Young Living Review

I have been on the hunt lately for healthy ways to take care of my family's bodies without medicine or shots. This year I am committed to not getting the flu shot for my family. Every one has their opinion and I don't think it is wrong for anyone else to get the shot- this is just something we are trying out. That being said- my son Jackson got sick the other day. I'm pretty certain it was some type of flu or virus. He had body aches, fever, and was super tired. Well the day before I had received from Jennifer Nordin at Young Living a Ultrasonic Diffuser along with a bottle of Thieves Oil. Young Living is a great company that sells a variety of health items including essential oils. I really wanted to take the opportunity and use the Diffuser and oil to help treat Jackson without medicine while also using it keep my family healthy as well.
I emailed Jennifer Nordin to see how I could use it in our home and I am so glad I did. She told me to run the diffuser with the oil for 15 minutes at a time every hour. I also had the options of mixing it with olive oil and rubbing on the soles of our feet or mixing it with honey and ingesting it. I had no idea there were so many ways to use oils! I used the diffuser in Jackson's room that night. I didn't give him any medicine and the next morning his fever had broke! He was back to his bubbly self and feeling so much better. I also used it in our living room to help clean up the air in our house.

Thieves Essential Oil Blend is named after robbers during the time of the Plague. They would go around and rob people who had died from the plague. After they were caught they were asked how they were able to not get sick and this concoction is what they used. Thieves Essential Oil Blend supports the immune system and has "cleansing abilities".

Young Living has sooooooo many other wonderful products and I will be reviewing more soon! I can't wait to share with you the other great products they offer. Have you used any Young Living products before? If you are interested in purchasing any or have questions you can contact Jennifer Nordin with the info below! This diffuser wholesales for $85. You will receive a coupon for 50% off the diffuser with the purchase of any Young Living Start Living Kit which creates a Young Living account for you to purchase at wholesale prices. There is a whole Young Living Thieves line of products formulated with this powerful germ fighting essential oil blend.

Jennifer Nordin, Independent Young Living Distributor #329194, provides practical aromatherapy tips and private consultations through her blog, Oils For Wellness. Be sure to subscribe to her e-newsletter for more ways to experience the amazing healing benefits of essential oils. Start living well today- purchase pure Young Living aromatherapy products from the Oils For Wellness website!

Four Peas Review

Ki and Jackson started school last week. Their first day of school! I am so proud. Before school started I was looking through a magazine and saw the cutest backpack from Four Peas. My son saw it and told me he wanted it. I said "ok!" Little did he know that I was getting the exact one from Four Peas to review! When it came he was one happy little boy.

It is the Rocker Toddler Backpack and it is just one of the many adorable items for school from Four Peas. There are even matching lunch bags! This one is so cute for a little girl

All of the Four Peas items can be personalized too! What a great way to make your child feel special for school! To view the entire cute collection visit FourPeasonline.com.

Back 2 School Bash GoPicnic Review and Giveaway

What is the best part of school? Lunch time! It's when your child can refuel for the rest of their day and have something to look forward to. If you are a blogger than you probably have seen all of the posts lately about GoPicnic.

GoPicnic is a great company with ready to go, nutritious meals in a box. They have a large variety of boxes with all sorts of goodies inside! We received several types of GoPicnic boxes to try and boy did we have fun! I took my boys on a picnic at the park with a couple of them and we had fun seeing all of the different types of snacks. There were even temporary tattoos for my little guys! I was surprised with how many different brands of healthy packaged treats there are.

The boys really liked the food as well. Their favorites were the crackers with healthy spreadable cheese and each box had a small dessert ( you have to have something sweet!) I think these meals are a great alternative to buying school lunches. They are also reasonably priced so you don't have to feel guilty for treating your little one!

One winner will receive their own set of GoPicnic Lunches! To enter please visit the site and tell me a few types that you would like to try- there is something for everyone!

For additional entries please leave a separate comment for each of the following:

If you are an email subscriber

If you are a feedburner subscriber

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If you enter any Back 2 School giveaway on A Family Completed and leave me a comment telling me which one's you enter. Extra entry for each giveaway entered.

Giveaway ends Sept 15th 11:59 Open to US and Canada

Learning Felt Review

I really like creative learning products that can help me teach my children at home. Learning Felt is a great company that has a large selection of great felt and storyboard items to use with your child. Learning Felt is great for celebrating holidays, homeschooling, classrooms and so much more! To see all of the great products and to make a purchase visit Learning Felt today!

Back 2 School Bash Burts Bees Giveaway

If you haven't noticed by now I ♥ natural products. Burt's Bees has been a favorite of mine for quite some time. I just have never had the chance to try very many of their products. So I am glad that I had the opportunity to try some products of Burt's Bees that I didn't even know they had! I was went the Radiance Day Creme, Baby Bee Apricot Baby Oil, and Mama Bee Belly Balm.

Of course I love them all. The Radiance Day Lotion has SPF 15 in it which is a huge bonus to me. I struggle to find natural moisturizers that have SPF in them as well. The creme is very soothing (must be the Calendula) and super moisturizing.

The oil and the balm are great too. They are perfect for any new mom who wants to pamper herself and her baby. I love the smell of the oil- apricot is not a scent I see to often these days.

Burt's Bees is giving one of my readers their very own jar of Radiance Day Creme! To enter please visit the site and tell me what your favorite product is.

For additional entries please leave a separate comment for each of the following:

If you are an email subscriber

If you are a feedburner subscriber

If you are a follower

If you have my button

If you tweet this and leave me the link

If you post this and leave me the link

If you follow me on Twitter and leave me your id - barnharts

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If you grab my Back 2 School Bash button

If you enter any Back 2 School giveaway on A Family Completed and leave me a comment telling me which one's you enter. Extra entry for each giveaway entered.

Giveaway ends Sept 15th 11:59 Open to US

Back 2 School Bash DownEast Review and Giveaway

On our recent trip to Utah ( I know I still need to post pics!) I discovered a whole new world of shopping. A place that is affordable and modest AND cute! It's called DownEast Basics. I actually found their site online and immediately asked if I could do a review. Then while in Utah I saw the store everywhere I went. It was so meant to be! DownEast Basics sent me a dress to review. I think that they have stopped selling it so I don't have a pic but lets just say it is fabulous! I also received this adorable Dress Up skirt for girls.

I am so impressed with the quality of the clothing compared to the price. Most of the time what you pay for is what you get but here you get affordable clothing that is going to last.

DownEast Basics just came out with their new fall line and really have some adorable pieces for girls. Check out this super cute Rows of Ruffles Dress. It's only $19.99!

I absolutely, positively, have to get this Tuxedo Dress for myself- only $29.99!

Well if I haven't convinced you yet than would a giveaway do it? DownEast Basics is giving one reader 2 great prizes! Your choice of a Woman's item and a girl's item. So it sounds great but the only catch is you will have to decide on only 2 items! It will be hard I promise!

To enter please visit DownEast Basics and tell me which items you would pick if you are the winner.

For additional entries please leave a separate comment for each of the following:

If you are an email subscriber

If you are a feedburner subscriber

If you are a follower

If you have my button

If you tweet this and leave me the link

If you post this and leave me the link

If you follow me on Twitter and leave me your id - barnharts

If you follow me on Facebook and leave me your id - ashleyhookerbarnhart

If you grab my Back 2 School Bash button

If you enter any Back 2 School giveaway on A Family Completed and leave me a comment telling me which one's you enter. Extra entry for each giveaway entered.

Giveaway ends Sept 15th 11:59 Open to US AND Canada!

Generation Islam Documentary

I hope some of you were able to watch the Generation Islam Documentary that aired on August 13th. I was sent a copy to review and am so glad I had the opportunity.

Christiane Amanour is a CNN correspondent who went to Afghanistan, Pakistan, and Gaza to document and interview young Muslim children who are living in poverty and who are trying to escape being transformed by Muslim extremists. Watching the film broke my heart at times as I saw children struggle to be different and better than what is around them. Several children live in orphanages and have hardly any food to get by or a good place to sleep. They could join the Taliban and get a free "education" but at a high cost. I was also surprised at how many Americans who are involved and living in these areas. They are helping build schools and risking their lives everyday to keep the Taliban out.

What I took away the most from this documentary is that education is so important to these Muslim children. It is so important that they are risking their lives and health just so that they can have a future. It seems as though we really take education for granted in the United States. Skipping class and not studying- we can be so lazy! This documentary has really opened my eyes and has motivated me to try as hard as I can in school.

Winners

I am so excited to start seeing who is winning the Back 2 School Giveaways. I have to say that aside from getting product to review my favorite part of doing the blog is picking winners!

The winner of the HearthSong blocks is bridget3420
and the winner of the $50 Visa Gift Card ( I had 453 entries- the most ever!) is............drumroll please..........



Leslie M from leslielovesveggies!

500 Followers!

I finally made it to my goal of 500! Thank you for all of you who are following and reading my blog. I hope you are having fun entering the giveaways here and I really hope you all win at some point. I will be posting winners soon so keep checking in to see who wins! Have a great Sunday.

High Sierra Review

My husband and I both headed back to school last week. Yes to college. It is crazy to remember all of the things we need to get for going back to school. I never thought I would be needing to use a backpack again! I am so glad that I have a High Sierra backpack to get me through school. I actually have 3!

The people at High Sierra are super awesome and sent me 3 great bags to review for back to school. I am using the Kelvin for my classes.

Large, multi compartment design.
Padded computer sleeve holds most 17" (screen size) notebook computers. (max. size 16" x 11" x 1.625")
Premium organizer with zippered mesh pocket, pen pockets and key fob.
Large mesh side pockets hold a beverage or other gear.
S-shaped shoulder straps have comfortable VAPEL™ mesh AIRFLOW™ padding with COLLAR-COMFORT edge.
Open mesh shoulder strap cell phone/media pocket offers even more storage.
Adjustable side compression straps secure heavy loads.
Bottom webbing loop for attaching extra gear.
Comfortable padded back panel.
Front panel shock cord holds a jacket or extra gear.
Convenient grab handle.

The Kelvin has so much space! I was surprised by how much room I have for all of my books and small items too. Each pocket helps me stay organized from my pens to my lip gloss. It even has a place for headphones and an MP3 player. Cody is using the Randolph in red.

Large, multi-compartment design.


Back access compartment with removable padded computer sleeve, holds most 17" (screen size) notebook computers. (max. size 16" x 11" x 1.625")


Deluxe organizer with zippered mesh pocket, lidded media pocket, pen pockets and removable key fob.


Side zippered accessory pockets hold power supply cords or other gear.


Top zippered slash pocket holds sunglasses or extra gear.


S-shaped, VAPEL™ mesh AIRFLOW™ padded shoulder straps with Suspension System.


Versatile flip-down shoulder strap pocket allows you to operate your MP3 player without removal.


Open mesh shoulder strap cell phone/media pocket offers even more storage.


File folder compartment, with built-in accordion dividers, keeps documents secure and well organized.


Adjustable side compression straps secure heavy loads.


Contour-molded grab handle with moisture-wicking VAPEL™ mesh.

Cody loves his bag for all of the room as well. He has a lot more classes than me and needs something that can support all of his books for his busy morning classes. This bag is strong enough to support his supplies and his back.

The last bag we received is the Chip

This bag is perfect for when we need to take our laptop to school to take notes. I know it will be well protected and it still has room for so many other items! I really like the spot that holds my water bottle.

Large main compartment.
Adjustable protective flap with quick-release buckle and hook/loop closure.
Padded computer sleeve holds most 15" (screen size) notebook computers. (max. size: 14.25" x 10.5" x 1.75")
Handy mesh beverage compartment on one side.
Side zippered MP3 player pocket with headphone grommet.
Organizer with zippered mesh pocket, pen pockets, key fob and cell phone/PDA pocket.
Contoured grab handle.
Extra-wide adjustable shoulder strap.

All the High Sierra bags are perfect for any student wanting quality and a bag that lasts. To view the entire collection of High Sierra Day Bags and to see all the many color options for each bag visit hssc.com.

Umi Shoes Review

When school starts you have to have a cool pair of new shoes! Umi shoes has there new fall line out and boy are they stylish! Umi shoes was kind enough to send my son the Major and he loves them! He has been wearing them to school and they are perfect for all the running around he does there. They especially have been withstanding all the playing and climbing at recess!

Here is a little info from Umi's site:

At Umi, we build real children's shoes. Not floppy leather slipper socks. And not miniature grown-up shoes. We know a lot about growing feet. Front to back. Side to side. Top to bottom. Umi shoes are designed with children's feet in mind. Around here we have some pretty high standards. We craft our shoes from the highest quality nappa and nubuck leather, with carefully constructed lasts. Our manufacturing process includes more than twenty quality control checks to ensure that every pair of shoes meets our standards. The result: Umi shoes are flexible, supportive, built to fit, and go the distance.

I know these shoes are built to last. They are so durable and I especially love how easy they are to clean. The girls shoes are really adorable as well. If only these came in my size!

To check out all of the latest styles visit Umishoes.com.

WB Looney Tunes Eating Right Kids Program on Momlogic.com

Everyday is a struggle it seems to get your kids to eat right. I can barely do it for myself. Well Warner Bros. and Safeway have teamed up to encourage parents and children to make better choices when shopping at the grocery store. I am participating with the WB in promoting this great program to share discussions and tips on healthy eating with your child.

"Warner Bros. Consumer Products and Safeway, Inc. have teamed up to create a better-for-you line of food products for children, uniting flavor and nutrition with the iconic Looney Tunes characters. The line includes categories such as breakfast foods, portable meals, dairy, snacks and beverages. Each product will feature such world-renowned Looney Tunes characters as Bugs Bunny, Tweety, Taz, Sylvester, Wile E. Coyote, Roadrunner, Marvin the Martian and Daffy Duck, who serve as ‘Mother’s Helper,’ making it easy for moms to spot better-for-you food and beverage items for their kids that taste great.

Statistics on Childhood Obesity:

Obesity is a growing problem among our children nationwide, which, if not addressed, can lead to severe health issues in adulthood. As parents, teaching healthy eating habits and educating our children on how to choose to eat healthy is one of the best habits you can instill in your kids.

o According to a 2009 study, almost 1 in 5 American 4-year-olds is obese – that’s more than half a million 4-year-olds.
o The number of overweight and obese children (10 to 17 years old) is at or above 30 percent in 30 states.
o Research has also shown that overweight and obese children generally go on to become obese adults, with all the chronic, weight-related health issues that involves, such as heart disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure.

About Warner Bros. / Safeway program:
Warner Bros. Consumer Products has partnered exclusively with Safeway to offer better eating choices for kids: the Eating Right Kids food and beverage line that features the beloved Looney Tunes characters.
o The line is an offshoot of Safeway’s Eating Right line for adults. Warner Bros. Consumer Products’ and Safeway’s Eating Right Kids initiative was highlighted by the Federal Trade Commission for its ability to have a positive impact on childhood obesity.
o The Eating Right Kids Food Line featuring the Looney Tunes Characters offer more than 60 items across 18 categories including breakfast foods, produce, portable meals, dairy, snacks, beverages and frozen entrees. The line is available at more than 1700 Safeway locations throughout the U.S. and Canada.
o The Eating Right Kids line featuring the Looney Tunes Characters available at Safeway stores has been formulated to standards based on the most recent dietary recommendations and regulations from several federal and state agencies.

Momlogic.com:
Looney Tunes Eat Right Kids Program is featured on Momlogic starting August 24th and will feature an Eating Right blog from Haylie Pomroy to showcase healthy recipes, expert tips and the Looney Tunes Eating Right product recommendation to help moms save prep time when creating healthy menus and school lunches."


Some struggles in getting my children to eat right stem from being out and about. When we are on the road, running errands, or hanging out at our families houses, there are always sweet treats and convenience foods that I just don't want my boys to have. It seems like everyday treats show up and every time I say no to my kids my husband finds a way to say yes!

What are some challenges that you are facing with getting your child to eat right?

What are your favorite ways to get kids to eat their fruits and veggies?

To find great tips and and healthy recipes on MomLogic as well as coupons and more, visit MomLogic here.

Signature 23 Skincare Review

There are so many great skincare products out there that it is hard to know which ones to buy. So I am telling you now- go buy Signature23. It is fab-u-lous. I received some samples from them and have really enjoyed using them. Here is some info about the company from the site:

"Signature23, is inspired to you by Suzanne, a professional athlete and professional makeup artist. Her secret is to promote cellular energy, so your skin can perform at its best everyday. She has designed simple, practical and natural ways to get younger looking skin to help find balance and peace of mind to every lifestyle.
The Signature23 brand is respected for its high quality, natural ingredients. The last 4 years we’ve been working with a well known chemist and development team to design luxurious formulations to make a positive change in your skin.
Signature23 Skincare. Born in Manhattan Beach. A collection of lifestyle skincare products. Designed for the skin needs for men and women. Simple and dependable skincare products for busy lifestyles."

I had the chance to sample the Vita-C Elixir, the C23 Lifestyle Day Cream, the Crystal Microderm Exfoliating Treatment. All of the products are so great but my favorite is the exfoliating treatment. It makes my skin feel so good afterward but not to where I feel like I scrubbed my face off. All of the products feel soothing on my skin and it really feels that all the natural goodness in them is nourishing my face.

Guess what? When you sign up for the Signature23 newsletter, you receive 40% off promo code! To sign up and enter giveaways on the site visit here.

HenryWeston Etsy Review

Something you may not know about me is that I am a handbag freak. I have been ever since I was a little girl and am still a collector. So when I was looking around on Etsy one day and came across HenryWeston I was in love. She has the most beautiful bags. They are so simple and classic but not plain. I received the Slouch Bag Light Blue Canvas Bag and am really impressed.

Sometimes when I think handmade I think that the something might be lacking but that is not the case with HenryWeston! The bag is very well made. It has a strong snap closure and plenty of pockets for anything. Some of the pockets are perfect for my boys sippy cups. I used to just buy handbags and purses strictly on looks back when all I needed to carry with me was lipgloss and cash. Now I need space and organization and all of HenryWeston bags have that.

They also have the cutest custom shirts and hand painted Converse shoes! The only bad thing about this Etsy shop is trying to pick your favorite item. Go ahead and try- I bet you can't!

Back 2 School Bash Scott Naturals Green Gift Bag

Here is another green product that I am excited to share! With as much toilet paper as we go through in our house (which means a lot of clogged toilets!) it only makes sense to use toilet paper that is made from recycled products ( but not recycled toilet paper :) )

Take a green step at home with SCOTT Naturals™ – a family of products that makes it easy to turn over a new leaf without sacrificing quality. To celebrate the nationwide availability of these products that deliver value along with environmental benefits, we’ve teamed up with SCOTT Naturals™ to offer one lucky reader a Green Gift Bag – a reusable tote filled with SCOTT Naturals™ product coupons, a reusable water bottle, green light bulbs, and cleaning products from Clorox Green Works.

To enter, leave a comment below letting us know one step you’re taking to go green at home.

For additional entries please leave a separate comment for each of the following:

If you are an email subscriber

If you are a feedburner subscriber

If you are a follower

If you have my button

If you tweet this and leave me the link

If you post this and leave me the link

If you follow me on Twitter and leave me your id - barnharts

If you follow me on Facebook and leave me your id - ashleyhookerbarnhart

If you grab my Back 2 School Bash button

If you enter any Back 2 School giveaway on A Family Completed and leave me a comment telling me which one's you enter. Extra entry for each giveaway entered.

Giveaway ends Sept 13th 11:59 Open to US

First Act Guitar Review

My boys love musical instruments! I think it is a kid thing. First Act is one of the best companies for musical instruments for children! They have everything from guitars to recorders to drums. We received the 30" Classic Shape Acoustic Guitar for my little guys. It is so cool! It is just like an adults. Here are some of it's features:

Product Features:- 30" steel string guitar with a natural finish- Classic Shape- Hardwood top, back and sides- Comfortable thin profile body- Steel reinforced wood neck- Thin frets and low string action for easy playing- Great feel and accurate intonation- Protective satin finish Includes:- Extra E & B Strings- Chord Cards

My favorite part is that it has chord cards to help your child actually play- not just pretend playing- although that works too! I am really impressed with the quality of this guitar. I know it will hold up to my crazy boys and it is perfect for a four year old's little hands.

If I ever have a girl I have to get her this one:

To view all of the other great instruments from First Act visit First Act Discovery.

Back 2 School Bash Misikko Review and Giveaway!

This one is awesome ladies (and to my few male followers!)! If you haven't heard of Misikko by now then you are missing out! Misikko has some of the nicest flat irons. They sent me a InfraShine flat iron and boy can this baby straighten! I have naturally straight hair but I always need to straighten mine or it just doesn't look very good. I have used some pretty cheap flat irons before and can definitely notice a difference between a cheaper one and one that has all the bells and whistles. Misikko makes high quality hair straighteners.

Here are some great features of the Infrashine:

Heats up in 5 seconds to 5 temperature settings from 170-400 degrees F
On/Off Switch light pulsates when heat setting is reached
Even distribution of heat with no cold spots
Extra long 9 ft heavy duty UL approved cord with flexible swivel
120 volts, 35-75 watts & 60 Hz

What makes it my favorite is how fast it heats up- 5 seconds? That's insane! I am always in such a rush to get out the door that this is one less step for me. The Infrashine is also a top pick on the Miskko website. So how would you like to win one of these bad boys? The Infrashine retails for $99! This is one giveaway I am really excited for! To enter please visit the Misikko site and tell me what product you would love to have.

For additional entries please leave a separate comment for each of the following:

1. Follow Misikko on Twitterhttp://www.twitter.com/misikko

2. Retweet Misikko's tweet about this giveaway.

3. Blog about the giveaway on a personal website.

4. Comment about another product from Misikko.com that interests you.

5. Subscribe to MisikkoTV, Misikko's YouTube channel.http://www.youtube.com/user/misikkotv

6.Follow me!

7. Follow me on twitter- barnharts

8. If you enter any Back 2 School giveaway on A Family Completed and leave me a comment telling me which one's you enter. Extra entry for each giveaway entered.

Giveaway ends Sept 13th 11:59 Open to US

Tovolo Popsicle Molds Review

Oh my land, it's the small things in life that can make you so happy! I received these fabulous Freezer Pop Molds from Tovolo. Tovolo is a company dedicated to turning a simple product that you use everyday and redesigning it so that it functions even better than before. I love these Freezer Pop Molds. My boys have been having a blast pouring juice into them and freezing them to help us cool off this summer. I am going to be pouring smoothies into them as well for extra nutrients.

Tovolo has great recipes for their Freezer Pop Molds and so many other eye-pleasing and helpful products. I really want to try the Spatulart. Aren't they fun? They are made of silicone so the pictures will never change.

To see all of the great products Tolovo has visit Tolovo.com.

Back 2 School Bash Fresh Organics: Organic Baby Giveaway- 3 Winners!

My boys start their first day of school tomorrow! I am really excited for them. What better way to start the school year off then with some organic grooming products for them! Fresh Organics has such a great line of Organic Baby products. We have been able to sample the line and I am so impressed.

The boys love their Shampoo and Body Wash ( they adore the bee on the packaging) and I love that it is tear- free! We also have been having fun with the Bubble Bath and my absolute favorite, the Velvety Soft Baby Lotion. This is by far my FAVORITE organic baby lotion. I have tried other organic baby lotions in the past and they have always left a weird dried out feeling on my skin. This stuff really moisturizes. We also received the Baby Bottom Balm which I am saving for baby #3 whenever that may be... and we were sent the Travel Pack. I love knowing that the products I am using on my boys are completely safe. One less thing for me to worry about!

Here is a quote from Fresh Organics site that I really love:"the bedrock of our philosophy is to ensure that any product we makeor sell is 100% safe for long term use by any age person, from newborn up."

Why can't that be the philosophy of every skincare company? Wanna win some of this great stuff? The kind people at Fresh Organics are giving away 3 sample packs! To enter to win please visit the site (it is a fun site with lots of cute pics) and tell me which product you would like to try.

For additional entries please leave a separate comment for each of the following:

If you are an email subscriber

If you are a feedburner subscriber

If you are a follower

If you have my button

If you tweet this and leave me the link

If you post this and leave me the link

If you follow me on Twitter and leave me your id - barnharts

If you follow me on Facebook and leave me your id - ashleyhookerbarnhart

If you grab my Back 2 School Bash button

If you enter any Back 2 School giveaway on A Family Completed and leave me a comment telling me which one's you enter. Extra entry for each giveaway entered.

Giveaway ends Sept 12th 11:59 Open to US

And if you can't wait to see if you have won, enter code BB-BLOG to receive a 12% discount at Fresh Organics Baby Organics!

Living Rooms Direct

A friend of mine (you know who you are:) ) gave me the great idea of using a cd case to store all of our DVD's. I have had the hardest time keeping them all organized. So when LivingRoomsDirect.com agreed to let me review an item from there store I jumped on the chance to get the Case Logic 320-Disc Nylon CD Wallet in Black. Now I may still have a few DVD's laying the house thanks to my boys but I must say that I am much happier without discs and boxes laying around.

The best place for any living room furniture and accessories has to be LivingRoomsDirect.com. They have very reasonable prices and a large selection of items to choose from. I love how organized their site is and how easy it is to use. When I was searching for the CD Wallet I was able to find it quickly and was surprised at how many I had to choose from. With so many different decorating styles it is always nice to have a good selection!

Wataah! Challenge

One of the most important things that we tend to forget about when our kids go back to school (and us grownups who are going back to school too!) is staying hydrated. I started my first day of school and already forgot my water bottle. I have been so busy that now I have a headache and I just know it is because I am dehydrated. With our busy lives and after school sports and activities we can forget to drink enough water.

I was so excited to have taken the Wataah! Challenge. The challenge encourages you to get the sugary drinks out of your house. We always make sure the boys have enough water ( they actually let us know all the time when they are thirsty) but my husband and I tend to forget about ourselves. This challenge was good for us. We were sent 4 bottles of Wataah! and pounded them! Each one has different benefits. The water is just water but with vitamins added. The water tastes so fresh -especially right out of the fridge- and tastes much cleaner than the generic bottled kind that we have been buying at the store. So I ask all of my readers to take the Wataah Challenge- drink more water! Get rid of all the sugary drinks and stay hydrated! Don't forget your kids who will have more energy and and be more alert for school!

Solavie Review

I have never tried a product quite like Solavie before! They are so unique. Solavie uses nature and your climate to personalize a hair and skin care line for you. Pretty cool, huh? For example, I live in the Plains so the products I use are specifically made just for the Plains region. Here is a description of the Plains line from the Solavie site:

Each of the five Plains skin/hair care products contains barrier protection, anti-irritants, anti-oxidants and phyto-nutrients extracted from the plains ecosystem to soothe and prevent damage in these environments. Mineral-rich volcanic spring water from the mountains of Sun Valley boosts the effectiveness, and delivers nutrients deep into skin/hair cells.

Some more info:

"Looking at how native plants thrive despite harsh conditions in their respective environments, Solavie® Eco-Global Skin/Hair system offers a stunningly simple solution -- skin and hair care products that are formulated for your body’s reaction to environmental conditions. The company uses phytonutrients from indigenous plants in formulas developed for each of the six different Enviro-types®: Mountains, Urban, Tropics, Shore, Plains & Desert. Using Nature to nurture means that no skin or hair analysis is necessary, and traditional “typing” becomes obsolete. "

I was able to sample the Hair and Body Wash pack as well as the Hair Nourish and Style. Each set comes packaged together in one bottle which is better for the environment! I really have enjoyed using these products. The smell is very earthy and assures me I am only using natural products on my hair and body. I really love the concept of using what is around you and having something customized yo your region. It makes total sense. For more info and to purchase Solavie visit Solavie.com and discover your region! There is also free shipping on all orders right now.

Back 2 School Bash michellechangjewelry Giveaway

Is this not the cutest necklace you have ever seen? It is the Black Heart Necklace in Sterling Silver. I received it from the awesome etsy shop michellechangjewelry. There are so many pieces of jewelry that I want from that shop! The jewelry is dainty and fun. Each piece adds character to whatever you wear it with. Each piece is handmade and made they way you want it! There are also earrings for sale that are just as cute as this necklace.

michellechangjewelry is giving one lucky winner a piece of jewelry from the following items

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=21506524

tiny double branch necklace in sterling silver and gold vermeil

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29472340

Mini Horseshoe Pendant Necklace in Sterling Silver

http://www.etsy.com/view_listing.php?listing_id=29331538

Baby Skull Necklace in Silver

To enter please visit the shop and let me know which item you would like.

For additional entries please leave a separate comment for each of the following:

If you are an email subscriber

If you are a feedburner subscriber

If you are a follower

If you have my button

If you tweet this and leave me the link

If you post this and leave me the link

If you follow me on Twitter and leave me your id - barnharts

If you follow me on Facebook and leave me your id - ashleyhookerbarnhart

If you grab my Back 2 School Bash button

If you enter any Back 2 School giveaway on A Family Completed and leave me a comment telling me which one's you enter. Extra entry for each giveaway entered.

Giveaway ends Sept 10th 11:59 Open to US and Canada

Back 2 School Bash Sherpani Review and Giveaway

Sherpani is the place to go for all of your bag needs. Handbags, luggage, backpacks, laptop bags and much more! The styles are really unique and different than any other bag company. They have unique designs and such a large assortment of bags and designs to choose from. I love the Trevina bag that Sherpani sent me. It has been the most useful bag I have ever had! I love the all of the pockets to help me stay organized and it even has a holder for a water bottle inside ( or a sippy cup in my case).

Here is a little info from their site:

"The Sherpani creed is an unpretending expression of our values and lifestyle. We believe that to create something special, the choices we make are just as important as the bags we make. At Sherpani we produce products for the kind of people we are and the kind of people we want to be. Our boldly fresh, feminine designs are inspired by our desire for individualism and independence. Our uniquely uncommon style is a reflection of our confidence. The clean simple silhouettes and soft fabrics of Sherpani bags express our desire to balance frenetic life with the tranquility of Nature."

The Sherpani bags have a very "earthy" feeling to me and I really love the quality of the fabric. I know this bag is going to last me a long time! They kind people at Sherpani are giving one reader their own Trevina bag! To enter to win please leave me a comment telling me which item is your favorite on the site AND follow Sherpani on facebook http://www.facebook.com/sherpani .

If you can't wait to see if you've won and want to make a purchase- here is a coupon code ForeverAndAlways’ good for 10% off all orders at Sherpani through 09/30/09.

For additional entries please leave a separate comment for each of the following:

If you are an email subscriber

If you are a feedburner subscriber

If you are a follower

If you have my button

If you tweet this and leave me the link

If you post this and leave me the link

If you follow me on Twitter and leave me your id - barnharts

If you follow me on Facebook and leave me your id - ashleyhookerbarnhart

If you grab my Back 2 School Bash button

If you enter any Back 2 School giveaway on A Family Completed and leave me a comment telling me which one's you enter. Extra entry for each giveaway entered.

Giveaway ends Sept 10th 11:59 Open to US

Samantha Who? Second and Final Season on DVD

Coming out today- August 25th is the second and final season of Samantha Who?. I'm sad this is the last season, I really like this show!

"A young woman gets a second chance at life when amnesia wipes her memory clean in Samantha Who?: The Complete Second and Final Season, coming to DVD from Walt Disney Studios Home Entertainment. This four-disc set, available on August 25, 2009, contains
every episode from Samantha Who’s final season, plus a tour of the set with the show’s star, deleted scenes, a conversation with the series’ acclaimed actresses and more entertaining features that go behind the scenes of this witty and heartwarming look at rediscovering one’s identity.

Samantha Newly (Christina Applegate) awakens from an eight-day coma with no memory of her previous life. Unnerved by the discovery that she was a shallow, vain, nonstop partier, Sam vows to reinvent a better self. In Season Two of Samantha Who?, reformed party girl Sam acquires a new beau (James Tupper of “Men in Trees”) and a new job (working with her formerly estranged mom, played by Jean Smart). As she continues to find out just what a bad girl she’s been, Sam is working hard to put together a life with a purpose. What that purpose is, she’s still trying to figure out.

Samantha Who?: The Complete Second and Final Season stars Emmy® winner Christina Applegate (“Friends,” Anchorman: The Legend of Ron Burgundy) as Samantha, with Jennifer Esposito (“Rescue Me,” Crash), Kevin Dunn (Vicky Christina Barcelona), Melissa McCarthy (“Gilmore Girls”), Tim Russ (Live Free or Die Hard), Barry Watson (“What About Brian?”) and Jean Smart (“24,” “Designing Women”).

BONUS FEATURES
• Girl Chat – Stars Christina Applegate, Jennifer Esposito and Melissa McCarthy dish about life on the set.
• Set Tour With Christina Applegate
• Christina Dance Moment – Christina Applegate lets her hair down and shares her “killer” dance
moves—with hilarious results.
• Deleted Scenes with optional intros by executive producer Donald Todd
• Bloopers

STREET DATE: August 25, 2009
Suggested Retail Price: $39.99 US; $44.99 Canada
Feature run time: 430 min
Rated: ‘TV-PG DLS’

I received this today and can't wait to sit down with a bowl of popcorn and have me some girl time! I love Christina Applegate in this show and can't wait to watch the bloopers! The DVD set can be purchased at Amazon.com.


http://www.totaleclips.com/player/Splash.aspx?custid=907&clipid=e55934&playerid=69&affiliateid=-1

It's All About the Jewels Review

At It's All About the Jewels it really is all about the jewels! Isn't this necklace gorgeous? It is called Alice and I had the chance to review it and am so thankful! It is the perfect piece to dress up any outfit. It is a great length and it is delicate enough to be pretty but not to delicate to where I am scared to wear it. I mean it when I say that I love every piece of jewelry at It's All About the Jewels. There are so many unique items with beautiful jewels.

The Hope necklace will even be included in a celebrity swag bag in October a charity function called Ra Ra for the Ta Tas-promoting breast cancer awareness. This necklace already supports The SusanG Komen foundation with proceeds from the sale of the Hope neckalce.

The prices are really reasonable too. This necklace starts at $38! To view the entire collection visit itsallaboutthejewels.com.

Also to receive 30% off your order use this link http://itsallaboutthejewels.com/?code=ashley

That is a lot of moola to save!

What to Expect Guide to a Healthy Home Growth Chart

There is a great free downloadable guide- What To Expect Healthy Home Growth Chart for all you parents out there! This guide ( which was created by the same woman who wrote the book What To Expect When Your Expecting) is very informative and is right up your alley if you are OCD like me: ) It has several great tips especially for new moms that I would have really liked to have when my boys were first born.

Here is an excerpt from the guide :

"Water vapor (plus the toilet contents–yes…anything in there) erupts from the toilet like a mini bacteria volcano every time you flush, landing on whatever is nearby (including that toothbrush you left on the sink). Closing the lid before you flush will help prevent you—and your family—from brushing their teeth with toilet water."

Here are some ways were are trying to stay healthy in my home right now:

• eating lots of fruit. We finally got a new blender and have been drinking all fruit smoothies left and right. We have also been trying to get the kids to go to bed at a decent time (still a struggle for the hubby and I to!)



• moderate exercise ( cleaning counts as working out right?)



• trying to stay calm - we are starting to learn that the less we stress out about things the more energy we have!



• and lastly, all natural hand sanitizers.



• For my children I always make sure we put the lid down before we flush the toilet. It just grosses me out!



• We also try to keep water bottles or sippy cups on hand so that we don't have to resort to drinking fountains.

What are some of the ways you are staying healthy?

I also will be reviewing essential oils soon that are supposed to support the immune system.

"I wrote this review while participating in a blog campaign by Mom Central on behalf of Clorox and the What to Expect Guide and received a gift card to thank me for taking the time to participate."

Sharon Bolton Scents Review

What girl doesn't love perfume? I know I do! I have a hard time finding ones that don't give me a headache though. That is why I am so happy I received Sharon Bolton Scents to review. They are hand-blended with essential oils to "capture the essence of the Polynesian Islands". The packaging is 100% recyclable and the only the finest, cruelty free ingredients are used.

Here is a description of the 4 different Sharon Bolton Scents:

Dream - A heady concoction of fresh bergamot, white freesia, and mimosa with accords of amber, sandalwood and exotic musk. That's what dreams are made of!

Luv - An intoxicating, ultimately feminine scent of rare pink gardenia, lush Hawaiian white flowers, and a hint of creamy vanilla with a delicate whisper of white musk. What a way to fall in LUV!

Soul - Sweet tropical notes that will evoke a memory for your soul. Juicy papaya, luscious pineapple, and creamy coconut with undertones of clean musk. It’s enough to sweep you away to the islands.

Truth - A refreshing, clean citrus... think tangy lemon-lime... softened by an exotic floral and an airy, sheer musk... fresh like a warm sea breeze!

Right now my favorite is Luv. The romantic scent makes me feel so pretty and my husband loves it too! The best part is that they don't give me a headache like most perfumes do since they use essential oils. I love natural products! Sharon Bolton Scents also sell soy candles that match the scents, body lotions and shower cream. These are great gifts for any woman who wants to feel pretty! To view the entire collection or to purchase the perfume please visit SharonBoltonScents.com.

SleepyWrap Review

The Sleepy Wrap is the ultimate in baby wearing. Sleepy Wraps have just the right balance of cotton material with elasticity. Made from 95% French Terry cotton and 5 % spandex, they provide the ultimate comfort for you and your baby.

There are so many ways to carry your baby in a Sleepy Wrap- the Sleepy Tie, the Classic Love Your Baby Hold, the Upright Newborn/ Infant Hold, and the Hammock Hold. Something I didn't know about Sleepy Wraps is that you can even use them to carry twins! The Sleepy Wrap has been known to hold up to 45lbs! Here are some great benefits to carrying your baby in a Sleepy Wrap:

creates confident parents -there's no better feeling than when your baby is calm and content because you have met all her needs

allows you to safely move about with your baby regardless of terrain- you can stroll down uneven sidewalks, narrow lanes, walk up stairs, or climb mountains

is convenient- there is no awkwardness like when carrying a heavy plastic car seat with one arm!

enables better communication between you and your baby - (without your baby having to cry!) as you become attuned to her facial expressions and other gestures

provides security-access to food, warmth, and love

is good for your soul -it encourages you to get out and get some exercise and some fresh air into your lungs

makes discreet nursing possible-without having to find a place to sit

helps you to interact with your other children and hold your baby close at the same time- very

practical if you have other little ones

allows you to decide who may touch or interact with your baby

aids digestion- the constant motion and the upright position eases acid reflux and colic

allows you to go places, together!- you can go anywhere and feel secure.

Carried babies-

learn more- not overstimulated, but calm and alert, which is the optimum state for nervous system development

become independent faster- when your baby feels loved and cared for then they are confident and trust that you will be there to meet their needs

regulate their own physical responses -better motor skills, coordination, and sense of balance from observing you and listening to you

are calmer - when you are close to your baby and can quickly respond to all of her needs there is no reason to be cranky!

cry less -less stress hormones from crying means your baby is happier and more peaceful
get a better view of the world- babies pushed in strollers or in car seats only get to see the adult world at knee-level

sleep better -babies fall asleep quicker and sleep for longer periods of time

Your baby will feel loved and secure. You will feel confident and free.

I received the Sleepy Wrap in Red and love mine! I can't wait to start using it one of these days! There are several color options as well as The Organic Sleepy Wrap.

To see all of the great color options and to purchase your own Sleepy Wrap, please visit SleepyWrap.com.

Back 2 School Bash See Kai Run Giveaway!

They're here! The new See Kai Run Fall shoe line. This time I had an extra hard time choosing which pair I wanted to review. There are just too many cute shoes this fall! I finally decided on the Coleman for my son Jackson. He totally loves them! I love how the colors remind me of fall and they are perfect for Jackson going back to school. He truly feels like a big boy now.

How can I review See Kai Run shoes and not have a giveaway? The super giving people at See Kai Run are giving one lucky winner their own pair of their choice from the See Kai line or the Smaller line. To win please visit the site and tell me what your favorite pair is.

For additional entries please leave a separate comment for each of the following:

• If you are an email subscriber


• If you are a feedburner subscriber


• If you are a follower


• If you have my button


• If you tweet this and leave me the link


• If you post this and leave me the link


• If you follow me on Twitter and leave me your id - barnharts


• If you follow me on Facebook and leave me your id - ashleyhookerbarnhart


• If you grab my Back 2 School Bash button


• If you enter any Back 2 School giveaway on A Family Completed and leave me a comment telling me which one's you enter. Extra entry for each giveaway entered.

Giveaway ends Sept 9th 11:59 Open to US and Canada! (finally a giveaway for Canadians!)