Frizz-Ease Sheer Solution Lightweight Frizz Control - Product Review

NEW Frizz-Ease^® Sheer Solution™ Lightweight Frizz Control For Fine to Medium Hair - Product Review

I have a love/hate relationship with my hair! Really! When it looks good, I love it and when it looks bad I hate it! Bad Hair for me means extreme frizz resulting in really big fluff hair! So, when Bzzagent invited me to their new bzzcampaign for John Frieda's® New Frizz-Ease® Sheer Solution™ Lightweight Frizz Control For Fine to Medium Hair, I was super excited (though still quite skeptical) to join the campaign so that I could try the product for free!  

So, What was in my Bzzkit? 

My kit included: a "Bzzguide" which was filled with helpful information and tips about the product, 1 full retail sized 2 fl. oz. bottle of the product and 8 sammple sized .43 fl. oz. bottles to give to friends - because sharing is always nice!


And this is what the company claims the product can do:

Lightweight frizz solution fights frizz without weighing hair down, leaving hair light and manageable whether you style straight, wavy, or curly.
Shake-to-activate dual formula—part lightweight serum, part smoothing elixir—fights frizz from the outside while hydrating hair from the inside, leaving hair frizz-free.
Lightweight, non-greasy solution spreads easily throughout hair for even coverage and flawless frizz control.
Leaves hair manageable, to make it easier to achieve desired style.

 My hair not styled - just brushed and air dried:

Um Yeah, so this is just a frizzy fluffy mess!


My hair styled curly with Frizz-Ease^® Sheer Solution™:

The Frizz-Ease^® Sheer Solution™  bottle says that you only need a few drops to smooth through hair but to achieve this style (which is not the best defined curls I have had) I had to use at least 30 to 40 drops. I don't think that's a bad thing though because it still doesn't amount to that much product; at least in my opinion. 

But, as you can see I still have a little frizz to my curls. I do like the fluffiness and the curl definition but I think I have other products that achieve a much pretty defined curly hairstyle. Next up straight hair...


My hair styled straight with Frizz-Ease^® Sheer Solution™:

 So, once again, the Frizz-Ease^® Sheer Solution™ bottle said to use a few drops but again I used more than the recommended amount. I first wanted to see how my hair looked using the product and just doing a blow-out. But that resulted in my usual puffy hair so, as usually I had to use a flat-iron after the blow out to get my hair smoother.

As you can see, I wasn't able to get my hair that smooth. To be quite honest, I usually get my hair much smoother using a different product. So, I am sure you can understand my disappointment considering this product's claims.

Final thoughts: The Frizz-Ease^® Sheer Solution™ does seem to cut out some frizz but if your hair is prone to extreme frizz like mine, then I would not recommend this it for your hair. This product definitely worked better on curly styles than straight although, still didn't achieve the best results. I would give this 3 out of 5 Stars!

Two New Expo Tryology Programs Are you Young or Old?

Expo, one of my favorite companies has new Tryology programs available for qualifying members!

And the bet part is, if you are a qualifying member you'll get the chance to receive a new Baby K’tan product and /or Poise products before they even hit store shelves to try out and review for FREE! 

For the Baby K’tan Tryology Program, this is perfect for moms, dads and caretakers! To find out more information please see here:  

You have until June 20^th to apply: http://bit.ly/BabyKtanProgram.    

For the Poise Tryology Program, we are selecting members to use and review brand new products before they are even in market.  

You have until June 17^th to apply:  http://bit.ly/PoiseTryologyProgram.  

If you are already a member, check your profile and if you’re not a member yet, it’s free and easy to apply.  All you need to do is:

1-      Login or Register for EXPO (expotv.com)
2-      Take the short screener
3-      Look for an invitation to participate in the different programs by their deadline date

And hey! If you get into the Trylogy programs comment here and let us know!

The Dark Monk - Book Review

Oliver Pötzsch used the motif of the mystery novel and applies it to "The Dark Monk: A Hangman's Daughter Tale," set in 1660. It's winter with a capital "W" in the Bavarian Alps. The story takes us and his characters from village to village with excursions through the countryside and to a series of monasteries. It is a follow-up to his The Hangman's Daughter.

The plot is set in motion when a poisoned priest uses his dying wits and strength to leave a clue that proves a gateway into a bigger mystery, drawing in the stalwart trio of hangman, executioner, and healer Jakob Kuisl; his somewhat stubborn but attractive daughter Magdalena; and the town physician's son who is a bit of a dandy but smart as a whip, Simon. But while this mystery is the story's center, other events are also crucial, cheifly, a group robbers are preying on travelers, particularly merchants and their cargos, and a deadly illness is killing many of the villagers.

Along with the murdered priest's sister, this group follows a trail of various clues and riddles, each leading to more answers and more questions. Tracking this core group is a trio of murderous monks (not sure which one is actually dark monk of the title), various church leaders, and another trio of soldiers-for-hire. As you might imagine, murder, mayhem, kidnapping, and so forth ensue.

The story seems as though the scenes were staged for a play or graphic novel with characters tripping over each other in unexpectedly places. I thought that the plot and resolution hinged on a series of increasingly unlikely coincidences playing out and bringing the characters back together in, for me, an ultimately unsatisfactory resolution. In other words, my "willing suspension of disbelief" could only go so far before I felt like the author was winking at me instead of making the story really resolve itself.

I thought "The Dark Monk: A Hangman's Daughter Tale" was a fun but not convincing tale. The characters seemed a bit cartoonish to me, the settings a bit too sketchy, and the plot a bit too twisted.

Awesome LG TV Tryology from Expo!

Yes, it's another awesome Tryology from Expo!

Expo wants you to join the fun!  Do you want the opportunity to receive a brand new 55” LG TV for FREE?!  This week at EXPO, they launched a very exclusive Tryology program with LG which I think you may love.  (http://bit.ly/LG-TryologyProgram) EXPO is giving qualifying members the chance to receive brand new products from LG worth over $2,000.  If you are selected, you will be one of the few to try out and review these fantastic products.

Now do you want to be part of the fun?  All you have to do is sign up to be an EXPO member if you aren’t already, and apply!  (http://bit.ly/LG-TryologyProgram) You will be asked to take a short "screener" survey and if you are selected you will be sent an invitation. You will have until May 21^st to apply for this Tryology Program!

New:Amazon Student - FREE Prime for College Kids!

Yep, that's right you can save the $79 membership fee!

We're half way through the summer now and you know what that means... Back to school shopping is about to begin and the sales are already coming!  

Here's a great deal for colleger students! Amazon.com has a new program called Amazon Student. They are offering FREE Amazon Prime to College Students for a whole year! As an Amazon Prime member you will receive FREE 2 day shipping and overnight shipping for just $3.99 per item! 

So, if you're looking for books, supplies, bath & bedding or anything else you may need for college, you can save a bundle on shipping!

So college students, sign up and enjoy the FREE shipping! (requires valid .edu e-mail address)

Comment to us: If you sign up or are already a member - how do you like Prime?

Quiznos on Groupon - save 54%!

Groupon is offering - 2 Quiznos Subs or Salads for $6! This equates to a 54% savings!
Groupon.com

Check participating locations here. Stores will have an "accept groupon" graphic.

Expo TV - 3 Great Tryology Programs

So, I know I've told you about Expo TV before, so I wanted to let you know about 3 great Tryology programs that are starting soon.

The first is a Tryology for Clearblue Easy products.

This program will give selected members the chance to try fertility tests, ovulation kits or fertility monitors for free! (some worth more than $100) And then you’ll share your opinion via a video review.

And here's one for all you Apple users!
Apply today to see if you qualify to join the "Millie Was Here" team and try out this brand new app!

I believe you will also receive A $10 iTunes card!

.
The next Tryology programs is almost overwhelming! Take a quick survey and you may qualify for a
Free LG LED TV!

This program will give selected members the chance to try an LG LED TV (worth over $1000) and then you’ll share your opinion via a video review.

If you haven’t joined you need to. You earn points by doing a video review of products you already own. You can cash in your points for gift cards and other fun stuff! It’s easy to do and you can earn gift cards quickly.

For more info on EXPO TV, you can read my previous post HERE.

Disney Cars 2 Video Game Review for Bzzagent

I was one of the lucky Bzzagents chosen to participate in their bzzcampaign for the new Disney Cars 2 Video Game. They sent me the game for free! All I have to do is spread the word (good or bad) about it! So, Here’s my take:

My personal opinion of the game is that it’s pretty lame. The graphics are nothing better than mediocre, there’s no real story line or quest to the game, and the gadgets in the game are pretty unimpressive. I can’t see how anyone over the age of 10 or so could possible enjoy playing this game more than once. That being said, did I mention that I have an eight year old son?

As soon as Bzzagent offered me the Disney Cars 2 Video Game campaign I told James and his excited reaction was priceless! I may have been too quick to tell him though, because for the next few weeks every time I checked the mail he’d ask “Is Cars 2 here yet?” and he would get sadder with each “Not yet”.

And then…. Finally, the mailman delivered! It honestly felt like my son had removed the plastic wrapper before I had finished removing the game from the envelope! Now, when you read this part, you may just say that I am a terrible mother but with his sister being away at camp and there not being any kids around to play, I kind of let him get away with playing on Wii for the WHOLE day!

So what’s James’ opinion? James really likes it. He likes the different places that the races take place like Tokyo and London. He also says he enjoys using the missiles to shoot other racers. He really likes the new character Finn McMissile because (his words) “he’s the fastest dude in the game”! James also has several friends that come over and enjoy playing with him too.

So there ya have it, while most adults probably would not be impressed with this video game, kids do like it. And I’m guessing that kids were who the game was meant for anyway so, good job Disney!

Earn $ for yourself & a charity on Crowdtap!

How can I do that, you ask? And what the heck is Crowdtap?

Crowdtap is a refreshing new social marketing and research platform that enables you to be rewarded for ideating and promoting with leading brands, non-profits and start-ups. It's super fun and you can earn cash rewards for yourself and a charity for taking surveys, sampling new products and promoting your favorite brands. You simply login with your facebook account and begin by answering "quickhits" - quick easy questions. You earn points and sometimes money for answering these.

Crowdap also has opportunities to Sample & Share products as well as host product parties. For instance, right now I am doing a Sample & Share for Playtex Sport Cleansing Wipes. Sample shares are special discussions that you get invited to and once you receive the product sample (for free) you discuss the product and share your opinion with the brand’s representatives.

Since joining Crowdtap just 3 months ago in addition to participating in sample shares, I have earned $43.00 in Amazon gift cards, just for answering easy "quickhits" and participating in discussions. As you participate, you also receive points, points will help you level up, unlock badges, and compete with your friends while moving up the leader board. I am already level 6 and half way to the top level of Platinum!

And as if all that hasn't been cool enough, I've met some very great people while tapping! Like my new friend Jean who used to live in the same town as me, we've realized we have tons in common and enjoy reading each others posts.

What to check it out? Just click on any of the words “Crowdtap” in this post and get started! Don’t forget you’ll need to log in to facebook. Now you know what it is and how to join… What are you waiting for?

Disney Cars 2 Video Game in stores June 21st!

Cars 2: The Video Game. Spies Wanted.

Are you ready to take a crash course in saving the world? In Cars 2: The Video Game, train to become an agent of C.H.R.O.M.E. (Command Headquarters for Recon Operations & Motorized Espionage) and take on dangerous missions, compete to become the fastest racecar in the world, or just use your spy skills in exciting, action-packed combat racing! With so many new and exciting features what will friends be most excited to hear about?

• Over 20 characters to choose from including past favorites such as Lightening McQueen and Mater the tow truck, as well as new spy personalities like Finn McMissile and Holley Shiftwell
• Action packed missions that unfold in 6 exotic locales across the world
• Adrenaline filled combat racing that keeps you on the edge of your seat
• A robust multi-player functionality - perfect for high velocity fun for the whole family
• Available on Wii, Xbox 360, PS3, Nintendo DS, PC/Mac
• ESRB Rating - Everyone to Everyone 10+
• In stores June 21, 2011

Visit the Facebook page to find out where to pre-order now!

Cross Pens BzzCampaign Review

I write a lot, maybe more than the average stay at home mom. I’m old school. I come from the last generation of humans that actually knows that the proper way to send thank you notes, invitations and letters is to hand write them and send via the post service a.k.a. snail mail. As I am sure you can imagine, because I write a lot, I love a good pen. For me, the definition of a good pen is one that is weighted properly, has the right length and thickness and glides across my paper effortlessly.

I was extremely delighted when BzzAgent.com invited me to participate in their new bzzcampaign for Cross Pens. Cross, well known for pens has been making pens for over 165 year. Their pens have a suggested retail value range of $25 all the way up to the 18 karat gold Classic Century which runs a whopping $1500. The pen I was sent to try is the modest Cross Advantage in the Black Mosaic style which has a MSRP of $42.

So what’s in the box? Well first of all the Advantage come in a very nice high quality cardboard gift box. Inside, you will find the pen, paperwork, a complimentary “Switch-it” converter which converts the pen to a pencil and 1 medium black ballpoint refill (8513) in the pen. The pen itself features a slim and sleek design, swivel action propel/repel tip feature, and uniquely engraved black and chrome mosaic finish. In addition, as with all cross pens, it is backed by a lifetime mechanical guarantee.

My take on the Cross Advantage: 4 out of 5 Stars

For me, I found the Advantage to have just the right amount of weight, it wasn’t too heavy or light. I personally prefer a much thicker pen and for me this one just didn’t measure up. Cross does offer other pen style though and I think one of their thicker versions may be better suited for me. I did however really like the way it writes. It glides effortlessly across the paper and delivers smooth, even pen strokes. I like the quality of the ink it comes with, it appears on the paper very rick and thick. Over all, I do think I will enjoy writing with this pen. However, because of it’s slimness, I would probably not be able to use it for any prolonged writing task. For me, this will be a perfect purse pen – pretty to pull out and write when I just need to jot a few things down.

Cross’s quality is definitely top notch and I will definitely be considering their pens for some upcoming gift occasions life graduations and Father’s Day. If you’re looking for a great gift idea, visit www.cross.com and browse their extensive selection. Use coupon code SHOPCROSS by 07/31/2011 and save 20% off regularly priced items and receive free shipping!

Playtex Sport Body Wipes Review

Recently I was offered the opportunity to sample and share Playtex Sport's newest product, the Playtex Sport Body Wipes though a program offered by Crowdtap.

There are two purchasing options for these wipes :

1 - Box of 20 individually wrapped cloths $2.99
2 - Resealable travel pack with 24 wipes $2.99

For my Sample and Share I received 12 individually wrapped wipes and after using and sharing them all I have bought several more packages. I prefer to keep the individually wrapped wipes in my purse and gym bag, as well as in my daughters backpack and softball bag. I keep the travel pack in the glove box of my car.

I have used them at softball games, soccer games, after walks, at the gym, while traveling, at the park, at a concert and I have shared them with friends at all of these occasions. Everyone that has used them including the men I have forced to try them, has enjoyed them and found them to be a quick and easy way to freshen up when a shower is not available or time is limited. I have really enjoyed trying this product and the opportunity to sample and share is much appreciated. I like these wipes a whole lot and will keep them handy from now on.

Here are a few things I would like Playtex to consider.

1 - Size - I do believe these could be a touch bigger without becoming too bulky. To me they are no bigger than a baby wipe, but my body is much bigger than a baby's. Yes, I can use two but then that defeats the purpose of an individually wrapped item. I actually think that you could make the actual wipe a few inches bigger and still fit them in the current packaging since when I feel them in the package there seems to be plenty of spare room.

2 - Scent - Again, I really enjoy the scent but I would enjoy an unscented even more. Sometimes I like to wear perfume and an unscented version would not interfere with my perfume. Also there are many people that are just sensitive to certain scents, or who have allergies and/or asthma who would have a hard time using these wipes the way they are.
In addition I think some people may enjoy other scent options. In addition a hypoallergenic version may be helpful as well.

3 – Sex – Right now, as they are, they are really meant for just us women. I understand that Playtex products in general are for women but I think this is a product could bridge the sex gap. My husband really liked the wipe but said he would never carry a package that looked like that. I see two fixes that could help. A – Playtex could redesign the packaging to have a black background (instead of pink), with the woman in pink and add a man’s body in green. If this was done though I think you would still have to make the word Playtex much smaller on the package. B – Introduce a similar line for men through a sister brand such a Schick. This would definitely make them seem more masculine but I don’t think they would sell as well as if Playtex adapted the original packaging.

Well these are just some of my thoughts on how Playtex could make their Playtex Sport Body Wipes even better than they already are. But just to be clear, I really do like this product! I have shared samples with many of my friends and family and they also enjoyed using them. Several of my friends have already bought them!

If you would like to join Crowdtap and have the chance to earn money for yourself as well as your favorite charity in addition the sampling products and interacting with brands you can join by click HERE.

To receive sample from Playtex Sport click HERE.

TRESemmé Color Revitalize Shampoo and Color Revitalize Conditioner Review

I have my hair colored and highlighted professionally about every 6 weeks so I was very excited when Bzzagent.com offered me the opportunity to try out the new TRESemmé Color Revitalize products. As part of the “Bzz campaign” I received a 15 ounce bottle of each the shampoo and conditioner to use and share my opinion on.

This is what TRESemmé says the products do for your hair:
Advanced Color Lock Technology uses specialized conditioning ingredients to keep your color looking vibrant 8X longer*
Helps protect your hair from environmental factors, which make your shade look dull and flat.
Green Tea, Rosemary, and Sunflower make your hair feel and look healthier while preserving your salon-quality color.
Preps your hair for optimal styling by leaving hair softer and more manageable.

My Review: 4 ½ out of 5 STARS



The first thing I always notice about a shampoo or conditioner is its’ scent. These products smell just wonderful. They have a light floral sort of fruity smell, though I can’t tell you the exact scent it is.
The shampoo is quite thick and I found that I was able to use less per use than my usual shampoo. It creates a nice thick and rick lather and once rinsed my hair felt squeaky clean. I did notice that my hair was VERY tangled after rinsing it out though.
The conditioner is also nice and thick and again I felt I was able to use a little less than I would with my usual conditioner. I smooth it through my hair, and then used a broad tooth comb to de-tangle my hair before allowing it to sit for about 3 minutes. After rinsing, my hair was very smooth. I should mention that my hair is quite curly and can be pretty unruly. After using this conditioner my hair stayed pretty smooth for styling.
As far as the claims that it protects you color longer than other shampoos, I can’t really say that I noticed a difference. But then, I never really notice a problem with my color not lasting. I will say that these are nice products, and they certainly did not hurt my hair so I would defiantly recommend them.

You can register for coupons from TRESemmé.

CoverGirls's 50th Anniversary

COVERGIRL is celebrating with a year long facebook campaign which includes contests & sample opportunities! It’s time to rock your beautiful and connect with other COVERGIRLs just like you! Being a COVERGIRL means letting your outer and inner beauty show.

Join MY COVERGIRL and gain access to:
Special prizes with our Celebrity COVERGIRLs
CURRENT PRIZE: You could win a chance to go on tour with Taylor Swift!
Free product giveaways - Each month we're giving away 1,000 FREE full-sized products.
Videos, badges, and more!
Create a COVERGIRL ad, get exclusive badges, and help shape the next generation of COVERGIRL through polls, quizzes, and more.

WHAT YOU’LL FIND AT COVERGIRL.COM
The Latest COVERGIRL Cosmetics - Try on and buy every product in the COVERGIRL product line including Queen Collection and BLAST.
COLORMATCH Product Recommendations - Get formula and shade recommendations customized for your skin tone.
Tips and Tricks - Learn key tips for applying eyeliner, blush, foundation and eye shadow, and more.
Makeup Looks for Less - Step-by step instructions for creating hot looks like smoky eyes and glam red lips.

Making Money While having Fun From Your Computer

Money just doesn't grow on trees! Being a stay at home mom, I am always looking for little ways to cut costs or add a little to the family coffers. One of the things I do and have had some success with is on-line surveys and word-of-mouth programs. These are great ways to earn a little cash and get to sample products way before they're released to the public.
Below I will detail 3 sites which I find to be the most rewarding. By rewarding I mean that they're fun, easy and yes they do reward me for my efforts.

Crowdtap (http://crowdtap.com/invitations/4d87c74438d4137995000024)
Crowdtap is a revolutionary social marketing and research platform that enables you to be rewarded for ideating and promoting with leading brands, entertainment properties, non-profits and startups. Earn cash rewards for yourself and charity for taking surveys, sampling new products and promoting your favorite brands. You simple login with your facebook account (there is no other way) and begin by answering quickhits - quick easy questions. You earn points and sometimes money for answering these. They also have opportunities to Sample & Share products as well as host product parties. For instance, right now I am doing a Sample & Share for Playtex Sport Cleansing Wipes.

EXPO (www.expotv.com/raf/mrstrod)
Expo is an online video community of consumers who share their unbiased, honest reviews and opinions through various word of mouth programs with their peers and brands. You simply make a short video review of a product (many of which you already have and use) and then upload it. In return, they award you points which you can use to shop a wide selection of great gifts or even cash in for Amazon.com gift cards.In addition, through their Tryology program you can receive free products to review and earn points for. And you can also do surveys through their Outlook Panel.

BzzAgent (www.bzzagent.com )
As a BzzAgent, you join a Bzzcampaign to try new products and services from some of the biggest companies around. Share your honest opinions through reviews, Facebook posts, video testimonials, face-to-face, blog posts…however you want. As part of the campaign, you'll get free product samples to try yourself, help friends discover cool stuff by sharing your opinion & influence the brand with your feedback. You'll also earn points through Mypoints.com which can be cashed in for gift cards.

In my next post I'll tell you about some great survey sites where you can earn cash & gift cards. Don't forget to follow my blog to get my latest tips. And as always feel free to leave your comments or questions below!

Food Inc. Featured on Oprah

I should start this by saying right off the bat that I have never been a member of PETA or any other animal activism group. Nor have I ever really cared where by food comes from other than the grocery store. I really never felt any concern for the animals raised to produce my hamburgers and fried chicken. And for the most part, when I have heard others speaking out about these issues, I've usually given then a deaf ear.

Last night, while my children were in their beds and my husband was asleep beside me, I had a terrible time getting to sleep. So, I checked my DVR to see what I had available to watch. Okay, I know it's sad but I do DVR Oprah - and I'm not ashamed to say it. I have learned lot's of interesting things from her show and while I might not watch every episode I do record them all just in case there is a topic I would like. And last night I found just that. Wednesday's episode of the Oprah Show, titled Food 101 was extremely interesting.

One of Oprah's guests was Michael Pollan, author of several books regarding food and where it comes from. The conversation was extremely enlightening for me in regards to the origins of that hamburger and fried chicken I mentions. The show featured many clips from the documentary Food Inc. (trailer below) that gave glimpses into food industries and their practices which I had never even known existed. Listen, I am totally not one who believes in scare tactics and that's why I was so interested in the show. No one was saying "Stop eating all of that food now!" it was more like: "Hey, think about what's right for you and make the changes you think are right for your family."

Well, after watching the show I now realize that I have a lot to think about regarding the food I feed my family. The first thing I did this morning was visit my Netflix rental queue to see if they had Food Inc. available. They did and I was actually able to watch it right on my computer. I will say after watching the film in it's entirety that I am a bit shocked about how the animals raised to feed us are treated. Alright, now I have a lot more to contemplate than I thought I did.

I'm not saying that I am totally going to overhaul everything that we buy and eat tomorrow, but possible change little things. I'm not really sure which things, or even how to may the changes. But I know that I have to do something, small though it may be.

I'll keep you up to date with what I come up with.