prize fulfillment. The sponsor of this event will be responsible for fulfillment of prize (Jenns Blah Blah Blog). This event is in no way associated with, sponsored, administered, or endorsed by Facebook, Twitter, Google, Pinterest or any other social media network. The disclosure is done in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission 10 CFR, Part 255 Guides Concerning the use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising. For questions, or to have your brand features contact Jenn via jenn@jennsblahblahblog.com.

Good Luck,

-Jessica

6 Learning Shows to Stream Via Netflix For Your Kids

 
What do you do when it’s raining and the kids have read every book in the house and are looking for something to do. Something constructive, something to boost those brain cells when they are stuck inside because of the weather. How about streaming a learning show?

One of my favorite shows when I was little was the Magic School Bus. Actually, to be honest I still love it. I don’t mind watching cartoons all that much, as long as it doesn’t require grown men dancing in giant weird animal-like suits or screeching voices, I’m fine.

Netflix offers more than just your average run of the mill reality or drama shows, they also offer educational shows like Sesame Street and the Magic School Bus. Here are some shows you should consider streaming next time the kids holler they’re “bored”.

(This list was gathered by Noodles.org and they asked me to share- to of which I replied absolutely.. I mean- who doesn’t want to add in something extra for their kids to learn from.)

In an effort to prove there's more to their original program than women's prison and Kevin Spacey speaking directly into the camera in a light, Southern accent, Netflix recently announced a plan to reboot '90s-kids-book-series-turned-TV-series Magic School Bus for a new generation of kiddos.
To hold your kids over until the computer animated show reboot debuts in 2016, Noodle a company that provides advice on education decisions, rounded up six great educational and kid-appropriate TV shows and movies currently available to stream on Netflix that are quick fixes to any rainy day home with the kiddos.


1. The Blue Planet (2001)

                               Wikipedia: Image taken from DVD cover

A huge, high-quality undertaking from the folks at BBC, the eight-episode series The Blue Planet is one of those documentaries worth buying an HDMI cable and hooking a computer up the big screen for.
This exploration of planet earth's vast seas is plenty educational, tracking the amazing life of everything from coral reefs to frozen Antarctic life, with an emphasis on the interconnectedness of everything. The series was notably a precursor to the crazy popular, Oprah-approved Planet Earth series, making it a great watch for curious, science-minded kids.

2. Chops (2007)
                     
                        Source: IMDb.com- taken from Movie Poster

Chops is a great watch for kids who love music, and in particular, kids who are already passionate about an instrument.

The inspiring 2007 documentary stresses the payoff of working towards perfection as it follows a Jacksonville, Florida jazz band attempting to win top honors at the world class Essentially Ellington Festival at Lincoln Center. Jazz legend Wynton Marsalis, the artistic director of Jazz at Lincoln Center, also makes an appearance.

3. The Magic School Bus (1994-1997)

                                  Image Source: Retroland.com

The original animated Magic School Bus series is an easy sell to kids based on premise alone: What if, instead of repeated field trips to your mediocre local museum and awkward old-timey reenactment villages, you could go to space, hang out with dinosaurs, and shrink down to the point where ants were terrifyingly human-sized?

Therein lies the appeal of Magic School Bus, which currently has all four of its educational, space and time traversing original seasons available on Netflix.

4. Sesame Street (2006-2011)

Image Source: Noodle.com

The indisputable king of family-friendly educational entertainment currently has episodes between 2006-2011 available to stream on Netflix.

Your kids can expect songs on the joy of cookies, culture references way out of their reach; celebrities like Neil Patrick Harris showing up as someone named the "Shoe Fairy," and a lot more. I mean, I don't really need to sell the joys of Sesame Street to you, do I?


5. Turtle: The Incredible Journey (2011)

                 Image Source: Atrixfilms.com (taken from Movie cover)

Like March of the Penguins, Turtle: The Incredible Journey is one of those film reminders of how incredible animals are, how tough they have it, and how us human folk tend to make things even tougher.

This warm water tale chronicles the journey of a female loggerhead as she battles the odds to survive a trying 25-year trek from a Florida beach to Africa and back to lay her eggs that only one in ten thousand turtles survives. It's also available on Hulu.

6. Walking with Dinosaurs (1999)
         
              Image Source: walkingwithdinosaurs-theorigins.com

This six-part BBC-produced award-winning documentary is a perfect, kid-friendly and educational way to quench your kid's insatiable love of all things big, loud, and vaguely reptilian.

While the CGI — top notch when the series was released in 1999 — might look a little dated now, the series still gets high marks for its quality and narrative style, which brings the action to life by following the stories of individual dinosaurs and dinosaur families, and not treating them as ancient history.

For more Noodlings and education related advice from Noodle, check out www.noodle.org.

-Jessica