Livin’ the Vegetarian Life – My Eco Eats Challenge

VEGGIE GARDEN

When I was around nine or ten years old I witnessed a cruel injustice to a stray dog close to my home. I saved him from a heartless dog catcher, took the dog home to give him some water and food, and helped him find a new home. But it was staring into those dark, murky depths of his big, black eyes that a turning point happened for me. Watching the cruelty of the animal being beaten and dragged to the dog truck had somehow given me a distaste for animal meat from then on. When I went back inside the house to tell my mom what had happened, she looked at me with a strange smile and then aptly dumped the hot dog she was going to serve me for lunch.

I have to be grateful for such an understanding mom. She has always been a kindhearted and sweet person and when she saw unabashed tears streaming down my face that day, she knew she had to make a decision – allow a young girl to make a compassionate decision that could forever change her life, or laugh it off as some silly girlhood whim.

There are many reasons why someone would become a vegetarian or a vegan. But for a child to become one, the choice can be magnanimous. Children do not inherently know if they should or should not eat. They eat whatever their parents give them; meat eaters will feed their children meat, vegetarians will feed their children non-meat. It’s pretty simple, but choosing to become a vegetarian is not an easy path and there can be many obstacles in the way once you decide to become one.

But do you think kids should automatically become vegetarians? That’s a tricky question and it depends solely on the household and how they view food as a whole and whether being a vegetarian is a health choice or a humanitarian one. My nephew chose to become a vegetarian when he was around seven years old. Yes, that’s pretty young but he always had a compassionate nature and he had told his parents that he didn’t want to harm animals so the natural path he took would evidently involve becoming a vegetarian. His parents suffice to say also became vegetarians soon after, wanting to follow the benevolent endeavors of their son.

I became a vegetarian when it wasn’t a “trend”, when people looked at me like I was crazy or from another planet. Eating an all plant-based diet wasn’t very hip or cool but little did people know that revolutionary changes in how Americans eat would later become the new standard. There are more and more vegetarian and vegan restaurants popping up, food companies solely devote their entire line to vegetarians, and even magazines are written for those who are non-meat eaters. Vegetarians were no longer looked at funny and mainstream restaurants even dedicated a section on their menus for “vegetarians”.

There are no right or wrong reasons on whether you should become a vegetarian. It’s a personal choice and no one should bully you into it or laugh at you should you choose to become one. It may be a health choice, a reason to try something new, or simply the thought of eating animals is gruesome. Whatever the reasons, it never hurts to try it. There are many companies out there dedicated in helping you become a vegetarian and in staying one. And if you need one simple reason – consider that it’s a lot less expensive to become a vegetarian than it is to put meat on your table every day. You an even grow your own organic garden so you know what you’re eating. And in the long run, it’ll make you a bit healthier too.

If you’re looking for ways to live a greener life, then try the NBC Green is Universal Eco Eats Challenge which runs from September 29 through October 17. There are many actions to try whether you’re just starting out or have been doing this for a long time. Actions include: Eat a vegetarian meal – http://bit.ly/ZYqpTg, Buy organic eggs – http://bit.ly/1rqiU1F, Fill up your reusable water bottle – http://bit.ly/1CtLGSI, an many many more actions that are fun and educational.  NBC Green is Universal’s One Small Act website is also hosting a sweepstakes. Read below for more info:

From September 2- October 17, NBC’s Green is Universal One Small Act is also hosting a sweepstakes when you join the “Eco Eats” challenge . To join, visit their free green-living tool, One Small Act. Everyone who signs-up and tackles at least one action by October 17th will be entered to win one of five 6-month subscriptions to NatureBox. No Purchase Necessary. Must be US resident and 18+. Read official rules here.

Disclaimer: In exchange for participating in the challenge and writing this post, I was given a gift package from Green is Universal. All opinions here are still my own.

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=storm

*Photo courtesy of Martha Stewart Living.

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One Small Act/NBC Green Is Universal – Eco Eats Challenge

EcoEatsLettuce (2)

If there ever is a time to challenge yourself to do something good for the planet and for your body, now is it. We live in a world where truth can be twisted and facts can be tampered with. But the universal truth we all believe in is that we can trust ourselves to do what is right for us. Whether it’s changing your eating habits to consume less meat or bicycling to work when possible, every small step, every small change can be for the better. It never hurts to try something that can be better for you and if you’ve at least fallen down once, then you know the triumph of overcoming your own fears.

This month starting from September 29 through October 17, the Green is Universal initiative is challenging people around the world to do something for the planet. Through their One Small Act (https://onesmallact.practicallygreen.com/)online visual tool, people across the world can participate in this current challenge with goals that can be both fun and easily met. The Eco Eats Challenge itself hosts many actions you can take to participate in this worldwide event. Such actions include: Eat a Vegetarian Meal (https://onesmallact.practicallygreen.com/acts/125), Eat a healthy organic or natural snack (https://onesmallact.practicallygreen.com/acts/80), Skip meat for one meal this week (https://onesmallact.practicallygreen.com/acts/1277), Participate in the “Grocery Shopping Challenge”(https://onesmallact.practicallygreen.com/acts/1545), Buy organic fruits and vegetables from the Dirty Dozen (https://onesmallact.practicallygreen.com/acts/400), Choose a healthier option for a meal on the go (https://onesmallact.practicallygreen.com/acts/624), and many more. All can be found on the One Small Act’s Eco Challenge website: https://onesmallact.practicallygreen.com/. But perhaps one of the funnest things about the Eco Eats Challenge is that they are all easy to accomplish and many of you probably already do one or several of those actions. There are also wonderful information regarding each challenge so if you’re just starting out, they’ll help you along the way.

OSAecoeats (1)

When Kermit the Frog once said, “it’s not easy being green”, he didn’t know he had started a revolutionary path towards helping the environment. Being “green” is relatively easier nowadays with so many media coverage and companies out there educating people on the importance of this topic. It could be just a simple step like recycling that can eventually lead to bigger efforts. And the rewards of doing something better for your planet leads to doing something good for yourself. I strongly believe that a cleaner planet means a cleaner body. And to do so, let’s start by eating better and healthier. Take each bite into consideration. Shop with care. And don’t be wasteful.

From September 2- October 17, NBC’s Green is Universal One Small Act is also hosting a sweepstakes when you join the “Eco Eats” challenge . To join, visit their free green-living tool, One Small Act. Everyone who signs-up and tackles at least one action by October 17th will be entered to win one of five 6-month subscriptions to NatureBox. No Purchase Necessary. Must be US resident and 18+. Read official rules here.

Disclaimer: In exchange for participating in the challenge and writing this post, I was given a gift package from Green is Universal. All opinions here are still my own.

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

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The Imagination Movers – Pledge Music Campaign


imagination movers (with shadow) -1

Music. One of the most important things you can include in your child’s life. It soothes their souls, brighten their worlds, and enliven their minds. Music is the branch that takes us to higher grounds and possible futures and children especially need to learn about the importance of music. As adults, we tend to forget how important that could be simply because we are so wrapped up in our own busy lives. But even when we were growing up, we still learned to love music, whether it was taught in schools or listening to the car’s radio while running errands with mom.

As a long time fan of The Imagination Movers (http://imaginationmovers.com/)I think one of the very first musical lessons I gave my son was with their CD. If you’ve ever heard of The Imagination Movers you probably already know that their music is dedicated to kids and to the joys of singing, dancing, and well, imagination. Aptly named for their band , The Imagination Movers brings music that delights children and adults all over the world and has become one of our favorite all time bands and celebrities.

The Imagination Movers began as a grassroots band of four friends who loved music as much as their own children. They wrote songs primarily for children in their hometown of New Orleans, using their melodies and words to bring joy and enlightenment to people all over the world. Later, their endeavors paid off and the Disney Jr. Channel picked up this rambunctious group of friends to star in their own television series named after their own band – The Imagination Movers. The TV series was a big hit, generating millions of fans and viewers who knew very little about the Movers prior to their show. With their TV series and concert performances in the US and Canada, The Imagination Movers soon became a common household name.

 

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But after their show abruptly ended on Disney (as with most good shows on TV nowadays), The Movers still performed their energetic concerts for their fans. As a fan myself, I saw less of them in the public eye and even with several of their CD’s and music videos at home, I longed to see them on television again, and so did my son. And then when I heard that they were starting a new album, my heart leapt. The big surprise however was that since The Imagination Movers were no longer part of a traditional music label they had to promote their new album on their own.

Promoting their new album isn’t really a problem for The Movers since their fans already know and love them. But it’s widening their fan base to more people around the world that can be daunting. With this purpose in mind, The Imagination Movers got involved with Pledge Music which is a campaign that allows people to participate in the process through personal funding. With control over what fans want to interact with, people can purchase their CD, DVD, tshirts, concert passes, and even a chance to have the entire gang play at your house. You can get more info about their Pledge Music campaign here: http://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/imaginationmovers.

I was pretty fortunate to have met the Imagination Movers a couple of years ago at one of their concerts. They were exactly how I envisioned them to be in person – friendly, energetic, and wholesome. Each of the guys bring something different to the table with each of their personality shining through. You can clearly see that they love what they do as you feel it through their melodies and their lyrics. Their songs are original and yet speaks to the whole and you get a sense that they are secretly relaying messages to you in their music. In the words of Scott Durbin describing one of their new songs, Three-Legged Dog, “the song in particular carries some special meanings…On one hand it’s inspired by one of Smitty’s dogs (who has since gone on to Doggy heaven) but eventually it took on a deeper meaning about inclusion and striving to succeed regardless of the obstacles.” And that’s exactly how we feel about The Imagination Movers – their music transcends the normal and enlightens our hearts and mind.

IMAGINATION MOVERS ALBUM

In an impromptu interview with Scott Durbin (who had shorn his long gorgeous locks to wear a proud mohawk), Scott wanted to let his loyal fans know of the reasons behind their new album and why they were going through Pledge Music:

For our 9th album, we wanted to return to a ‘grassroots’ sensibility. Since we no longer were part of a traditional label (in the past we we’ve been with Disney Records and Razor&Tie), we wanted our fans in essence to become our label. In turn, doing the PledgeMusic campaign allowed us to involve our fans in a unique and creative way. By helping fund the project, fans (or Mover Nation) get to participate in the process – for example coming up with names for the album and voting on their favorite – and we offered access to the Movers like never before through exclusive items, downloads and experiences. Moreover, by helping us, they also raised money for NDSS. From early on, there was a conscious decision to create an altruistic aspect to our project and having been national partners for the Buddy Walk program through NDSS, we knew exactly who and how we wanted to hold them into the experience. 

So what is the name of their new album? Drumroll please… LICENSED TO MOVE

Whether you’re a die hard fan or a newbie, your kids will truly be delighted by The Imagination Movers. Their songs are clean and wholesome and many provide messages that help kids get through life. The melodies are perky and upbeat and you can purchase all of their merchandise on their official website: http://imaginationmovers.com. But to get their newest CD/DVD which is set to be released on or around December 1, 2014, you’d have to get bragging rights on their Pledge Music host site: http://www.pledgemusic.com/projects/imaginationmovers/exclusives. Think of it this way – not only are you helping a worthy cause but you’re also getting some of the best music ever created for kids. Because after all, the foundation to a bright future for children is to allow them to use their own imagination.

For a sneak peak of their new song, Three-Legged Dog, please check it out here:

 

For more information about The Imagination Movers, please visit their website: http://imaginationmovers.com and join their Facebook and Twitter pages: https://www.facebook.com/imaginationmovers and https://twitter.com/imovers

 

 

 

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=storm

 

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Little Me Tea – Back to School Products Worth Reviewing

LITTLE ME TEA

When my son and I go grocery shopping, I try to bypass the snacks and beverage aisles as quickly as possible. But when colorful containers jump out at your children, I can’t help but cringe at all the artificial beverages targeted towards children.
And while it’s no wonder that child obesity is such a major concern in the US, companies still make artificial drinks for children and people still buy them. Sometimes it’s inevitable because kids see their friends drink them, but as parents who want to give their children a healthier life, it is up to us to weed out bad food and bring in the good ones.

When we’re at home, it’s easy to give our kids water, milk, or the occasional all natural juice. But when we’re at parties or even in restaurants, kids just can’t resist that sugary drink or the artificial colored ones. Yes, sugar is the main attraction, but we can just as easily provide them with something made with less sugar or sweetened with natural juices. But have you ever considered giving your children tea? Tea comes in many varieties and degrees of caffeine and antioxidants. While most tea contain great amounts of antioxidants called Catechins, they are found primarily in green tea, and have superb antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. My son drinks diluted green tea now and then and he likes to drink them warm. Green tea is most powerful when it’s hot but most kids have a hard time drinking anything hot. As with most tea, the natural caffeine found in the leaves are not the same as those found in coffee so it is a safe alternative for beverages.

When we discovered Little Me Tea (http://littlemetea.com/) not too long ago at the Healthy Beverages Expo, I was impressed at the taste and quality of their tea-juice blends. Using only the natural beauty of organic tea and organic fruit juices, the melange of flavors is quite exciting. The tea/juice fusions are sweetened only with fruit and vegetable juices so there are no added sugar. For me, it was just sweet enough and when you drink it cold or iced, it’s incredibly refreshing. I like to include their beverages in my son’s lunch box as the tea-juice boxes are a good size for quenching his thirst.

LITTLE ME TEA COMPARISON CHART

Little Me Tea began as a love for their daughter, who after realizing that there weren’t enough healthy beverage choices for kids out there, the proud and innovative parents came up with the concept of blending organic tea with organic fruit juices. Knowing the benefits of tea, the company created a beverage that was both delicious and good for you. And since Little Me Tea are caffeine-free, low in sugar, and non-GMO, their tea-juice blends are an excellent choice for parents who want to find something new to serve their kids. It’s no longer just juice anymore – children’s beverages have evolved into more sophisticated tastes.

LITTLE ME TEA CUPS

Currently Little Me Tea comes in two flavors: Julia’s Tropical Tea which is a delightful blend of organic white tea with organic citrus fruits and Zane’s Grape Tea which is a yummy blend of organic white tea with organic red grapes. Both flavors are infused with a melange of unique and ultra healthy ingredients that both you and your kids will recognize. Two more flavors have also been added to their lineup: Fruit Punch Tea and Berry Tasty Tea and we’re looking forward to trying those out as well! And rest assured that all of Little Me Teas are made with only natural and organic ingredients, have no added sugar, and packaged in BPA-free Tetra Packs which can be readily recycled. The juice boxes are 6.75 ounces and can fit into a regular lunch box for kids. They make excellent thirst quenchers and can also be used as a base for other beverages like smoothies or even frozen for a delightful iced treat.

I like to give my son Little Me Tea as an in-between meals snack or as a special beverage treat for dinner. The juice boxes come with attached straws and are easy to use for little kids. Little Me Teas can be found at most natural grocery stores and currently on their website they are offering coupons to try their tea-juice blends. So if you’re looking for a new and healthier beverage alternative for your kids, you might want to give Little Me Tea a try. If your kids have never tried tea before, don’t worry for these refreshing tea-juice blends have enough of a unique flavor to  satisfy their thirsts.

 

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=storm

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Back To School The Healthy Way – Year Round Health

MARTHA STEWART STUFF

For many of us, back to school starts today and depending on your school, some of you may have kids already in school. So whether you’ve already finished with your back-to-school shopping or you’re just hitting that dreaded list, keep in mind some important thoughts for the entire school year. A healthy and safe school year is our top priority along with good grades and good behavior of course, but all those must start off from somewhere and a healthy and delicious nutrition plan is the foundation.

As my son and I went through his first grade supply list, I had to think about his lunch and snacks as well. Although it would be easier to buy school lunches throughout the year, it really isn’t feasible as we all know they aren’t always very nutritious. Even if schools are trying to initiate healthier lunch choices, I still see schools that offer cheeseburgers, sodas, and hot dogs as part of their lunch plans. While those may be fine once or twice, if your kids are eating them every day know that school budgets rarely allow these meals to include organically-grown foods. And foods laden with artificial ingredients and preservatives are bound to lead an unpleasant toll on your child’s health in the future. Parents who have children with severe allergies also know the dangers of buying school lunches as the schools are not always diligent in weeding out allergen foods.

So how can we ensure a healthy school year for our kids? While there are no surefire way in preventing the occasional cold or flu, we all know how they can affect their health and well being. Probably the best way in thwarting a cold is to keep up your immune system. Eating nutritional foods that include tons of vitamins and antioxidants are key as well as getting plenty of rest and exercise. Children should also limit as much stress as possible and stay away from those with colds and flu around them.

Below I’ve compiled a list of suggestions and products to help ensure a healthy school year for children and adults alike. While it would be nice if we could keep our kids safe from everything, in reality, we all have to scrape a few knees to earn the bigger reward – and that is the infinite knowledge to help our bodies be the best it can be.

Supplements and Vitamins:

Calcium – this is an important nutrient for growing bodies. Calcium along with enough Vitamin D, can help build strong muscles and bones in a growing child’s body. Start them early on this and they’ll develop strong bones and muscles into their adult years. Once adult’s reach a certain age, the calcium in their bones start to deplete regularly, so it’s also crucial for adults to take Calcium and Vitamin D together for absolute absorption. Foods that are rich in calcium and that kids will enjoy are: Milk, Cheese, Yogurt, Fortified foods, Kale, Spinach, Soymilk (make sure soymilk are fortified), and Ice Cream (as long as they are made with whole milk).

Vitamin D – this vitamin is essential for growing bones and muscles. During a child’s formulative years it’s important to provide them with enough Vitamin D whether it’s through fortified milk or sun exposure, be sure your kids get plenty of this vitamin to prevent bone depletion later on. Foods rich in Vitamin D are: Fortified foods such as milk and yogurt, eggs, and some fatty meat (but do limit this as there could be problems consuming too much fatty meat).

Iron – Iron is essential for red blood cells to carry oxygen throughout the body and for important brain health. When kids are low in iron, they are sluggish and tired and can’t concentrate. Babies get iron from their mother’s breast milk, but after they’ve stopped drinking breast milk, it’s important to include this vital vitamin in their diet. Although I don’t recommend young kids to be vegetarians, vegetarians can get their intake of iron from soy, lentils, nuts, dark greens, and iron-fortified grains. Just remember to eat Vitamin C- rich foods along with Iron-rich foods for better absorbtion. Foods that are rich in Iron are: Beef, Poultry, Beans, Nuts, Mollusks, Lentils, Chickpeas, Soybeans, Egg Yolks, Dark Leafy Greens, Raisins, and Iron-enriched Cereals.

Vitamin C – Vitamin C is a powerhouse and pretty much most of the vegetables and fruits available contain this important vitamin. It helps with proper absorbtion of most other foods because it is easily digestible and your body knows how to filter it throughout. Vitamin C is also great for building your immunity and is essential in the maintenance of bones, muscles, and blood vessels. Although it hasn’t been proven to truly prevent colds in kids and adults, eating enough of this important vitamin along with other nutrient-rich foods will help build a foundation of good health . Foods that are rich in Vitamin C are: Oranges, Tangerines ( or any citrus fruits), Guavas, Strawberries, Papayas, Kiwi, Dark Leafy Greens, Tomatoes, and Broccoli.

Potassium – This important nutrient helps with normal heart and muscle function, maintains proper fluid balance, and builds energy. It also helps promote strong bones. It will also help kids keep a normal blood pressure which can carry on into adulthood. Foods that are rich in Potassium are: Vegetables and Fruits that are “orange-colored” such as oranges, tangerines, bananas, apricots, and cantalope, Tomatoes, Milk, Yogurt, and Fish.

Fiber – Fiber is such an essential nutrient because kids and adults need it on a daily basis. Fiber helps regulate the stomach and the intestinal tract so that kids will feel regular. Fiber helps with digestion so that important nutrients can properly pass through their system for proper assimilation. Fiber is also great at keeping kids full, especially when kids run around all day depleting a lot of energy. Foods that are rich in Fiber are: Legumes, Lentils, Berries, Nuts, Chickpeas, Oranges, Apples, and Cereal that contain high fiber content.

Omega Fatty Acids – one of the most important nutrient are omega fatty acids (3,6,9). Omega 3 is the most beneficial as it helps with many functions including inflammation, cognitive, and the heart. Omega 3 seems to be prime for almost any age and is one the crucial developing nutrient for fetuses and infants. Foods that are rich in Omega 3’s (DHA, EPA, and DPA) are: Salmon, Anchovies, Walnuts, Cauliflower, Broccoli, Flax Oil and Fish Oil.

Probiotics – Kids with a good digestive system build up stronger immunity and may get fewer colds. A healthy digestive system supplies the body with the ability to get rid of toxin and germs. Our body already contains a good amount of probiotics but when we get sick, they get depleted easily. Foods that are rich in Probiotics are: Yogurt, Fermented foods, Miso, Kefir, and Sauerkrauts. 

Healthy products:

Stonyfield Organic (www.stonyfield.com) – Organic and natural dairy products including milk, yogurt, and ice cream. Can be found in most natural grocery stores as well as major supermarkets. They have products specifically formulated for children and comes in exceptional flavors.

Happy Family Brands (http://happyfamilybrands.com) – Organic and natural foods for kids starting at infantry. They have an assortment of products ranging from cereal to puffs to yogurt.

Envirokidz/Natures Path (http://us.naturespath.com/) – Organic and natural foods ranging from cereal to granola bars to toaster pastries. I love the fact that they have a line dedicated to kids only (Envirokidz) with adorable packaging that also benefits the environment.

Lunchskins (http://www.lunchskins.com/) – Truly unique sandwich bags made without BPA and phthalates and easily washable. They come in an assortment of fun colors and designs and sizes suitable for snacks, sandwiches, and larger totes. I use them all the time to put my son’s snacks in them and when we’re traveling and because they are easy to wipe clean, you don’t have to worry about storing bags with leftover food smells either.

Boiron (http://www.boiron.com/) – Homeopathic medication for kids and adults. They use safe, herbal ingredients that are formulated to be used everyday, several times a day.

Nordic Naturals (http://www.nordicnaturals.com/) – A wonderful assortment of supplements and vitamins for kids and adults. Their products range from kids multivitamins to DHA products to specialized supplements such as Vitamins D, vitamins for skin, hair, and eyes. They also make natural vitamins for pets.

Barleans (http://www.barleans.com/) – Made with the best organic and natural oils, Barleans makes a great assortment of supplements for kids and adults. We love their Omega Swirl as it is truly the one product that kids will want to happily drink.

Yummi Bears (http://www.heronutritionals.com/) – Part of the Hero Nutritionals company, Yummi Bears vitamins and supplements are specifically formulated for kids. My son loves their Yummi Bear Sugar-Free Multivitamin as they are naturally sweetened with Lohan fruit instead of sugar.

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

http://www.topmommyblogs.com/blogs/in.php?id=storm

*Photo courtesy of Martha Stewart Back to School.

 

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Boiron: Arnicare Gel and Calendula Cream – Products Worth Reviewing and Giveaway

BOIRON NEW LOGO

If I had a permanent back and neck massaging servant living with me I think I’d be pretty happy. But since I don’t and that’s unlikely to happen, it’s nice to have some homeopathic treatment for those days when my whole body is sore. And it’s sore because of running around with my son, getting things done that need to be done, and working on the computer all of the time. For most of us it’s pretty common to end up with a sore and achy neck or back which causes unnecessary pain throughout the day. Sometimes a good massage will work sometimes you just need something stronger.

I’m always wary about topical pain creams because I’m worried about the side effects. The ingredients used in those creams still end up being absorbed into my skin and my body so I need something that is made from naturally derived ingredients such as herbs and plants. Old herbal remedies have worked wonders in the past and from personal experience it’s what I prefer. So when I was offered to try and review Arnicare and Calendula Cream from Boiron, I thought it couldn’t have been a more perfect time. I had just developed a really nasty ache in my neck and it wouldn’t go away for days.

You’ve probably already heard of the company Boiron (http://www.boironusa.com/) who specializes in natural, homeopathic medicine. Their products range from colds to coughs to topical creams and gels and are made with natural ingredients that have been used for centuries. We’ve been using their adult and children’s cough and cold medicine for many years now and they are effective as long as you start right away.

BOIRON ARNICARE GEL

In the case of my sore neck, I was very surprised to find that Arnicare Gel worked immediately on relieving the aches. I used a small amount and rubbed it in and in a few moments my neck wasn’t as sore anymore. Yes, it was that soon and I myself was surprised at the quick efficacy. I don’t recall ever using another product that worked almost instantly. And I liked that it rubbed in smoothly and didn’t have a funny smell either. The main ingredient with Arnicare is Arnica of course and it’s completely paraben-free. Arnicare Gel works on relieving muscle pain and stiffness, swelling from injuries, and bruising. As with most topical medicine I believe you’d have to use it as often as possible until the problem goes away. Arnicare Gel is great for areas including the neck, back, shoulders, leg, and foot. My husband gets calf pain from walking around a lot at work and he was even surprised that Arnicare worked so well.

BOIRON CALENDULA CREAM

Next I tried the Calendula Cream which is effective as a topical first aid. It’s great for soothing and healing minor skin irritations such as cuts, scrapes, chafing, minor burns, and sunburn. I did have a bit of a sunburn when I was out gardening and forgot to put on sunblock one morning. The next morning it ached a bit and was slightly red and I rubbed some Calendula Cream on my shoulders. The cool cream soothed the scratchiness of my skin and in a few days I noticed that my skin did not peel nor did it hurt when fabric brushed against it. As a long time fan of Calendula I had a feeling it would work pretty well.

The good folks at Boiron would like to offer 1 LUCKY reader of Happymomblogger the chance to win a full sized Arnicare Gel and Calendula Cream. This is a great opportunity especially with school starting soon and you’ve got teenagers who are into sports. So how do you win this fabulous prize? Read below to find out!

The prize will be 1 full sized Arnicare Gel and 1 full sized Calendula Cream.

Here’s how to enter the Boiron’s Arnica and Calendula giveaway:

ENTRIES:

#1 entry – “Like” Boiron USA on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/BoironUSA and write on their wall that you are entering the contest at Happymomblogger: http://www.happymomblogger.wordpress.com/. Please put Happymomblogger as the heading.

ADDITIONAL ENTRIES:

#2 entry – Become a follower: http://twitter.com/#!/happymomblogger and “Tweet” me @happymomblogger that you are entering the Boiron’s Arnica and Calendula giveaway. Become a follower of Boiron USA: https://twitter.com/BoironUSA and “Tweet” that you are entering the contest at Happymomblogger.

#3 entry – Subscribe to my Blog.

#4 entry – Tell me how you keep yourself healthy.

#5 entry – Vote for me at Top Mommy Blogs using the link provided below.

You can enter by telling me the 5 entries in the LEAVE A COMMENT box. Please be sure to give me your name and email address so that I may contact you if you win. Contest is open to residents of US only. 18 years and older please. Please be sure to provide a physical address and not a P.O. Box. Only 1 contestant per household please. Please allow 4-6 weeks for delivery of prize. Any violation of the rules will deem your entry as disqualified. Happymomblogger is not responsible for lost, stolen, or damaged prizes but will do the best to ensure your prize gets there. In  the event the winner can not be contacted within 3 days of email sent then another winner will be chosen. No purchase necessary to enter. Void where prohibited by law.

Contest Start Date: August 29, 2014 – Congratulations to Cassie S. for winning the prize!

Contest End Date:  September 16. 2014

Only 1 winner will be chosen at random and I will post the winner’s name on my blog.

Good Luck and thank you for participating!

 

Disclaimer: The product(s)were sent to the author for review by the manufacturer/PR. All reviews on “Happymomblogger” remain unbiased and unpaid and are the sole decision of the author. The opinions of these product(s) were not influenced in any way, shape, or form. As always, please read the ingredients carefully when trying new products.

Please read the labels and ingredients carefully and follow all manufacturer’s instructions (if any). The products selected for the giveaway were generously donated by the companies/PR to help readers learn more about their products. The winner’s choice in using/consuming these products are entirely up to the winner and will not hold the author and her family liable nor the companies/PR liable. These products are made with non-toxic ingredients but always be safe with what you use and consume.

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