This post was sponsored by Nature Made^® as a part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central

I’ve worked hard to make some changes in 2016.  I’ve always been relatively healthy but I have to confess, I kind of fell off the wagon towards the end of last year.  I was super busy and had a million things on my plate, plus all the usual holiday stuff.  Let’s face it, when you’re stressed and exhausted, taking care of your health becomes the last thing on your mind!

It didn’t help that I had just started food blogging, too.  I’m not the kind of person that ever kept sweets in the house, much less bake regular batches of cookies and other “not-so-good-for-the-waistline” recipes.  Let’s just say that my willpower is no match for a spoonful of cookie dough!  Exercise went by the wayside too.  I had quit the gym with the intention of running outside for free but then just never really got back into it.

I know, excuses, excuses!  However, I’ve been turning things around!  For starters, I’ve learned a little self control!  Since I hadn’t been used to having sweets in the house, it took me awhile to learn the word “moderation” but I think I’ve got it now!  I’ve also been running again.  Well, it started off as running/walking/running but I’m working hard to build my stamina back up to where it used to be.  Who knows, maybe I’ll run a marathon soon…okay, that’s just crazy talk but I am almost back to fitting into my smallest pair of skinny jeans again…that’s progress!

I’ve also been working hard to get more Vitamin C in my diet because I really wanted to strengthen my immune system.  It was another thing I’d been planning to do for awhile but kept putting off, though it’s really not hard to do.  For starters, you can simply start by eating more of the fruit that contains large amounts of Vitamin C, such as citrus and berries. 

You can get even more Vitamin C by loading up on healthy snacks and desserts.  Instead of reaching for the ice cream or cookies, try making these delicious Strawberry Orange Popsicles.  Not only are they tasty but they’re much better for you and completely loaded with Vitamin C.  All you need are strawberries (I had some frozen ones left over from strawberry picking season) and orange juice.  You can’t get much easier than two ingredients!  All you need to do is cut your strawberries into large chunks, put them in the popsicle molds, pour orange juice over them and freeze overnight.

While those are both great sources of Vitamin C, there’s an even easier way to get your daily dose!  Just take a Nature Made Vitamin each morning!  I don’t know why I didn’t start doing this sooner but it’s better late than never, right?  I’ve gotten in the habit of taking my my Nature Made Vitamin C when I wake up and now it’s just become a natural part of my daily routine.

I feel like I’m really doing something good for myself when I take Nature Made!  Not only does the Vitamin C help support my immune system, it provides antioxidants and helps to synthesize collagen, which in turn supports healthy skin!  I’ve found the best deals for my Nature Made Vitamins at Walmart and I love that their prices are so low that you don’t even have to wait for a sale!  Not only are they super easy to find in the vitamin aisle but you can choose from lots of other Nature Made Vitamins as well.  Since they’re the #1 best-selling brand for vitamins, minerals and supplements*, I definitely feel like it’s a name I can trust! They’re also the supplement that pharmacists recommend most in 9 different categories.**

For even more inspiration on leading a healthier lifestyle, just sign up for the Nature Made Daily Boost Program.   Not only can you find out how to further your own health goals, you can see what others in the Nature Made community are doing to stay healthy!  For even more information on how Nature Made can help, check them out on Facebook and Twitter.

Now for even more great news…I-C is hosting a contest where you can enter for a chance to win one of 20 $50 Walmart Gift Cards!  I know I can always use a little extra cash, how about you?  You have between now and April 26th to enter and it’s really easy…all you have to do is share on your choice of social media.
 
Nature
Made Wellness 6

 
I-C will randomly select 20 winners from all program entries and will handle fulfillment of the winning prizes.

Do you want to lead a healthier lifestyle?  What goals would you set for yourself and what changes would you make to reach them?

*Based in part on data reported by Nielsen through its Scantrack Service for the Vitamins Category for 52-week period ending 1/02/2016, for the xAOC Market. Copyright © 2016 Nielsen

**Based on US News & World Report – Pharmacy Times Survey, Nature Made is the #1 Pharmacist Recommended Brand in Nine Categories – Letter Vitamins, Omega-3/Fish Oil, Coenzyme Q10, Flax Seed Oil, Herbal Supplements, Cholesterol Management-Natural, Garlic, Diabetic Multivitamins and Mood Health Supplements

The post Simple Changes For A Healthier Lifestyle appeared first on Fun Money Mom.

This post was sponsored by Doctor On Demand as part of a Blog Blast Activation for Influence Central.

Moms can’t afford to get sick!  I don’t mean “afford” as in the money, we just really don’t have time for it.  When we’re feeling under the weather, the last thing we want to do is trek to the doctor’s office with kids in tow! It really makes you wish that doctors still made house calls, doesn’t it? 

Thank goodness for technology because now they do, via video, with Doctor On Demand!  It’s faster and more convenient to see a doctor from the comfort of your own home…and when you’re a busy mom, fast and convenient is always good!  With Doctor On Demand, you can have a video visit with board certified physicians, as well as psychiatrists and doctorate level psychologists, using your smartphone, tablet or computer.  Not only that, medical visits are just $40 or less and covered by many health plans.

It’s easy to get started too.  Just download the free Doctor On Demand app and you’ll be ready for a video visit when the need arises. Their physicians can diagnose and treat specific conditions like allergies, asthma, acne and other skin issues and can also provide prescription refills.

Want to give it a try?  Just use the code THOUGHTS10 and you can take $10 off your first visit.  The average wait time is just three minutes (when’s the last time you got that at the doctor’s office).  Now when you or the kids are sick, you can see a doctor right away and feel better fast!

Want to find out more?  Just visit Doctor On Demand on Facebook and Twitter

The post House Calls Are Back With Doctor On Demand appeared first on Fun Money Mom.

This post was sponsored by Nature Made® as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central.

Let’s face it, developing healthy habits can be hard.  That’s why it’s so important to start when we’re young.  While it may be too late for some of us past the “kid” years, we can make up for it by teaching our children to make smart choices.  Since we’re starting a new school year, there’s no better time than now, right?  I have two little ones and I’m hoping that these healthy habits stick with them for years to come!

Eating Fruits & Veggies

I try to get as many fruits and veggies into my girls’ diet as possible.  My girls see me eating a lot of them so that makes it a little easier.  I also try to keep fruits within easy reach so they’ll grab a banana before they grab that bag of chips.  Sometimes they will be a little stubborn about trying new veggies but I’ve learned one simple trick to get around that…hide them.  If I can inconspicuously hide them in some pasta or other meal, I will.  What they don’t know won’t hurt them, right?

Drinking Water

While I don’t mind giving my girls juice and other drinks, I do encourage them to drink water when they’re thirsty.  There’s really nothing healthier and it’s something I’m trying to do more of myself.  Want to know a secret?  The easiest way to get kids to drink water is to put them to bed!  At least that’s when mine suddenly become thirsty and make it seem like they won’t survive the night if I don’t bring them a glass of water immediately.

Getting Exercise

Technology makes this more challenging than ever.  My girls would sit on the couch watching TV and playing with tablets all day if I let them!  It’s up to me to get them out and about, whether it’s playing in the yard, going to the park or even going to the play area at the mall.  Lucky for us, daddy helps out with this one!

Washing Hands

Is it normal that the older I get, the more of a germophobe I become?  Anyway, I cringe when I see my kids holding a handrail or pushing an elevator button, then immediately touching their face…yuck!  I’m teaching them how important it is to wash their hands regularly and not just sticking them under running water for 2 seconds.  While I’ve read that you should wash your hands while singing “Happy Birthday” two times, my kids don’t have that much patience.  If they can get through the song once, that’s good enough for me.

Getting Enough Sleep

Kids need plenty of sleep and we’ve all seen the negative effects of when our children don’t get it.  I don’t know about you but I’ll take a happy child over a tired, grumpy one any day of the week!I actually googled how much sleep my girls should get and learned that they should be sleeping about 10-12 hours a night.  If they have trouble sleeping, just let them snuggle with a favorite teddy bear…if there’s room!

Brushing Those Teeth

I don’t know about your kids but mine would never remember to brush their teeth if I didn’t remind them…and remind them…and remind them!  I’m working hard to change that.  My four year old still has her baby teeth but my older daughter has almost all of her permanent teeth and we’d like to keep them.  They have been getting better and with enough nagging gentle reminders, maybe they’ll eventually remember on their own to brush twice a day.

Taking A Daily Multivitamin

It’s important to take a good multivitamin every day and I’ve got my girls are starting the school year on track with Nature Made® Kids First® Multivitamin Gummies.  Not only do they have 12 essential nutrients including vitamins A, B, C, D and E and minerals like iodine and zinc, they have no preservatives and are gluten free.  The colors are taken from natural sources and my girls love the all natural fruit flavors like orange, cherry and mixed berry.  The older they get, the more important it will be to take a daily vitamin so why not get them in the habit now.

Since I’m at Target on a regular basis (maybe a little too much, according to my hubby), I knew I could easily find them in the vitamin section.

My girls find them easy to chew and like that they come in gummy form.  I hope that taking Nature Made® Vitamins, along with the other healthy habits we’re working on, will stick with them for a long time to come!

What healthy habits are you trying to instill in your own children?  Do you find some easier than others?

Learn more about Nature Made® Vitamins by following them on Facebook and Twitter.  You can also check out Target on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The post 7 Healthy Habits Your Kids Can Learn Right Now appeared first on Fun Money Mom.

Want to get a better night’s sleep?  These tips will help…plus, enter to win a Sleep Wellness Bundle that will have you feeling like you’re sleeping on cloud 9!

Thanks to Brentwood Homes for providing me with a Sleep Wellness Bundle to review.  As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

I never realized the importance of a good night’s sleep until I had my first baby and learned what sleep deprivation was all about!  Fortunately both of my girls are older now so they’re no longer waking me up in the middle of the night, except for the occasional bad dream.  However, if you’re having trouble sleeping and don’t even have a baby to blame it on, there are things you can do to change that.

Invest in a quality mattress and pillows

When I was single, way back in the day, I didn’t have a lot of extra money.  The last thing I wanted to do was spend it on an expensive mattress or pillows.  Cute shoes were far more important!  I think I paid about $200 for my first mattress and didn’t know any better.  Then I married my husband and we moved into a new house.  The first thing he did was spend what I thought was a crazy amount of money on a new mattress and pillows.  I had sticker shock at first but once I slept on it, I was amazed at the difference.  It was totally worth every cent!

We’re getting close to having to buy another mattress and this time I won’t bat an eye at investing in a good one.  The same goes for pillows.  I recently got the Sleep Wellness Bundle from Brentwood homes and absolutely love these pillows!

I’ve been sleeping on the Helena Latex Filled Pillow and it has easily become my favorite pillow.  It’s filled with a combination of 100% latex ribbons and silky smooth kapok fibers.  The latex adjusts to your movements, perfect for if you sleep in multiple positions at night.  It also has a zippered opening so you can add or remove fill for your perfect comfort level, though it was just right for me as is.  Not only that, the cover is 100% organic cotton and the pillow itself is Eco-institut Certified free of synthetic materials.

My hubby has been using the Carmel Latex Pillow and is just as happy with his pillow as I am with mine.  He likes that it gives him a firm supportive foundation and that the latex filling bounces right back, keeping the pillow shape.  Just like the Helena, it also has an organic cover and is free of synthetic materials.

I haven’t tried a Brentwood Home mattress yet but if the pillows are any indication, they are definitely worth checking out!  Want a Brentwood Home coupon to get 10% off?  Just use the code OURHOME to get your Brentwood Home discount.

Now here’s the best part!  I’ve teamed up with Brentwood Homes to help you sleep better at night with an awesome Sleep Wellness Giveaway.  Valued at $230, this Sleep Wellness Bundle includes two of the Helena Latex/Kapok Pillows and two Carmel Molded Latex Pillows.  Trust me, you’re going to want these!  Just scroll down to the end of the post to enter

Want more tips for getting a good night’s sleep?

Avoid alcohol and caffeine

It may be a given that you don’t want to drink caffeine at night but it’s best to start avoiding it earlier in the day so the effects have worn off by nighttime.  That glass of wine (or two) that you pour once the kids are in bed?  It may be relaxing but alcohol has been shown to interrupt your sleep cycle once you start snoozing.  You’re more likely to wake up in the middle of the night which is exactly what you’re trying to avoid.  Hmm…no wine at night?  I’ll have to work on that one.

Block out the noise

If every little noise wakes you up at night, block it out with a fan or white noise.  You don’t even need to buy an expensive white noise machine…just download a free app on your smartphone.

Expose your body natural light

It’s been scientifically proven that getting more natural light in the morning helps you to sleep better at night.  It resets your body clock and lets your body know that it’s time to start the day.  That sets your body clock in motion, making it easier for your body to wind down when it gets dark at night.

Nap 20 minutes or less

Most of us don’t have much time for napping but if you do, make it a short one.  Take 20 minutes or less or you’re body may be too wide awake when you try to sleep that night.

Stick to a sleep schedule

Try to get up and go to bed at the same time every day.  Your body will get used to this routine and it will be easier to fall asleep at the same time every night.  This includes not sleeping late on the weekends, though this may be one rule I have to break.

Get regular exercise

Regular exercise has been shown to help you sleep longer and more soundly.  However, if you get that workout in too close to bedtime, it could have you too wound up to fall asleep right away.  This varies per person though…some may be so worn out from the workout that they fall asleep right way.  Listen to your own body signals to see what works best for you.

Watch what you eat before bedtime

Eating rich or spicy foods before you go to bed can have a big impact on how well you sleep.  The same thing goes for heavy meals.  If you feel completely stuffed when you go to bed, it could definitely have an effect on how well you sleep.

Wind down for the last hour

Relax your body for the last hour before bedtime to get it ready for sleep mode.  Read a book, take a warm bath or find something else that relaxes you.  If you get rid of all the stress of the day before you get in bed, your body will thank you for it and reward you with better sleep.

Now, are you ready for the giveaway?  You won’t believe the difference it makes when you sleep on a pillow like this.  If you want to try one for yourself, just enter the contest below.  Good luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Brentwood Home has more than just pillows and mattresses.  They have luxurious sheets as well as items for babies/kids and pets.  What’s at the top of your wish list?

The post 9 Simple Ways To Get A Better Night’s Sleep appeared first on Fun Money Mom.

It’s amazing what a difference seven days can make. After years of drinking coffee and red wine, find out how Smile Brilliant helped me get a whiter, brighter smile again!

I received a complimentary Smile Brilliant Whitening System in exchange for my honest review. As always, all opinions are completely my own.

Like most moms I know, I can’t live without my coffee and wine! Coffee gets me going in the morning when I need it most and I love relaxing with a glass of red wine when I finally get the kids to bed at night. The problem is that they both take a toll on my teeth and recently I noticed that mine weren’t quite as white as they used to be.

I’d  actually been thinking about having my teeth professionally whitened for awhile but the cheap frugal side of me felt guilty about spending that much money. Have you seen how much dentists charge for this? I just couldn’t bring myself to do it.

Smile Brilliant approached me to try out their whitening system at just the right time. I had a big conference coming up and definitely wanted to look my best. I did a little googling on Smile Brilliant and liked what I saw. They had gotten lots of great reviews and I wanted to see for myself just how well they worked.

Take that, coffee & wine! Smile Brilliant made my teeth white again in just 7 days! Enter now…
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The things I like best about Smile Brilliant (aside from getting whiter teeth, obviously) are that they’re not as expensive as going to the dentist for treatments and I could do it in the comfort of my own home. With two kids and a busy schedule, it’s hard enough to find the time to go in for my cleanings twice a year, much less schedule extra appointments!

It didn’t take long for my kit to come in the mail and I was ready to get started.

The first step was to make an impression of my teeth for the molds. I was a little worried about messing this part up (though they do send you extra materials in case you do). It turns out that I was worried for no reason because it was very easy to do. I got it right the first time around and shipped the impressions off to have the molds made. They provide the envelope so all I had to do was toss it in the mailbox and my molds arrived back at my house less than two weeks later.

The whitening process is so easy. First I added the whitening gel to the trays and put them in for an hour.

Then I rinsed the trays and added the desensitizing gel, leaving them in for about 20 minutes. When I’ve used whitening strips in the past, I had some sensitivity in my teeth. However, the Smile Brilliant gel really helped and I didn’t have that problem at all this time. I used the trays for about an hour a day for seven days and loved that I could see the difference so quickly. At the end of seven days, I did a comparison.

Smile Brilliant is definitely the way to go! Now I could have an amazing time at my conference and take all the pictures I wanted without feeling self-conscious about my teeth.

Do your teeth need a little TLC too? I’m excited to be able to give one reader their own Smile Brilliant Whitening System. It’s easy to enter…just fill out this short entry form with your name and e-mail address and you’re in. It doesn’t get much easier than that! Enter in the next two weeks and maybe you’ll be my lucky winner!

Enter to win a Smile Brilliant Whitening System

If I could give a Whitening System away to all of you, I’d totally do it! I’m pretty sure the people at Smile Brilliant aren’t going to let me do that, though. If you’d like to go ahead and order your own system, use the code FUNMONEYMOM5 to save 5%.

What do you eat or drink that takes a toll on your teeth? Do you get self conscious about your smile? How would a brighter smile make you feel more confident?

The post Smile Brilliant Review: How To Get Whiter Teeth In Just Seven Days appeared first on Fun Money Mom.

This post was sponsored by Nature Made as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

I wouldn’t consider myself vain (well, not any more than most women) but I definitely want to look my best. I try to take care myself and it gets even more important the older I get. Not that I’m old because we all know that 29 isn’t really that old, right? (wink, wink) However, I definitely think more about my health now than I did when I was younger, when all I thought about was which pair of cute shoes I should buy.

While it’s important to exercise and eat right to stay healthy, let’s face it…we all want to look our best! For me, that means taking care of my hair, skin and nails on a regular basis. One more thing to think about…just what a busy mom needs! The good thing is that Nature Made makes it easy!

If you read my blog regularly, you’ll know that I’m a big fan of Nature Made and use their products regularly. I even give my girls their multivitamins to supplement their diet. I trust them because I know they use quality ingredients, plus they’re the #1 pharmacist recommended brand.

Now I’ve discovered Nature Made Hair, Skin & Nails VitaMelts, which are full of biotin and vitamin C.  Biotin helps support healthy hair, skin and nails while the vitamin C helps by supporting collagen synthesis†. You get 5 key nutrients including copper, zinc and beta carotene. I found mine at Walmart but they are readily available at many other stores.

I also love that the tablets are small, dissolve quickly in your mouth and come in Strawberry Lemonade flavor. The fact that they’re so easy to take in the morning is definitely a bonus!

Another bonus? Now though April 9th, Nature Made Vitamins has partnered with Women’s and Men’s health to host a fun Facebook promotion. You can win prizes and be motivated to stay healthy at the same time. Just go to the Nature Made Facebook Page and find the sweepstakes posts for that weekly entry period. Complete the call-to-action by commenting on the post and you’ll be entered to win the featured prize. They’re giving away some pretty great prizes, including gift cards to Sephora, Blue Apron and Lululemon.

If you think those are great prizes, wait until you hear what else they’re giving away! Need some R&R? You can enter Nature Made’s sweepstakes for an awesome 4 day spa vacation! Just visit http://www.naturemade.com/oneup and submit the registration form. Wow…a spa vacation sounds pretty good to me!

More tips for supporting healthier hair, skin and nails

Skin Care Tips

• Take your make-up off before going to bed – It can clog your skin and cause breakouts
• Drink lots of water – Dehydration takes a toll on your skin is visibly noticeable.
• Always wear sunscreen – Have you seen “There’s Something About Mary”? ‘Nuff said!

Hair Care Tips

• Don’t wash your hair every day – Too much washing strips away your hair’s natural oils
• Don’t overuse hair dryers and styling appliances – They can damage and dry out your hair, causing breakage
• Use a comb, not a brush, for wet hair – Wet hair is weaker and a comb is more gentle than a brush

Nail Care Tips

• Don’t cut your cuticles – This breaks a seal of protection around the base of your nail that keeps bacteria out and protects from infection.
• Don’t use fast dry nail polish – It has stronger chemicals and more alcohol than regular polish, making it harsher on the nails.
• Moisturize – You moisturize your face, right? Your nails need it too and you can even use something as simple as olive oil.

If you follow these tips and remember to take Nature Made’s VitaMelts to support healthy hair, skin and nails, you’ll feel good knowing that you’re doing all you can to take care of yourself.

Learn more by visiting the Nature Made site.

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

The post 10 Important Things You Should Do For Your Hair, Skin And Nails appeared first on Fun Money Mom.

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #SummerSkinReady #ChooseSkinHealth #CollectiveBias

Heading to the pool or beach this summer? Find out exactly what you need to include when you put together the ultimate beach bag.

When we lived in Atlanta, we didn’t get many house guests. However, that all changed when we moved to Florida. I’d like to think that it’s because our friends and family love us so much but the fact that we live near so many beautiful beaches may have a little something to do with it.

Usually when people visit, hanging by the pool or heading to the beach is a priority. I try to make sure they have everything they need so I’ve put together the perfect beach bag. Instead of scrambling around for sunscreen or towels, my guests will be ready to go at a moments notice.

Of course, the most important item for any beach bag is the sunscreen. It gets seriously hot here and you cannot visit the beaches without it. One thing I’ve discovered is that not all sunscreens are created equal…get the wrong kind and you just might regret it. Since I’ve used Neutrogena products for years, I know I can trust them and was excited to try out the Neutrogena Sheer Zinc® sunscreens. I picked up Sheer Zinc Face with SPF 50 because I like a little extra protection for my face. For everything else, Sheer Zinc with SPF 30 is perfect.

Another reason I trust these sunscreens is because they’ve been awarded the National Eczema Association Seal Of Acceptance for people with sensitive skin. These are the only sunscreens to feature breakthrough Purescreen technology with naturally sourced 100% zinc oxide. They’re also hypoallergenic, sweat and water resistant for up to 80 minutes and won’t clog your pores. I found mine in the sunscreen aisle at Target.

If you shop Target from May 21-27, you’ll get a great deal too! Purchase $15 in sun care products and Target will give you a $5 Target GiftCard. Since you probably just went in for one thing but ended up with a full cart, that Target GiftCard will come in handy!

Good sunscreen is so important but you need more than that to make the ultimate beach bag. Here’s what mine includes:

What to include in the ultimate beach bag

Towels This is a given right? How else are you going to dry off after splashing around in the pool or ocean?

Bluetooth Speaker Good tunes are a must and my little pink bluetooth speaker is perfect. It’s perfect for streaming your favorite music from your phone.

Reading Material I always throw in a couple local magazines so my guests can see what’s going on around town.

Sunglasses Most people bring their own but it’s always good to have extras on hand.

Snacks All that relaxing in the sun can make a person hungry.

Koozies These are a must-have because nobody wants warm drinks on the beach.

You can also throw in hats or visors, ponytail holders, lip balm or anything else that you think might come in handy.

What else would you pack in your ultimate beach bag?

Want to learn more about Neutrogena Sheer Zinc sunscreens and other products? Check them out on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

The post How To Put Together The Ultimate Beach Bag appeared first on Fun Money Mom.

This is a sponsored post on behalf of Kooty Key. As always, all opinions are my own.

Never touch the door handles in a public restroom again! This touch free tool will help you avoid germs and stay healthy, especially during cold and flu season.

It happens to me all the time. I’m in a public restroom with no paper towels, so when I go to open the door, I struggle with what to do. I get that they are trying to be environmentally friendly but no way am I touching that dirty door handle. Usually I end up using the bottom of my shirt while struggling not to show off too much skin as I go out the door. That’s why when I heard about the Kooty Key, that was the first thing that came to mind. Developed by a traveling saleman who constantly found himself in similar situations, he decided there had to be a better way and took matters into his own hands.

He did this by creating a multi-functional tool to help people avoid germs in public places. I don’t know about you but the older I get (or maybe it’s just since I’ve had kids), the more of a germaphobe I’ve become. Not that I’ve gone totally crazy but when I hit an elevator button or touch the rails going up a flight of stairs, a little voice in the back of my head tells me that a gazillion other people have touched that same thing and now I’m picking up all their kooties germs.

That’s the great thing about the Kooty Key! I recently tried one for myself and found a lot of situations where it came in handy. My first stop was the ATM. I usually use my knuckles to push the buttons but this time I didn’t have to touch them at all. That’s even more important this time of year, when cold and flu season is on the way. How many people touch these things when they are sick or have sick kids that they’re taking care of? Never mind…I don’t even want to know!

When we took off to Atlanta to avoid Hurricane Irma, you can imagine how many pit stops I made with three girls in the car! It was perfect for the doors…no way am I touching that handle.

I even found another use for it. I hate it when there’s no hook to hang my purse so now I have my own portable hook. There’s a smaller latch on the other end of the Kooty Key that can be used to attach it to your purse (or belt loops for guys).

One thing I had questions about was the germs that would be on the Kooty Key after using it. I wouldn’t want to put it back in my purse if it had picked up germs from the ATM or bathroom door. I spoke directly to the inventor of the Kooty Key and found out that it has antimicrobial properties built right in. He shared how this new feature keeps the Kooty Key from harbouring dangerous microorganisms, bacteria and virus and doesn’t allow germs to spread.

Here are just a few of the places you can use the hook…

• Opening doors
• Flushing lever toilets
• Pulling slot machine levers (I think I need to plan a trip to Vegas to try this one out for myself!)
• Carrying shopping bags while on crutches or a walker

The rubber tip has plenty of uses too…

• ATM buttons
• Gas station pump key pads (the worst…I hate touching those)
• Check out register key pads
• Elevator buttons
• Vending machine buttons
• Pushing doors open
• Opening garbage cans

Kooty Keys are made from reinforced nylon plastic and strong enough to open doors up to 35lbs.

I won’t lie…I’m not going to miss touching those bathroom doors and I also love this as a purse hook! How will you use your Kooty Key to avoid germs?

You can easily find the Kooty Key on Amazon. Learn more about it what it can do by checking them out on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The post The Easy New Way To Avoid Germs appeared first on Fun Money Mom.

This post was sponsored by Nature Made® as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central.

Let’s face it, developing healthy habits can be hard.  That’s why it’s so important to start when we’re young.  While it may be too late for some of us past the “kid” years, we can make up for it by teaching our children to make smart choices.  Since we’re starting a new school year, there’s no better time than now, right?  I have two little ones and I’m hoping that these healthy habits stick with them for years to come!

Eating Fruits & Veggies

I try to get as many fruits and veggies into my girls’ diet as possible.  My girls see me eating a lot of them so that makes it a little easier.  I also try to keep fruits within easy reach so they’ll grab a banana before they grab that bag of chips.  Sometimes they will be a little stubborn about trying new veggies but I’ve learned one simple trick to get around that…hide them.  If I can inconspicuously hide them in some pasta or other meal, I will.  What they don’t know won’t hurt them, right?

Drinking Water

While I don’t mind giving my girls juice and other drinks, I do encourage them to drink water when they’re thirsty.  There’s really nothing healthier and it’s something I’m trying to do more of myself.  Want to know a secret?  The easiest way to get kids to drink water is to put them to bed!  At least that’s when mine suddenly become thirsty and make it seem like they won’t survive the night if I don’t bring them a glass of water immediately.

Getting Exercise

Technology makes this more challenging than ever.  My girls would sit on the couch watching TV and playing with tablets all day if I let them!  It’s up to me to get them out and about, whether it’s playing in the yard, going to the park or even going to the play area at the mall.  Lucky for us, daddy helps out with this one!

Washing Hands

Is it normal that the older I get, the more of a germophobe I become?  Anyway, I cringe when I see my kids holding a handrail or pushing an elevator button, then immediately touching their face…yuck!  I’m teaching them how important it is to wash their hands regularly and not just sticking them under running water for 2 seconds.  While I’ve read that you should wash your hands while singing “Happy Birthday” two times, my kids don’t have that much patience.  If they can get through the song once, that’s good enough for me.

Getting Enough Sleep

Kids need plenty of sleep and we’ve all seen the negative effects of when our children don’t get it.  I don’t know about you but I’ll take a happy child over a tired, grumpy one any day of the week!I actually googled how much sleep my girls should get and learned that they should be sleeping about 10-12 hours a night.  If they have trouble sleeping, just let them snuggle with a favorite teddy bear…if there’s room!

Brushing Those Teeth

I don’t know about your kids but mine would never remember to brush their teeth if I didn’t remind them…and remind them…and remind them!  I’m working hard to change that.  My four year old still has her baby teeth but my older daughter has almost all of her permanent teeth and we’d like to keep them.  They have been getting better and with enough nagging gentle reminders, maybe they’ll eventually remember on their own to brush twice a day.

Taking A Daily Multivitamin

It’s important to take a good multivitamin every day and I’ve got my girls are starting the school year on track with Nature Made® Kids First® Multivitamin Gummies.  Not only do they have 12 essential nutrients including vitamins A, B, C, D and E and minerals like iodine and zinc, they have no preservatives and are gluten free.  The colors are taken from natural sources and my girls love the all natural fruit flavors like orange, cherry and mixed berry.  The older they get, the more important it will be to take a daily vitamin so why not get them in the habit now.

Since I’m at Target on a regular basis (maybe a little too much, according to my hubby), I knew I could easily find them in the vitamin section.

My girls find them easy to chew and like that they come in gummy form.  I hope that taking Nature Made® Vitamins, along with the other healthy habits we’re working on, will stick with them for a long time to come!

What healthy habits are you trying to instill in your own children?  Do you find some easier than others?

Learn more about Nature Made® Vitamins by following them on Facebook and Twitter.  You can also check out Target on Facebook, Twitter and Pinterest.

†These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.

The post 7 Healthy Habits Your Kids Can Learn Right Now appeared first on Fun Money Mom.

Want to get a better night’s sleep?  These tips will help…plus, enter to win a Sleep Wellness Bundle that will have you feeling like you’re sleeping on cloud 9!

Thanks to Brentwood Homes for providing me with a Sleep Wellness Bundle to review.  As always, all opinions are 100% my own.

I never realized the importance of a good night’s sleep until I had my first baby and learned what sleep deprivation was all about!  Fortunately both of my girls are older now so they’re no longer waking me up in the middle of the night, except for the occasional bad dream.  However, if you’re having trouble sleeping and don’t even have a baby to blame it on, there are things you can do to change that.

Invest in a quality mattress and pillows

When I was single, way back in the day, I didn’t have a lot of extra money.  The last thing I wanted to do was spend it on an expensive mattress or pillows.  Cute shoes were far more important!  I think I paid about $200 for my first mattress and didn’t know any better.  Then I married my husband and we moved into a new house.  The first thing he did was spend what I thought was a crazy amount of money on a new mattress and pillows.  I had sticker shock at first but once I slept on it, I was amazed at the difference.  It was totally worth every cent!

We’re getting close to having to buy another mattress and this time I won’t bat an eye at investing in a good one.  The same goes for pillows.  I recently got the Sleep Wellness Bundle from Brentwood homes and absolutely love these pillows!

I’ve been sleeping on the Helena Latex Filled Pillow and it has easily become my favorite pillow.  It’s filled with a combination of 100% latex ribbons and silky smooth kapok fibers.  The latex adjusts to your movements, perfect for if you sleep in multiple positions at night.  It also has a zippered opening so you can add or remove fill for your perfect comfort level, though it was just right for me as is.  Not only that, the cover is 100% organic cotton and the pillow itself is Eco-institut Certified free of synthetic materials.

My hubby has been using the Carmel Latex Pillow and is just as happy with his pillow as I am with mine.  He likes that it gives him a firm supportive foundation and that the latex filling bounces right back, keeping the pillow shape.  Just like the Helena, it also has an organic cover and is free of synthetic materials.

I haven’t tried a Brentwood Home mattress yet but if the pillows are any indication, they are definitely worth checking out!  Want a Brentwood Home coupon to get 10% off?  Just use the code OURHOME to get your Brentwood Home discount.

Now here’s the best part!  I’ve teamed up with Brentwood Homes to help you sleep better at night with an awesome Sleep Wellness Giveaway.  Valued at $230, this Sleep Wellness Bundle includes two of the Helena Latex/Kapok Pillows and two Carmel Molded Latex Pillows.  Trust me, you’re going to want these!  Just scroll down to the end of the post to enter

Want more tips for getting a good night’s sleep?

Avoid alcohol and caffeine

It may be a given that you don’t want to drink caffeine at night but it’s best to start avoiding it earlier in the day so the effects have worn off by nighttime.  That glass of wine (or two) that you pour once the kids are in bed?  It may be relaxing but alcohol has been shown to interrupt your sleep cycle once you start snoozing.  You’re more likely to wake up in the middle of the night which is exactly what you’re trying to avoid.  Hmm…no wine at night?  I’ll have to work on that one.

Block out the noise

If every little noise wakes you up at night, block it out with a fan or white noise.  You don’t even need to buy an expensive white noise machine…just download a free app on your smartphone.

Expose your body natural light

It’s been scientifically proven that getting more natural light in the morning helps you to sleep better at night.  It resets your body clock and lets your body know that it’s time to start the day.  That sets your body clock in motion, making it easier for your body to wind down when it gets dark at night.

Nap 20 minutes or less

Most of us don’t have much time for napping but if you do, make it a short one.  Take 20 minutes or less or you’re body may be too wide awake when you try to sleep that night.

Stick to a sleep schedule

Try to get up and go to bed at the same time every day.  Your body will get used to this routine and it will be easier to fall asleep at the same time every night.  This includes not sleeping late on the weekends, though this may be one rule I have to break.

Get regular exercise

Regular exercise has been shown to help you sleep longer and more soundly.  However, if you get that workout in too close to bedtime, it could have you too wound up to fall asleep right away.  This varies per person though…some may be so worn out from the workout that they fall asleep right way.  Listen to your own body signals to see what works best for you.

Watch what you eat before bedtime

Eating rich or spicy foods before you go to bed can have a big impact on how well you sleep.  The same thing goes for heavy meals.  If you feel completely stuffed when you go to bed, it could definitely have an effect on how well you sleep.

Wind down for the last hour

Relax your body for the last hour before bedtime to get it ready for sleep mode.  Read a book, take a warm bath or find something else that relaxes you.  If you get rid of all the stress of the day before you get in bed, your body will thank you for it and reward you with better sleep.

Now, are you ready for the giveaway?  You won’t believe the difference it makes when you sleep on a pillow like this.  If you want to try one for yourself, just enter the contest below.  Good luck!
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Brentwood Home has more than just pillows and mattresses.  They have luxurious sheets as well as items for babies/kids and pets.  What’s at the top of your wish list?

The post 9 Simple Ways To Get A Better Night’s Sleep appeared first on Fun Money Mom.

It’s amazing what a difference seven days can make. After years of drinking coffee and red wine, find out how Smile Brilliant helped me get a whiter, brighter smile again!

I received a complimentary Smile Brilliant Whitening System in exchange for my honest review. As always, all opinions are completely my own.

Like most moms I know, I can’t live without my coffee and wine! Coffee gets me going in the morning when I need it most and I love relaxing with a glass of red wine when I finally get the kids to bed at night. The problem is that they both take a toll on my teeth and recently I noticed that mine weren’t quite as white as they used to be.

I’d  actually been thinking about having my teeth professionally whitened for awhile but the cheap frugal side of me felt guilty about spending that much money. Have you seen how much dentists charge for this? I just couldn’t bring myself to do it.

Smile Brilliant approached me to try out their whitening system at just the right time. I had a big conference coming up and definitely wanted to look my best. I did a little googling on Smile Brilliant and liked what I saw. They had gotten lots of great reviews and I wanted to see for myself just how well they worked.

Take that, coffee & wine! Smile Brilliant made my teeth white again in just 7 days! Enter now…
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The things I like best about Smile Brilliant (aside from getting whiter teeth, obviously) are that they’re not as expensive as going to the dentist for treatments and I could do it in the comfort of my own home. With two kids and a busy schedule, it’s hard enough to find the time to go in for my cleanings twice a year, much less schedule extra appointments!

It didn’t take long for my kit to come in the mail and I was ready to get started.

The first step was to make an impression of my teeth for the molds. I was a little worried about messing this part up (though they do send you extra materials in case you do). It turns out that I was worried for no reason because it was very easy to do. I got it right the first time around and shipped the impressions off to have the molds made. They provide the envelope so all I had to do was toss it in the mailbox and my molds arrived back at my house less than two weeks later.

The whitening process is so easy. First I added the whitening gel to the trays and put them in for an hour.

Then I rinsed the trays and added the desensitizing gel, leaving them in for about 20 minutes. When I’ve used whitening strips in the past, I had some sensitivity in my teeth. However, the Smile Brilliant gel really helped and I didn’t have that problem at all this time. I used the trays for about an hour a day for seven days and loved that I could see the difference so quickly. At the end of seven days, I did a comparison.

Smile Brilliant is definitely the way to go! Now I could have an amazing time at my conference and take all the pictures I wanted without feeling self-conscious about my teeth.

Do your teeth need a little TLC too? I’m excited to be able to give one reader their own Smile Brilliant Whitening System. It’s easy to enter…just fill out this short entry form with your name and e-mail address and you’re in. It doesn’t get much easier than that! Enter in the next two weeks and maybe you’ll be my lucky winner!

Enter to win a Smile Brilliant Whitening System

If I could give a Whitening System away to all of you, I’d totally do it! I’m pretty sure the people at Smile Brilliant aren’t going to let me do that, though. If you’d like to go ahead and order your own system, use the code FUNMONEYMOM5 to save 5%.

What do you eat or drink that takes a toll on your teeth? Do you get self conscious about your smile? How would a brighter smile make you feel more confident?

The post Smile Brilliant Review: How To Get Whiter Teeth In Just Seven Days appeared first on Fun Money Mom.

This post was sponsored by Nature Made as part of an Influencer Activation for Influence Central and all opinions expressed in my post are my own.

I wouldn’t consider myself vain (well, not any more than most women) but I definitely want to look my best. I try to take care myself and it gets even more important the older I get. Not that I’m old because we all know that 29 isn’t really that old, right? (wink, wink) However, I definitely think more about my health now than I did when I was younger, when all I thought about was which pair of cute shoes I should buy.

While it’s important to exercise and eat right to stay healthy, let’s face it…we all want to look our best! For me, that means taking care of my hair, skin and nails on a regular basis. One more thing to think about…just what a busy mom needs! The good thing is that Nature Made makes it easy!

If you read my blog regularly, you’ll know that I’m a big fan of Nature Made and use their products regularly. I even give my girls their multivitamins to supplement their diet. I trust them because I know they use quality ingredients, plus they’re the #1 pharmacist recommended brand.

Now I’ve discovered Nature Made Hair, Skin & Nails VitaMelts, which are full of biotin and vitamin C.  Biotin helps support healthy hair, skin and nails while the vitamin C helps by supporting collagen synthesis†. You get 5 key nutrients including copper, zinc and beta carotene. I found mine at Walmart but they are readily available at many other stores.

I also love that the tablets are small, dissolve quickly in your mouth and come in Strawberry Lemonade flavor. The fact that they’re so easy to take in the morning is definitely a bonus!

Another bonus? Now though April 9th, Nature Made Vitamins has partnered with Women’s and Men’s health to host a fun Facebook promotion. You can win prizes and be motivated to stay healthy at the same time. Just go to the Nature Made Facebook Page and find the sweepstakes posts for that weekly entry period. Complete the call-to-action by commenting on the post and you’ll be entered to win the featured prize. They’re giving away some pretty great prizes, including gift cards to Sephora, Blue Apron and Lululemon.

If you think those are great prizes, wait until you hear what else they’re giving away! Need some R&R? You can enter Nature Made’s sweepstakes for an awesome 4 day spa vacation! Just visit http://www.naturemade.com/oneup and submit the registration form. Wow…a spa vacation sounds pretty good to me!

More tips for supporting healthier hair, skin and nails

Skin Care Tips

• Take your make-up off before going to bed – It can clog your skin and cause breakouts
• Drink lots of water – Dehydration takes a toll on your skin is visibly noticeable.
• Always wear sunscreen – Have you seen “There’s Something About Mary”? ‘Nuff said!

Hair Care Tips

• Don’t wash your hair every day – Too much washing strips away your hair’s natural oils
• Don’t overuse hair dryers and styling appliances – They can damage and dry out your hair, causing breakage
• Use a comb, not a brush, for wet hair – Wet hair is weaker and a comb is more gentle than a brush

Nail Care Tips

• Don’t cut your cuticles – This breaks a seal of protection around the base of your nail that keeps bacteria out and protects from infection.
• Don’t use fast dry nail polish – It has stronger chemicals and more alcohol than regular polish, making it harsher on the nails.
• Moisturize – You moisturize your face, right? Your nails need it too and you can even use something as simple as olive oil.

If you follow these tips and remember to take Nature Made’s VitaMelts to support healthy hair, skin and nails, you’ll feel good knowing that you’re doing all you can to take care of yourself.

Learn more by visiting the Nature Made site.

† These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent disease.

The post 10 Important Things You Should Do For Your Hair, Skin And Nails appeared first on Fun Money Mom.

This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #SummerSkinReady #ChooseSkinHealth #CollectiveBias

Heading to the pool or beach this summer? Find out exactly what you need to include when you put together the ultimate beach bag.

When we lived in Atlanta, we didn’t get many house guests. However, that all changed when we moved to Florida. I’d like to think that it’s because our friends and family love us so much but the fact that we live near so many beautiful beaches may have a little something to do with it.

Usually when people visit, hanging by the pool or heading to the beach is a priority. I try to make sure they have everything they need so I’ve put together the perfect beach bag. Instead of scrambling around for sunscreen or towels, my guests will be ready to go at a moments notice.

Of course, the most important item for any beach bag is the sunscreen. It gets seriously hot here and you cannot visit the beaches without it. One thing I’ve discovered is that not all sunscreens are created equal…get the wrong kind and you just might regret it. Since I’ve used Neutrogena products for years, I know I can trust them and was excited to try out the Neutrogena Sheer Zinc® sunscreens. I picked up Sheer Zinc Face with SPF 50 because I like a little extra protection for my face. For everything else, Sheer Zinc with SPF 30 is perfect.

Another reason I trust these sunscreens is because they’ve been awarded the National Eczema Association Seal Of Acceptance for people with sensitive skin. These are the only sunscreens to feature breakthrough Purescreen technology with naturally sourced 100% zinc oxide. They’re also hypoallergenic, sweat and water resistant for up to 80 minutes and won’t clog your pores. I found mine in the sunscreen aisle at Target.

If you shop Target from May 21-27, you’ll get a great deal too! Purchase $15 in sun care products and Target will give you a $5 Target GiftCard. Since you probably just went in for one thing but ended up with a full cart, that Target GiftCard will come in handy!

Good sunscreen is so important but you need more than that to make the ultimate beach bag. Here’s what mine includes:

What to include in the ultimate beach bag

Towels This is a given right? How else are you going to dry off after splashing around in the pool or ocean?

Bluetooth Speaker Good tunes are a must and my little pink bluetooth speaker is perfect. It’s perfect for streaming your favorite music from your phone.

Reading Material I always throw in a couple local magazines so my guests can see what’s going on around town.

Sunglasses Most people bring their own but it’s always good to have extras on hand.

Snacks All that relaxing in the sun can make a person hungry.

Koozies These are a must-have because nobody wants warm drinks on the beach.

You can also throw in hats or visors, ponytail holders, lip balm or anything else that you think might come in handy.

What else would you pack in your ultimate beach bag?

Want to learn more about Neutrogena Sheer Zinc sunscreens and other products? Check them out on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter and YouTube.

The post How To Put Together The Ultimate Beach Bag appeared first on Fun Money Mom.

This is a sponsored post on behalf of Kooty Key. As always, all opinions are my own.

Never touch the door handles in a public restroom again! This touch free tool will help you avoid germs and stay healthy, especially during cold and flu season.

It happens to me all the time. I’m in a public restroom with no paper towels, so when I go to open the door, I struggle with what to do. I get that they are trying to be environmentally friendly but no way am I touching that dirty door handle. Usually I end up using the bottom of my shirt while struggling not to show off too much skin as I go out the door. That’s why when I heard about the Kooty Key, that was the first thing that came to mind. Developed by a traveling saleman who constantly found himself in similar situations, he decided there had to be a better way and took matters into his own hands.

He did this by creating a multi-functional tool to help people avoid germs in public places. I don’t know about you but the older I get (or maybe it’s just since I’ve had kids), the more of a germaphobe I’ve become. Not that I’ve gone totally crazy but when I hit an elevator button or touch the rails going up a flight of stairs, a little voice in the back of my head tells me that a gazillion other people have touched that same thing and now I’m picking up all their kooties germs.

That’s the great thing about the Kooty Key! I recently tried one for myself and found a lot of situations where it came in handy. My first stop was the ATM. I usually use my knuckles to push the buttons but this time I didn’t have to touch them at all. That’s even more important this time of year, when cold and flu season is on the way. How many people touch these things when they are sick or have sick kids that they’re taking care of? Never mind…I don’t even want to know!

When we took off to Atlanta to avoid Hurricane Irma, you can imagine how many pit stops I made with three girls in the car! It was perfect for the doors…no way am I touching that handle.

I even found another use for it. I hate it when there’s no hook to hang my purse so now I have my own portable hook. There’s a smaller latch on the other end of the Kooty Key that can be used to attach it to your purse (or belt loops for guys).

One thing I had questions about was the germs that would be on the Kooty Key after using it. I wouldn’t want to put it back in my purse if it had picked up germs from the ATM or bathroom door. I spoke directly to the inventor of the Kooty Key and found out that it has antimicrobial properties built right in. He shared how this new feature keeps the Kooty Key from harbouring dangerous microorganisms, bacteria and virus and doesn’t allow germs to spread.

Here are just a few of the places you can use the hook…

• Opening doors
• Flushing lever toilets
• Pulling slot machine levers (I think I need to plan a trip to Vegas to try this one out for myself!)
• Carrying shopping bags while on crutches or a walker

The rubber tip has plenty of uses too…

• ATM buttons
• Gas station pump key pads (the worst…I hate touching those)
• Check out register key pads
• Elevator buttons
• Vending machine buttons
• Pushing doors open
• Opening garbage cans

Kooty Keys are made from reinforced nylon plastic and strong enough to open doors up to 35lbs.

I won’t lie…I’m not going to miss touching those bathroom doors and I also love this as a purse hook! How will you use your Kooty Key to avoid germs?

You can easily find the Kooty Key on Amazon. Learn more about it what it can do by checking them out on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

The post The Easy New Way To Avoid Germs appeared first on Fun Money Mom.

This post was sponsored by C9 Champion. As always, all opinions are my own (and I seriously do love these workout clothes!)

Whether you’ve been working out for years or just signed your first gym membership, there are certain workout essentials that you just shouldn’t live without. Find out what you need to keep you motivated, healthy and feeling good about yourself.

I wasn’t one of those moms who cried when her daughter went off to Kindergarten. For one thing, my little Keira was so excited that I couldn’t help but be excited for her! She couldn’t wait to go to school with her big sis and I knew she was going to love it (though it turns out that she’s NOT a big fan of getting up early).

The other reason I didn’t cry? I was finally going to be able to accomplish something during the day. I could work on my blog for more than ten minutes at a time, schedule doctor’s  appointments, get my hair done and I was finally going to be able to work out regularly again. Maybe I’m a little selfish but I knew that this was going to be good for both of us.

Getting back into workout mode wasn’t easy but I’m slowly making progress. Of course, there are certain workout essentials that make things easier. Whether you’ve been working out for years or just getting started, you’ve probably got your own list of workout essentials too. Do they match mine? Keep reading to find out!

Great Workout Clothes (and they have to be cute!)

I have three requirements for workout clothes. They have to be good quality, comfortable to wear and they must be cute. I’ve got all three wrapped up into one with the C9 Champion® line.

C9 Champion® Embrace Run Tights

I am totally in love  with these C9 Champion Embrace Run Tights! What’s not to love? They’re stylish, made well and most of all, so comfy! I like that they’re snug without being too tight and they feel very lightweight when you’re wearing them. Not only that, they’re made with performance compression fabric and the Duo Dry+ absorbs moisture and dries fast. Plus, I love the iridescent design and the bonus zip pocket at the lower back that’s perfect for holding my house key.

C9 Champion® Medium Support Power Core Compression Racerback Bra

You can’t work out without a good sports bra and the matching C9 Champion Medium Support Power Core Compression Racerback Bra is next on my list.

With Power Core Compression fabric providing medium support, this sports bra is perfect for cycling, dance, cardio and more. Like the tights, it also uses Duo Dry+ to absorb moisture and dry quickly. It’ll hit Target stores on November 5th at the budget friendly price of $16.99.

C9 Champion® Tech Fleece Full Zip

Finally, fall gets chilly, even in Florida. I don’t do cold (that’s the whole reason we moved south) so there will be mornings when I need a jacket. The C9 Champion Tech Fleece Full Zip couldn’t be more perfect for my workout.

Because it’s so lightweight and breathable, this fleece keeps me warm without feeling too hot.  As a bonus, Champion has added thumbholes in the sleeves and it’s slightly longer in the back for extra coverage. I absolutely love how soft and comfy it is too! While it’s great for a workout, I may just have to get a second one for everyday wear.

All three of these, and more from the collection, can be found in Target and on Target.com. Most are available now and the sports bra hits stores November 5th. They come in a wide range of sizes from XS-2XL

While good workout clothes are important, there are a few other things you’ll probably want too!

Music

Good music is a must have for me and without it, it’s hard for me to get motivated! I have a workout list on my phone that I change out and add to routinely. Some songs are always there…how can you NOT have a little more spring in your step when Pitbull comes on. Others are more recent. Over the last year I’ve become a huge Ed Sheeran fan and have every one of his uptempo songs on my workout list. Whether you like rock, country, pop or something else, the right music will get you pumped and ready to go!

Bluetooth Headphones

I’ve had these headphones for years and can’t live without them! Since they work via bluetooth, there are no wires flopping around and getting in my way. I can also control the volume and fast forward through songs just by pushing a couple of buttons above my ear. I did forget to charge them once and I realized how much of a workout essential they really were. It’s just not the same at all when the sound is coming from your phone speaker (and it’s probably bad etiquette to blast your music for all to hear at the gym).

Running Shoes

You can’t go running without the right shoe, right? Make sure that you’ve got a running shoe with plenty of support. Since I don’t know all that much about running shoes, I rely on the experts. I  shop at stores where I know the salespeople are knowledgeable and can help me find the shoe that’s just right for me.

Water

Every expert will tell you to drink lots of water when you work out. I used to love working out on my treadmill because I’d always have my water right there in front of me (and a fan…and a TV…I was a little spoiled!). Now I just make sure to drink plenty before and after my workout. It’s not hard because when I’m done with a run, I’m THIRSTY! Now, if I could just make myself drink more water throughout the day I’ll be doing great!

When I have all these workout essentials, I know it’s going to be a great workout. From the right clothes to the music that gets me pumped up every time, I need every single one of these things. Do you agree with my list? What essentials would you add to the list?

Want to learn more about C9 Champion products? Follow them on Facebook, Twitter, Instagram and Pinterest.

Head over to BeautifulBudgetLife.com to win some C9 Champion gear of your own, along with a $50 Target Gift Card to buy even more workout gear.

If you enjoyed this post, you may want to check this one out too…

7 Things Not To Forget When You Go Back To School Shopping

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When I was told I had plantar fasciitis, I was none too happy to be told that I’d have to change the type of shoes I was wearing. That was until I discovered these sandals! Check out my Kuru Footwear review to learn why these have just become my new favorite shoes.

Kuru provided me with shoes in exchange for this review but my love for these sandals is 100% my own!

It’s always something! I had just started running regularly again and was killing it. That’s why, when I started feeling pain in my right foot, I totally ignored it. I’m pretty stubborn (just ask my hubby) so I ran again the next day. It was little more painful but no pain, no gain, right? After running again a third day and then a fourth, the pain progressively got worse and I realized that I might actually need to get it checked out.

It turned out that I had plantar fasciitis. This was terrible timing because I had three press trips in a row coming up, two of which would require a lot of walking! Next I got even more bad news…I couldn’t wear my cute shoes anymore. The cute black flip flops/sandals that I’d worn practically every day since we’d moved to Florida had to go. I needed more supportive footwear.

Originally I was told that I should wear sneakers every day but sneakers with cute shorts and sundresses don’t work for me (yes, there’s that stubborn side again). I knew I could find a happy medium. I did some research online and after checking out a lot of different sites, I came across Kuru footwear.

Kuru Footwear Review

Kuru Footwear has shoes that are designed for people diagnosed with plantar fasciitis. These shoes can also help with arch support, heel pain and more. I learned that the cutting edge Kurusole hugs the heels to keep them better aligned and balanced. While other shoes flatten the fat cushion in the heel, Kuru moves with each step to keep it just where it should be. In regular terms, these shoes were going to be good for my feet.

Kuru makes everything from sneakers, ballet style flats and loafers but this Florida girl was going  straight for the sandals. My favorites were the Sling and the Kala Women’s Sandals because they were so much cuter than other supportive shoes I’d seen on other sites.  Both styles had great reviews but in the end, the Kala Sandals won out and I ordered a pair in black and another in white.

Do I like them? No, I LOVE them! I wore them on all my trips and they were so comfortable. By comfortable, I mean that I walked for three days straight at the Universal theme parks and my foot never once bothered me. Not being able to enjoy the trip because of foot pain had been my biggest fear but thanks to Kuru, it wasn’t an issue.

Originally, I was just going to wear these until I could go back to my old shoes but that never happened. These have become my new go-to shoes and I wear them pretty much every day of the week. When I went to Punta Cana last month, they couldn’t have been more perfect for the beach!

When I’m ready to run again (I’m so close), I may just have try out a pair of Kuru sneakers. These sandals have been so comfy that I can only imagine the sneakers are just as good. Since they’re a lot better for my feet than my old ones, maybe I can avoid getting plantar fasciitis again. Once was one too many times for me!

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This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #BigelowTea #TeaProudly #CollectiveBias

Want to help a sick friend or family member feel better? This Get Well Gift Basket with homemade chicken soup will perk them right up!

Click on the image for easy shopping

Being sick is the pits! When I taught Kindergarten, it seemed like I had a cold or worse every other week, especially this time of year. Things are a lot better now that I don’t work with five year olds every day but I still remember how it felt.

That’s why I’m putting together Get Well Gift Baskets for friends and family when they get sick. It’ll include all the things that always make me feel better when I’m sick, from homemade chicken noodle soup to hot Bigelow Tea.

January is Hot Tea Month and it’s the perfect drink for cold and flu season.  I love hot tea anyway but when I’m sick, it always warms me up and soothes my scratchy throat. I knew it would be perfect for my gift basket. With shopping list in hand, I went to Walmart to pick up what I needed. There’s nothing I can’t find at Walmart and I knew they’d have everything on my list.

My first stop was the tea aisle where I headed straight for the Bigelow Tea. Bigelow has tons of flavors to choose from and it took me a few minutes to narrow it down. Did I want the Mint Medley, Green Tea With Pomegranate, Orange & Spice…decisions, decisions! In the end I went with the Lemon Ginger With Probiotics and Green Tea.

I chose these Bigelow Teas for my gift basket because they’re the ones that I’d pick out for myself. I really like the flavor of the lemon and ginger combined in one tea. Plus, the Lemon Ginger With Probiotics not only supports healthy digestion, it’s all natural and caffeine free. The Bigelow Green Tea is also all natural and packed with healthy antioxidants. These were going to be perfect.

Sidenote: Want to know what’s even more perfect? Winning a $475 Cozy Up Gift Package! Scroll to the bottom to find out how you can win the Grand Prize or one of many $150 prizes.

Get Well Gift Basket

I had the tea but my basket needed more than just tea and soup, right? I added two more things that are a must-have for any sick person…tissues and cough drops.

A hot bath always makes me feel better when I’m sick. I threw in some lavender salts and a magazine. I also threw in a succulent, just because it was pretty!

While not technically a basket, I loved this chalkboard box because I could personalize it however I wanted.

Now that my gift basket was finished, I poured a quick cup of tea for myself before I got started on the Chicken Noodle Soup.

Homemade Chicken Noodle Soup

Every sick person should have a bowl of chicken noodle soup. It’s good for the soul, right? I love this recipe because it’s so easy to make and really flavorful! Did I mention that it’s easy?

Start by cutting up some carrots, celery and onions. My five year old loves to watch me cut onions…she thinks it’s funny that they make me cry. I MIGHT be guilty of playing it up a little, just to entertain her.

You’ll also need egg noodles and chicken. I used a rotisserie chicken (the easiest) but you could cook a boneless chicken breast instead.

After gathering the rest of my ingredients, heat a tablespoon of olive oil in a stock pot and add the carrots.

Sautee the carrots for two minutes over medium heat, then add celery and onions. Stir in garlic, basil, thyme and oregano and sautee until vegetables are cooked through, about five minutes.

Add broth and bring to a boil. Boil egg noodles for 7-9 minutes, then stir in chicken and cook until warmed through. Easy right? Your soup is ready to eat!

My family loves this homemade chicken noodle soup and my girls eat every last drop whenever I make it. Any recipe that gets them to eat their veggies willingly is a winner in my book!

Chicken soup may be good for you when you’re sick, but it’s not bad when you’re healthy either!

You can even pair it up with your favorite Bigelow Tea.

This was the last thing I needed for my Get Well Gift Basket. I added a small bag of crackers on the side.

The Perfect Gift For A Sick Friend

I put everything in a cute box, added a couple bows and the basket was ready to go.

Is it bad that I want one for myself and I’m not even sick? If you love cheering up your friends and family when they’re under the weather, this is perfect way to do it!
#TeaProudly #Sweepstakes (1/16 to 2/28)

Have you ever made a gift basket for a sick friend? What makes you feel better when you’re feeling under the weather?

Want to learn more about Bigelow Tea? Follow them on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.

If you enjoyed this post, you might want to check these out…

 Pesto Zucchini Noodles With Chicken And Mushrooms

Cheesy Turkey Meatballs With Spinach

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Have a sick child but can’t make it to the doctor’s office? Find out how you can use Amwell online doctor visits to get medical advice from the convenience of your own home.

When my 5 year old daughter got off the bus crying and complaining of a tummy ache, I was worried. This year’s flu season is particularly bad and we’ve been crossing our fingers that nobody gets sick. Even though we’ve all gotten the flu shot, you just never know. After about an hour, things got worse and Keira started vomiting. She definitely had something…I just wasn’t sure what it was.

Luckily she didn’t have a temperature so I set her up on the couch with a blanket, teddy, water and her favorite shows. About an hour later she vomited again. I thought about urgent care but the poor thing was already having such a hard time. I didn’t want to make her more uncomfortable by dragging her to urgent care, where we’d just sit in a waiting room until someone had time to see her.

Amwell Online Doctor Visits

I decided to try an Amwell online doctor visit instead. I’d recently heard about Amwell and wanted to give it a try. As the largest telehealth company, I’d be able to have a live, online visit with board certified, licensed doctors. The best part was that I could do it from the comfort of our home. Skip the germy waiting room? I’m in!

I jumped on my computer (you can use your phone too) and downloaded the app. I used Google Play but you can also download Amwell from the Apple App Store. Using the code MOM36 will allow you to take 25% off an urgent care visit through December 31, 2018.

I love that Amwell is accessible 24 hours a day so that if my child wakes up sick at 4am, we don’t have to wait until morning to talk to a doctor. Not only do the Amwell doctors provide medical advice, they can even write prescriptions and have them sent to the pharmacy of your choice.

It was easy to register. I entered my name, address and insurance information. There was also an option to enter past medical history. Keira didn’t really have any but this would be especially useful for those that have chronic conditions.

Once I was in the system, I was able to select from a list of doctors, all with bios listed. I found one whose bio I liked, though I also had the option to choose from first available. I selected her and waited until she was available. It only took about 5 minutes, much less time than our usual doctor’s visits.

The doctor was knowledgeable and professional. I described Keira’s symptoms and we discussed what could be wrong. While she explained that it was too soon to know for sure if Keira did or didn’t have the flu, she told me what symptoms to look for and what I could do for Keira in the meantime. It felt just like I was in our regular doctor’s office. In the end Keira didn’t have the flu but being able to talk to a doctor about it made me feel a whole lot better.

I love how convenient it was to use Amwell from the comfort of my own home. It was such a relief to be able to keep Keira comfortable, yet still be able to talk with a certified doctor about what might be wrong. It really gave me peace of mind and I’ll definitely be using the Amwell doctors again.

The bonus was that not only were prices reasonable, Amwell even accepted my insurance. They treat a lots of different conditions, too. We can consult them for minor health issues, general concerns, prescription refills and even to manage chronic conditions. They also have more than just primary care physicians and specialists. If the need arises, we can consult with licensed behavioral therapists, dietitians and more.

Take 25% Off Your Next Amwell Visit

If you’re a busy mom like me, you’ll appreciate the convenience of Amwell as much as I did! Urgent care visits are $59 but if you have a qualifying health insurance plan, you’ll pay even less. Want to try it out for yourself? Use my code MOM36 to take 25% off an urgent care visit (good through 12/31/18).

To find out more about Amwell online doctor visits, follow them on social media: Facebook | Twitter | Instagram | Pinterest | YouTube

Compensation was provided by Amwell via Momtrends.  The opinions expressed herein are those of the author and are not indicative of the opinions of Amwell or Momtrends.

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This shop has been compensated by Collective Bias, Inc. and its advertiser. All opinions are mine alone. #TryALittleGoodness #CollectiveBias #cbias

I’ve always been a pretty healthy eater.  While I’ve enjoyed the occasional cookie or bowl of ice cream, I’ve generally made good choices.  However, since I’ve been making recipes for my blog, I’ve had a lot of things in my pantry that never would have been there before.  There have been times when I look for something to snack on and the first thing I see is the open bag of chocolate chips…what’s a girl to do?  I reach in, planning just to grab a couple of course, but we all know how that usually works out!  Those mini-marshmallows?  I couldn’t help it…they were screaming my name!

My other problem comes when I sit down to watch a show with my hubby.  He’s blessed with the gift of being able to eat anything he wants without any consequences…life is so unfair sometimes!  If he sits down with a box of crackers or bag of chips, I can’t help but reach over and grab a handful too.

Lately I’ve realized that I’m eating WAY too much junk food and I really need go back to smarter snacking again!  I’m starting by keeping better snack options on hand.  Now when I hear that little growl in my stomach, I just grab one of these yummy treats.

1. goodnessknows® snack squares

This snack comes with the tagline “Goodness to Greatness” and is my newest awesome discovery!  Not only are goodnessknows® snack squares free of artificial colors, flavors or sweeteners, you won’t find any of the dreaded high fructose corn syrup that seems to be in everything these days!  They’re really easy to find too…just look in the checkout aisle at Walmart.

I definitely feel like I’m treating myself when I have the goodnessknows® Cranberry, Almond, Dark Chocolate variety…how can you possibly go wrong with those ingredients?!  You can also try the goodnessknows® Apple, Almond & Peanut, Dark Chocolate variety and goodnessknows® Peach & Cherry, Almond, Dark Chocolate.  Not only are they a great snack for around the house, you can easily throw them in your purse for those days when you’re on the go.  That way you’ll be less tempted to get that croissant at the coffee shop (okay, maybe that’s just me).

2. Peanut Butter & Celery

I am a huge fan of peanut butter!  I eat it so much that when my daughter made a “fill-in-the-blank” Mother’s Day card for me in Kindergarten, she saw the question “My mommy smells like _____”,  and wrote in peanut butter.   I guess it could have been worse, right?  I love the freshly ground all-natural peanut butter and it tastes great on celery.  Occasionally I even throw some raisins on top and enjoy the old “Ants On A Log” recipe that I loved as a kid!

3. Almonds

This is another great go-to snack.  There are a few types to choose from but I always go for the traditional raw almonds.  If you look on any list of healthy snacks to eat, almonds are almost always near the top!  They’re healthy, filling and delicious…a perfect combination.

4. Apples

If you’re in the mood for something a little sweeter, try an apple!  Because they have so much fiber, you’ll feel full much longer and therefore be less likely to grab those cookies.  I’m not sure if it it’s true that an apple a day keeps the doctor away but it can’t hurt, right?

5. Popcorn

When you’re in the mood for a salty snack, this is a healthier alternative to chips or crackers.  I always buy the 94% fat free…I feel better about eating it and honestly, I can’t really tell the difference anyway.  Want in on a little secret?  When we go to the movies, my hubby and I always ask for extra popcorn salt (the orange kind).  What we don’t use there, we bring home and save for our microwave popcorn. Popcorn salt hoarding (if that’s a thing) may be a silly habit but it sure does make for some delicious popcorn!

I’m not saying that I’ll never have a bowl of ice cream or piece of cheesecake again but for regular everyday snacking, I’m going to stick to these!

I may have to arm wrestle my husband for the goodnessknows® snack squares though…he loves them too.  Which of the three flavors would you most like to try?

Visit YouTube for more goodness to greatness stories! (They made me giggle!)

 

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“This post was sponsored by Ulta as part of a Blog Blast Activation for Influence Central. I received complimentary products and compensation to facilitate my review

I refuse to get older!  Okay, while I definitely don’t want to stop having birthdays (first, I live for any excuse to share a bottle of wine with my friends…second, it beats the alternative), I can still take care of myself and do my best not to LOOK any older!

While most of us remember to use moisturizer every every day and to at least try to eat healthy and exercise, sometimes we forget that we need to take care of our hair too.  Those of us who color our hair sometimes find ourselves doing it even more as we get older (when those gray hairs eventually come in, I just don’t want to know).  Since we’re constantly exposing our hair to harsh chemicals, it gets stripped of it’s natural luster and is also prone to damage.  That’s why it’s really important to use good hair products so that beautiful hair doesn’t have to be part of the “good-old-days”.  Your hair can still look just as gorgeous as it did when you were 20…even though we all know that was only 9 years ago, right?

If you’re trying to combat the signs of aging, you’ll love the Living Proof Timeless Collection!  Available only at Ulta Beauty, this collection includes not only shampoo, conditioner and plumping mousse but it includes a pre-shampoo treatment as well.  This treatment contains natural amino acids, proteins and more to strengthen, fortify and smooth your hair (especially great if your hair tends to get frizzy like mine).  I also love that it’s formulated specifically for color treated hair!

Don’t just take my word for it.  Check out the Ulta Beauty site to learn even more about the benefits of using this Living Proof Timeless Collection.  You can also find them on Facebook and Twitter.

How have you found that your hair has changed as you’ve gotten older?

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