Holiday Gift Guide 2009: Clarisonic Skin Care System *Giveaway*

This giveaway is now closed.  Thanks for stopping by.  The winner is Lina.  Congrats!

This post was previously written and republished.

Up until Christmas Eve, my beauty regimen consisted of washing my face with soap and water. (period) But that wasn’t always my routine.  When I was single I spent a lot of time buying and using the proper skin care products so that I would age “gracefully.”  I enjoyed facials and made sure I found time for masks and exfoliation.  Somewhere between “I do” and “It’s a boy” I found it difficult to get in a shower, let alone a 45 minute skin care regimen.  I can’t believe I’m saying this but I often go to bed without removing my makeup.  And that sometimes results in breakouts even a teenager would shudder at.

What if I told you that you could achieve healthier, smoother skin in just sixty seconds a day?  I recently had the opportunity to test out the Clarisonic Skin Care System.  I cannot imagine NOT having this system now that I’ve been using it every day for two weeks now.

What is it?  Clarisonic is an innovative new product that is revolutionizing the definition of clean, healthy skin.  Developed by the creators of Sonicare, Clarisonic Skin Care System is the first oscillating face brush that deep cleanses, stimulates, and clarifies skin.  The brush creates over 300 movements per second (wow!) to elicit a gentle sonic micro-massage action which help to loosen sebum and dirt. It works with the skin’s natural elasticity to unclog pores for deeper cleansing without stripping the skin.  Clarisonic cleans your skin so thoroughly that it actually helps prepare your skin to absorb other skin care products like moisturizers.

How does it work?  Before you begin using the system, it must be charged 24 hours.  But…you only have to recharge it after 30 uses (or 30 minutes), which is excellent.  It is super easy to use and can even be used in the shower.  Just wet your face (or whatever part of the body you’d like to use the system on), rub on the cleanser of your choice (it comes with three sample sizes of varying cleanser types), turn on the power button, and move the brush gently using small, circular motions.  You can customize the settings on your system to achieve the best results for your skin type. The company also offers three different brush heads for varying skin types.  It is recommended that you replace the brush head every 3-4 months.

Does it REALLY work?  Studies have shown that Clarisonic cleanses twice as effectively and removes makeup six times more effectively than your daily soap and washcloth routine.  Some of the other benefits include healthier skin, fewer blemishes, fewer dry patches, decreased pore size, and softer skin.  In just eight weeks you’ll notice an improvement (and a reduction) in the appearnace of fine lines and wrinkles.

My Thoughts:  I have to admit that I was a tad bit nervous to use Clarisonic.  Would it hurt?  Would my skin be too sensitive?  Not only is Clarisonic safe to use on all skin types, it’s so gentle that it can be used on a daily basis (twice a day if necessary).  Even those who suffer from skin conditions such as acne, seborheic dermatitis, and rosacea can use Clarisonic.  I have been using this every day and one of the very first things I noticed is that when I dry my face after using it, there is no makeup residue on the towel.  My face feels a lot smoother and the pores on the bridge of my nose have gotten smaller (some have even disappeared).  I also haven’t had as many breakouts.  Every time I use it I feel like I’m getting a mini-facial.

The Clarisonic Skin Care System retails for $195 and can be purchased from the site or through retailers nationwide.  If you purchase the system directly through the site, you’ll receive a free gift which includes a 0.5 ounce Daily Renewal Serum, travel bag, and headband AND you will receive free personalization (either a name or short message)

Win It! One of you will win a Clarisonic Mia Sonic Skin Cleansing System (ARV $149).  Simply leave me a comment with one main difference between the MIA and the other Clarisonic units. Comments will close on December 1, 2009 at 10 pm PST. One comment per person, please (unless you do the extra credit). US residents only. Duplicates and comments not including the above information will be disqualified. Comments are moderated. If you don’t see your comment in a reasonable amount of time, send me an email. Bloggers and non-bloggers may enter. If you don’t want to leave your email address, please be sure to check back for my announcement on the winner. Please note that winners must respond within 48 hours of being announced/contacted or another winner will be drawn.

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For more fabulous Holiday Gift Ideas, visit The Mommy-Files

Spring In For Summer Fun!

The party has started!  Join Amanda, Tanya, and I for a huge summer event that will last the ENTIRE summer!  There will be games and giveaways and so much more. Here is what you’ll need to do:

Bloggers:

1.  If you’d like an extra two entries into ALL giveaways, all summer long, just post the button on your sidebar and keep it up throughout the event.  It’s really that easy!  Be sure to let me know in the comments section of each giveaway that you’ve posted the button so I can give you two entries!

2.  For yet another entry, create a post introducing your readers to the party, tell them about yourself, your family, your dog (or whatever you’d like to tell them so they can get to know you).  Be sure to tell everyone how to join the party!  There will definitely be some incentives for those with creative posts so take some pictures, write a poem, or express that creative side of you in your own way.

3.  For yet another entry, visit 5 blogs participating in the event and comment on THEIR party post.  I really want this to be an interactive event and you may just meet someone who’ll become your BFF for life!

4.  Leave me a comment letting me know what you did so I can count your extra entries.

Non-Bloggers:

1.  You didn’t think I’d leave you out did you? First off, visit at least 5 blogs who have created party posts and comment on each one for an extra entry into each giveaway.

2.  For another entry, email 10 of your close friends (but don’t spam people you don’t know!) and tell them about the party.  Be sure to cc giveaways [at] rockinmama [dot] net so I know that you did this.

3.  For another entry, tell your friends about the event on your Facebook or MySpace page.

4.  Leave me a comment letting me know what you did so I can count your extra entries.

So what’s the Mr. Linky for?  This is where you can include the party post you wrote on your blog, your Facebook/MySpace page, or Twitter ID. This will make it easy for me to find your posts.

Oh…and have fun!  We’ll be here all summer long…

Mother’s Day 2009…Etsy Style: ASAL Bijoux By Alia Bostaji

There is something special and meaningful about a gift that has been personally hand-crafted.  If I’m looking for something unique…something different..something special that I can’t find anywhere…I’ll often check Etsy.  Here is where you’ll find artisans selling handmade items in over 30 categories!  What I really like about everything I’ve seen on Etsy, is that it doesn’t look handmade.  The quality of the items I’ve received is impeccable.  Etsy is like this undiscovered treasure!

I recently had an opportunity to work with Alia Bostaji, the designer behind ASAL Bijoux to design a gorgeous necklace which included the Love you and will always do pendant. The heart-shaped pendant is made of sterling silver wire and includes three   swarovski crystals in the colors of our birthstones (My husband, son, and mine).  The meaning behind this necklace is truly special to me and I love being able to keep the men in my life close to my heart!

Designer Alia Bostaji has always found that the most meaningful gifts are those that tell a story.  Alia Bostaji’ handmade jewelry and custom pieces feature quality crystals and stones.  Personalize it with your birthstone for a truly unique and memorable gift.

Mother’s Day 2009…Etsy Style: BibBon

I used to sleep like a rock…or a log…what’s that saying again?  *smiles*  Never mind!  I never had trouble sleeping until I had my son.  Now I hear every tweet, car engine, and dog barking and the light of the moon keeps me up!  In order to get any kind of decent sleep (which is necessary for things like proper immune function and hormonal regulation), I have started wearing a sleep mask at night.  Do you know where that idea originated?  On an airplane.  We were coming home from a trip one year and all of the passengers were given eye masks.  I used it on an overseas flight and managed to sleep really well, so I continued to use it at night.  Well, my husband told me awhile ago that my Air France eye mask was looking pretty shabby and needed to be replaced by a “real” eye mask.  Now where does one find a “real” eye mask?

Well, I’ve only dabbled in Etsy shops here and there but I did manage to come across BibBon.  Here is where you’ll find a lovely assortment of sleep masks, bibs, nursing reminders, bat towels, and wands.  Luxury eye masks are the owner’s specialty and she’s definitely thought through every aspect of her eye masks.  With almost 100 styles/patterns, you’re sure to find the perfect mask to represent that special mom’s personality.  Choose something fun like the Action Eye Mask or luxorious like the one in Hot Pink with Blush and Gold Blossoms.  The sleep masks are hand-sewn in the US and the owner uses quilted flannel on the inside surfact to shield your eyes from light.  They’re much bigger than the masks I am used to and actually don’t allow any light in.  They’re also adjustable to get the right fit necessary to protect your peepers from the morning rays. The cotton eye masks retail for $12.00 and the silk eye masks retails for $25.00.  This Mother’s Day, why not give that mon in your life the gift of restful sleep?

Mother’s Day 2009: Alli’s Originals

Jewelry is something that I love receiving, but don’t often purchase for myself.  I like simple, intricate pieces with meaning.  For example, our wedding rings were designed by our jeweler and engraved with personal messages.  Each piece of jewelry I own, has a memory attached to it…like the bracelet my father gave me when I graduated…and the necklace my husband gave me for Mother’s Day last year.

If you’re looking for a a truly memorable gift that will speak to that mom in your life, you might consider the Princess Charming Collection by Alli’s Originals. This mom-turned-artist started creating jewelry as a hobby nine years ago.  Her work  has evolved into personalized, hand-stamped pendants and unique casted charms.  I received a stunning piece from the Princess Charming Collection, personalized with my son’s name on it.  Here is a little more information about this unique collection from the site:

The Princess Charming Collection has become the latest trend in celebrating those special relationships in your life…..it’s about wearing your heart on your sleeve. Each piece is hand stamped to the customers specifications with names, dates of birth, anniversaries, spiritual words or phrases and symbols. Each character is stamped one at a time making each piece truly ONE OF A KIND. This collection is a wonderful way to show off your love, friendships, your children, grandchildren, your spirituality and personality.

There are so many choices and you can really design the necklace (or any piece for that matter) any way you want.  Think about that special mom in your life…  What does she like?  What is important to her?  What does she want close to her heart?  Alli’s designs help celebrate those special relationships in your life.

My necklace included the following three circle charms:  mom, love, joshua.  If we have another child, I can add a charm for him/her.  It also came with a blue heart Swarovski crystal (my favorite color) which really makes the piece stand out and was packaged in an adorable keepsake tin.  The materials used include quality sterling silver, Swarovski crystals,  and semi precious stones.  My necklace is elegant, feminine, and representative of my personality.

Pricing varies, be sure to note that those listed are in Canadian dollars (the exchange rate is currently in our favor).

Mother’s Day 2009: Lands’ End

As I get older, I notice that my taste in purses is changing.  It used to be, that I’d only purchase small purses.  I’d then try to jam everything into that one purse.  Now that I have a child, I am realizing how impractical small, clutch-style purses are for everyday use.  I do enjoy using a small, trendy purse when I’m out with my husband, but that is not the norm these days.  If you’ve ever shopped for a roomy purse, you know that space often results in the relinquishment of fashion.

I was pleasantly surprised to find a trendy selection of totes and handbags at Lands’ End.  I was first introduced to Lands’ End at BlogHer last year and again at Blissdom this year.  The swag bag we received at Blissdom was a cute, pink canvas tote from Lands End.  It’s perfect for the beach!  If you’re shopping for a purse-loving mom, check out Lands’ End’s selection of totes and handbags.  Don’t worry, they have bags in all sizes, styles, and colors.

I received a gorgeous Black Dip Dye Patent Leather Tote that I get compliments on every day.  I smile when they ask me where I purchased it, since they assume it’s a high-end designer. When I think of a tote, I definitely don’t think of something as chic and stylish as this.  You can use this for formal events or casual encounters.  It’s very roomy and I like that it closes with a button, since many of my totes don’t have that option.  The tote has three inside pockets and an outside pocket (where I stick my phone) which leaves plenty of room for both of our essentials.  I don’t even have to carry around a diaper bag!  This particular tote is available in nine colors, five of which are the “dip dye” style (which I prefer).  The patent leather exterior guards against dirt and stains and definitely gives the bag a “dressed up” look.  This particular tote retails for $79.50 but is on sale right now for $49.99 (and it’s worth every penny!).

Mother’s Day 2009: The Emancipation Network

Have you ever had your heart tugged…your soul ache for somebody or something?  Sometimes I am very naive to the happenings around the world.  It’s so easy to stay comfortable in my Orange County home with my Orange County friends and Los Angeles family, unaware of the suffering that is occurring. The world is full of suffering, pain, violence and abuse, and while I don’t expect that we should all be able to help with every cause, I do believe that small acts can make a significant difference.

It’s hard to imagine that human trafficking and slavery still exist in other countries.  Here are some facts you may be interested in (Source:  The Emancipation Network):

Slavery was outlawed in the US in 1864, and it is not legal anywhere in the world, yet there are more slaves in the world today than at any time in human history.

27 million people around the world are estimated to be victims of slavery, for forced prostitution, labor, domestic work, and other forms of exploitation, with approximately 50% of victims being under the age of 18. UNICEF estimates that one million children will be forced into prostitution this year.

In South Asia, traffickers will pay $150 to parents for their child’s life. Brothel owners can purchase the same child from the trafficker for about $1000. For traffickers, sex slavery is a lucrative business, generating over 7 billion dollars a year. Trafficking is often controlled by organized crime syndicates.

Victims of human trafficking are subject to gross human rights violations including rape, torture, beatings, starvation, dehumanization, and threats of murdering family members. In the case of traffficking for sexual exploitation, girls often have their virginity sold first, followed by multiple gang rape to break down their resistance. Since the bodies of young girls are not ready for sexual intercourse, this often results in abrasions, making the girls susceptible to HIV/AIDS and other diseases.

One organization is working to fight slavery and human trafficking by empowering survivors and people at high risk to rebuild their lives.  The Emancipation Network (I love the name which means freedom) helps individuals and communities become slavery-proof with sustainable income, job training, education, aftercare and reintegration into society. TEN also engages in preventive efforts to prevent slavery in high-risk communities.  Efforts include volunteer trips and donations which includes profits from the products Made By Survivors of slavery and human trafficking.  The organization has a web store with jewelry, bags, home decor items and more.  I received a gorgeous, eco-chic handbag in blue in woven plastic and made from reclaimed plastic shopping bags (I’m impressed!). The bags are picked up from the street, sanitized, cut into strips, and woven on a loom by women and teens.   What makes them so beautiful to me, is the story behind the bags.  Knowing that someone (who was a slave) out there made this bag by hand makes it even more special.  Mother’s Day (in my opinion) is about giving gifts with meaning.   I think the organization’s efforts to provide quality items while serving to raise awareness and help transform lives is amazing.

Mother’s Day 2009: PUR Water Filtration System

I am used to be a bottled water snob.  That is what my husband said when we were dating (in loving, light-hearted humor, of course).  You would never find me ANYWHERE without a bottle of water.  Unfortunately, only 20% of plastic water bottles are recycled in the US and Americans throw away 2.5 million plastic bottles every hour.  I’m feeling a little guilty right now.  I have to admit that up until even a few weeks ago, I was still buying bottled water, despite the fact that we have a dispenser with filtered water built into our fridge (which was why we bought this particularly model).  The problem is that I don’t like the taste of the water from the fridge, even though I know it’s filtered.  I’ve been trying really hard to drink the water and some days I do ok.  But to be honest, I prefer bottled water.  I prefer the convenience and the taste.  What I don’t like is the cost…to us and to the environment.  I’ve been thinking a lot about what I can do to eliminate my bottled water habit.

So I finally decided to try the PUR Water Pitcher from PUR Water Filtration Systems.  While I did obtain this product as part of this review, I have to say that at less than $20.00, I would have purchased it.  Once I started doing some research on contaminants in tap water (which I could have hypothesized because ours pretty much tastes like a piece of sheet metal), the current water shortage in this country, and the excessive cost of making plastic bottles  for water, I decided that this was at least worth a try.  Here is a little more information from the site:

PUR is the first leading water filtration brand to claim reduction of trace levels of pharmaceuticals identified in U.S. tap water – more than 99 percent for PUR faucet filters and more than 96 percent for PUR pitchers.  In addition, PUR filters remove 99.9 percent of microbial cysts such as Giardia and Cryptosporidium, which can lead to intestinal illness.  PUR filters reduce many kinds of contaminants in water, while leaving fluoride, which is essential for developing and maintaining healthy teeth in children and adults, giving it the American Dental Association Seal of Approval.

I have nothing to compare this to (I’ve never tried other manufacturers), but this is my new favorite kitchen item.  It’s easy to use, inexpensive, and the water tastes great!  The system is super easy to put together…just be sure to soak and flush the filter with the first use (directions in the owner’s manual).  Just fill the top container, press the electronic filter change light, and wait for your water to be contaminant-free.  There is a slot on top and towards the front to place your flavor cartridges.  The flavor options are what really sold me on this!  I love putting lemon in my water and that is something I’m not able to do with bottled water unless I pour it into a glass (and then what is the point of the bottle?). The flavors are very subtle and can be added to individual glasses if desired (you can also drink the water as is).  My favorite flavor is the raspberry and I’m thinking about getting a strawberry cartridge soon.  The flavor cartridges do not contain sugar, calories, or dyes, however, I recommend checking the complete nutrition fact sheet on the site in case you have allergies.  I actually enjoy drinking the water as is (without flavor) but using the cartridges is a nice alternative to juice (and it’s healthier).

The replacement filters typically need to be replaced every 1-2 months (and the indicator light will let you know when it’s time) and retail for less than $10 on Amazon (I recommend buying in bulk to save a little money).  Replacement flavor cartridges cost approximately $9 and one cartridge lasts for 75 servings.  At less than $20 to start and $10 or less a month, it’s definitely an affordable way to drink great-tasting, contaminant-free water.  If you’re interested in reading more about the company and products, I highly encourage you to visit the site (there is a wealth of information at your disposal).  You can calculate how much money you’d save by switching to a PUR Water Filtration System, find out how clean your city’s water is, and phamaceuticals in tap water.  Here is a little video I shot of the system in use…Enjoy!

Mother’s Day 2009: Michaels

If you’re the DIY type, be sure to check out Michaels’ free, week-long Mother’s Day events.  Making a gift can be more personal and unique than store-bought purchases, particularly if you have the time, energy, and a spark of creativity. Michaels is helping dads and kids create a special gift for moms this Mother’s Day with their free, in-store workshops.  Here is the remainder of the schedule:

Wed 5/6 – Personalized coupon book for Mom (6-7pm) FREE

What better way to show your love than giving Mom homemade “coupons” she can redeem for chores, nights out or even a massage!

Thurs 5/7 – Mother’s Day card making (6-8pm) FREE

Using this cute template you can color your own memorable card for Mom with your own masterpiece inside

Fri 5/8 – Wooden frame for Mom (6-8pm)

Create a thoughtful frame for Mom to hold her favorite picture of you

Purchase any of $1 wood frames and decorate for free using our supplies

Sat 5/9 – Make it for Mom Bead Event (1-4pm Three Make-it Take-its) FREE

Come learn the latest trends and techniques and create gorgeous gifts for Mom, or even bring Mom and create together

Sun 5/10 – Mother’s Day Wilton Cookie Decorating (1-4pm) FREE

Bring Mom and Grandma in and decorate a cookie you can eat or take with you

I love the workshops that include moms!  I think this is a great way for dads to bond with their children, teach children the art of crafting, inspire creativity, and show children alternatives to purchasing gifts.  Check out your local Michaels store for specifics regarding these events!

Mother’s Day 2009: Sonicare FlexCare With Sanitizer

I went to the dentist earlier this year for my regular cleaning and check-up.  In my 31 years of life, I’ve never had a cavity.  When I was a child, my dentist placed sealants on my molars as a preventive measure.  But that was only on four teeth, so I attribute my lack of cavities to my impeccable dental hygiene.  I brush twice daily, floss every night, use Listerine after meals, and avoid too many sweets/candy.  Unfortunately, there was one small problem (and has been the last few times I’ve been to the dentist).  My dentist said I was brushing my gums away.  Apparently, I am a little overzealous with the toothbrush.  He suggested that I purchase an electric toothbrush (which I did), to help me achieve the clean I want without damaging my gums.

As a woman, I have unique qualities (aka hormones) that make meticulous dental hygiene particularly important.  Hormonal fluctuations (i.e. pregnancy, menopause, etc.) can alter gum tissue, making it more susceptible to disease (American Academy of Periodontology.  Unfortunately, gum disease is silent.  If you are not pro active, it can advance to the point that teeth and surrounding tissue is destroyed.  Proper dental hygiene, including brushing and flossing, are important preventive actions you can take daily.

Philips recently came out with the FlexCare toothbrush and I had an opportunity to test it out. As the number one toothbrush brand recommended by U.S. dental professionals, Sonicare uses sonic technology that mirrors what is used in dental offices.  Its “dynamic cleaning action reduces plaque along the gumline.”  The bristles on the brush heads are designed to be particularly gentle on teeth and gums and “their high velocity movement creates dynamic cleaning action and allows for direct contact with each tooth.”

This may seem like a strange comparision, but it reminds me of the Clarisonic Skin Care Brush I reviewed awhile back (they both use similar technology).  Consistent use of the Sonicare toothbrush helps prevent gum disease and reduced gingivitis.  The broad sweeping motion and contour fit bristles allow you to access more teeth surfaces and achieve better plaque removal when compared with a manual toothbrush.  The toothbrush is portable, which is a huge motivator for bringing it with me, particularly on my long work days.  Apart from the technology (which I’m very impressed with), the feature that I find the most useful is the various modes and routines.  Both can be personalized to your preference (I personally prefer the Sensitive mode because of my teeth sensitivity). This particular toothbrush stands out from the rest because of it’s smaller, lighter brush design, decreased vibration, and UV sanitizer (because toothbrushes carry a lot of germs!). Sanitizing is as easy as placing the brush heads in the sanitizer and pushing the button to sanitie.   Here is a little video review I did:

I should clarify the modes and routines.  There are three, two-minute modes:

• Clean, for full power for superior results.
• Sensitive, gentler brushing in sensitive areas.
• Massage, brush head pulses for a stimulating sensation.

There are two pre-programmed cleaning routines (one and a three minutes):

Select Max Care for a thorough cleaning of your teeth and gums.

Go Care is perfect for a refresher in between regular brushings.

Sonicare FlexCare with Sanitizer retails for $149.99 (around $120 on Amazon) and can be purchased at retailers nationwide.

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