Ann Again... and again Reviews

BET Disc Jockey Party

2012-01-26T12:39:00.000-08:00

***I appreciate the guest post, Rodrigo Coffey

The other day I was getting ready to go to work. I decided to turn on my cell phone that had been on the charger all night. Most of the time when I am at home, I turn it off because I don’t get that great of reception at my house. But, when I turned it on, I received a text message from my third daughter who is a social worker. Now this daughter is very independent, and although being a social worker sounds like a very ordinary life, she is always doing something crazy and different and fun. The message said to turn on BET because she thought she was about to be on it. I had to ask another of my children what was BET, and she told me it was a channel on http://www.direc4u.com/. Well of course it was way past the time she sent the text, but I got the details later. Apparently my daughter knew a guy that represented one of the liquor companies that was sponsoring an event downtown where Disc Jockeys were in a competition. My daughter got a pass to the VIP room before the event and then attended with her friend. The whole thing was televised, and they were announcing the winner that night at midnight. She got to meet all these really famous people and got to enjoy a giant party. I never know what that girl is going to do next.

Let The Bum Bum Burning Begin!

2012-01-24T11:47:00.000-08:00

OK. I've watched enough of the Brazil Butt Lift infomercial and I just couldn't take it anymore! So...

I ordered it.

And it is in my house now.

So...

Today I begin my assault on my big, ol' fat ass. (There really is no other way to describe it.) I've tried so-o-o many exercise programs over the years and nothing has worked. Let's see what happens with delightful Leandro Carvalho and his cute Brazilian accent. My hope is that I will be able to recommend this program to you very soon.

(*disclosure: This is not a paid and/or endorsed opportunity. I have paid for this exercise program.)

Concannon Vineyard - Conservancy Wines

2012-01-19T09:30:00.000-08:00

Concannon Vineyards in Livermore, CA has created a line of wines sourced from protected vineyards in the Livermore Valley that are extremely pleasing and worth your consideration. While searching for a Chardonnay that wasn't overly oakey or buttery, yet wasn't heavy on the tart side, I was becoming very discouraged. I can't believe how difficult it is to generate a completely pleasant Chardonnay. Then I sipped Concannon Conservancy Chardonnay and smiled.

I had it a bit too cold so I warmed the glass with my hands for a few minutes then enjoyed every sip. THIS is the Chardonnay I've been looking for. Slight pear and apple at the top with a hint of butter, along with a creamy sweetness, at the finish. Delicious.

The Conservancy Crimson & Clover red was a tad on the sweet side, with its hints of vanilla, for my husband. However I found it delightful in the fruit area, very rich and perfect for a cold winter's evening. My husband had made fresh pizza and Crimson & Clover went perfectly with the rich tomato sauce and creamy mozzarella. I was such a good friend ( ;-> ) and shared sips with guests the other night. It was a crowd pleaser!

Not only are the bottles a gorgeous design, you will be proud to serve Concannon Conservancy wines at your next gathering because of their quality and taste. Priced at $18.00 I highly recommend Concannon Conservancy.

(*I was the proud recipient of Concannon Conservancy wines to taste for review. My opinions are truthfully my own*)

Friday Funny - Sh*t Nobody Says

2012-01-13T17:13:00.000-08:00

Adding some laughs to the reviews and giveaways.

Sh*t Nobody Says

Ha! (Except wait, I did miss Rosie O'Donnell)

EdenFantasys This Valentines Day

2012-01-11T09:36:00.000-08:00

Valentine's Day is on its way. If the romance in your relationship got a little side-tracked during the busy holiday season, now is the perfect time to return the coziness between you and your partner by visiting the adult themed site, EdenFantasys.

I know, I know. You may not feel comfortable with most items found there, but you know what? EdenFantasys has wonderful bath items, lovely candles and luxurious nightgowns that would feel perfect for any time you want to just re-e-e-lax. And if you feel like seriously relaxing with your partner, well hey, they have plenty of items, like a gorgeous Belleza Box Massage Kit, to help you there as well!

Pour yourself a glass of what ever beverage you like and peruse the website. Sure, you'll giggle. It's fun! I saw sex toys that had me ask out loud, 'What the heck is that for?'. Lucky for me (and my husband ;-> ) they have on-line support ready to graciously answer all of my questions.

Bring the sizzle back to your relationship. Visit EdenFantasys and see what fun you can find. I will be passing on the high heels however. Tripping just isn't very sexy.

Would You Do This?

2012-01-09T09:20:00.000-08:00

I enjoy being outdoors. Hiking, fishing. And I love bike riding. But this??? Um, no. Absolutely not.

<a href='http://www.bing.com/videos/watch/video/first-person-cliff-biking/1jrbsnl54?videoId=10da9526-e0b6-4f46-96ae-55d6ecec0aa7&from=&src=v5:embed::' target='_new' title='First-Person Cliff Biking'>Video: First-Person Cliff Biking</a>

Would you try this?

Yes!

2012-01-07T09:27:00.001-08:00

Hershey's With Almonds - Giveaway!

2012-01-04T19:47:00.000-08:00

OK. About that New Years Resolution about getting in shape and losing weight. Well, you're going to have to do a few more crunches and a tad more burpies to work off a new favorite candy, Hershey's Milk Chocolate with Almond Pieces. De-e-e- licious!!

I didn't think my girls would go for this because they aren't a fan of nuts, so I opened the bag feeling secure that there would be enough for me when I returned from my errands. Um, well, let's just say that my young daughters have discovered that they like almonds with their Hershey's chocolate. Drat!

If you are a Hershey's chocolate lover (of course you are!) you have a chance to win one of three 8 oz. packs of Hershey's Milk Chocolate with Almond Pieces. These aren't available in stores yet, so that makes this treat even sweeter. (*This giveaway is open to US Residents only. Sorry.*)

~~~click "Read More" if Rafflecopter isn't visable~~~
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Great New Deals Everyday

2012-01-03T16:55:00.000-08:00

If you've had your fill of shopping at the Mall this past holiday season, you owe it to yourself to become a part of NoMoreRack.com. Not only can you shop from the comfort of your own home you will be saving a ridiculous amount of money on name brand, quality items.

NoMoreRack.com adds 8 new products everyday, plus one "Friend" Deal, and these highly discounted deals stay on the site for 24 hours or until the deal is sold out. They have items that range from women's and men's clothing, personal care items, exercise equipment, electronics and travel deals. The items are famous name brands and are guaranteed to be authentic.

Shipping is where some sights really get you, however NoMoreRack.com has a flat shipping fee of $2.00 anywhere in the U.S.of A. (No International shipping currently.) In the event your purchase needs to be returned, you will be given a credit on your NoMoreRack.com account for the full purchase price, minus the shipping fee. They list their Return and Exchange Policy completely on their site.

To join NoMoreRack.com and receive your daily e-mail notice click www.nomorerack.com. To check out other reviews visit GeekGirlReviews.com and Day2DayLiving.com.

The Rugs Warehouse

2012-01-02T10:16:00.000-08:00

For my friends in the UK, and select European counties, I want to share with you a site that can help you add beauty and style to your home quickly and easily, The Rugs Warehouse.

When it comes to grand ideas of how I would like to change my living room, I have quite the list; If we could just knock down that wall, then paint in a lovely, warm shade of pale yellow, add lighting fixtures around the picture rails, get a new couch. See? I have the list, I'm just not energetic enough to actually do those things. I think the quickest way to create new looks would be adding designer rugs.

I have found some inspiration at The Rugs Warehouse. Their line of Impression Rugs have slight details that would go well in a busy room. I have my eye on the Chiba rug design. The Palace rug options include a Kadesh rug that I'm adding to my "wish list".

The Rugs Warehouse site is easy to navigate and includes images of the rugs at all angles including product dimensions and care instructions. There are rugs of various materials and price ranges. You will be sure to find a design that will fit your home and your budget. What a wonderful way to add style to your home in this new year!

Aye, Aye Captain

2012-01-01T14:01:00.001-08:00

In our neighborhood it seems we all have parts to play. The house that hosts the Spring Fling party. The house that hosts the 4th of July fireworks extravaganza, the best decorated Halloween house and the Christmas lights show stopper. We have generous neighbors who share their boat with us for an annual Afternoon on the River party. I am so grateful.

We have had wonderful experiences on this boat. I was reassured we were well cared for when we began to get instruction on boat safety before we set foot on the vessel. With 6 young children on board we had our hands full and our Captain made sure we all knew the rules.

While he showed us around through out the day he shared the steering duties with the kids. They loved it! Future sea Captains! Our neighbor talked about improving his boating skills and acquiring a Master Captain's license. With this level of license you can become a Charter Boat Captain, and be on your way to a median income of six figures. (Sounds like a good idea to me.) I've found a website that gives on-line classes, and certification, taught by members of the U.S. Coast Guard, Mariner's Learning System. While I was going to pass this info. along to my generous neighbor I thought I would share with my wonderful readers as well.

Hot Pants Review

2011-12-29T18:06:00.000-08:00

I was excited about reviewing Hot Pants by Zaggora. I was hopeful after reading the testimonials and dedicated to do what it took to achieve the results that were stated on their site. After wearing my pair of Hot Pants for 3 weeks, walking/exercising, running errands, I'm sad to say I had no difference in my measurements.

I wore the Hot Pants under my exercise pants and hopped on the treadmill. I experienced more heat on my thighs but no reduction with my thighs size. I attempted to wear the Hot Pants alone but they made a *swooshing* noise that I didn't really need to hear - no reminders of how much my legs rub together, thank you very much.

I wore my Hot Pants under my jeans. The material is thin enough that it didn't make my jeans look like they were about to burst. But honestly, it was a pain when it came time to use the restroom. 'Time to take off my scuba suit' was a thought going through my head.

One good thing Hot Pants did for me was encourage me to sit up straight and hold in my stomach. I think most of us need that reminder.

While Hot Pants haven't worked for me yet, I will continue to wear them while I exercise. I won't give up hope!

(* I was part of a review panel from Mom Bloggers Club. I received a pair of Hot Pants in exchange for this review. My opinions are truthfully my own.*)

Have You Been Pinterest-ed?

2011-12-28T18:23:00.000-08:00

While hopping around social media I'm sure you've seen mention of the site Pinterest. If you enjoy visiting blogs, and/or sharing information with your family and friends about your latest finds, then you'll really enjoy spending time in the world of Pinterest.

You will need to receive an "invite" to begin your venture. (I happen to have some invites to share :-> ). Once you have joined Pinterest you will have access to so many wonderful crafting ideas, recipes, thought provoking quotes, and silly quips from fellow Pinterest members. I'm a visual person and that's a main component of Pinterest. You'll find images that will guide you to a perfect recipe for dinner, a kids crafting project to fill those rainy days, a funny cartoon that you'll want to print immediately or how-to's for household cleaning projects. There's great stuff everywhere! And the great offerings don't end!!!

I'm just getting started on Pinterest and I'm loving my experience. If you want to check it out, I highly recommend it.

American Car Quotes

2011-12-27T13:00:00.000-08:00

With the new year looming it's a good idea to re-evaluate parts of your life. How is your health? Can you do more? How about your home? And/or your car? I've been seeing car insurance advertisements for years and perhaps now is the right time to check things out and see how they compare.

A 'new to me' site is American Car Quotes. With all of the insurance companies available today this is actually a good thing for the consumer. By supplying some basic information, American Car Quotes can determine which company is right for you and help guide you to what will work best.

I was able to find information regarding our family's mini van coverage. You can also research information on how to get your student insured with Young Adult coverage. American Car Quotes can provide information on discounts and how to go about finding a policy that fits your needs.

With so many insurance companies available to us today, it's nice to find a resource that will help guide you through and get you on your way.

Having a wonderful grandson

2011-12-27T11:48:00.000-08:00

***Guest post written by my buddy Angelo Cooper

I think my husband and I have the best grandson in the world. He has always been a delightful young boy, but now we love him even more. My husband and I decided we wanted to live somewhere that was warm most of the year. We knew this would mean moving away from family, but we couldn’t take the cold any longer. Our wonderful grandson used all his vacation time to help us move. He moved all of the boxes into the house. He set up all the televisions and even the tvbydirect. He organized our kitchen and made everything within our reach. And best of all, he found a young boy to cut our grass twice a month at a reasonable price. Normally, my husband would love cutting the grass, but he is getting much older and it is much harder to do. We are so lucky to have such a great grandson. I know he is going to miss us and we will undoubtedly miss him as well. As much as we love being close to family, we know this move is for the best and will make us the most happy. At our age, it is important to be happy and we are.

Join Our Fun Blog Photo Project!

2011-12-26T09:34:00.000-08:00

Would you like to participate in a photo project that has a little heart-shaped rock hopping around the globe one blog at a time? Would you like to have your blog highlighted? Then you need to take part in the Traveling Heart-Shaped Rock Project!

While on the Oregon Coast I found this little "gem" and decided I didn't want its journey to end. 'Why not' I thought 'share this symbol with my blog pals?' This project is in its third go-round and we've followed our rock around the U.S. to Chile and Canada. With stops in Scotland and Manilla coming up!

How can you, you lovely blogging person, take part in the Traveling Heart-Shaped Rock Project you ask? Here's what you do:

*E-mail your name & address to annharrison@comcast.net. I will add your destination to the list. Once you receive the little heart-shaped gem...

*Take a picture of it with something that represents you; it could be an object, a place, whatever you like.

*Then... post the picture on your blog; let your readers know you are participating in The Traveling Heart-Shaped Rock Project from Ann Again... and again.

*Let me know when you receive our little gem; I'll send you the name & address of the next blogger to mail the rock to.

I know that some bloggers plan on sending the "gem" on it's way along with a little trinket/souvenir for the next blogger. I love it! Do what feels right, just have fun. And, don't forget, take pics and post 'em.

I'll be sharing your pics on my blog as well, you will be the T.H.S.R.P. Spotlight Blogger. At the end of its journey I'll create a slideshow of our pics reminiscing about its travels (and wishing it had been me :-> ).

What a fun way to have your blog highlighted. I hope you take part in the Traveling Heart-Shaped Rock Project!

(*Send questions or comments to annharrison@comcast.net )

These Animals Sound Better Than I Do!

2011-12-24T19:24:00.000-08:00

-Merry Christmas dear blog readers!

Delightful Things Come In Hampers

2011-12-17T19:37:00.000-08:00

For my delightful readers who would like to have flowers delivered in the UK please visit a lovely website SerenataFlowers.com. They have such beautiful floral arrangements and gift baskets and offer a variety of convenient delivery options.

In these uncertain financial times their selection of varying price options is sure to fit in anyone's price comfort level. I love their description; "Get more petal for your pound with these great value flowers... they’re thrifty but nifty, tight, not tight-fisted; cheap, but so much more than cheerful."

Not only do they offer beautiful flowers delivered tomorrow, they have a lovely selection of wines, chocolates and plants. My favorite plant is the lemon tree, a perfect pick-me-up for these cold winter days. They can also create Hampers for you. Don't know what a "hamper" is? (I didn't either ;->) It's the UK's equivalent to our gift basket. (You see that? You never know when you're going to learn something!) You can create a wonderful hamper full of chocolates and wine, crackers and cheese. So many items to choose from.

SerentaFlowers.com really is a treat. Share something bright and beautiful, or sweet and delicious with those you love this holiday season.

Simone France Skincare Review & Giveaway

2011-12-12T09:33:00.000-08:00

I have found my new skin care regime! After a fair 5 week trial of using this product line I don't think I can say enough positive things about my experience with Simone France. I'm giddy in fact! You will want to use these glorious products.

To begin I contacted a representative to clarify if I was the Normal-to-Oily or Normal-to-Dry skin type. I completed an on-line skin care analysis and was very impressed with their attention to my answers. This was not a robo-form I was filling out, I was in contact with a true professional. To be perfectly honest I asked if they were aware I would be writing a product review, their response "As an on-line company, we work closely with all our customers to make sure they have the right regimen for their individual needs. Everyone who wants one gets the same in-depth analysis we did for you...".

When I received my personal skin care I was so excited, and slightly overwhelmed. There were enough bottles that it required a card for guidance of use. *gulp* The thought of 'I don't think I'm going to do all of this every day!' went through my mind. But let me tell ya', honestly and truthfully, you will get your regime down in no time and it will be a pleasure to take care of your skin. Every single day I have the same thought, 'My skin feels so cozy.' Yes, cozy. I can't think of another word to describe it. Soft, clean, moisturized - cared for. And I have received compliments on my complexion! Honestly, this is the most terrific skin care I have ever used, and I have been trying different products since I was 13 years old... that was *ahem* 32 years ago.

I am thrilled that I get to offer one incredibly lucky Ann Again... and again Reviews reader with a fantastic giveaway. You will want to win this! Here's what's in the prize pack:

wash cloths & bowls not included. one bar of soap is in prize pack

Travel Size Complete System ($120 value):

1/2 oz. Light Moisture

1/2 oz. Refining Scrub

4.5 oz. Soap

30 Disposable Cleansing Cloths

2 oz. Light Milk

2 oz. Gentle Toner

1/2 oz. Complexion Perfection

1/2 oz. Instant Radiance

a Rafflecopter giveaway(*Disclaimer: I was asked to review Simone France. My opinions are truthfully my own.)

Finding Something Bright And Shiny At Ice.com

2011-12-05T08:52:00.001-08:00

With the arrival of the holidays I see all the bright and shiny lights twinkling on trees and houses and it makes me think, I want something shiny for myself! I thought I would help my husband with my Christmas gift this year and peruse a website, filled with beautiful jewelry, and leave him some ideas of what's on my Wish List. Let's see what they have at Ice.com:

Everybody sing! "I'm... dreaming of... 2 1/5 Carat Multi-Gemstone Sterling Silver Floral Earrings".

Oh, they are just so beautiful! I love the delicate design. There are times when I enjoy having a signature piece of jewelry, the kind that defines how I'm feeling for that evening, but more often than not I enjoy wearing pieces that are slightly delicate and bring a friend closer saying, "Oh, how pretty!" The sale price of $35. is amazing. And, of course, the shine :->

"A beautiful sight, I'm happy tonight... because I get to wear... 1/10 Carat Diamond Sterling Silver Cuff Bracelet"

Talk about something bright and twinkling! What a beautiful piece. I've been interested in cuff bracelets lately, maybe it's my inner Wonder Woman. I enjoy the width of a cuff bracelet but, again, I like delicate designs. I feel this bracelet is a beautiful partnering of bold space and gentleness of design.

Ice.com is very clever in helping you share the items that have caught your eye by adding a "Send A Hint" button. Just click the link and you have options of how you would like to spread the word; Facebook, Twitter, StumbleUpon, etc.. There is no reason for you to receive a toaster with this kind of hint dropper.

And I have such a sweet offer for my readers of Ann Again... and again Reviews: Receive 20% off jewelry at Ice.com with coupon code FBBOC or by shopping this link: http://www.ice.com/?sourcecode=FBBOC . (Some exclusions apply: This offer cannot be combined with any other offers. Offer is not valid for any clearance or sale items, engagement rings, watches or the Persona Charms Collection. Subject to availability. This offer expires January 15, 2012).

I hope you enjoy a bright and shiny holiday!

(*Disclaimer: In exchange for this review I have accepted a gift card to Ice.com)

When I Just Need A Laugh

2011-12-04T19:16:00.001-08:00

There are times when you just need a good laugh. The days can get serious, and/or stressful, and you just want something that will take your mind away from reality and help you relax with silliness. Buzzlol.com totally fits the bill for this need.

It's fun to check-in with Photoshop Fails. I'm not into the cleverness of photoshop so I'm not one to point fingers, however it is pretty funny when you see that someone is trying to show that their exercise regime is getting them all buff... while their true arm shape is trying to be tucked behind their back. Ahem.

And not that I have anything against someone choosing methods to help them remove some wrinkles here and there, or plump up what was once full or perky, but I have to wonder about the fact that so many of us plump our lips out, kind of like a duckface, when we have our pictures taken. Funny? Sexy? I'm not really sure.

I have to say, one of my favorite laugh-out-loud moments comes when I read funny autocorrect fails. I get that the system is just trying to speed up my writing but I honestly don't believe we need their help. I mean, if someone is trying to tell a friend to take Ibuprofen for their headache, changing the spelling to read "Bethlehem" isn't going to do anyone any good now, is it?

Ah. It just feels good to laugh when so many things in this world are just so serious.

Trade Your Stuff At Tradze!

2011-12-03T18:05:00.001-08:00

Tradze.com is an online marketplace that allows its members the ability to buy and sell their used items in their marketplace without having to use real money or credit cards. Talk about a great way to spread the love with your gently used items!

Sell your used, unwanted items by bartering in Tradze's unique online marketplace and earn “T-Bills” that you can use to buy items listed by other members. Tradze allows you many ways to earn “T-Bills”; creating a member profile, listing items for sale in the marketplace, inviting your friends to join, reviewing websites and offers from advertisers and by being an active member on the site.

Once you earn enough “T-Bills” it’s time to start acquiring someone else's gently used items. Because you’re not using real money you can buy without guilt. It’s a great way to get the stuff you want while you barter from the comfort of your home. And at this time of the year, this is a great way to go about finding something fun for you while helping out a friend.

Shutterfly - Perfect Way To Share This Season

2011-11-30T09:51:00.001-08:00

I have found that when it comes to Christmas cards my husband and I are on different levels. He absolutely enjoys creating the annual newsletter, sharing our family news from the past year and wishing our family and friends a joyful holiday season.

Well, I agree on the 'wishes of a joyful holiday season', it's the "newsletter" part that gets me. And isn't that odd? I like to write... ev-er-y-day! (Add this issue to the "Ann makes no sense" File).

What I do love to do is share pictures. When you send photos of your family the reaction you will most likely hear is "I can't believe how big they're getting!" This had better be directed at the children ;-> And for those that like to display Christmas cards, a photo card looks a lot better on a mantel then a newsletter, I'm just sayin'.

Last year I used the on-line service at Shutterfly.com for our Christmas photo cards and was overjoyed at the results. You have so many designs and layouts to choose from that you are sure to find some style to your liking. The finished product was clean and crisp and helped up present our best to our family and friends. They also help you create photo gifts and calendars.

See how Shutterfly.com can help you create beautiful holiday memories. www.shutterfly.com

5x7 Folded Card

View the entire collection of cards.

Apothederm Hydrating Eye Cream Review & Special Offer

2011-11-28T17:59:00.001-08:00

I've been searching for an eye cream that will help with under-eye puffiness and hopefully buff the fine lines and wrinkles that have a habit of showing up even when I tell them they're not welcome. Recently I was given the opportunity to try Hydrating Eye Cream from the skin care line Apothederm.

I found this product to feel cool under my eyes with no stinging to my sensitive skin or leaving a residue. I was able to apply my make-up with out the product sticking or leaving my make-up looking cakey.

After two weeks I found a slightly noticeable difference with my under-eye puffiness. Also I found the Hydrating Eye Cream to do the trick for smoothing my fine lines. Hydrating Eye Cream comes in a 0.5 oz bottle and retails for $40.00.

If you would like to give products from this skin care line a try, the lovely people at Apothederm are offering the readers of Ann Again... and again Reviews $10 off ANY product just by using the code: TENOFF at check-out (expires 12/31/11).

Visit Apothederm and see what this skin care can do for you. http://apothederm.com/