Archive for April, 2010

$60 2 Dozen Roses California Blooms Giveaway–2010 Mother’s Day Gift Guide

[ 1 ] April 30, 2010

MOM. MOMMY. MAMA. She’ll Love California Blooms!

No matter how you say it, Calfornia Blooms can show your Mom you love her this Mother’s Day with its California grown, eco friendly roses!
CONTEST CLOSED! Winner is AD. She had been contacted. Waiting for confirmation!

What the Company Says:

Make your mother and Mother Nature proud this Mother’s Day by selecting only the freshest, boutique-grown and eco-friendly roses from CaliforniaBlooms (www.californiablooms.com) to show all the beautiful women in your life how much you appreciate them.

California Blooms is the premiere online and mobile retailer for the highest quality, responsibly grown roses, and their sophisticated presentation and convenient ordering make this gift buying decision a no-brainer. The long stem roses are available in a one dozen ($39.00) or two dozen ($59.00) rose bouquets and can come with a glass vase for an additional $8.00.

“The superior quality and freshness of our roses is evident in every bloom, meaning that the gift of love and gratitude you’ve sent to Mom will grace her home just that much longer,” says Mark Skorlich, CEO of California Blooms.

California Blooms bouquets can be purchased online at www.californiablooms.com or on your iPhone via the new CalBlooms App currently available at the iTunes App Store http://www.itunes.com/app/californiablooms.

About California Blooms Eco-Friendly Roses:

California Blooms roses are grown exclusively on one of the most highly-decorated and world-renowned farms of hydroponic roses. Their growing philosophy and techniques focus on the art and hands-on experimentation of optimum growing, rather than producing mass quantities of generic roses. The family-owned farm has grown varietal roses for over seven generations, and utilizes eco-friendly methods that drastically reduce the demand for energy and water consumption (Click here for further information on the eco-friendly growing methods – http://www.californiablooms.com/eco-friendly-growing-practices.html).

About California Blooms:

Launched in 2009, California Blooms , is the premier internet retailer of the freshest, boutique-grown and eco-friendly roses from the central coast of California for any occasion. California Blooms roses are delivered direct from the grower to anywhere in the U.S. within 24 hours of being hand-selected and cut, resulting in the superior quality and freshness of every bloom as compared to delivery times of upwards of 3-7 days for many of the larger floral retailers and florists.

Chief Blonde Remarks: 12 beautiful roses were delivered to my home from CaliforniaBlooms.com. I had great fun taking them out of the uber-cool HUGE box that they came in. They were a lovely ???? color–(Shh, I’m not telling as I want you to watch the video to see them!) Expertly packed in a raffia packing, secured into place, and backed by a coolpak, was the way to ensure their safe and expert delivery. I just trimmed them a bit, popped them into the vase and VOILA, instant Happiness! I really liked the fact that you can order from California Blooms online at their website OR use their iPhone app. PLUS New iPhone App users save 20% off their first order. COOL! I also was amazed by the variety of colors that I could choose from including: Red, Pink, Lavender, Orange, Yellow, White, Peach, Green or Mixed!

THE PRIZE:
2 Dozen Roses delivered to you or whoever you wish from California Blooms valued at $59!!! Come on tell me how awesome this giveaway is!!!

THE RULES:

Contest runs from April 30–May 5

Super Simple Main Entry: Answer ONE or all the questions below and email your entry to stillblondeafteralltheseyears@gmail.com. You must ANSWER AT LEAST ONE main entry question before doing the bonus entries! If you answer more, than that counts as extra entries! Please do not put the main entry questions into the comment section below. I will have to delete it and that will make me sad! You can answer ALL the questions at once in ONE email or spread them out over the length of the contest! Each question answered will be an entry. REMEMBER ANSWER AT LEAST ONE MAIN ENTRY QUESTION.

1. Go to this link and email us at the address above what is the 1-800 # shown on the home page in the top right corner? http://www.californiablooms.com/

2. Go to this link and email us at the address above –What can you win on this page? http://www.californiablooms.com/pick-an-idol-sweepstakes.html

3. Watch the Video above. What color are the Roses?

4. Go to this page and email us at the address above: How many different varieties of red Roses does Calfornia Blooms carry? Hint: first sentence of description area. http://www.californiablooms.com/red-roses.html

5. Go to this page and email us at the address above: If something should ever be wrong with your delivery, how long do you have to call and get it corrected? http://www.californiablooms.com/guarantee.html

6. Go to this link and email us at the address above with the color of the roses in the box: http://www.californiablooms.com/shipping.html (See the box is uber-cool, huh?)

7. Go to this page and email us at the address above with who owns California blooms? http://www.californiablooms.com/about-us.html

8. What makes California Blooms Eco-Friendly? Hint: First sentence. http://www.californiablooms.com/eco-friendly-growing-practices.html

DON’T FORGET THE BONUS ENTRIES BELOW:

Bonus Entries:
Leave a separate comment for BONUS entry in our comment section below.

–Subscribe to our feed burner. You must accept the email in order to get your 5 entries! I will check when drawing the winner!

–Become a Fan of our page on Facebook– (2 extra entries)–My facebook fans will have at least one special contest per year just for them!

–Post my Button on the right to to your Blog (3 entries)

–Make a comment on any of our blog posts. You may comment on EACH AND EVERY ONE for over 100 extra entries!

Giveaway ends May 5, 2010 at midnight. Pacific Time.

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$150 Cinzia Sunglass Giveaway–2010 Mother’s Day Gift Guide–Women over 45

[ 2 ] April 27, 2010

Still Blonde after all these YEARS presents Cinzia! Ends May 4 CONTEST CLOSED–Winner’s initials are MH .

Our giveaway today is from Cinzia, these fabulous “Polish” sunglasses retailing at $150.00!

Offering modern moms the most up-to-date trends in eyewear for 2010, Cinzia has an entire new line of reading glasses, sun wear, eyewear necklaces and cases. In addition, this season, Cinzia has expanded their line to include new lifestyle accessories such as watches, scaves and chic handbags to provide women with more fabulous options when accessorizing their look.

Chief Blonde’s Remarks: I was sent the Trendies Sunreaders Pocket Rectangles and Trendies Pocket Ovals by Cinzia. These awesome little fold-able and collapsible sunglasses and glasses are actually readers for those of us over 45 whose eyes are ~~shot~~ slightly declining. With powers that cover a wide range (1.25–3.00) and an array of colors, these fantastic little glasses will be your go-to glasses. The case that they fold up into is less than 2″ x 3″–that’s smaller than a school picture. Very impressed by these glasses, the company, the website, the variety, the styles, the colors, and the fun element. Highest recommendation! The glasses retail for $24.00 on the trendies by Cinzia site.

The Scoop:
Cinzia Designs was founded in 2002 . A true visionary in the eyewear industry, the founder is passionate about creating statement-making, unconventional, avant-garde readers, sunwear, and accessories to express one’s personal style.

Presenting two distinctly different collections: Cinzia and Trendies by Cinzia. Found in boutiques and optical dispensaries around the world, all Cinzia pieces are made to mix-and-match, giving the wearer endless options to create a look to suit every whim and every wardrobe. Feel free to view both websites to get an idea of the products offered: www.cinziadesigns.com and www.trendiesbycinzia.com .

Giveaway Prize: $150 Cinzia Sunglasses–with a complimentary Cinzia Case.

Rules:

Contest runs from April 27–May 4

1. Go to this link and email us at the address above what your favorite Sunreader style is on the the Trendies site: http://www.trendiesbycinzia.com/products/sunreaders

2. Go to this link and email us at the address above what your favorite Sunglass style: http://www.cinziadesigns.com/products/sunglasses

3. Watch the Video above. What do the words at the end of the video say?

4. What is the special that is being offered for Mother’s day? Hint: It’s at the bottom of the page

http://www.cinziadesigns.com/

5. What can you do on this page that is so darn neat? http://www.cinziadesigns.com/stylist.

6. What magazine featured Cinzia frames in April of 2010? Pick one http://www.cinziadesigns.com/news

7. What is the name of Cinzia founder and head designer? Hint: It is in the 3rd paragraph http://www.cinziadesigns.com/about

8. Where can you buy trendies near you? http://www.cinziadesigns.com/retail_locator1.php

DON’T FORGET THE BONUS ENTRIES BELOW:

Bonus Entries:
Leave a separate comment for BONUS entry in our comment section below.

–Subscribe to our feed burner. You must accept the email in order to get your 5 entries! I will check when drawing the winner!

–Become a Fan of our page on Facebook–Click HERE (2 extra entries)–My facebook fans will have at least one special contest per year just for them!

–Post my Button on the right to to your Blog (3 entries)

–Make a comment on any of our blog posts. You may comment on EACH AND EVERY ONE for over 100 extra entries!

Giveaway ends May 4, 2010 at midnight. Pacific Time.

Contest open to U.S. residents in the continental US with a valid street address. Item will be shipped to your home. No PO Boxes please. Winner(s) are selected randomly. To claim your prize(s), Stillblondeafteralltheseyears.com will contact you within 48 hours of the contest closing. You must contact Stillblondeafteralltheseyears.com within 48 hours after that with your mailing address so companies can mail your prizes. Prize(s) not claimed by (48 hours) will be forfeited and a new winner will be selected in a live giveaway. Please provide a valid email address to be informed in case you do win a giveaway. Good Luck!

Blog Disclosure: Blogger was provided a review unit for this giveaway. Blogger was not compensated in any way and the opinions posted here are her own.

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Sebago Shoe Review–Women over 45–2010 Mother’s Day Gift Guide

[ 0 ] April 27, 2010

CLASSIC FOR A WOMEN OVER 45 or anyone at any age!

Sebago Plaza Shoe For Women $90

Classic, heritage-rich, preppy and on trend, Sebago has been known for decades for its beautiful handsewn classic penny mocs. This season they continue the tradition. A much-loved style, the women’s Plaza penny loafer continues to be a favorite and this is currently one of the fashion industry’s hottest trends. Sebago will

offer the Plaza in Cordo, Black and Brown. MSRP: $90

Chief Blonde’s Remarks: I was sent this wonderful shoe for review. First, I want to put in a disclaimer here. I am a massive shoe-a-holic! No, really. Everyone who knows me knows it. I started a group on facebook called:

True shoe addiction– I buy shoes and THEN I buy the outfits to match!

So I am super picky when it comes to shoes–wearing, recommending, buying or whatever. Well, these Sebago shoes are just like getting a pair of ruby slippers! You put the Sebago Plazas on and they ~~don’t~~ won’t come off. I have wore them with Socks (a la Michael Jackson) and without socks (late 70s baby!)–still comfortable. They look cute with a chino skirt or a pair of super straight jeans. You will never never catch me wearing capris but I imagine they would look nice with capris as well. Each time I wear the shoes, they keep getting better, just like they were made for me! I know you are so very very jealous of me because I have these classic loafers and you don’t. You can remedy that by going to Sebago.com and buying your own. These Sebago shoes are definitely worth $90. I am sure they will last me forever! Here’s a couple more styles and a few words from the company. Oh, they also make men’s shoes too! Highly recommended!

A new premium silhouette from Sebago, the Hanover Classic, takes its cues from the Plaza with a lower slung penny keeper style. The uppers are kid suede and leather for a luxurious feel and the suede-finished heel has a slight lift for a sophisticated look. The Hanover Classic comes in Black and Tan. MSRP: $90

Don’t be afraid to step in and get wet; this athletic water-lover can take on urban streets or coursing rivers. The fast-drying synthetic upper features breathable mesh trim and lining. A 4-way Lycra® stretch collar provides superior comfort while an adjustable elastic cord lacing allows for fast adjustments. The mesh-covered, antimicrobial PU footbed assures lasting freshness for wet or dry feet. The Sebago® Cascade™ sole provides exceptional grip, no matter how fast the flow. $90.

Blog Note: The Chief Blonde was provided a product for review purposes. The opinions expressed are solely hers and no compensation was provided in the writing of this blog post.

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Women over 45, Your Personal SPF: Determining Your Number

[ 0 ] April 26, 2010

The Basics
Sun protection is an everyday must for anyone concerned with keeping their skin in top shape (and that includes avoiding wrinkles, brown discolorations, building collagen, keeping skin firm, and even preventing skin cancer). SPF 15 is the minimum rating to look for and greater is better for some skin colors and conditions; all sunscreens must be liberally applied; and UVA protection is critical.

UVA protection depends on the active ingredients in the product you are using so be sure one or more of these active ingredients are included: avobenzone (sometimes listed as butyl methoxydibenzoylmethane), titanium dioxide, zinc oxide, Mexoryl (ecamsule) or, outside the U.S., Tinosorb.

Decisions, Decisions
There are several important factors that influence how you choose and should apply a sunscreen:

How long you are going to be in the sun or sitting next to a window (UVA radiation, the sun’s most damaging rays, come through windows). The longer you are going to be in the sun or exposed to UVA radiation via windows the higher the SPF number you need to look for.
Are you willing to apply your chosen sunscreen liberally? No matter what SPF rating you choose, you have to apply it liberally. If you aren’t applying it liberally always go for a higher number to assure you are getting as much sunscreen ingredients on your skin as possible.
Will you be swimming or perspiring heavily? If so, go for sunscreens labeled water resistant or very water resistant. Be sure to reapply as directed, especially after toweling off.

You’ll also want to take into consideration your skin type and whether or not you’ll be wearing makeup.

Those with normal to dry skin should use sunscreens in a lotion or cream base.
Those with oily or combination skin should go for sunscreens formulated in a lightweight lotion with a matte finish, a liquid, or an alcohol-free gel base. Many spray-on sunscreens are excellent for oily skin.
If you’re going to be wearing foundation, you can choose a foundation with sunscreen and pair it with a moisturizer with sunscreen and a pressed powder with sunscreen!

What’s Your Rating?
Your ideal SPF number is a multiplication figure based on your skin color and the SPF number on the product.

Identify Your Skin Color:

	Level 1 skin is very fair and often freckled. It burns easily within about 20 minutes of direct sun exposure and never tans. This is common for people with blue eyes and blonde or red hair.
	Level 2 skin is fair to light and often burns with about 30 minutes of direct sun exposure. Tanning may occur but is minimal. This is common in people with blue, green, or hazel eyes and red, blonde, or light brown hair.
	Level 3 skin is light to medium or olive and sometime burns with about 40 minutes of direct sun exposure. Tanning is possible, but typically sunburn happens first. This level can apply to those of any hair or eye color.
	Level 4 skin is medium to tan skin that rarely burns but can turn pink in about 60 to 90 minutes of direct sun exposure yet often tans easily. This is commong for people with dark hair and eyes.
	Level 5 skin is brown to dark brown skin that very rarely burns and tans easily in about two hours of sun exposure. Those with dark hair and eyes and of Middle Eastern or African-American descent are usually at this level.
	Level 6 skin is black skin that never burns and always tans, though a tan is usually not apparent due to depth of natural skin color.

REGARDLESS OF YOUR SKIN COLOR AND HOW EASILY YOU TAN, WRINKLES, SKIN DISCOLORATIONS, AND SKIN CANCERS ARE PRIMARILY CAUSED BY UNPROTECTED SUN EXPOSURE!
Next, Do the Math:

Your Level of Sunburn Risk x by the SPF Rating = Safe Sun Exposure for Your Skin Color
The SPF number is a rating that determines how long you can stay in the sun without burning when you wear that product without needing to reapply it. It does not indicate quality of protection, just length of time. Here’s how to do the math. If you have:
- Level 1 skin (very fair): That means you usually get a burn in about 15 to 20 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. Determining your skin’s response to various SPF ratings works like this:
  - SPF 15 x 20 minutes = 300 minutes (5 hours) of protection
  - SPF 30 x 20 minutes = 600 minutes (10 hours) of protection
  - SPF 45 x 20 minutes = 900 minutes (15 hours) of protection
- Level 2 skin (fair to light): That means you usually get a burn in about 30 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. Determining your skin’s response to various SPF ratings works like this:
  - SPF 15 x 30 minutes = 450 minutes (7.5 hours) of protection
  - SPF 30 x 30 minutes = 900 minutes (15 hours) of protection
  - SPF 45 x 30 minutes = 1,350 minutes (22.5 hours) of protection
- Level 3 skin (light to medium/olive): That means you usually get a burn in about 40 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. Determining your skin’s response to various SPF ratings works like this:
  - SPF 15 x 40 minutes = 600 minutes (10 hours) of protection
  - SPF 30 x 40 minutes = 1,200 minutes (20 hours) of protection
  - SPF 45 x 40 minutes = 1,800 minutes (30 hours) of protection
- Level 4 skin (medium to tan): That means you usually get a burn in about 60 minutes of unprotected sun exposure. Determining your skin’s response to various SPF ratings works like this:
  - SPF 15 x 60 minutes = 900 minutes (15 hours) of protection
  - SPF 30 x 60 minutes = 1,800 minutes (30 hours) of protection
  - SPF 45 x 60 minutes = 2,700 minutes (45 hours) of protection
- Level 5 and Level 6 skin (brown to dark brown or black): That means you usually get a burn in about 120 minutes (2 hours) of unprotected sun exposure. Determining your skin’s response to various SPF ratings works like this:
  - SPF 15 x 120 minutes = 1.800 minutes (*30 hours) of protection
  - SPF 30 x 120 minutes = 3,600 minutes (60 hours) of protection
  - SPF 45 x 120 minutes = 5,400 minutes (90 hours) of protection

*Note that level 5 and 6 skin should do just fine with a well-formulated sunscreen rated SPF 15. However, liberal applications is still important. If you do not think you’ll be applying the sunscreen as liberally as you should, consider a sunscreen rated SPF 30.

This helpful tips were provided by from Paula Begoun, author of “Don’t Go to the Cosmetics Counter without Me.” You can also read Paula recommendations for Sun Protection by clicking here.

Blog Note: No compensation or product was provided in exchange for this blog post.

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Top 10 Things Women over 45 Should Know About Fibroids

[ 0 ] April 26, 2010

The Fibroid Treatment Collective (FTC) (http://www.fibroids.com) offers “Top 10 Things Women Should Know About Fibroids.”

Fibroid tumors are benign (non-cancerous) growths that appear on the muscular wall of the uterus. They range in size from microscopic to masses that fill the entire abdominal cavity, in some cases, as large as a five month pregnancy. The Top 10 Things every Women over 45 should know are:

1. Uterine fibroids can affect women of all ages, but are most common in women ages 40 to 50.

2. Depending on size, location and number of fibroids, common symptoms include:
• Pelvic pain and pressure
• Excessive bleeding, including prolonged periods and passage of clots, which can lead to anemia.
• Abdominal swelling
• Pressure on the bladder, leading to frequent urination
• Pressure on the bowel, leading to constipation and bloating
• Infertility

3. No one is sure why women develop fibroids which affect 40% of women over 35 years in America and have a high rate of incidence among African Americans. There is a possible link between uterine fibroid tumors and estrogen production.

4. Fibroids are diagnosed with an ultrasound in their gynecologist’s office. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is also used to determine how fibroids can be treated and provide information about any underlying disease.

5. Uterine fibroids can be treated with surgery, including hysterectomy, which removes the entire uterus, and myomectomy, which removes the fibroids but leaves the uterus. Both are major surgeries.

6. Approximately 600,000 hysterectomies are performed annually in the United States, about 300,000 due to uterine fibroids.

7. Over 50 percent of women who get hysterectomies have their ovaries removed, rendering them infertile.

8. Embolization has emerged as the safest, simplest, cost effective way to treat fibroids. Embolization requires a very small incision. Embolization basically cures fibroids by starving them.

9. Uterine Fibroid Embolization has an overall success rate of 94 percent.

10. Recurrence after embolization has not occurred. This is one of its major advantages over myomectomy, where fibroids which have been surgically removed often grow back.

Women interested in learning more can join a live chat Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to
5 p.m. PST at www.fibroids.com. A national fibroid webinar is scheduled for Saturday, May 15th at 10 a.m. PT – visit http://www.fibroids.com/about-ftc/upcoming-events for more information.

Blog Note: Blogger did not receive any compensation or products in exchange for posting this information. The FTC and fibroids.com is a for profit group. All the facts above were provided by fibroids.com and are exclusively their opinion and based on their researched facts.

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Reminder: $99 Ellington Lindsay Tote! Contest ends 4-27! Women over 45!

[ 0 ] April 26, 2010

FINAL TWO DAYS! Click HERE to go to contest page and to enter!

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Green Building: Earth Advantage Institute Looks 10 Years Forward

[ 0 ] April 25, 2010

Sustainable Construction

Earth Advantage Institute, a green building certification resource and educational organization that has certified more than 11,000 homes, has taken a look forward at green building expectations for the next decade. Based on trends tracked over the past 5 years, Earth Advantage Institute staff has compiled a list of 8 predictions that provide an Earth Day glimpse of American homes and the home industry over the next decade.

A certified green home in Oregon. Nathan Good, architect.

“Since 2000, despite two wars and a serious economic slowdown, the United States has made significant progress in sustainable construction,” said Sean Penrith, executive director, Earth Advantage Institute. “We’ve come from a point where the perception of green building involved remote off-the-grid homes to a point where the National Association of Homebuilders now has a green building standard in place and the federal government has invested $4 billion of its stimulus money in energy efficiency for its buildings nationwide. The next 10 years will accelerate these trends.”

Based on trends tracked over the past 5 years, Earth Advantage Institute staff has compiled a list of 8 predictions that provide an Earth Day glimpse of American homes and the home industry over the next decade.

The perception of green building used to be remote off-the-grid homes. Now the National Association of Homebuilders has its own green building standard in place and the federal government has invested $4 billion in energy efficiency.

Newly built homes will use one third the energy that they do today. Progressive builders are already going far beyond the current standards to build “net-zero” homes that produce at least as much energy as they consume over one year. The techniques used in building these high performance homes will filter down to the mainstream rapidly as homebuyers see how easy it is to create energy efficient and even furnace-free homes using readily available materials and emerging technology. These super-insulated “passive homes” are already being featured on the Oprah Winfrey Show on Earth Day, April 22.

Buying decisions will be based on better information about the “life cycle” impact of products. New studies are underway on the total environmental cost of building materials, from raw materials collection to manufacture, installation and eventual disposal or recycling. Homebuyers will also see data on durability and maintenance of those materials. Earth Advantage Institute recently completed a lifecycle analysis of residential building materials and practices for the state of Oregon’s Department of Environmental Quality.

The rising cost of clean water will drive most people to stop using it to water lawns and flush toilets. Many homes will use graywater (domestic wastewater from any source except toilet and garbage) and rainwater for these purposes. Many states, including Texas and the Southwestern and West Coast states, have passed legislation authorizing the use of graywater by households for yard irrigation. Arizona, for example, allows up to 400 gallons per day of graywater use on lawns and gardens.

Lenders will demand energy efficient buildings because they are more stable investments. Sustainable homes are built durably to protect the homes from moisture, excessive heat and cold, and airborne toxins – all of which can cause unhealthy conditions for occupants or decomposition of building materials. Equally important, efficient homes cost less to operate, so occupants have more cash available to pay rents and mortgages.

Communities will become denser, making better use of pedestrian walkways, bicycle paths and mass transit. The 2010 New Partners for Smart Growth conference documented the growing preference among today’s young people and today’s older citizens to live in denser, more convenient urban environments offering easy access to cultural activities, dining, entertainment and green space.

In the future, not just buildings will be certified, but neighborhoods and entire cities will be certified. This verification work will not only cover eco-friendly structures and materials, but will ensure that unique bio-regional conditions, water conservation, green space preservation, access to public transportation, and ongoing resident sustainability education are addressed.

All buildings will have baseline energy scores based on home design and the physical properties of the house. Home owners will have a better idea of where they stand with regard to energy efficiency and will understand how to upgrade their homes cost-effectively. Buyers will know more about energy performance when they shop for a home. The U.S. Department of Energy and the Environmental Protection Agency will create a voluntary national energy scoring system for homes by October of this year.

All homeowners will know significantly more about their energy and water use and their energy habits. The use of stand-alone or online home energy displays will enable them to monitor consumption in real time. Consumers will know how many times they opened their refrigerator door, when the hairdryer was used, how many gallons of water their teenager used during their shower, and the approximate dollar cost of each activity.

About Earth Advantage

Earth Advantage Institute works with the building and design industry to implement sustainable building practices. Its nonprofit mission is to create an immediate, practical and cost-effective path to sustainability and carbon reduction in the built environment. The organization achieves its objectives through a range of innovative certification, education and technical services programs. More information is available at www.earthadvantage.org.

Blog Note: Information was provided by Earth Advantage. No compensation or product or any kind was provided in return for this post.

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$99 Ellington Handbags Lindsay Tote–Mother’s Day Giveaway and Gift Guide

[ 0 ] April 21, 2010

GIVE MOM A NEW BAG–THE WONDERFUL LINDSAY TOTE!

CONTEST CLOSED Winner was chosen and confirmed . Initials TS

Tired of the same-old gym bag? Meet the Lindsay Tote, a sporty and stylish carryall for the fit fashionista. Functional features like a stow-away pocket for sneakers are perfect for carrying workout gear, while silky, lightweight nylon and fashionable, feminine accents like ruching give the Lindsay Tote a versatility you won’t find in most active bags.

Silky crushed nylon with ruching details

Soft fabric shoulder straps

Three exterior slip pockets

Stow-away compartment at bottom of bag with dual zipper closure (4″ tall)

Main compartment has mag-snap closure

Roomy interior includes two zipper pockets, three slip pockets, a clear i.d. slot, and a key clip

$99 Retail. http://www.ellingtonhandbags.com/Home_2/new-spring-handbags/Lindsay-Tote-Black

Chief Blonde’s Remarks: Ahh! Doesn’t your heart just go Pitter Pat when you see an awesome handbag? You carry your purse around with you everywhere you go so it’s really great to have a bag which is functional, yes, but also makes you look chic. I’d say the Lindsay Tote fits that bill! Not only would this make a great gym bag for a Women over 45 but it could easily function as a diaper bag, knitting bag or go to work bag for Women of all ages! Ellington bags are of superb quality with substantial zippers, lining and snaps. Watch the video for more features of the Lindsay tote and enter the giveaway to learn even more about the Ellington Handbag line. Warning: You’ll have a really hard time giving this one to your mother! You’ll want to keep it for yourself!

PRIZE: 1 Ellington Handbag Lindsay Tote valued at $99

RULES:

Contest runs from April 22–April 27

Super Simple Main Entry: Email your entry to stillblondeafteralltheseyears@gmail.com. You must do the main entry before doing the bonus entries! Please do not put the main entry into the comment section below. I will have to delete it and that will make me sad! You can answer ALL the questions at once in ONE email or spread them out over the length of the contest!

1. Go to this link and email us at the address above what your favorite Ellington Handbag Spring Bag is: http://www.ellingtonhandbags.com/new-spring-handbags

2. Which Ellington Handbag Material would you choose for your bag. If you feel like telling me why, you can but you don’t have to: http://www.ellingtonhandbags.com/Signature-Materials

3. Watch the Video above. What color Shoes are in the bag?

4. What other color does the Lindsay tote come in? http://www.ellingtonhandbags.com/Home_2/new-spring-handbags/Lindsay-Tote-Black

5. How does Ellington Handbags want to change the world? Hint: It’s in the title of this page.

http://www.ellingtonhandbags.com/About-Ellington

6. What is the 1-800 number for Ellington Handbags? Hint: It’s in the bottom right corner. http://www.ellingtonhandbags.com/

7. What can you WIN on this page? Oh my gosh. I so did this! http://www.ellingtonhandbags.com/Email-Signup

8. Where’s the closest store to you? http://www.ellingtonhandbags.com/s.nl/it.I/id.2/.f?sc=29

DON’T FORGET THE BONUS ENTRIES BELOW:

Bonus Entries:
Leave a separate comment for BONUS entry in our comment section below.

–Subscribe to our feed burner. You must accept the email in order to get your5 entries! I will check when drawing the winner!

–Make a comment on any of our blog posts. You may comment on EACH AND EVERY ONE for over 100 extra entries!

–Become a Fan of our page on Facebook–Click HERE (2 extra entries)–My facebook fans will have at least one special contest per year just for them!

–Post my Button on the right to to your Blog (3 entries)

Giveaway ends April 27, 2010 at midnight. Pacific Time.

Blog Disclosure: Blogger was provided a review unit for this giveaway. Blogger was not compensated in any way and the opinions posted here are her own.

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$50 YAK PAK Billboard Laptop Sleeve Earth Day Giveaway!

[ 0 ] April 18, 2010

Wear a Bag, Save a Billboard this Earth Day!

Yak Pak Laptop Sleeve $25

CONTEST CLOSED! WINNERS HAVE BEEN DRAWN AND CONFIRMED! WINNERS INITIALS ARE AJ AND DA. I WISH YOU ALL COULD HAVE WON!

What the Company Says: Yak Pak has partnered with TerraCycle to create the Billboard Bag Collection—rescuing billboards from spending an infinite number of lifetimes in a landfill by creating an avant-garde line of bags from this nearly indestructible material.This product line is not only eco-friendly, but each item is also an exclusive article of craftsmanship. With each bag made from a different cut of billboard, every single bag is a unique piece of art and no two bags are the same.

Yak Pak Billboard Backpack–$35

The Billboard Bag collection includes a variety of functional styles to simplify the chaos of everyday life— including totes, messenger bags, backpacks, laptop sleeves, MP3 cases and wallets.

Yak Pak Den Tote

But if you simply wanted to support Earth Day by sporting your favorite shade of green, we’ve got you covered there, too, with patterns like Green Secret Garden, Green Hedgehog and Green Shadow Plaid—which are all produced at our factory in El Salvador. Yak Pak El Salvador pursues the principles of conservation using reclaimed water and electricity generated from geothermal energy—a manufacturing philosophy that has been practiced for years. Located in an Export Salva Free Zone, the factory has its own water well and treatment plant with energy provided by Hydro Electrical plants.

This environmentally conscious line—and all of our other collections—are also economically priced, with most pieces in the collection retailing for less than $35.

Chief Blonde’s Remarks: Every time I review Yak Pak products, I am so amazed with their value for the Buck! Now, they have the perfect product that is ready for Earth Day! I had a chance to review the backpack and Den tote. 2 lucky readers are going to WIN a $25 Laptop Sleeve! Yak Paks construction is second to none. The products are always big and roomy, with lots of extra thoughtful pockets, zippers and straps in all the right places. There bags are so multi-generational that Grandma would kill for one, just as well as any toddler, tween, or young adult. We really love that these products are all about upcycling. I do this by shopping resale. You can do it by buying or winning one of these featured YAKPAK bags. Nothings changed. I still HIGHLY recommend the YAK Pak company and especially their Billboard bags!

PRIZE: 2 $25 Billboard Laptop Sleeves

RULES:

Contest Runs from April 19 -April 24.

The Rules:

1. April 19! Go to this link and email us what Yak Pak did to celebrate its 20th annversary: http://yakpak.com/common/pagedetail.aspx?pagecode=121509

2. April 20! Go to this link and email us telling how many billboards are sent to landfills each year (hint: look in the 7th paragraph!) : http://yakpak.com/common/pagedetail.aspx?pagecode=121509

3. April 21! Go to this link and email us with the what Upcycling means (Hint 3rd paragraph): http://yakpak.com/common/pagedetail.aspx?pagecode=121509

4. April 22! Go to this link and email us with the answer to Why is today important to YakPak (and you)? http://yakpak.com/common/pagedetail.aspx?pagecode=Earth-Day-2010

4. April 23! Go to this link in our blog and email us what animal you see in the video (hint: It’s pink): http://www.stillblondeafteralltheseyears.com/2010/03/60-st-pats-yak-pak-wallets-giveaway.html

5. Last Day! April 24! What is your favorite Yak Pak Billboard Product? Email. http://yakpak.com/common/pagedetail.aspx?PageCode=billboardbags

Bonus Entry: (comment the appropriate # of times for each entry in the comment section below)

1. Put my NEW button (copy code) on your blog 5 entries! Come back here and paste the link.

2. Follow me as my fan on facebook. http://www.facebook.com/stillblondeafteralltheseyears

2 bonus entries–I will check

3. Get my feed via feedburner by entering your email in the feedburner to the right. You must accept the verify email that you will get and be active, I will check! 4 entries!

4. Comment on each blog post. You must come back here and note that you commented on that blog post. This can get you up to 100 extra entries if you are so inclined!

Contest ends April 24!

Blog Disclosure: Blogger was provided a review unit for this giveaway. Blogger was not compensated in any way and the opinions posted here are her own.

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Shopping Tips for the Budget Traveler–Women over 45

[ 0 ] April 18, 2010

Shopping Tips for the Budget Traveler

Tips for traveling smart on vacation

We all like to pick up a little something special when we’re traveling, even when we’re on a tight budget. Whether it’s an authentic trinket of some kind, an amazing dress from that tiny boutique that you’d never be able to find at home, or souvenirs for family and friends, there’s always something special that you want to take home with you to remind you of your travel experience. The following are tips to help you make your perfect purchase without damaging your pockets in the process.

1) Stay away from places that usually attract tourists. These areas are always likely to be more expensive when it comes to shopping. Beyond that simple fact, the items found in these locations are hardly ever unique. You want to find something that represents your travel experience.

2) Keep your budget in mind. If you have 50 dollars to spend for the entire day (including lodging, food, transportation, etc.), don’t dip into tomorrow’s finances for an impulse buy.

3) Wait until the end of the day to make your special purchase. By the end of the day everything important (food, lodging, etc.) should already have been paid for and you’ll be able to use the money that is left over to splurge.

4) Refrain from purchasing bulky, heavy, items. Bigger items are usually more expensive, and they’ll take up packing space. If you’re traveling with a backpack you won’t want to lug around something that causes shoulder damage, and if you’re traveling with a suitcase you won’t want to pay for shipping or extra bag-checking costs.

5) Ask yourself a simple question. Do you like it or do you love it? If you only like it, skip it. You like a lot of things but you don’t go around purchasing them all. If you love it, well then that’s a different story. If its love that you feel about this particular item, ask yourself if it’s something you’d be able to find at home. If it’s not and it doesn’t force you to dip into tomorrow’s piggy bank, go for it.

Remember that you’re traveling to see the world more intimately, not to collect more stuff. There will always be something that you have to have. Don’t deprive yourself, just think before you buy.

Travel Tips provided by S.V. at CheapOair! Shopping for a travel deal? Then out CheapOair’s super saver airfare deals under $199 (tax inclusive) to top U.S. destinations.