Thursday, September 25, 2014

Organic Matcha- Green Tea Powder by Kiss Me Organics Review



I love to try new things, especially things that are healthy! I came across a green tea product called Organic Matcha Green Tea Powder.  A 2003 study published in the Journal of Chromatography A found matcha has 137 times more of the powerful antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) than other types of green tea! Its so easy to take, as you can put it in your baked goods, you can mix it in with your smoothies and even your lattes! Thats not all, there is also a recipe guide if you're stuck on what to put it in! (I don't recommend putting it in your scrambled eggs, though!) There's recipes in here for waffles, truffles, beef, soup - everything! How awesome is that?


Here's what it can do for you:

All Day Energy - Matcha provides 4 to 6 hours of mild steady energy as it acts as both a stimulant and a relaxant.

Metabolism boost - Matcha green tea can increase thermogenesis (the body's own rate of burning calories) from a normal 8%-10% of daily energy expenditure, to between 35% and 43% of daily energy expediture.(WOW!)

Skin Health - ​Scientists have discovered that Matcha Green Tea helps protect the skin from harmful UVrays, while improving blood flow and oxygen levels lifting the overall quality of the skin.

137x the antioxidants of brewed green tea - Antioxidants are essential as you age to boost your body's natural defenses against oxidation. Researchers have found that a high level of dietary antioxidants can prevent many age-related diseases.

I did some serious reading and research on this product, because it was something I was REALLY wanting to work out for me, and here is some of the information that i found to be really awesome!

Matcha is green tea from the Camellia sinensis, but it a very fine powder version of the healthy
drink. Unlike other teas derived from Camellia sinensis, matcha has not been fermented. Matcha,
like other varieties of green tea, can be harvested from anywhere in the world. But more than simply ground up green tea leaves, matcha is derived from tea leaves grown in the
shade so that the leaves achieve a dark green color, which gives matcha its magnificent amino
acids. It’s quite a long process to produce matcha but serious tea drinkers rely on matcha to
enhance their culinary experiences from comfort food like macaroni & cheese to their happy hour
matcha mojito.

The reason matcha is slowly edging out traditional green tea in terms of health benefits is because 
those who ingest matcha are consuming the entire leaf rather than brewed water. One glass of 
matcha green tea is equal to 10 glasses of regular green tea as far as antioxidants and nutrients. 
In fact, a 2003 study published in the Journal of Chromatography A found matcha has 137 times 
more of the powerful antioxidant epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) than other types of green tea.

I tried this for a while and I thought it was great! I had more energy and I felt more focused! At a glance, it seems a bit pricey, but the bag is a decent size, and lasts quite some time. Only a small amount is suggested daily (I believe a teaspoon) so it will take quite a while to use it all. If you compare it to energy shots, medicines, weight loss pills and all the other supplements you're taking for these problems, it seems like the Matcha green tea powder would be not only the healthier choice, but the more affordable choice! Have you ever tried this? Does it seem like something you would be interested in trying?

I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers.

Tuesday, February 25, 2014

Social Scatter Update


The Social Scatter is on Vacation!
I love those of you that love the social scatter.
I love the loyal ones that come back week after week
I love the ones that promote it and talk about it
But for every one of you that do that
Theres 15 that link and run
They dont follow the rules
they get pissed if i send an email telling them to straighten up
they throw temper tantrums, call names and unsubscribe to my emails.
That is fine.
The Social Scatter will not be running for a while...maybe ever.
It takes A LOT of time every week to put together
I wasnt gaining any follows or fans from it
Im tired of being walked all over
If you were on the email list you will be notified when (if) it goes live again.
Thanks again to the loyals fans.





Sunday, February 23, 2014

Manhattan Toy Review & Giveaway

Becca over at SouthernMessMoms.com is having such a great giveaway! Go enter to win!
The following information is straight from the SouthernMessMoms.com blog:
Disclaimer: I was given the products in this post for the purpose of a review. I was not paid in any way to write this review. All opinions are my own.  This post may contain affiliate links that I receive commission or payment from in exchange for referrals. SouthernMessMoms is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Manhattan Toy

With Christmas finally passing by…I get to start working on the girls birthdays! With this in mind I started searching for well made, engaging toys that would work for one or both of the girls. In my search I ran across The Manhattan Toy Company.

When the company offered to allow me to review a few of their toys I was thrilled! Everything looked so awesome, it took some time for us to figure out what I wanted to review…and what I wanted to save to purchase for the girls birthdays next month!
After digging through and taking some tips from a few friends, we decided on thePut & Peek Birdhouse ($33.00) for Annaliese and the Groovy Girls Princess Ariana ($20.00) and the Royal Splendor Throne ($22.00) for Emalee.
So, let’s start with the Put & Peek Birdhouse. What did I think? What did the girls think?
Put & Peek Birdhouse Manhattan Toy
It’s ADORABLE! I totally love that it has a variety of places for the birds to go in and come out of!
The Put & Peek Birdhouse is recommended for ages 9 months and up.
From the moment the box came, Annaliese was absolutely captured by the brightness and noises that this toy displays. Each bird has a small difference in the noises it makes (some rattle, some crinkle, etc.) and according to Annaliese (who is 11 months old) ALL are edible!
Put & Peek Birdhouse Manhattan Toy
The Put & Peek Birdhouse from Manhattan Toy truly made Annaliese think and engage while playing. If you can’t tell by the looks on her face in the pictures above she has a blast playing with it.
Not convinced yet?
Watch this video! She loves figuring out which hole she will find the birds in next :)
What about the Groovy Girls toys? What did we think of Princess Ariana and the Royal Splendor Throne?
Groovy Girls Manhattan Toy

They ROCK! Emalee and Annaliese both adore all of the Manhattan Toys that we received!
The Groovy Girls toys are both recommended for 3 years and up, however, they are built in such a way that I did not worry when Annaliese wanted to play with them.
Groovy Girls Manhattan Toy
Description from the Manhattan Toy website: “Ariana looks like she just stepped out of a fairytale. Dressed in a glamorous lavender and pink ball gown, she is a vision in silver accessories with her tiara, matching necklace, and shimmering shoes. Pink trim on her dress matches the highlights in her hair. Ariana is a perfect pal for your little princess!”
Princess Ariana and the Royal Splendor Throne are both made of soft, child friendly materials. They are super detailed and absolutely gorgeous!
Groovy Girls Manhattan Toy
Description from the Manhattan Toy website: “Seat your Groovy Girls on her rightful throne. Every girl should have royal treatment. Royal throne features fabulous prints and a sleek design. Ready for every little princess.”
The only issue I have had with these two toys is dealing with the girls fighting over who gets to play with them!
Don’t forget to check them out on: Facebook   Twitter   Pinterest   YouTube   Blog
After having these three Manhattan Toys for a few weeks and seeing how well they hold up to the girls playing with them non-stop I have to say that I highly recommend them to anyone and everyone, that’s why I am THRILLED to have the chance to do a giveaway of these exact toys for you guys!!





Monday, February 17, 2014

Social Scatter #16

Welcome to the Social Scatter!


February is the month for love. Make sure to spread it around!
Link up|||share|||like|||repost|||favorite|||+1|||comment|||retweet|||pin|||etc!
Sharing is great, but if you're here, make sure to follow your hosts and co-host(s).
Special Thanks to the 6 bloggers that were featured last month. You guys did a fantastic job spreading the word about the Social Scatter.

I'm your Host!




I'm Bobbie Jo!
I'm a Southern raised girl that left the US Army to be a Mommy and [Army] housewife. One son born on St Patrick's Day + A step son born on Independence Day
 I am the owner of xBJSCC. I am a runner at From Pregnant To Marathon&& I am a blogger at Down Side Up Mommy!




&& I'm also a host!

I'm Becca, a great big SOUTHERN MESS if you want to know the truth! I'm a 20 something ex-teacher and mommy of two totally awesome girls. I blog about mom life, great products, food that rocks, fitness, things I learn along my journey, and I love to add my personal flair to everything that I do!



Meet your Co-Hosts!



A Christian. Mom to three children. Marine Wife. Founder & CEO of Silk Spa Creations and everything in between!




[MamaMusing Online]
Hi, I'm Shannon! I'm a Canadian teacher who is currently on maternity leave. I've had four children in the past 5 years, and I blog about my experiences with them, as well as pregnancy, parenting and education.






Lets get this part started!
Sorry, This link up has ended.






Sunday, February 16, 2014

Missy Mila DVD Review and Giveaway!

BECCA OVER AT SOUTHERNMESSMOMS.COM IS HAVING ANOTHER GIVEAWAY! HERE IS THE INFORMATION STRAIGHT FROM HER BLOG!! MAKE SURE TO ENTER!!


Disclosure: I got this product as part of an advertorial.
Disclaimer: I was given the products in this post for the purpose of a review. I was not paid in any way to write this review. All opinions are my own. This post may contain affiliate links that I receive commission or payment from in exchange for referrals. SouthernMessMoms is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.

Missy Mila

Never heard of Missy Mila?

You have no clue what you are missing out on with her amazing Twisted Tales!

Friday, February 7, 2014

Poweraid only .22ea

If you like Powerade drinks there is a HOT deal starting Wed. 2/12 at Food Lion:
Powerade will be 89¢ each
Buy 10, Get $5 off Instantly
Buy 15, Get $10 off Instantly
Deal:Buy 15 Powerade at 89¢ each = $13.35
Get $10 off Instantly =$3.35, .22 ea
use your powerade coupons to lower the price!  (NLA)







Tuesday, January 28, 2014

Social Scatter #13


WELCOME TO THE SOCIAL SCATTER!
This has been our BIGGEST and BESTEST (yes, bestest!) one yet! I have dedicated this month to SMALL BLOGGERS! Many bloggers forget where they came from! Don't you remember what it was like to have less than 1k likes/fans/followers/readers? Wouldn't it have meant the WORLD to you if a "bigger" blogger gave you a little shout out? Just a tiny one? Don't forget about us little guys!

Link up|||share|||like|||repost|||favorite|||+1|||comment|||retweet|||pin|||etc!

Monday, January 20, 2014

Social Scatter #12


WELCOME TO THE SOCIAL SCATTER!
This has been our BIGGEST and BESTEST (yes, bestest!) one yet! I have dedicated this month to SMALL BLOGGERS! Many bloggers forget where they came from! Don't you remember what it was like to have less than 1k likes/fans/followers/readers? Wouldn't it have meant the WORLD to you if a "bigger" blogger gave you a little shout out? Just a tiny one? Don't forget about us little guys!

Link up|||share|||like|||repost|||favorite|||+1|||comment|||retweet|||pin|||etc!

Ergonomic UGLee Pen Review & Giveaway

Becca over at SouthernMessMoms.com has another giveaway going! Have you entered? Here is the info straight from her website:



Friday, January 17, 2014

Ozeri Precision Digital Bath Scale Product Review

I was given the oppertunity to review the Ozeri Precision Digital Bath Scale (400 lb Edition) with Widescreen LCD and Step-on Activation, in White. 



Thursday, January 16, 2014

G+ Growing Circles Hop



If you have been using other social media sites to promote your blog and are frustrated with algorithms and reader engagement and want to learn more about G+ and grow your circles, then join us! Don’t be intimidated! G+ is new to most of us so join us and we can learn and grow together.

Tuesday, January 14, 2014

Social Scatter #11

WELCOME TO THE SOCIAL SCATTER!
This has been our BIGGEST and BESTEST (yes, bestest!) one yet! I have dedicated this month to SMALL BLOGGERS! Many bloggers forget where they came from! Don't you remember what it was like to have less than 1k likes/fans/followers/readers? Wouldn't it have meant the WORLD to you if a "bigger" blogger gave you a little shout out? Just a tiny one? Don't forget about us little guys!

Friday, January 10, 2014

Venus Embrace Sensitive VoxBox Review!


The personal opinions and reviews expressed on this blog (Down Side Up Mommy) belong solely to me. The reviews posted on this blog are my own thoughts, ideas, impressions and opinions of each product. All reviews are my honest opinion. I am not paid to write these reviews.  In most instances the product provided for the review was free of charge from the company.
I received these products complimentary for testing purposes from Influenster.

Are you an Influenster member? I AM! and I LOVE IT! They send me these packages called a "VoxBox" which is typically a box filled with random goodies for you to try and review! 

"Influenster is a free-to-join community of trendsetters, social media masterminds, and educated consumers who live to give opinions of products and experiences.
The Influenster site is a hub where members meet to learn about new products from our favorite brands as well as review the products they already use in their day-to-day lives!
Influenster invites its most active members to participate in exclusive VoxBox programs where members receive complimentary products to test and review. In exchange, we ask our members to do what they already love to do: share their opinions with their friends & followers on social media!
But that's not all. We have a lot going on including digital challenges, twitter parties, & contests!"

Today I received the Venus Embrace Sensitive VoxBox in the mail! 

"What's a VoxBox?
So you've heard about our famous VoxBoxes, and want to know more?
VoxBoxes are boxes filled with complimentary products from your favorite (or soon-to-be-favorite) brands. Not all Voxboxes are created equal: some programs feature an assortment of products while others will spotlight one awesome brand. But make no mistake: All VoxBoxes are created awesome!"

Check it out:




...

I had not shaved my legs in about...i'm not sure how many weeks. After all, shaving stops in November, right? Regardless, I was looking forward to putting this bad boy to work.
All jokes aside, i was VERY PLEASED with this razor. I was so pleased that I'm pretty sure I will purchase this brand once it hits shelves. This was the closest shave ever. 24 hours afer i shaved it still felt as if i just got out of the shower. 48 hours later it was barely a stubble. 3 days later and I'm feeling minimal stubble. With my old razor i would say day 4 with this razor = day 1 with that razor. I totally recommend this product to every woman out there.



Wednesday, January 8, 2014

Peter Rabbit Organics Review & Giveaway

Becca from SouthernMessMoms.com is having another giveaway! I have not tried these but I sure want to! Here is the info straight from her website:

______________

Disclaimer: I was given the products in this post for the purpose of a review. I was not paid in any way to write this review. All opinions are my own.  This post may contain affiliate links that I receive commission or payment from in exchange for referrals. SouthernMessMoms is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.
Peter Rabbit Organics

Are you like me? Do you check packages & labels trying to find the most organic and natural foods possible for your kiddos?Peter Rabbit Organics is a brand that makes high-quality fruit & veggie blend snacks in those awesome pouch thingies!

Peter Rabbit Organics
We have always made our kiddos baby food using a food processor. It was cheaper and I knew exactly what they were getting. However, making your own baby food and carrying it around isn’t exactly simple. You have to worry about temperature control, which you don’t when you used pre-packaged foods.
Peter Rabbit Organics
What grabbed my attention when I was offered this review was this statement:
“Also, our fruit and veg puree pouches are all organic, contain 100% fruit and veg, and never have added sugar or anything artificial.  You won’t have to read the label – the fruit you see on the front is what’s inside!  If you do read the label you’ll see your snacks are high in vitamin C, have between 70 and 85 calories, 0 fat (of course – it’s fruit!) and 1.5-2 grams of fiber. Peter Rabbit Organics don’t require refrigeration before eating and come in BPA-free resealable pouches for easy packing. Plus, the convenient, squeezy pouch (with a no-choke cap) makes it fun and easy for little hands!”
Who wouldn’t want to provide that for their kiddos??
Peter Rabbit Organics are awesome for several reasons: small package so it takes up a very small amount of space in your bag, re-seal-able, no spoon/bowl required!
Peter Rabbit Organics

Their promises line up perfectly with my promises when it came to making my kiddos food!

The only issue I have is that as a past Montessori teacher I know that it is important to use a spoon/fork with your child as early as possible. I do believe that using these pouches from time to time is okay…however, I would like to make sure I mention the importance of letting your child get used to using utensils (holding them as well) as soon as they can sit up and are eating baby food.
Some questions I mentioned in my video:
  • Size compared to typical baby foods: Jars = 4oz   Peter Rabbit Organics = 4.4oz
  • Price compared to typical baby foods: Jars = 2 pack for $4.00  Peter Rabbit Organics = 10 pack for $14
You can find Peter Rabbit Organics on Facebook and Twitter.
Peter Rabbit Organics
Want your own package full of awesomeness?

Enter the giveaway for a chance to win 12 assorted pouches!!






Monday, January 6, 2014

Social Scatter #10

WELCOME TO 2014!
I have been looking forward to this Social Scatter because it is our BIGGEST and BESTEST (yes, bestest!) one yet! I have dedicated this month to SMALL BLOGGERS! Many bloggers forget where they came from! Don't you remember what it was like to have less than 1k likes/fans/followers/readers? Wouldnt it have meant the WORLD to you if a "bigger" blogger gave you a little shout out? Just a tiny one? Don't forget about us little guys!

Link up|||share|||like|||repost|||favorite|||+1|||comment|||retweet|||pin|||etc!
HELP YOUR LITTLE GUYS! ONE DAY THEY COULD BE A GREAT ASSET TO YOU!
Let's stick together and start a new year as a bunch of bloggie friends!

#SocialScatter

I'm your Host!
[Down Side Up Mommy]
I'm Bobbie Jo!


I'm a Southern raised girl that recently left the US Army to be a Mommy and [Army] housewife. 
My son was born on St Patrick's Day and he is my everything.
 I am the owner of xBJSCC.
 I am a runner at From Pregnant To Marathon
&& I am a blogger at Down Side Up Mommy!


                    Meet your January Co-Hosts!
        Click their link to visit them and learn more about them!

                                          A Conquered Mess                      Embracing The Good Life                     Vintage Zest
      Lady Blogger                             Moving Mommy                      Probably Crafting




Sorry! This Social Scatter Link Up has expired! Click here to view the Social Scatter that is currently LIVE!



Advertisement:

Saturday, January 4, 2014

Couponing: Part 1

Disclaimer: This post is for informational purposes only. I am not a couponing expert and cannot be held responsible for any errors that may occur during your couponing experiences. At times store rules and store policies can and will change, making some information provided on this blog to become incorrect. I will do my best to always provide the most accurate information but again - I am no expert.


                                    

Friday, January 3, 2014

Amber For Babies Teething Necklace Review & Giveaway



Another giveaway from Becca at SouthernMessMoms.com! Here is the info straight from her website!

_______


Disclaimer: I was given the products in this post for the purpose of a review. I was not paid in any way to write this review. All opinions are my own.  This post may contain affiliate links that I receive commission or payment from in exchange for referrals. SouthernMessMoms is a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for sites to earn advertising fees by advertising and linking to Amazon.com.Amber Teething Necklace

We all know that teething is a totally rough time for both baby and mom, so it begs to reason that we are all looking for ways to ease the teething process. I’m sure that we have all heard of teething necklaces, however, you may not have heard of the Amber Teething Necklace!

Amber Teething Necklace
I don’t know about you guys but I have done so much research and asked around about ways of helping to make the teething process a bit easier for my sweet girl. I have learned quite a bit and most of it has seemed to help.
While it seems to be a bit controversial, I have heard from a lot of moms and even from several pediatricians that you SHOULD NOT use orajel on a babies gums. I have been told that while it does help with the pain, it is also hardening the gums and makes it take even longer for the teeth to break through. I’m not sure if this is true…but I’m not willing to test it and find out!
When I first heard of Amber Teething Necklaces I honestly didn’t know what to think. Of course the first image that came to mind was of the Teething Bling style of necklace that I LOVE and still use (which is where you wear it and your baby gnaws on it).
It never occurred to me that this was something my baby would wear!
Amber Teething Necklace
I have always been under the impression that putting jewelry like this on a baby isn’t exactly the safest thing, and I was a little hesitant to give it a try.
Curious about the necklace and how it looks/works?
Details about Amber Teething Necklaces
  • They’re unisex!
  • The necklaces are about 11.5-12 inches.
  • If the necklace breaks, you don’t have to worry about chasing the beads all over the place because the string is knotted after every bead.
  • The necklaces come in a variety of different colors and styles, can be polished or raw.”
I even went so far as to talk to my daughters pediatrician before using it. He basically laughed and said that it was a “hippie dippie” idea and probably wouldn’t work. He also said that if it were up to him, he would not put a necklace on a baby her age, but if I did to follow their instructions and not let her out of my sight while wearing it.
Amber Teething Necklace
Well…with that “glowing support” from the doctor at least he said it wouldn’t hurt her to use it?  I decided to give it a go and see if I saw any changes in her behavior.
Annaliese is getting in both of her upper canines and it has definitely been tough on her. She is miserable most of the time and it has even upset her tummy quite a bit.
The necklace is very pretty and fits her rather well. I was a little worried that she would be able to get it into her mouth and the package specifically says not to let them chew on it, so I kept a very close eye on her at first.
Amber Teething Necklace
I put it on, tucked it under her shirt, and off she went!
Honestly, she didn’t even seem to notice it was there.

So what is the point of the necklace? How is it supposed to help? 

Well, according to their website:
“Healing Properties of Amber Teething Necklaces
Everyone from babies to small children living in Europe wear the natural analgesic Amber to help with their pain and discomfort from teething. Not only does amber help with the pain and inflammation that comes with teething, but it also helps in fighting and preventing infection.
These unique necklaces can make a wonderful present for the baby and their parents, and are absolutely adorable! The ability to reduce acidity in the human body is another homeopathic remedy of amber. The awful symptoms of teething are reduced with amber teething necklaces.
Baltic Amber beads and all of their natural homeopathic remedies compose the necklace, and provide your child with a cooling sensation for their gums.”
Want to know even more? Check out this page on Healing Properties of Amber!
Amber Teething Necklace
I’m sure many of you are thinking the same thing that I did. Can a necklace really help? And if it does…what about bed time! I can’t leave it on her if I can’t see her! Well, while doing some research I found an idea! Either purchase the bracelet/anklet or double over the necklace and use it as an anklet and put a sock on top of it (or better yet a footsie pajama set!! This way they can wear it all the time and you don’t have to worry about it going in their mouth.
While it may be a “hippie dippie” method of relieving pain I guess I can’t say too much…seeing as I wear a handmade bracelet of Jasper from Mountain Girl Gems for its balance and calming effects!
I know what you are thinking by now…just get on with it girl! Do you recommend it or not? Did you notice a difference? Can it help ease my babies constant pain due to teething???
Well, honestly it is hard to say. Annaliese has been sooooo super fussy lately and I think it is due to teething. I have had her wear the necklace and not wear it. She seems to be a little calmer and happier when wearing it…but she is happy without it too. This is honestly just one of those things you have to believe in and just let it work it’s “magic” !
Amber Teething Necklace
I will say that I feel more comfortable with her wearing it as an anklet than anything else at this point.
Be sure to check them out on
Facebook     Twitter     Pinterest
Guess what?!? Amber For Babies has offered to do a giveaway for you guys!! How great is that :)