From another report about poisoned toys coming from China: "Customs and Border Protection officers assigned to the Port Everglades Trade Enforcement Team seized over 3,500 toys in two separate merchandise seizures entering Port Everglades from China, the agency said on Friday..." "The federal officers also made another seizure at Port Everglades involving 1,440 toy soldiers also coming from China. Officials from the Consumer Product Safety Commission tested the toys and determined that these toy soldiers contained excessive lead in the paint and were in violation of the lead paint ban as they posed lead poisoning hazard." If you home school like we do, you are shielded from the peer driven and media driven demand for this plastic stuff.  Sure, we would like to have some of this otherwise neat stuff... but our love for the Chinese people who suffer under communism far outweighs our desire to amuse ourselves. While most Americans have probably forgotten the Chinese toys of death scare from 2007... below is a repost that explains my sentiments: Chinese "Date Rape" Beads of Death The Herald Tribune is reporting that "Aqua Dots" Chinese-made children's toys contain the 'date rape' drug. Scientists say a chemical coating on the beads, when ingested, metabolizes into the so-called date rape drug gamma hydroxy butyrate. When eaten, the compound — made from common and easily available ingredients — can induce unconsciousness, seizures, drowsiness, coma and death. Could this Chinese toy thing get any stranger?  Lead, asbestos, gamma hydroxy butyrate... could they try any harder to make this look like a sinister communist plot to kill American children? We have long boycotted Chinese made products -- yes, it is possible.  It takes more time shopping and sometimes we go home empty handed.  But, like most Americans, who needs more stuff?  As someone who loves toys, those three little words - Made in China - sure help us save a lot of money.  Try it; just put the stuff back on the shelf. Our little family is like a chorus going through a toy store: "Made in China", "Made in China", "Made in China".  I believe those are the first words most of our children learned to read -- dad's homeschool of consumer awareness.  Our little boycott started, not because of consumer safety reasons, but because the communists represent real evil in this world.  Christians are persecuted in China.  Political freedom is suppressed.  Individual expression is punished.  Information is controlled by the state.  Every industry profits from slave labor (through forced labor of political prisoners in energy and mining).  And, women are forced to have abortions. Also, a portion of every dollar that goes to China gets invested into the PLA (Peoples Liberation Army), China's military, which is engaged in a great strategic expansion in anticipation of the coming conflict with the United States.  Historically, China views the United States as an enemy.  All of their military build-up is targeted at countering the United States -- anti-satellite weapons to target our communications, blue water navy and submarines to counter our aircraft carriers, hacking to disrupt our information infrastructure, anti-surface missiles to counter our navy, short and medium range missiles to target Taiwan and US bases in Asia, ICBM's to target American cities. Please pray that this coming conflict does not come to pass.  Pray that the communist government of China would be destroyed and freedom would come to the Chinese people.  Too long have they suffered under the suppression of totalitarian government (at key historical points reinforced by western powers).  In 1989 brave individuals stood up for political reform in China, the result was death and prison for thousands.  The west largely ignored these tyrannical acts and expanded trade relations with China.  Trade has done little since then to give the Chinese people political freedom.  Instead, the power of the communist dictators has been reinforced and strengthened by the influx of western cash. Please stop giving your cash to China; instead give them your prayers and determination to see them free to worship Christ as you do.  Don't you think that is a better lesson for your children then that plastic (and perhaps lead painted) toy?

Everyone in my family is fighting off a nasty cold. I imagine we caught it at church last week. It’s hit everyone except Dad. I think he’s hoping he catches it so he can play hooky for a few days. We rarely get sick in our house since we changed our eating habits three years ago. I even had to look up our favorite chicken soup recipe that everyone likes when they’re sick. I hadn’t made it in a very, long time. This is our version of cold medicine. I try not to give my family any over the counter medications unless it is really necessary. With the newest recall on Dimetapp and other phenylephrine products, I’m thankful I don’t. Sometimes we tend to overmedicate our bodies instead of letting it heal itself. Every sniffle and cough does not need to be medicated. If the cough is so bad that it is keeping my kids up all night I will use a cough syrup. I also like to use Vicks Vapor rub on their chests to help clear up some congestion. I use extra pillows and prop them up so they have better drainage while they sleep. It helps my little ones sleep better. So, I thought I would share my chicken soup recipe. It’s nothing magical, but it is the ultimate comfort food when you’re sick. Chicken Soup - Cold Medicine 1 whole chicken 1/2 cup water 2 tbsp black peppercorns 2 bay leaves 1/2 cup whole, baby carrots 1 whole onion, chopped into quarters 1 celery stock, chopped Place all in a crockpot and let it cook overnight on low. Next morning, remove chicken and let it cool. Shred the chicken and set aside half of it for another meal. Strain the chicken stock, discarding all the remaining veggies and place strained stock into a large pot. Add veggies of your choice and the shredded chicken I like to add: whole baby carrots red potatoes snow peas shredded cabbage broccoli cauliflower spinach (added right before serving) cilantro garlic Italian seasoning salt and pepper Bring up a boil, then bring down to a simmer and cook until the veggies are tender. I always add the quick cooking veggies after the potatoes and carrots are tender so they do not get overcooked.  There was an actual study done on chicken soup as a remedy for colds. They concluded that chicken soup has anti-inflammatory benefits. Grandma always knows best. Post from: Homeschool Fitness Coach

Salmonella poisoning is not a laughing matter.  The salmonella bacteria attacks the stomach and intestines. In more serious cases, the bacteria may enter the lymph tracts, which carry water and protein to the blood, and the blood itself. The bacteria attack all age groups and both sexes. Children, the elderly and people who are already ill are much more likely to get a serious infection. Symptoms of salmonella poisoning are diarrhea, constipation, headaches, stomach cramps, nausea and vomitting, fever and blood in the feces.  Some cases of salmonella need to be treated with antibiotics.  Recently, there has been a huge recall on products that contain peanuts.  Thankfully, Prograde nutrition products are not on that list, but you might be surprised at what products are.  I’ve included the link here to the FDA’s list of recalled products: http://www.accessdata.fda.gov/scripts/peanutbutterrecall/index.cfm Keep you and your family safe. Post from: Homeschool Fitness Coach

So by now you’ve probably heard that Olympic champion Michael Phelps has gotten himself into a little bit of hot (bong) water. I felt I couldn’t let this opportunity slip by without sharing some lessons from his mishap. First, we all have to remember that we’re role models. Somebody somewhere is looking up to us for guidance. It’s a shame Michael Phelps screwed up, but he did. What’s done is done. I know it reminded me that as a fitness pro, I MUST lead by example. Second, again, he screwed up. He’s young and there will be many more mistakes and misjudgments in his future.  And while I’m not one to give people a million chances, I do believe in second chances. And forgiveness. Which, when it comes to melting fat and getting fit, is VERY important. I can tell you from experience working with hundreds of people with similar goals to yours, you WILL screw up somewhere along the way. The key to success is to forgive yourself and move forward. The people who truly fail are the ones that just give up the first time they make a mistake. Third, this has nothing to do with what Michael Phelps has recently done, but it’s another great reminder. If you want a lean, hard body and 6 pack abs, or just to be fitter and healthier, you’re going to need to WORK. Regardless of his recent actions Michael Phelps is an Olympic Champ because he worked his rear end off. Don’t fool yourself into thinking achieving your fitness goals is going to be a piece of cake. Fourth, much was made during the Olympics of Michael Phelps and the massive amounts of calories he was consuming. If YOU want to get into peak condition you need the proper nutrition. Period. Look, if you’re not eating enough fruits and vegetables you need a Whole Foods based multi like Prograde Nutrition’s VGF 25+ http://InspirationFitness.getprograde.com/vgf If you aren’t optimizing your workouts by refueling with the correct blend of carbs to protein (based on the research) then you need to start using Prograde Workout   http://InspirationFitness.getprograde.com/workout) like I do. Anyway, when you see a news story like this one involving Michael Phelps, always remember to look for the positive lessons you can learn. PS - If you’re serious about your training and want the best nutritional products, then use what I use - Prograde Nutrition http://InspirationFitness.getprograde.com) Post from: Homeschool Fitness Coach

It is a beautiful day in NW Indiana! The girls are all outside enjoying the sunshine while I attempt to get some work done. I just finished running around town looking for some businesses to do some cross promotions with my boot camps. Met a lot of interesting individuals. I was disappointed to find out that I am unable to put little yard signs up anywhere as it is a zone violation. Phooey! I am currently advertising on the local Christian radio station but it hasn’t been very fruitful. I worked out with my 9 am boot camp class. The last day of camp in March we did a Meltdown 300 Challenge and I recorded everyone’s scores on our blog. So, today, being the last day of camp in April, we did the challenge again to see if they could beat their original time. It has been fun watching everyone push themselves and beat their scores. I took the challenge with them and really pushed them hard. We all had great finishing times. Here was the workout: 25 V-ups 50 1 arm swings (25 each arm) 25 Push Ups (manly style - no knees allowed!) 50 swings 50 Burpees 50 Clean and Presses (25 each arm) 50 Mountain Climbers Finish for time My time was 10:31 Can you beat that? I was really excited that this week my grocery bill was only $82.54. I get frustrated that a lot of the coupons and deals that I see posted on different blogs are for processed foods that I would never buy; however, I have found great deals on health and beauty products. I always believed that eating healthier cost more, but in reality, I am able to feed my family healthy meals without all the processed frankenfoods and do it cheaper. I am looking forward to the local Farmer’s Market and food stands that will be opening up soon. Fruit and veggies galore out here in the Midwest. I still need to get into my garden and plant my Spring crops. We’ve had so much rain lately that the soil is soggy. Ugh! I want to plant my sugar snap peas, spinach and lettuce soon. I love getting my hands dirty. LOL Post from: Homeschool Fitness Coach

I had a marvelous time at the IAHE Convention. I didn’t get to meet any of you so that made me a little sad, but perhaps next time. I spent a good portion of the convention listening in on Woody Robertson, of College Plus!, explain how to get your B.A. by the time your 18. My teenager and soon to be junior high daughters are absolutely excited. I’ve never seen them work so diligently before. LOL I also purchased My Father’s World for my two little ones. I am a huge fan of Sonlight, but I have never liked their Kindergarten core. So, I bit the bullet and tried a new one. I will return to Sonlight for the following year. I have been doing really well with the Super Conditioning Challenge. Last Sunday I did 200 burpees in 9:31. I was so excited! I have also been very good at keeping my grocery bill under $150 each week. Today I only spent $86.24! Woot! It really helps when you don’t buy all the processed junk in the store. My purchases are all for meats, veggies, fruits, and dairy products. I hit a really good sale last week on the milk. Wise Way was selling almost expired milk for $1.49 a gallon. I bought 4 and froze them in the deep freezer. I won’t have to buy milk for quite some time. Yay! I also got a case of cheese blocks, all different kinds, for $10. I put those all in the freezer and just take a block out and stick it in the fridge about 2 days before I need it. I would love to hear what you ladies do to save money on the grocery bill. Hugs~~ Post from: Homeschool Fitness Coach

Ladies and Gentlemen,Drop what you're doing. Take 5 minutes to enter this giveaway. You will be THRILLED when you win! The WheelyCow and WheelyBugs are premiering TODAY on Tori and Dean (http://tori-and-dean.oxygen.com/), and this giveaway was scheduled to coincide with the premier! WheelyCows and WheelyBugs retail for $79.99 plus tax on the Prince Lionheart website, but thanks to Prince Lionheart, you can WIN one from the Vaagen Family!Prince Lionheart was so generous to share their WheelyCow with my family! I believe my two year old has been on it ever since it came in the mail 2 months ago! She asks if she can sit on it to eat!This amazing ride-on toy is unlike any other I've seen!! And with 4 kids, I have seen my share of ride-on toys! I'd love to share some of my favorite things about the WheelyCow:1. The wheels GLIDE. They don't leave marks on my hardwood floors! 2. The WheelyCow is QUIET! Even when my little 4 year old rides on it... and that happens very often! No more wondering if it is thundering outside, or if the house is falling down, or if the world is ending when my girls ride through the house!!3. Easy to clean! The WheelyCow is so wonderfully easy to clean- I simply wipe it with a damp towel, and because it has a super-smooth surface, no spilled drinks get stuck in impossible-to-reach cracks... there are none!4. Happiness factor. My girls absolutely LOVE this toy. Of all their toys, this is at the top of the list. I can't help but smile when they keep it by the bottom of the stairs. They wake up in the morning, come downstairs, hop aboard the WheelyCow, and ride it straight to the breakfast table! :)Now you know MY favorite things about the WheelyCow, but let me share my daughters' favorite things about it:1. "The top is made of 'comfy squishy stuff.'" Remember, I'm passing along THEIR words, here! :) (The top is made of leather, with a soft padding underneath! It is VERY comfy!2. "It can go really fast in circles!" This toy allows them to "spin out" in one place! The wheels swivel. allowing for MUCH more fun!3. "The horns." I guess they felt like this part was self-explanatory. The horns on the front of the WheelyCow are on springs, and they wiggle like little bobble-heads! :)4. "The handle is not like normal ones." The handle bar is a semi-circle, which I love for two reasons. First, safety. My girls like to fly around on their riding toys, and they have landed across a square handle bar before, and that hurts! The WheelyCow has a soft, semi-circle handle, which would be much more comfy in that situation!Thank you SO MUCH to Prince Lionheart for allowing me to review this AND the Stroller Accessory package! I truly LOVE your products!Readers, do yourself a favor, and enter this giveaway today!To enter:1. Comment below, with your email address2. Visit the "Prince Lionheart" site by clicking HERE, and leave a comment telling me which WheelyBug or WheelyCow you like the most!3. Subscribe to this blog (enter your email address in upper right corner), and comment that you do. **SUBSCRIBERS may leave 2 comments (2 entries) stating that they subscribe! I love my subscribers! Thank you!!**4. Follow this blog (in right hand column), and comment that you do. **FOLLOWERS may leave 2 comments (2 entries) stating that they subscribe! I love my subscribers! Thank you!!**5. Become a fan of this blog on Facebook by clicking HERE, and comment that you do.6. Email this contest out to your friends, and copy me on it at vaagen@bellsouth.net7. Follow me on Twitter (vaagen) and ReTweet this contest on Twitter: http://twitter.com/vaagen/statuses/3070106224. Comment below that you did. You can do this once per day, and leave a comment each time you tweet the contest for an extra entry!!8. Favorite this blog on Technorati by clicking HERE The winner will be chosen by random drawing on http://www.random.org/integers/ on Saturday, August 15th at 6pm. Good luck!Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

Do you have a furry little one in your life?Do you love to spoil your furry friend?Stonewall Jackson, my Chihuahua, has a closet full of clothes. He loves to show them off when we go out, because he gets even more attention that way! When Posh Puppy Boutique sent me a preppy little sweater vest for my little Stonewall, he was thrilled. Here he is in his new vest. He has his paparazzi look perfected! (see below) I discovered Posh Puppy Boutique, an adorable online store that sells EVERYTHING your pup’s little heart could ever desire.Here are some of my favorite items from their store… Posh Puppy Boutique even has Live Support on their website! You can shop for cat clothes, gift certificates, hair products, treats, memorial items… anything you can think of!The products they carry are by the best designers out there, such as Juicy Couture!Posh Puppy Boutique has been featured on “Good Day Sacramento,” in Dog Fancy Magazine, in the Continental Kennel Club Magazine… and the list goes on and on!Don’t have time to shop? No worries!Posh Puppy Boutique even has a Personal Shopper link!Wouldn’t you LOVE to have your own Posh Puppy Boutique item?The Posh Puppy Boutique has been generous enough to offer one reader of Vaagen Family Blog a $25 gift certificate to their store!How can you enter?1. Comment below, with your email address2. Visit the Posh Puppy Boutique Site by clicking HERE, and leave a comment telling me what you love the most!3. Subscribe to this blog (enter your email address in upper right corner), and comment that you do.4. Follow this blog (in right hand column), and comment that you do.5. Become a fan of this blog on Facebook by clicking HERE, and comment that you do.6. Subscribe to the Posh Puppy website by clicking HERE.7. Follow me on Twitter (vaagen) and ReTweet this contest on Twitter: http://twitter.com/vaagen/statuses/3665895083. Comment below that you did.8. Favorite this blog on Technorati by clicking HEREThe winner will be chosen by random drawing on http://www.random.org/integers/ on Friday, September 11th at 6pm. Good luck!Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

SIRJJ Organics!…. Review #5 As I mentioned in my previous AcaiBerry Reviews, I have been on a bit of a health kick lately, and this week, I will be posting some of the items that have helped me feel healthier, more refreshed, rejuvenated, and more energized this week! Be sure to check back daily, as you can enter each contest multiple times! In my quest for better health, I came across SIRJJ Organics. SIRJJ is pronounced like the word "Surge." The company was named for the founder's children - Samuel, Isaac, Rachel and James Johnson. How cute is that??? Today, I am reviewing the Fifth and last of FIVE SIRJJ Organics Products! If you would love to take a first step into healthier living, or if you always have used all natural cleansing products, SIRJJ is for you! You will find daily reviews on the following products this week (from the AcaiBerry by Wisdom series!): AcaiBerry Cleansing Cream (My review: Click HERE) AcaiBerry Facial Scrub (My review:  Click HERE)  AcaiBerry Antioxidant Cooling Toner (My review:  Click HERE) AcaiBerry Rehydration Cream (My review:  Click HERE) AcaiBerry by Wisdom SPF 10 Day Cream (current review) Recap of SIRJJ product review in general: Let me first say this- I am allergic to EVERYTHING. I always have to test skin care products on my arm to see if I will break out, before buying new items. I was slightly worried that I would swell up like a pufferfish after trying these organic products. But I was very pleasantly surprised when the AcaiBerry products went on smooth, without irritation. I literally woke up the next morning with smoother skin! Please see my AcaiBerry Cleansing Cream review HERE. The SPF 10 Day Cream is amazing!  It is PERFECT for going on light and airy, so it works well under my make-up, and never makes my face look oily!  But I have noticed a real difference in the softness of my skin, since I have used it.  I have had absolutely no breakouts, either.  I am not break-out prone, but some hydration creams push me over the edge and can cause them.  I have used this daily since my sample came, and I am extremely happy with the results. This is the ingredient list for the AcaiBerry SPF 10 Day Cream (notice, you can pronounce it all!): Aloe Leaf Juice - Certified Organic Apricot Kernel Oil - Certified Organic Expeller Pressed/Unrefined Plum Kernel Oil - Expeller Pressed/Unrefined Meadowfoam Seed Oil - Expeller Pressed/Refined Rosehip Seed Oil - Certified Organic Cold Pressed/Unrefined Pumpkin Seed Oil - Certified Organic Cold Pressed/Unrefined Zinc Oxide Mango Butter - Expeller Pressed/Unrefined Neem Seed Oil - Cold Pressed/Unrefined AcaiBerry - Certified Organic Freeze Dried Emulsifying Wax NF Gentle Preservative Blend: Potassium Sorbate USP Food Grade, Citric Acid (Fruit Sugars) The packaging for the all natural cleansers is not flashy, just like the product. It is earth-friendly, and functional. I believe SIRJJ has done an amazing job of finding high-quality ingredients and materials that perform well. There is no bulk, no waste, and no over-kill in their products or their packaging.I am officially the latest fan of SIRJJ Organics! Would you love to own a similar SIRJJ product of your own? Read the rules below and leave your comment, then come back daily to leave more comments on the reviews I will be posting for SIRJJ all the way through Saturday! The contests will all end on Friday, October 2nd at 6pm. To enter, please do any or all of the following: 1. Comment below, with your email address 2. Visit the SIRJJ Organics site by clicking HERE, and leave a comment telling me what you love the most! 3. Subscribe to this blog (enter your email address in upper right corner), and comment that you do. 4. Follow this blog (in right hand column), and comment that you do. 5. Become a fan of this blog on Facebook by clicking HERE, and comment that you do. 6. Follow me on Twitter (vaagen) and ReTweet this contest on Twitter: http://twitter.com/vaagen/statuses/4170559338 Comment below that you did. 7. Favorite this blog on Technorati by clicking HERE The winner will be chosen by random drawing on http://www.random.org/integers/ on Monday, October 5th at 6pm. Good luck! Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

This contest has ended. Ladies and Gentlemen, I'm in love.Oh, with my husband and children, of course! But there is a new love in my life- by the name of Scentsy.Now, I am a candle kind of girl. I have them in every corner of my house, and I have many of them on display! I love all shapes, colors and scents of candles! But there are some things about Scentsy that are very, very different!First, you don't need to light anything to burn this candle! You are simply burning scented wax over a light bulb! Therefore, there is no smoke, no harmful chemicals, no worries over fires from spills... they are simply low maintenance! They are leadless, wickless, flameless and smokeless!Another thing I really love about Scentsy is the fact that their products quickly fill my entire home with fragrance, yet they are not at all overpowering! They emit a subtle, yet definite scent. The bulb that is included in their warmers can be replaced at an everyday hardware store!Take a look at Kara Egan's (Scentsy Founder and Superstar Director) website! You will fall in love with their burners! The scents are absolutely heavenly. I wish you could smell them through the website!Trust me, readers. You really want to win this giveaway!Kara is offering to one lucky winner an August warmer of the month, entitled "Surfs Up," along with a 3 pack of bars including the new scent of the month, "Tangerine Tango" and two others!To enter this giveaway...To enter, please do any or all of the following (please leave separate comments for each, so you can enter multiple times!):1. Comment below, with your email address, and tell me if you've tried Scentsy before!2. Visit Kara Egan's Scentsy site by clicking HERE, and leave a comment telling me which burner is your fave!3. Subscribe to this blog (enter your email address in upper right corner), and comment that you do.4. Follow this blog (in right hand column), and comment that you do.5. Become a fan of this blog on Facebook by clicking HERE, and comment that you do.6. Email this contest out to your friends, and copy me on it at vaagen@bellsouth.net7. Follow me on Twitter (vaagen) and ReTweet this contest on Twitter: http://twitter.com/vaagen/statuses/2765898678. Comment below that you did.8. Favorite this blog on Technorati by clicking HEREThe winner will be chosen by random drawing on http://www.random.org/integers/ on Saturday, August 1st at 6pm. Good luck! Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

GIVEAWAY!! A Million Miles in a Thousand Years by Donald “Blue Like Jazz” Miller is a thought-provoking look at what our lives could be like if we were to try to turn it into movie material.  As Miller shares his experience with us, the result less than exciting for him.  But his life begins to take shape as he goes through it step by step.  What would a conversation about your life be like… if you were talking with God? This and many other questions will make you think… and just might change your life! A Million Miles In A Thousand Years by Donald Miller '>Excerpt from his book Book Description Full of beautiful, heart-wrenching, and hilarious stories, A Million Miles in a Thousand Years details one man's opportunity to edit his life as if he were a character in a movie. Years after writing a best-selling memoir, Donald Miller went into a funk and spent months sleeping in and avoiding his publisher. One story had ended, and Don was unsure how to start another. But he gets rescued by two movie producers who want to make a movie based on his memoir. When they start fictionalizing Don's life for film--changing a meandering memoir into a structured narrative--the real-life Don starts a journey to edit his actual life into a better story. A Million Miles in a Thousand Years details that journey and challenges readers to reconsider what they strive for in life. It shows how to get a second chance at life the first time around. Click this link to see where Donald will appear on his book tour! To enter, please do any or all of the following: 1. Comment below, with your email address 2. Visit the A Million Miles site on Amazon, and let me know your thoughts! 3. Subscribe to this blog (enter your email address in upper right corner), and comment that you do. 4. Follow this blog (in right hand column), and comment that you do. 5. Become a fan of this blog on Facebook by clicking HERE, and comment that you do. 6. Email this contest out to your friends, and copy me on it at vaagen@bellsouth.net 7. Follow me on Twitter (vaagen) and ReTweet this contest on Twitter: http://twitter.com/vaagen/statuses/4694322348. Comment below that you did. 8. Favorite this blog on Technorati by clicking HERE The winner will be chosen by random drawing on http://www.random.org/integers/ on Wednesday, October 14th at 6pm. Good luck! Thank you to Thomas Nelson for donating the free copy of "A Million Miles in a Thousand Years" for my review. I was not compensated monetarily for this review, or for any on my blog site. All reviews are provided after I receive a free/donated product from the publisher, manufacturer, or PR company. Reviews are written from an unbiased point of view. Only business relationships exist with those who provide products for review. Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

Ahhhh, Harry. You've done it again. When I'm looking for new music, I will generally enter a genre on my iPhone app, "Pandora Radio," and see what comes up. Lately, I've not been too thrilled with Pandora's choices for me.If you're in the same situation- a little tired of the same old songs in your collection, look no further.Harry Connick Jr's newest album, "Your Songs," is set for release on September 22nd.What will you find in this album?Harry's timeless voiceSoothing musical accompanimentSome jazzWell-preserved classics, with a unique spinA little something for all agesCheck out these amazing Tracks!Album Tracklisting (Originally performed by):All The Way (Frank Sinatra)Just The Way You Are (Billy Joel)Can’t Help Falling In Love With You (Elvis Presley)And I Love Her (The Beatles)(They Long To Be) Close To You (The Carpenters)Besame MuchoThe Way You Look Tonight First Time Ever I Saw Your Face (Roberta Flack)Your Song (Elton John)Some Enchanted EveningAnd I Love You So (Don McLean)Who Can I Turn To? (Tony Bennett)Smile (Charlie Chaplin)Mona Lisa (Nat King Cole)Here is a fun "behind the scenes" look at the making of this album:http://bit.ly/HCJrVideoThis CD is perfect for so many situations!Romantic evenings, reading-a-book-by-the-fireplace night, calm drives, bath time... the list goes on and on! You'll want to put the release date on your calendar so you can pick up a copy of "Your Songs!" Are you a big Harry Connick, Jr. fan? Check him out on these TV shows:9/25 – Oprah “Live Friday”9/28 – Today Show9/29 – The View9/30 – Imus in the Morning9/30 – Letterman10/1 – Today ShowWeek of 10/5 – Rachael Ray FTC Disclaimer:Thank you to One2One Marketing for donating the free copy of "Your Songs" for my review. I was not compensated monetarily for this review, or for any on my blog site. All reviews are provided after I recieve a free/donated product from the publisher, manufacturer, or PR company. Reviews are written from an unbiased point of view. Only business relationships exist with those who provide products for review.Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

Fresh Start God's Invitation to a Great Life By Doug Fields Thomas Nelson Books provided me with a copy of the book “Fresh Start” by Doug Fields for my review. Fresh start by Doug Fields is a wonderful, often funny, book.  By sharing new perspectives on single life, married life, and everything in between, Fresh Start gives clear guidelines to follow.  That, coupled with scripture background to relieve the pressures of today’s world, Doug Fields will help to get us “unstuck.”  Everyone can have a “FRESH START”. The book description is as follows: If you had the chance to change your life for the better, would you? All it takes is a decision. Trapped by harmful habits, behaviors, and attitudes, we struggle to become the person God has created and called us to be. Saddleback Church teaching pastor Doug Fields says it’s never too late to get a fresh start. With personal stories and youthful writing, Doug challenges readers to recognize that they may say they want God in their lives, but they really don’t want to change. They are stuck. He says, "It’s not about trying harder, it’s about plugging into God’s transforming power and submitting your entire life to Christ. Age doesn’t matter; fresh starts are for everyone." Topics include: * Dealing with pride* Defining success* Living with guilt* Struggling with conflicts* Finding true friendships* Overcoming discouragement* Facing rejection* Attacking angerTo purchase “Fresh Start,” click HEREThank you to Thomas Nelson Books for donating the free copy of "Fresh Start" for my review. I was not compensated monetarily for this review, or for any on my blog site. All reviews are provided after I receive a free/donated product from the publisher, manufacturer, or PR company. Reviews are written from an unbiased point of view. Only business relationships exist with those who provide products for review. Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

I was so excited to be chosen to review the One eskimO album "All Balloons!"One eskimO is a critically-acclaimed English band fronted by singer-songwriter Kristian Leontiou and includes musicians Pete Rinaldi (guitar), Jamie Sefton (bass, horns) and Adam Falkner (drums).They currently have the #1 adult alternative song called 'Kandi' which you may have already heard since it's the most played song on all adult rock radio 4 weeks and counting! ? Billboard Magazine calls One eskimO's self-titled debut album "...catchy, ambient pop." and Los Angeles Times Magazine hails the song "Kandi" “a beautiful, aspirational track.” The album is available in stores now.? ? Watch the amazing Kandi video now!The album release comes in tandem with a full length animated film. “Hometime”, one of the tracks that an animated short was first done with proved to be quite a sensation. It received numerous honors at film festivals around the world, as well as a 2008 British Animation Award. My opinion on the album...I LOVE quite a few songs on this CD.? Astronauts, WHICH YOU CAN DOWNLOAD FOR FREE HERE, is amazing.? It is bathtime music for me.? It just takes you away.? Kandi is the funnest, funkiest, jazziest, sassiest song I can think of at the moment.? And I can truely say there are NO SONGS on this CD I don't enjoy!!The listing of tracks on this CD are:HometimeAstronautsKandiSlipSimple DayGivin UpChocolateAll BalloonsChosen OneUFOAmazing? Be sure to visit One eskimO's Facebook page: http://bit.ly/906Gp3, their YouTube Channel:? http://bit.ly/bgZM8P , and subscribe to their newsletter:? http://www.mynewsletterbuilder.com/email/newsletter/1410294733! One? eskimO? is on tour May/June/July supporting Michael Franti and in addition to festivals and headlining showsTour Dates-May 14 Miami, FL Fillmore May 15 Jacksonville, FL Free Bird LiveMay 18 Orlando, FL House of BluesMay 19 Tampa, FL The Ritz YborMay 22 Raleigh, NC Lincoln TheatreMay 24 Asheville, NC The Orange PeelMay 25 Charleston, SC The Music FarmJun 01 Toronto, ON The Guvernment Jun 03 New York, NY The Beach at Governor's IslandJun 04 Boston, MA House of Blues Jun 05 Essex Junction, VT Camplain Valley ExpoJun 06 Hunter, NY Mountain Jam FestivalJun 08 Royal Oak, MI Royal Oak Music ThtrJun 09 Grand Rapids, MI Orbit RoomJun 12 Memphis, TN Minglewood Hall Jun 13 Kansas City, MO CrossroadsAug 14 Denver, CO Mile High FestivalYou can download the deluxe edition of this album HERE!? You can also enter to WIN a copy from One2One Network and Mingle Over Mocha!? To enter, please do any or all of the following items. The "Mandatory" item(s) must be completed before getting any additional credits from the "Optional for Extra Credit" section.Mandatory:• Visit the One eskimO site by clicking HERE, and leave a comment (BE SURE to include? your email address in case you win!!? Sometimes, people never get their prize, because I can't find their email address!!) telling me what you love the most! Optional for Extra Credit:• Subscribe to this blog HERE, and comment that you do.• Follow this blog HERE, and comment that you do.• Post about this giveaway on your blog, and comment with a link to the post!• Digg this post by clicking HERE!• Become a fan of this blog on Facebook by clicking HERE, and comment that you do.• Email this contest out to your friends, and copy me on it at vaagen@bellsouth.net ? • Follow me on Twitter? HERE and ReTweet this: "I want to WIN the new One eskimO CD from @vaagen on her site http://www.mingleovermocha.com/!"? ? Comment below that you did! You can retweet this contest every day for extra entries- simply leave a comment each time you tweet!• Invite friends to follow Mingle Over Mocha on Facebook, and comment that you did!The winner will be chosen by random drawing on http://www.random.org/integers/ on May 31st at 6pm!? GOOD LUCK!Thank you to? One eskimO and One2One Network? for donating the free CD "All? Balloons"? for my review!! I was not compensated monetarily for this review, or for any reviews or giveaways on my blog site. All reviews are provided after I receive a free or donated product from the publisher, manufacturer, or PR company. Reviews are written from an unbiased point of view. Only business relationships exist with those who provide products for review. The Author of Mingle Over Mocha is not responsible for your difference in opinion or happiness with this product, or your safety when using this product.Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

Dweebies Card Game from Gamewright!Meet the Dweebies™ in the card game with character. These lovably colorful characters are out to capture your heart, but you must capture them first! Round up Dweebies by matching cards on both ends of any row. Seems simple at first... but Dweebies can be tricky, and some will disappear before they've met their match. Collect the most cards and consider yourself the Dweebie-in-Chief. Includes 54 cards!All 4 of my kids loved this game!? My oldest two loved it because of the strategy and luck involved in it!? My youngest two love it because the characters on the cards are ADORABLE!!!? When my older children were finished playing, my younger two flipped the card over for a game of memory!? As a parent, I recommend this game, because the Dweebie characters will keep you smiling, and keep the mood light, even if one of your kids isn't the winner of the game!? It comes packed in a great looking tin, that is easy to travel with.? We're going to the beach soon, and you can bet the Dweebies will be coming along!To enter, please do any or all of the following items. The "Mandatory" item(s) must be completed before getting any additional credits from the "Optional for Extra Credit" section. Mandatory:• Visit the Gamewright Games site by clicking HERE, and leave a comment (BE SURE to include? your email address in case you win!!? Sometimes, people never get their prize, because I can't find their email address!!) telling me what you love the most! Optional for Extra Credit:• Subscribe to this blog HERE, and comment that you do.• Follow this blog HERE, and comment that you do.• Post about this giveaway on your blog, and comment with a link to the post!• Digg this post by clicking HERE!• Become a fan of this blog on Facebook by clicking HERE, and comment that you do.• Email this contest out to your friends, and copy me on it at vaagen@bellsouth.net ? • Follow me on Twitter? HERE and ReTweet "I hope to WIN the new Dweebies Game from @vaagen on her site http://www.mingleovermocha.com/!."? ? Comment below that you did! You can retweet this contest every day for extra entries- simply leave a comment each time you tweet!• Invite friends to follow Mingle Over Mocha on Facebook, and comment that you did!The winner will be chosen by random drawing on http://www.random.org/integers/ on Saturday, May 31st at 6pm!!? GOOD LUCK!!Thank you to? Gamewright Games? for donating the free Dweebies game for my review!! I was not compensated monetarily for this review, or for any reviews or giveaways on my blog site. All reviews are provided after I receive a free or donated product from the publisher, manufacturer, or PR company. Reviews are written from an unbiased point of view. Only business relationships exist with those who provide products for review. The Author of Mingle Over Mocha is not responsible for your difference in opinion or happiness with this product, or your safety when using this product.Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

My Daddy is a Soldier, by Anne M. StratfordI definitely have a heart for our military families.? They make sacrifices on a daily basis that most of us cannot imagine.? While my husband's cousin was serving his most recent of multiple deployments to Iraq, his wife's grandfather died, his son graduated, and his family endured a gas leak at their residence.? Throughout all of these major events, he couldn't just come home and help- he was serving his country.This isn't an isolated incident- it happens every day.? Wives pick up the pieces while their husbands are gone for months at a time.? Children across the US are without their fathers and mothers who are serving our country.? Yet many of us don't stop to consider how life-altering a parent being gone can really be to a child.Anne M. Stratford has written a beautiful book to help the children of our soldiers.My Daddy is a Soldier is a one-of-a-kind, heart tugging book that is beautifully illustrated, and covers all of the emotions that a child must go through while his or her parent is serving our country.? In the book, the child feels a sense of pride, a great deal of sadness, and shows his bravery while his father is overseas.? The resounding theme throughout, "I CAN DO IT!" help a child to keep his head up while his mother or father are serving our country.As I read the book to my children, they all had to look "one more time" at all the pictures throughout the book.? It is very well illustrated- the pictures are wonderful.? Like many children's books, the pages rhyme, helping to keep the child's attention.? About the AuthorAnne M. Stratford had a successful sales career, and finally left it at the age of 41 to pursue her life-long dream of writing children's books.? This is the first of what I hope to be MANY that she will write!? We truly enjoyed this book.How to purchase this bookThis book retails for $17.99, and exceptional value considering the detail of this hard bound book.? You can buy it HERE for the special child in your life!How to WIN this bookOne lucky reader will win? a copy through Mingle Over Mocha!To enter, please do any or all of the following items. The "Mandatory" item(s) must be completed before getting any additional credits from the "Optional for Extra Credit" section.Mandatory:• Visit Anne M. Stratford's site by clicking HERE, and leave a comment (BE SURE to include? your email address in case you win!!? Sometimes, people never get their prize, because I can't find their email address!!) telling me what you love the most! Optional for Extra Credit:• Subscribe to this blog HERE, and comment that you do.• Follow this blog HERE, and comment that you do.• Post about this giveaway on your blog, and comment with a link to the post!• Digg this post by clicking HERE!• Become a fan of this blog on Facebook by clicking HERE, and comment that you do.• Email this contest out to your friends, and copy me on it at vaagen@bellsouth.net ? • Follow me on Twitter? HERE and ReTweet this: "I would love to WIN a copy of Anne M. Stratford's book "My Daddy is a Soldier" on @vaagen's blog at http://www.mingleovermocha.com/!"? ? Comment below that you did! You can retweet this contest every day for extra entries- simply leave a comment each time you tweet!• Invite friends to follow Mingle Over Mocha on Facebook, and comment that you did!The winner will be chosen by random drawing on http://www.random.org/integers/ on Saturday,? June 19th at 6pm... Just in time for FATHER'S DAY!!? Good luck!Thank you to Anne M. Stratford for donating the free copy of her book for my review!! I was not compensated monetarily for this review, or for any reviews or giveaways on my blog site. All reviews are provided after I receive a free or donated product from the publisher, manufacturer, or PR company. Reviews are written from an unbiased point of view. Only business relationships exist with those who provide products for review. The Author of Mingle Over Mocha is not responsible for your difference in opinion or happiness with this product, or your safety when using this product.Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

The moment I saw SlothArt's LOST t-shirts, I knew I wanted to review one!? This is a picture of my husband wearing his...I contacted Allan through his Etsy site, and heard back from him instantly!? His communication is impeccable, and he responds personally in email to my inquiries.? I love great customer service!!SlothArt has an amazing collection of vintage cameras, photography and t-shirts!? Browse through the SlothArt site, and take a look at this very cool collection! Here are some other items listed on his site:"Hand of God" 5x7 Fine Art Print:The 1923 Pathex 9.5mm Film Camera:You've got to visit this site!? It is so fun to see what SlothArt has available.? It is definitely not your ordinary Etsy site!The LOST t-shirt SlothArt sent us is VERY comfortable, and the lettering is not the cheap kind that peels off after you wear the shirt a couple of times.? I know, because my husband has worn this shirt multiple times since it arrived- he loves it!He gets comments on it everywhere he goes- people get a real kick out of it.SlothArt is giving away to one lucky reader of Mingle Over Mocha a LOST t-shirt!!To enter, please do any or all of the following items. The "Mandatory" item(s) must be completed before getting any additional credits from the "Optional for Extra Credit" section.Mandatory:• Visit the SlothArt site by clicking HERE, and leave a comment (BE SURE to include? your email address in case you win!!? Sometimes, people never get their prize, because I can't find their email address!!) telling me what you love the most! Optional for Extra Credit:• Subscribe to this blog HERE, and comment that you do.• Follow this blog HERE, and comment that you do.• Follow SlothArt on Twitter by clicking HERE. Fan the SlothArt Facebook page by clicking HERE.• Post about this giveaway on your blog, and comment with a link to the post!• Digg this post by clicking HERE!• Become a fan of this blog on Facebook by clicking HERE, and comment that you do.• Email this contest out to your friends, and copy me on it at vaagen@bellsouth.net ? • Follow me on Twitter? HERE and ReTweet THIS.? ? Comment below that you did! You can retweet this contest every day for extra entries- simply leave a comment each time you tweet!• Invite friends to follow Mingle Over Mocha on Facebook, and comment that you did!The winner will be chosen by random drawing on http://www.random.org/integers/ on Saturday, June 19th at 6pm... Just in time for FATHER'S DAY!!? Good luck!Thank you to SlothArt for donating the free LOST t-shirt for my review!! I was not compensated monetarily for this review, or for any reviews or giveaways on my blog site. All reviews are provided after I receive a free or donated product from the publisher, manufacturer, or PR company. Reviews are written from an unbiased point of view. Only business relationships exist with those who provide products for review. The Author of Mingle Over Mocha is not responsible for your difference in opinion or happiness with this product, or your safety when using this product.Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

Beautiful Soaps!I am a sucker for natural and handmade soaps.? When I came across Beautiful Soaps on Etsy, I knew I wanted to try some of the soaps!? Heather at Beautiful Soaps ahs some fo the most original and creative combinations I have ever seen!? For example, how about Lavendar Chamomile Cocoa Butter Bars?? Or Lemongrass Poppyseed with French Yellow Clay?? Or Cinnamon Ice Lip Cooler Balm?I received an instant response from Heather, who was so kind to ship me three different soaps to sample!She sent me these soaps:Oatmeal Stout Beer with Oatmeal Honey and Vanilla SoapGuinness Stout Handmade Beer SoapCorona Beer Soap with LimeHer soaps come beautifully packaged, and wrapped in paper with custom labels.? They would make fabulous house warming gifts, pick-me-up presents, spouse gifts, or mother's/father's day presents!? One thing that I am always curious about when sampling natural or handmade soaps is to find out whether or not they lather.? A lot of the soaps I have tried in the past feel almost slimy, but don't actually lather.? I am one of those people that needs to feel a lather in order to feel clean!Great news... Beautiful Soaps LATHER!!? And they lather really well!? The oatmeal soap she sent is amazing- it not only lathers, but the oatmeal acts as a great exfoliator!Her soaps ALL smell incredible.? She has really mastered combining the scents to create the perfect blend!Heather also has some other wonderful products in her store.? Check out her STORE to see what else she offers!Heather at Beautiful Soaps is also willing to offer a $10 gift certificate to my site, and a 10% off savings to all? Mingle Over Mocha? subscribers who mention M.O.M. in their message or order!If you would like to enter to win the $10 gift certificate (which would be wonderful to win, because her items are SO reasonably priced, you could pick two items for this amount!!), please read below!To enter, please do any or all of the following items. The "Mandatory" item(s) must be completed before getting any additional credits from the "Optional for Extra Credit" section.Mandatory:• Visit the CEIVA site by clicking HERE, and leave a comment (BE SURE to include? your email address in case you win!!? Sometimes, people never get their prize, because I can't find their email address!!) telling me what you love the most! Optional for Extra Credit:• Subscribe to this blog HERE, and comment that you do.• Follow this blog HERE, and comment that you do.• Subscribe to Heather's blog feed by clicking HERE, and comment that you do.• Post about this giveaway on your blog, and comment with a link to the post!• Become a fan of this blog on Facebook by clicking HERE, and comment that you do.• Email this contest out to your friends, and copy me on it at vaagen@bellsouth.net ? • Follow me on Twitter? HERE and ReTweet THIS.? ? Comment below that you did! You can retweet this contest every day for extra entries- simply leave a comment each time you tweet!• Invite friends to follow Mingle Over Mocha on Facebook, and comment that you did!The winner will be chosen by random drawing on http://www.random.org/integers/ on July 24th at 6pm.? Thank you to? Beautiful Soaps? for donating the free soap samples for my review!! I was not compensated monetarily for this review, or for any reviews or giveaways on my blog site. All reviews are provided after I receive a free or donated product from the publisher, manufacturer, or PR company. Reviews are written from an unbiased point of view. Only business relationships exist with those who provide products for review. The Author of Mingle Over Mocha is not responsible for your difference in opinion or happiness with this product, or your safety when using this product.Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

POP WEAVER LAUNCHES FIRST MICROWAVE POPCORN MADE WITH CANOLA OILI was sent the amazing new Microwave Popcorn with Canola Oil from Pop Weaver! When you hear about a company who is known for making tasty foods, converting to creating a product that is GOOD for you, you first wonder, "Hmmm... Will it still TASTE good?"The answer in this case: YES!I suffered some pretty ugly gall bladder attacks a couple of months ago, just before I received this popcorn to try. I had a VERY limited diet, and was unable to tolerate anything with heavy grease. This popcorn was a lifesaver! I was able to snack on it with no issues.The only problem I experienced with this treat was that my children kept snagging it from me! They love movie theatre style popcorn, so I didn't think they'd like it. I was wrong. The popcorn was gone so fast, I was out 4 days later looking for more!This is some info from Pop Weaver about New Product Combines Improved Buttery Taste with theHealth Benefits of Canola OilNOBLESVILLE, Ind., – Pop Weaver is introducing the first microwave popcorn to be made with Canola oil. The new and improved formulation of the popcorn enhances the rich, buttery taste that Pop Weaver is known for, and is lower in calories, total fat, saturated fat and sodium, while also providing Omega-3, Omega-6 and Omega-9 fatty acids.“Since popcorn is all we make, we're continually striving to make our product the best-tasting, healthiest popcorn, at the best possible price,” said Mike Weaver, president and chief executive officer of the Weaver Popcorn Company, which makes Pop Weaver. “We've worked for years to replace our previous oil blend with a Canola oil blend, and we are proud to lead the industry with this innovation.”All three flavors in the Pop Weaver microwave popcorn line – Light Butter, Butter and Extra Butter – have been reformulated to incorporate Canola oil. Both Light Butter and Butter carry the American Heart Association's Heart Check mark, designating them as heart-healthy products. All three flavors also contain zero grams of trans fat.Pop Weaver's Canola oil blend is primarily comprised of “heart healthy” polyunsaturated and monounsaturated fats, which help to lower LDL (bad) cholesterol, and supply Omega-3, Omega-6 and Omega-9 fatty acids, helping to protect against coronary heart disease, heart attacks and strokes. And the popcorn provides other health benefits, as well, since it is a good source of whole grains. Not only does it contain fiber, but a study released this summer found that popcorn also provides healthy antioxidants. In fact, because it is unprocessed, according to the study, popped popcorn provided more antioxidants than any other snack food tested.New Popcorn Lower in Fat and Calories, High in TasteFor the first time, even lovers of Pop Weaver Extra Butter microwave popcorn can enjoy an entire bag of their favorite snack, guilt-free. With only 260 calories, 2g saturated fat, and 0g trans fats per full bag popped, new Pop Weaver Extra Butter microwave popcorn will satisfy your butter craving without blowing your diet. The Light Butter and Butter flavors – which carry the Heart Check designation – contain only 210 calories and 230 calories per full popped bag, respectively.“With most ‘healthy' snacks, you typically have to give up flavor,” said Weaver. “But our new microwave popcorn really is the best of all worlds. Not only does it taste great, but it is better for you.”Weaver adds that Pop Weaver remains a great snacking value, as well. “You can serve your family our popcorn for 21 cents per full bag popped, said Weaver. “No other snack provides the nutrition that we do for such a low cost. And it's fun and delicious to eat.”New Pop Weaver microwave popcorn made with Canola oil in Extra Butter, Butter and Light Butter is available at mass market retailers and discount stores nationwide. Thank you to Adrienne Baily and Pop Weaver for donating the free popcorn samples for my review!! I was not compensated monetarily for this review, or for any reviews or giveaways on my blog site. All reviews are provided after I receive a free or donated product from the publisher, manufacturer, or PR company. Reviews are written from an unbiased point of view. Only business relationships exist with those who provide products for review. The Author of Mingle Over Mocha is not responsible for your difference in opinion or happiness with this product, or your safety when using this product.Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

The Butterfly Effect by Andy Andrews"The decisions you make and the way you treat others have more impact than you may ever realize.Speaker and New York Times best-selling author Andy Andrews shares a compelling and powerful story about a decision one man made over a hundred years ago, and the ripple effect it's had on us individually, and nationwide, today. It's a story that will inspire courage and wisdom in the decisions we make, as well as affect the way we treat others through our lifetime. Andrews speaks over 100 times a year, and The Butterfly Effect is his #1 most requested story.Also included with the purchase of the book is a link to view a 9-minute message of Andrews telling The Butterfly Effect story to a live audience."Book Sneeze offered me a copy of "The Butterfly Effect" by Andy Andrews as a review.Remember, don't judge a book by its cover... or in this case, its size.? The book is tiny, and is a very quick read.? But it is content that matters!Andy shares some emotional stories or action and effect in this book.? The stories tug at your heart, and really make you think.? What you do absolutely matters.? Little changes you make in your life absolutely effect others!? That person you see each day could end up being an important part of your life... maybe that person sitting next to you on the plane plays an integral part in your destiny!Actions matter.? Maybe this review was sent to you because you need to read this book!Thank you to? BookSneeze? for donating the free? copy of The Butterfly Effect? for my review!! I was not compensated monetarily for this review, or for any reviews or giveaways on my blog site. All reviews are provided after I receive a free or donated product from the publisher, manufacturer, or PR company. Reviews are written from an unbiased point of view. Only business relationships exist with those who provide products for review. The Author of Mingle Over Mocha is not responsible for your difference in opinion or happiness with this product, or your safety when using this product.Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

I LOVE HAIR DECOR!!!As a matter of fact, some hair barrettes were the very first review I ever had for my blogsite!Little Sunshine Design sent me an absolutely BEAUTIFUL hair band to review for Christmas this year!? The hair band looks as if it were designed by an artist.? This is not your average piece of ribbon that has been hot glued around a piece of plastic.? This hair band consists of soft elastic, faux pearls, a feather, and a flower!? Take a look at this gorgeous hair band on my daughter!I really love all of Little Sunshine Design's hair pieces, because there is something to go with EVERYTHING!? Her pieces range fron dainty to attention grabbing, and all look to be made with care!Look at some of these pieces on her site!Please visit her shop today, and enter below to WIN a hair bow/band of your own!To enter, please do any or all of the following items. The "Mandatory" item(s) must be completed before getting any additional credits from the "Optional for Extra Credit" section.Mandatory:• Visit the? Little Sunshine Design? Etsy site by clicking HERE, and leave a comment (BE SURE to include? your email address in case you win!!? Sometimes, people never get their prize, because I can't find their email address!!) telling me what you love the most! Optional for Extra Credit:• Subscribe to this blog HERE, and comment that you do.• Follow this blog HERE, and comment that you do.• Post about this giveaway on your blog, and comment with a link to the post!• Become a fan of this blog on Facebook by clicking HERE, and comment that you do.• Email this contest out to your friends, and copy me on it at vaagen@bellsouth.net ? • Follow me on Twitter? HERE and ReTweet THIS.? ? Comment below that you did! You can retweet this contest every day for extra entries- simply leave a comment each time you tweet!• Invite friends to follow Mingle Over Mocha on Facebook, and comment that you did!The winner will be chosen by random drawing on http://www.random.org/integers/ on December 20th at 6pm.Thank you to? Little Sunshine Design? for donating the free hairband for my review!! I was not compensated monetarily for this review, or for any reviews or giveaways on my blog site. All reviews are provided after I receive a free or donated product from the publisher, manufacturer, or PR company. Reviews are written from an unbiased point of view. Only business relationships exist with those who provide products for review. The Author of Mingle Over Mocha is not responsible for your difference in opinion or happiness with this product, or your safety when using this product. Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

Bella Sara Cards!Have you seen the lastest from the world of Bella Sara?Just in time for Easter, Bella Sara had? introduced its new Sunflowers series of collectible cards! This new series from Bella Sara invites fans to join Emma and friends in a captivating search for Herd Sunflower. Using secret codes found in the set of 55 collectible cards, featuring horses, characters and stories, girls will be able to unlock the exciting Sunflowers adventures and experience the new features of the mesmerizing online world, including the ability to customize their own avatar on BellaSara.com. To coincide with this event, Bella Sara also introduced the Miniatures Series 3 set. Featuring 20 new velvety figurine horses, the Miniatures set includes a secret code in each pack to expand online play through Bella Sara Adventures.Bella Sara has sent me multiple packs in the past, and each time, my daughters jump with joy!? Bella Sara is one of their favorite computer games, and their absolute FAVORITE collectible.? We have bought at least 20 packs of Bella Sara cards in the past.? They are the perfect treat, because they add to your daughter's collection, yet they are VERY affordable.? Most packs are less than $5!? My daughters trade them, share them, and display them in baseball card protectors in a 3-ring binder.? If you're not familiar with Bella Sara yet, you can buy these cards at Target stores, online, at card collector stores, and more.? The cards have gorgeous horses on them, and coincide with an online game.? The game has constant positive messages on the screen such as,? "Beauty comes from within" or "Be the hero in your own story."? Each card contains a secret code to unlock a new horse for online play!? The online game is lots of fun!? It is a very secure place for your child to play online.Here is a screen shot of the Bella Sara game:One lucky reader of Mingle Over Mocha will win a Sunflowers pack of their own, along with a Bella Sara Mini!To enter, please do any or all of the following items. The "Mandatory" item(s) must be completed before getting any additional credits from the "Optional for Extra Credit" section.Mandatory:• Visit the Bella Sara site by clicking HERE, and leave a comment below telling me what you love the most!? (BE SURE to include? your email address in case you win!!? Sometimes, people never get their prize, because I can't find their email address!!)Optional for Extra Credit:• Subscribe to this blog HERE, and comment that you do.• Follow this blog HERE, and comment that you do.• Post about this giveaway on your blog, and comment with a link to the post!• Digg this post by clicking HERE!• Become a fan of this blog on Facebook by clicking HERE, and comment that you do.• Email this contest out to your friends, and copy me on it at vaagen@bellsouth.net ? • Follow me on Twitter? HERE and ReTweet this, "I am hoping to WIN a Bella Sara pack on @vaagen's review site? at www.MingleOverMocha.com!".? ? Comment below that you did! You can retweet this contest every day for extra entries- simply leave a comment each time you tweet!• Invite friends to follow Mingle Over Mocha on Facebook, and comment that you did!The winner will be chosen by random drawing on http://www.random.org/integers/ on Saturday, May 31st at 6pm... Good luck!Thank you to Bella Sara for donating the free cards for my review!! I was not compensated monetarily for this review, or for any reviews or giveaways on my blog site. All reviews are provided after I receive a free or donated product from the publisher, manufacturer, or PR company. Reviews are written from an unbiased point of view. Only business relationships exist with those who provide products for review. The Author of Mingle Over Mocha is not responsible for your difference in opinion or happiness with this product, or your safety when using this product.Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

As part of my "These are a Few of my Favorite Things" series leading up to the Christmas Holiday, I am posting multiple reviews of products, both local and not-so-local!I will post a link of where you can find these things, as well! ? It's time to get shopping!Mudcrush Pottery has created some of my very favorite and most beautiful pottery pieces! ? If you know me at all, you know that I love to crochet. ? A friend taught me how about 3 years ago, and I haven't stopped every since! HOWEVER, I also have 4 children and 3 indoor pets!! ? It simply doesn't work to just let my yarn skein flop around while crocheting. ? If it's on the couch, somebody picks it up and plays with it. ? If it is on the floor, I will give someone a gift with dog hair woven in (not so pleasant). These yarn bowls have been life savers! ? The little cut out holds the yarn in place perfectly, and there is enough weight to keep the whole skein down. ? She also makes rectangular ones for those of us who don't like to roll our yarn in to a ball!Her pieces are very unique and affordable!You can find this beautiful Mudcrush piece and many more at THIS link!Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

Guess what everyone??? Mingle Over Mocha is BACK, and with brand new reviews!!? Keep an eye out for the latest and greatest products on the market!? The first reviews will be posted at the end of December!? YAY!!!Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!

I love the winter. I love the smell of cold weather, the logs on the fire, the hot cocoa with family, and the stars shining through the bare trees.What I DON'T like however, is how freezing cold I always stay throughout the winter!Thanks to Jen at Mott Chrochet Gifts, my hands are toasty warm this season!She sent me these amazingly beautiful fingerless gloves. They are black (which matches positively EVERYTHING in my closet!), and they are not scratchy, but just snuggly! I get comments and compliments on them everywhere I go! I went Christmas shopping this year for my mother and father in Eddie Bauer. I bought my mother some of these exact gloves for $30, but Mott Crochet sells them for a fraction of that!Stop by her shop and check it out! She sells out of her inventory instantly, so you might have to go into the SOLD items to view her work!She is offering one reader of Mingle Over Mocha a $10 gift certificate to her store! You will soon be styling in your OWN fingerless gloves!To enter, please do any or all of the following items. The "Mandatory" item(s) must be completed before getting any additional credits from the "Optional for Extra Credit" section.Mandatory:• Visit the Mott Crochet Gifts Etsy site by clicking HERE, and leave a comment (BE SURE to include? your email address in case you win!!? Sometimes, people never get their prize, because I can't find their email address!!) telling me what you love the most! Optional for Extra Credit:• Subscribe to this blog HERE, and comment that you do.• Follow this blog HERE, and comment that you do.• Post about this giveaway on your blog, and comment with a link to the post!• Become a fan of this blog on Facebook by clicking HERE, and comment that you do.• Email this contest out to your friends, and copy me on it at vaagen@bellsouth.net ? • Follow me on Twitter? HERE and ReTweet THIS.? ? Comment below that you did! You can retweet this contest every day for extra entries- simply leave a comment each time you tweet!• Invite friends to follow Mingle Over Mocha on Facebook, and comment that you did!The winner will be chosen by random drawing on http://www.random.org/integers/ on December 20th at 6pm.Thank you to? Mott Chrochet Gifts? for donating the free fingerless gloves for my review!! I was not compensated monetarily for this review, or for any reviews or giveaways on my blog site. All reviews are provided after I receive a free or donated product from the publisher, manufacturer, or PR company. Reviews are written from an unbiased point of view. Only business relationships exist with those who provide products for review. The Author of Mingle Over Mocha is not responsible for your difference in opinion or happiness with this product, or your safety when using this product. Thank you for coming to Mingle Over Mocha with Anna!