Category: Reviews>>

Review: Chicago Trolley & Double Decker Co.

[ 0 ] August 11, 2010

“Hilariously Informative and Just Plain Fun!”
–Still Blonde after all these YEARS! (Blog for Women over 45)

Chief Blonde Remarks:

Spending a glorious summer weekend in Chicago could only be surpassed by the riot of fun my traveling companion and I had while cruising around the city on the Chicago Trolley and Double Decker. On the first afternoon, we took the Chicago Trolley and went on a whirlwind tour of the South Side of Chicago, where we saw President Obama’s residence (The Obamas live right down the street from where the Chief Blonde used to live, a mere five blocks away! Of course, my crappy little apartment looked nothing like this Hyde Park mansion!) Then on to the Science and Industry Museum, where we got off to film my 60 second video for the “Roommate in the Museum” application. (More on that later). Back on again, and we weaved up the southside through Bronzeville, past museums, University of Chicago (my alma mater), and so much more. The tour guide, Mike, was so interesting with a fun tidbit about everything. The trolley was easy to see from and comfortable.

The next day we rode the Chicago Double Decker and took the Signature tour. This tour was led by a knowledgeable flirt, Danny. His wisecracking jokes left us smiling and his knowledge of the city left us feeling like we were novice tour guides ourselves. Our favorite tip was when he let us know where the Federal Reserve building is and that we could go on a free tour there and leave with a bag of shredded money ($364 worth!). It was a wonderful Chicago summer day, Lollapalooza was going on, tourists were hoofing it everywhere and we were cruising around on the top of a beautiful cool double Decker tour bus (decorated in Coach ads!) On the Signature tour, we got to see all the famous tall Chicago buildings, the museums, Water tower, Navy pier, Millennium Park–just to name a few. We have so many pictures that I think we filled our memory card!

Really, we cannot recommend this experience enough. It was such an excellent way for a tourist to see and appreciate Chicago sites and architecture quickly and safely. Just not having to navigate the streets was worth it! You can take tours of the West, South, and North side of Chicago AND take the Signature tour which hits all the major sites downtown. The one day Signature Tour is $29 (seniors $24) and the Three Day Explore Chicago Tour is $35 which includes the Signature Tour and the 3 neighborhood tours. Some extra goodies with the three day pass are free Garret’s popcorn, a Hershey bar from the Hershey Store, and a really spiffy Chicago Trolley and Double Decker T-shirt. Women over 45–what more do you need to know? Chocolate, snacks and free clothes! Here’s where you can find out more: Chicago Trolley and Double Decker Co.

Or see our feature article here: http://stillblondeafteralltheseyears.com/2010/07/chicago-trolley-double-decker-company-getting-around-chicago-on-the-cheap/

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Top Eight Pet Friendly Casinos

[ 0 ] July 19, 2010

THE TOP PET-FRIENDLY CASINOS IN THE U.S.

International Team of Experts Names the Best Casinos for Gamers to Take Their Pets

As the vacation season is upon us premier online gaming site, GR88.com (pronounced Great Eight .Com) is pleased to direct its customers with pets by naming the top eight pet-friendly casinos in the U.S.

“We want to provide our members with the most complete gaming experience, and for many, that means having their pets around,”says Peter Karroll, CEO of IAM Corp. “GR88.com prides itself in providing gaming enthusiast advice on how to ensure an outstanding casino experience.”

Casino and pet lovers can now have it all as the site has researched the top casinos that welcome animals. While each establishment offers a unique experience, all offers options for guests to care for Fido as they indulge in various poker matches.

Below are the top pet-friendly casinos in the country:

Bokhara Pet Resort & Spa, Williamsburg, Michigan

This resort makes vacationing more enjoyable for both owners and their pets. Dogs and cats live in paradise at this resort while their owners enjoy the proximity to the Grand Traverse Resort & Turtle Creek Casino. The doggie resort is situated on 14 acres of lush land and has two layers of fencing to protect guests from unwanted visitors. Cats enjoy cage free boarding in a separate cottage, away from the dogs. Additionally, all pets are welcome to experience professional grooming during their stay.

Red Rock Casino, Resort, Spa, LasVegas, Nev.

Red Rock is known for its blend of comfort, lavishness and value. While the rooms are serene, guests and their pets will feel at home at the resort. Red Rock Casino, Resort and Spa has something for everyone as it offers special packages ranging from spa treatments, to golfing, to outdoor ventures. Dogs weighting less than 30 pounds are welcome to stay at this resort.

Atlantis Casino Resort, Reno, Nev.

The Atlantis Casino Resort is known to house the largest gaming floor in Reno. The hotel underwent expansion in 2006 and has recently opened the casino’s unique convention center sky bridge. This luxury hotel and casino offers gamers indoor and outdoor swimming pools, a spa, salon and a variety of excellent restaurants. On top of all this, the casino is pet friendly, welcoming animals of all types.

Aliante Station Casino and Hotel, Las Vegas, Nev.

This hotel is a dream come true. This casino just opened in November 2008, but is already a favorite of many Las Vegas first-time visitors and regulars. The hotel is known for its mix of a lively casino, thrilling nightlife, and live entertainment all while managing to be the perfect place to get some quality R& R. It is cozy, modern and exciting all at the same time. This resort welcomes dogs that weight under 25 pounds.

Hard Rock Hotel and Casino, Biloxi, Miss.

This casino is for music and petlovers. It is rock-star themed with accommodations for smokers and non-smokers, offering accommodation that are comfortable for your pet. The casino houses 1,200 slots and 50 tables. Guests can leave their dogs and cats in their room, as they relax in the spa, exercise in the fitness room and shop at the nearby stores.

The Westin Casuarina Hotel, Casino and Spa, Las Vegas, Nev.

This hotel is the best place to escape from the hustle and bustle of Las Vegas. Feeling lucky? Test your luck at the Casuarina Casino and enjoy a calmer atmosphere than most casinos in Vegas. Both you and your pet will get a taste of the good life at this gamers’ paradise. The Westin accepts pets that weigh less than 40 pounds.

Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel, Atlantic City, N.J.

This hotel is all about its location. Just minutes from the boardwalk, the Sheraton Atlantic City Convention Center Hotel is a perfect spot to enjoy close proximity to luxurious shops, bustling casinos and lavish dining. The friendly staff happily welcomes pets so that nothing is missing from your gaming experience. The hotel also distinguishes itself through its display of Miss America memorabilia and other pageant collectables. Not only do guests enjoy the unmatchable amenities of the hotel, but they can also get a history lesson while they are there. Guests are welcome to bring one dog that weighs up to 80 pounds.

The Sands Regency, Reno, Nev.

This Sands Regency has numerous rooms for gamers looking for a more laid back atmosphere. The variety of games at this casino also makes it unique. Gamers can find everything from bingo to poker to slot machines at the casino. One pet up to 50 pounds is welcome to stay at this hotel.

Knights Inn Atlantic City, Atlantic City, N.J.

Traveling is made easy at this hotel as it is located centrally between the heart of Atlantic City as well as the city’s international airport. Guests also enjoy its proximity to the local mall, boardwalk and historic city, Smithville. The Knights Inn accepts dogs that weigh no more than 80 pounds.

GR88.com is a distinguished website that provides the highest quality of entertainment worldwide with first class poker and casino games, 24-hour expert customer service and the premium user experience.

Blog Note: The Chief Blonde posted this as a service to her readers and did not receive compensation for this post.

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Fresh® Crème Ancienne Eye Cream. Review: Women over 45

[ 0 ] June 18, 2010

INTRODUCING Crème Ancienne Eye Cream

What The Company Says:

A PRECIOUS AGE-DELAY FORMULA HANDMADE IN A MONASTERY

Fresh® is thrilled to introduce the highly anticipated addition to the Ancienne Collection:

Crème Ancienne Eye Cream. Inspired by the world’s first cream, this hand-blended, all-natural,age-delay eye treatment visibly reduces the signs of aging, offers supreme nourishment,and is proven to deliver significant, long-lasting moisture for up to 24 hours.

Crème Ancienne Eye Cream is still hand-blended, but the monks who do so use a completely different method, resulting in a lightweight, whipped texture as rich as the original that glides on easily and absorbs quickly. In addition to the same oils and waxes found in Crème Ancienne, Crème Ancienne Eye Cream also includes ingredients that specifically address the aging concerns of the eye area including sugar apple seed extract, which stimulates the synthesis of collagen fibers to visibly reduce the appearance of wrinkles while firming and toning the skin. Jojoba oil, an extremely nourishing oil, also helps prevent water loss, while seabuckthorn berry oil, rich in omega 7 fatty acids and antioxidants, fights wrinkle-causing free radicals. It is further enriched with rosemary leaf extract to improve circulation and reduce puffiness.

After using Crème Ancienne Eye Cream:

(in vivo test , twice daily application for 4 weeks):

• 100% felt it had a hydrating and nourishing effect

• 97% felt it protected the skin against dryness and

protected the skin throughout the night

• 87% noticed smoother skin texture

• 84% saw a relaxation of crows feet

• 77% felt it smoothed fine lines around the eye area

Chief Blonde Remarks: Our reviewer went CRAZY for Crème Ancienne Eye Cream. It lasts and lasts and lasts. Jealously guarding the cream and not letting anyone else use it, the reviewer swore by its affects on the delicate eye area, and she especially exclaimed how “Fresh” her eyes felt and looked in the morning. I liked that the cream was not overly perfumed. Another special element was the physical container it came in–Classy! Make sure to watch the video above to get a real understanding of the product. Pricey but Highly recommended as an excellent eye cream! Crème Ancienne Eye Cream ($95) is availableat Fresh® stores, www.fresh.com, Neiman Marcus, and www.neimanmarcus.com.

Blog Note: A product was provided for review, no compensation was provided.

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Salon Grafix Invisible Dry Spray Shampoo Review–Women over 45

[ 0 ] June 6, 2010

When You Don’t Have Time to do ONE MORE THING!

Salon Grafix Invisible Dry Spray Shampoo 4 oz (112 g)

What the Company Says: Sometimes there are just not enough hours in a day, to wash your hair! Between working long hours, going to the gym, picking up the dry cleaning on your way home, stopping at the grocery store for a gallon of milk and cooking dinner, who has time to properly shampoo, condition, blow dry and style their hair on a daily basis? For most, not being able to wash their hair everyday is not a big deal. In fact washing your hair too often can damage your hair long-term, destroying the roots and making it very dry and brittle. However some people feel the need to shampoo daily, some even twice daily, because their hair develops an oily appearance over time, loses its volume and begins to smell. Americans actually wash their hair an average of 4.59 times a week. Granted there are few substitutes for a hot shower on a dreary morning, after a workout or at the end of a long day, but there is an alternative for the busy woman-on-the-go to always look her best, even when “time is of the essence.”

Powdered or dry shampoos are no new invention; they have actually been around since the 1970’s. Traditional “wet” shampoo cleans your hair and scalp of a variety of dead skin cells and natural oils called sebum which accumulate around your hairs roots throughout the course of a day. Dry shampoos, which usually have a base of talc, cornstarch, potato, or rice, soak up rather than wash away sebum. Then when you brush the powder out of your hair, you also brush away the grungy appearance. Because dry shampoos do not rid your hair of as much sebum, you can safely use them once or several times between traditional washings.

Although dry shampoo may be a viable alternative to the conventional method of washing hair, they would typically leave behind an undesirable white powdery residue. Then these products evolved and began to come in a variety of colors to match your hair. This innovation seemed groundbreaking at the time; however a common problem when applying these products is they would leave black or brown powder all over your shoulders, counter top and bathroom floor. You might as well have just taken a shower! It is with this in mind that I present to you the next generation in dry shampoo technology.

Salon Grafix Invisible Dry Spray Shampoo will leave your hair feeling clean and refreshed without the residue. By simply spraying it in your hair and brushing it out, your hair will look and feel rejuvenated. Great for all hair types and styles, Salon Grafix Invisible Dry Spray Shampoo goes on clean and clear, with no visible powder left behind. When applied, the new invisible formula quickly absorbs the oily buildup on your scalp giving you a refreshed look in a fraction of the time of a traditional shampooing. Salon Grafix new invisible formula neutralizes odors also, making it the perfect middle man in between showers to keep your hair looking, and smelling fantastic!

Salon Grafix (www.salongrafix.com) is dedicated to bringing its loyal customers the finest in salon quality hair care products for a modest price. Their Invisible Dry Spray Shampoo retails for $7.99 and is available at Target, Walgreens, Walmart, CVS and other select retailers nationwide.

The Chief Blonde Remarks: I was rushing out of the house to go on a walk with a friend. I was freshening my make-up (hey I have to look good when I ACTUALLY exercise) when I noticed my hair was flat and slightly greasy. Not having time to do anything but run a brush through it–I grabbed Salon Grafix Invisible Dry Spray Shampoo and sprayed it into my hair according to the directions. I quickly brushed my hair and fluffed it and WHOOOAAA, my hair looked suddenly AWESOME! When I got to my friend’s house to walk, she complimented my hair several times and wondered if I just got it done at the salon. HA! Her eyes surely did bug out when I told her that I hadn’t washed my hair for three days and it was actually the Salon Grafix Invisible Dry Spray Shampoo that had worked its magic for me.

Women over 45 will love this product because as we age, we definitely don’t need to wash our hair as often. Other people who have a tendency toward greasy hair will really love this product because it makes your hair look clean. I also liked it because it’s invisible AND not smelly. If I had Three thumbs–this product would be a TRIPLE thumbs up! LOVED IT!

Blog Note: The Chief Blonde received a sample to review. No compensation was provided.

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$100 Hard Tail Clothing Activewear Gift Certificate Giveaway and Review!

[ 96 ] June 3, 2010

Casual, comfortable and chic urban-wear


The 45+ Chief Blonde in Hardtail –CONTEST CLOSED. Winner notified Initials AB

Chief Blonde remarks: Oh Hardbodies and Wannabes! Have I got the Greatest activewear for you! Hard Tail Forever is known for their uber cool, comfortable clothing. I wasn’t sure if the a woman of my ~~ancient~~ age, who is definitely a woman over 45 would look good in this clothing that was designed for people who have rock hard abs and well-toned butts. So there I am in the picture above, in my splatter rollover yoga pant ($72.00) and my Shirred Long Tank (Normally $44, on sale for $28!). I was very pleased with the fit and thought it made me look kinda “all that”. My husband agreed! This is premium fitness wear with super sturdy construction. They are known especially for their yoga pants but there are many other cute items in their line, including shirts, camis, skirts, shorts, and dresses. Also, some items for GUYS. Shop here for the complete line Hard Tail Forever! The line was surprisingly true to size. If I was ever going to excercise, this is the clothing I would have on. But I’m going to use my Hard Tail for lounge wear–which it is also well suited. Excellent for the hardbody set, or the fit but not so serious Women over 45! Highly Recommend!

Here’s the yoga pants that I have on above on a younger, ~~Skinny Twig~~ more fit model!

A Cute Pair of Belted Military Shorts that I thought I could have rocked

A Fun Sleeveless Hoodie ($72)

The Prize: Hard Tail Forever is Giving the Lucky Winner a $100 Gift Certificate to buy Whatever they Want! $100–So Fun!

Contest June 3- June 11, 2010

THE RULES:

Super Simple Main Entry: Answer AT LEAST ONE or all the questions below and email your entry to stillblondeafteralltheseyears@gmail.com. If you answer more, than that counts as extra entries! YIPEE! (it’s okay to put all the answers in one email)

1. Go to this link and email us at the address above: What Colors does this Hoodie come in? http://www.nationaljeancompany.com/product_detail.asp?page=1&NumRec=129&ItemNum=28&s_pid=10032&colorid=7&vn=Hard+Tail&pn=Sleeveless+Hoodie&s_cid=0&s_vid=29&s_size=&s_price=&s_lev=2&s_sale=&s_sb=2

2. Go to this link and email us at the address above: Other than the items shown on this post above, what’s your favorite Hard Tail item? http://www.nationaljeancompany.com/product_list.asp?s_lev=2&s_vid=29

3. Go to this link and email us at the address above: What’s the name of the husband and wife team that developed Hard Tail? (Hint: Top of the Page–1st Paragraph) http://www.nationaljeancompany.com/product_list.asp?s_lev=2&s_vid=29

4. Go to this link and email us at the address above: What store near you sells Hard Tail Forever? http://www.hardtailforever.com/store-result.php

5. Go to this link and email us at the address above: Which of these Yoga Pants would you buy? http://www.nationaljeancompany.com/product_list.asp?s_lev=3&s_vid=29&s_cid=19

6. Go to this link and email us at the address above: Where is Hard Tail’s Main Office?
http://www.hardtailforever.com/contact.htm

7. Go to this link and email us at the address above: What color is the first item on this page which shows all of Hard Tails NEW items? http://www.nationaljeancompany.com/product_list.asp?s_lev=3&s_vid=29&s_cid=1

8. Go to this link and email us at the address above? What can you do on this page of the our blog? Click this link

Bonus entry:

Leave a separate comment for each 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! LEARN ABOUT ALL OUR OVER $50 contests by getting our feed!

–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!
–Become a Fan on Google Friends connect (1 extra entry)

Giveaway ends June 11, 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 Note: Chief Blonde and Blogger was provided a review sample. No compensation was provided. The opinions are her own.

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$182 FitnessUWear Wearable Workout Giveaway! Women over 45

[ 0 ] May 27, 2010

YOUR WEARABLE WORKOUT! FitnessUWear

Contest Closed–Winners initials are KH. She has been notified, waiting for confirmation. I wish I could have awarded a prize to all of you!

Our Giveaway today is for FitnessUWear product line which features low impact resistance wearable exercise bracelets, anklets, and skirts! Check out our Post on FitnessUWear here: http://www.stillblondeafteralltheseyears.com/2010/05/may-26-is-national-senior-health.html.

Women over 45 and their younger friends will really love these products. A great way to sneak in exercise!

Included in today”s Giveaway:

½ lb Everyday Banglz – comfortable weighted bracelets can maximize muscle tone and burn more calories during your daily activities with a slight, ongoing resistance. Banglz most Popular item! Colors: Black, Brown and Variety of Colors, One Size: Adjustable with expander!, Set: $24.95

Walker 1 lb Fitness Banglz – Designed for an extra push during low-impact exercise.1lb- Soft, Inspiring, Comfortable Hands-Free Walking Weights To Add Some Muscle Work To Your Walks! Colors: Variety of Colors, One Size: Adjustable with expander!, Set: $27.95

1 lb Ankle Banglz – Designed to be worn throughout the day like an anklet, strengthening lower body and working legs, hips and glutes.Colors: Black, Denim and Pink $36.95

Simple Skirt – made of draping, stretch fabrics and are carefully selected to be sophisticated yet fun. The slight a-line flair looks great on all body types either worn up on the waist or lower on the hips. Sizes: XS-XL Colors: Black, Brown and a Variety of Prints Price: $44.95

Smartslip – made with a special fabric that adds slight, ongoing resistance in every step, targeting hips, glutes and legs while you go about your normal day. Sizes: XS-1x Styles: Full and Low Rise Colors: Black and Neutral Price: $46.95

You can find all the products on www.Banglz.com.

THE PRIZE: 1 Winner–You will receive

1/2lb wrist Banglz (set)
1lb ankle Banglz (set)
1lb wrist Banglz (set)
1 Simple skirt
1 Smartslip

Contest May 27- June 4, 2010

THE RULES:

1. Go to this link and email us at the address above: Look under the FitnessUWear logo. What does it say they are the Makers of…(Hint: the logo is at the very top center): http://www.banglz.com/

2. Go to this link and email us at the address above: How does the Smartslip give you a workout? (Hint: 3rd sentence http://www.banglz.com/ShowCategory.aspx?CatId=16

3. Go to this link and email us at the address above: You can buy Banglz and FitnessUWear items on line, where near you can you buy them? http://www.banglz.com/ShowPage.aspx?PageId=7

4. Go to this link and email us at the address above: What was May 26? http://www.stillblondeafteralltheseyears.com/2010/05/may-26-is-national-senior-health.html

5. Go to this link and email us at the address above: What your favorite Simple Skirt color? http://www.banglz.com/ShowProducts.aspx?PTypeId=38

6. Go to this link and email us at the address above: What can fun little item can you buy on this page? http://www.banglz.com/ShowProducts.aspx?PTypeId=42

7. Go to this link and email us at the address above: What parts of your body can you Trim, Tone and Tighten with Ankle Bands? http://www.banglz.com/ShowProducts.aspx?PTypeId=34

8. What’s the latest place Banglz have been featured? http://www.banglz.com/ShowArticles.aspx

Bonus entry:

Leave a separate comment for each 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! LEARN ABOUT ALL OUR OVER $50 contests by getting our feed!

–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!

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

Blog Note: Chief Blonde and Blogger was provided a review sample. No compensation was provided. The opinions are her own.

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FREE to all Our Readers! Texas Travel Guides!

[ 0 ] May 19, 2010

HERE SOMETHING WONDERFUL AND FREE FOR ALL OF YOU!

(No–it’s not this great pin!)

Since this little blog started seven months ago, we built to 11,000 page views/month, 560 people on our email list, a 91 score on Website Grader, $4000 worth of giveaways, 174 posts, 210 facebook fans and many learned lessons!

I have been hoping to find something that I can give to all of you for a thank-you! Though not a $1000 like you all deserve–it is a nice resource if you decide to travel to Texas this summer. (Hey–it could happen!)

All 10 of the Texas Historical Commission’s (THC) heritage region travel guides are now complete and beckon you to experience the real places telling the real stories of Texas. The great state of Texas, known for its big heart and welcoming people is inviting Texans and non-Texans alike to experience the vastness and wonder of the Lone Star State year round. Travelers can learn more about Texas history and heritage through the THC’s Texas Heritage Trails Program’s (THTP) travel guides.

The THTP provides helpful resources for those looking to get out and explore Texas history. A key marketing component of the THTP is a series of heritage travel guides designed to enhance visitors’ experiences at local attractions.

“Our travel guides are unique in their focus on regional destinations relevant to Texas heritage and culture. The state of the U.S. economy has many travelers rethinking upcoming vacation plans. The
THC encourages vacationers to discover the historical treasures right here in our own back yard,” said Dr. Terry Colley, THC Deputy Executive Director. “Our diverse state offers a variety of historical experiences and the THC captures some of those best kept secrets in our travel guides and historic sites, allowing everyone to immerse themselves in the Texas mystique.”

The THC now proudly offers 10 heritage travel guides –– Texas Brazos, Forest, Forts, Hill Country, Independence, Lakes, Mountain, Pecos, Plains and Tropical Trail Regions. Each guide gives travelers a valuable opportunity to personally experience what makes this state so extraordinary, while providing maps and historical information related to specific regions. Collect all 10! For free heritage travel guides, please call 866.276.6219 or visit www.thc.state.tx.us/travel for downloadable copies.

Blog Note: The Chief Blonde was not compensated in any way for this post. She did it because she loves TEXAS and she thinks her readers do too!

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Women over 45 Featured Writer: C.M. Rubin writes The REAL Alice in Wonderland– Alice Liddell

[ 0 ] May 8, 2010

Relate to an important date–Mother’s Day

New Book Shares the Gift of the Real Alice in Wonderland

With interest rampant in Alice in Wonderland, a new book reveals the true life inspiration behind the children’s classic. C.M (Cathy) Rubin and her daughter Gabriella have just collaborated to write The Real Alice in Wonderland. With never before published illustrations and photographs as well as fascinating storytelling, the book takes readers through the entire life of Alice Liddell, the Victorian era youngster immortalized in the Lewis Carroll children’s classic. Liddell was an inspiring hands-on mother and through her life, an icon: a true modern day woman of the Victorian era.

With its familial theme, The Real Alice in Wonderland is a perfect fit for Mother’s Day. Children have grown up on the story for more than 150 years, and now they and their Moms (and Dads) can share in the story of how it all came to be, through the looking glass to the tea party and beyond. Most people don’t even realize there was a real Alice, but co-author C.M. (Cathy) Rubin has known about her for a lifetime. Alice Liddell was her distant great aunt. In 2007, Rubin’s daughter Gabriella convinced her mom to write “the story behind the story,” and the two set off to England and other destinations to collaborate on this first of a kind biography.

Alice Liddell was just four years old when she met Charles Dodgson, who later gained fame as Lewis Carroll. An amateur photographer, Dodgson would regale Liddell and her sisters with imaginative stories while taking their pictures. Those stories eventually led to the publication of Alice in Wonderland, with the young Liddell inspiring the creation of the fictional Alice.

In rich detail, readers will discover the answers to these questions and more:

What really went on between Alice and Lewis Carroll?

How did becoming Alice in Wonderland alter Alice Liddell’s life?

Are there other characters in the book based on real life people?

Why was Alice Liddell forced to sell the manuscript created for her by Lewis Carroll?

How was Alice’s manuscript used to help children in need?

What is the Rubins’ relationship to Alice Liddell?

The Real Alice in Wonderland offers readers a number of Mother’s Day-related themes, some controversial but all fascinating:

Alice Liddell was a mother figure to children around the world. She made sure the book was set up as a “not for profit” and devoted her life to raising money for children’s organizations.
Alice Liddell would get fan mail from children around the world who would write to The Real Alice in Wonderland ENGLAND. That is all that would be on the envelope.
In Victorian times, a young girl’s governess was like her second mother. In the classic tale, the “off with their heads” Queen of Hearts caricature was inspired by Alice’s governess, Miss. Prickett.
Alice Liddell suffered great heartbreak as a mother. Two of her three sons were killed in World War I.
The Real Alice in Wonderland shows that on a day to celebrate the women who inspire, few have had the lasting impact of Alice Liddell.
Gabriella Rubin inspired her mother to write this book, and dedicated to her as well.
The book is subtitled A Role Model For the Ages. Along with Alice, the reference can also be to moms everywhere.

As a young woman, Liddell was a much sought-after love interest. Among her suitors: the son of Queen Victoria, Prince Leopold. The Rubins suggest the Queen pressured her son to end the romance. But years later, when they were married to other people, Leopold named his first child Alice, and acted as godfather to Alice’s son Leopold.

Filled with more than 500 illustrations and photographs, The Real Alice in Wonderland is a timeless gift for moms and their children. C.M. Rubin’s and Gabriella Rubin’s grand vision for their book involved reaching out to celebrated artists,museums, libraries and schools around the world. Artists spanning two centuries are featured in The Real Alice In Wonderland.

Chief Blonde remarks: Gorgeous…Fanciful…Very in-depth and personal. This book is not only a good read but pure pure eye Candy.

Blog Note: The Chief Blogger was provided a review copy of this book. No compensation was provided and the opinions are her own.

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$72 Wallaroo Summer Hat Giveaway–2010 Mother’s Day Gift Guide–Women over 45

[ 0 ] May 6, 2010

Helpful Tip for Hat Selection this Summer!

Chief Blonde in her Winter Wallaroo Hat (photo Credit: Kelly Mackie)

Contest Closed–Winners Notified. Winner Initials JS and HS. They have 48 hours to contact me.

Hey Women over 45 (and all you younger Women too!): When it comes to the brim of your summer hat, size does matter. This season make sure to check for brim size along with UPF factor when shopping for a fashionable summer hat. Wallaroo hats feature pliable two to 4 ½ inch brims for maximum sun protection and offer an Ultraviolet Protection Factor of 50+, protecting the sensitive skin on the scalp from 97.5% of the sun’s harmful rays.

Available in a variety of styles for men, women and children Wallaroo hats are the perfect accessory for a long beach vacation or a quick stroll through the neighborhood, Wallaroo hats are an effortless means of attaining maximum skin safety. www.wallaroohats.com

The Sydney Diva–$36 The Platypus for Children–$22

Chief Blonde and Blogger: As many of you know, Wallaroo Hats were featured back in December for our Holiday Gift Guide–Stocking Stuffers! It won the Stocking Stuffer Award. Stocking Stuffer–you say what?

For a hat? Yep, these babies just kind of fold right up and are totally packable. For this summer review, I received the Victoria Diva to review. This a beautiful wide brim hat and I got it in pale blue. It’s a pretty dramatic hat with 4 1/2 ” brim. Inside there is a interior draw string so I can ensure it fits snug. LOVE IT! Did you know you can handwash Wallaroo Hats? Isn’t that a great feature. Being ~~ghastly white~~ very fair, this hat allows me tons of time in the sun without constantly slathering on smelly greasy sunscreen! So Highly recommend these Hats…and the prices are right too. www.wallaroohats.com

The Prizes: 2 Wallaroo Hats worth $36/each. 2 hats will be given away, one to each winner!

Breton

Hampton

Rules:

Contest runs from May 6–May 13

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 Wallaroo company slogan that is above the kangaroo in the middle of the page? http://www.wallaroohats.com/index.php?id=1

2. Go to this link and email us at the address above, what would be your favorite Wallaro Women’s Summer Hat not shown above (sorry boys!)? http://www.wallaroohats.com/category.php

3. Go to this link and email us at the address above: What is the Wallaro Toll-free #? http://www.wallaroohats.com/index.php?id=10

4. Go to this link and email us at the address above, where can you find a Wallaroo hat near you? http://www.wallaroohats.com/locator/index.php

5.Go to this link and email us at the address above, How much of the Sun’s Ultraviolet rays will a Wallaroo hat block? http://www.wallaroohats.com/index.php?id=2

6. Go to this link and email us at the address above, What’s is special about this page? http://www.wallaroohats.com/result.php?catid=11&page=Sale

7. Go to this link and email us at the address above, tell what incredible blog is the third entry on this page? http://www.wallaroohats.com/index.php?id=9

8. Go to this link and email us at the address above, what is the first hat on the page called?http://www.wallaroohats.com/result.php?catid=9&page=Children%60s_Collection

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 13, 2010 at midnight. Pacific Time.

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$170 BlueMax Desk Lamp Giveaway–2010 Mother’s Day Gift Guide–Women over 45

[ 0 ] May 4, 2010

Give Mom a Gift that Will Last Forever this Mother’s Day

BlueMax™ 70w White Desk Lamp

Contest Closed! Winner Contacted–waiting for response–winner initials BW

Mother’s Day was created by Anna Jarvis in 1908 as a day to honor her mother. Her goal was to make her own mother’s dream come true by making it a celebration for all mothers. It became a national holiday in 1914 under Woodrow Wilson’s presidency. According to IBISWorld, a publisher of business research, Americans will spend approximately $2.6 billion on flowers, $1.53 billion on pampering gifts, such as spa treatments, and another $68 million on greeting cards.

While all of these gifts are great, why not get her something that will last forever? BlueMax™ 70w full spectrum desk and floor lamps, manufactured by Full Spectrum Solutions, Inc., produce a crisp, high-definition light similar to natural daylight around noontime and come with a Lifetime warranty. BlueMax™ lamps are the perfect gift for any mom who enjoys reading, drawing, sewing, quilting, scrapbooking, or any other hobby that requires good visual acuity because the high-definition, full spectrum light emitted is scientifically proven to reduce eye strain and fatigue.

“I have trifocals and after an hour or two of reading with a standard 100 watt incandescent bulb my eyesight became blurred,” said Kathleen Robinson, a grandmother and avid needle pointer. “The dimmable BlueMax floor lamp my children gave me provides wonderful natural white light that allows me to enjoy hours of crafting every day.”

“I love my BlueMax lamp,” commented Mary Batterson, a mother of three in Akron, Ohio. “The amount of light it offers truly brightens my day. It works better than a cup of coffee to energize me.”

In addition to providing full spectrum light for detailed crafts and task work, BlueMax™ 70w lamps are also beneficial for regulating a person’s circadian rhythm (sleep pattern) and treating symptoms of Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD). SAD is a form of depression that affects approximately half a million people in the United States during the fall and winter months, the majority of whom are women.

Full Spectrum Solutions, Inc. patented lighting products are a result of progressive lighting research and collaboration among distinguished medical and scientific researchers, evaluators, and clinicians. For more information, call 888-574-7014 or visit www.fullspectrumsolutions.com.

Chief Blonde’s Remarks: As many of you know, I’ve reviewed Full Spectrum’s products before when I had the chance to review the BlueMax Model 320 Alarm Clock: http://www.stillblondeafteralltheseyears.com/2009/11/holiday-gift-guide-women-45-and-over_15.html.
So I knew when I received the BlueMax 70w Desk Lamp that I was in for a real treat. The company claims this is the most advanced Desk lamp that you can buy. Well, I know one thing, the light it emits is just awesome for ~~really old~~ slightly aging eyes! Also, did you know this energy saving blub lasts for 10,000 hours–that’s 5 years at 8 hours per day! Here’s another fact that blew me away, did you know that someone who is 60 years old needs 10 times more light than someone who is 20 years old to see properly? Well, I know for a fact that the light in my den has always been a huge issue. Now that I have the BlueMax 70w Desk lamp shining on the situation, I finally feel like my eyes have stopped fighting me!

Do you spend a lot of time on the computer or many hours crafting? Then I really think this light is for you. It’s like having your own mini-street lamp to guide you on your way. I also like the fact that it combats Seasonal Affective Disorder, which affects mostly women. I know that I hate winter, just because I feel so much more alive in the summer! I feel this light will help me combat these feelings and really help me feel positivie all through the year.

Full Spectrum Solutions is offering all “Still Blonde after all these YEARS” readers a special Mother’s Day Discount. If you purchase $75 or more from their website, http://www.fullspectrumsolutions.com/default.htm and use the promo code MOMSDAY, you can receive $10 off the purchase of $75 or more using that code until June 7^th! Pretty awesome, right!

Giveaway Prize: $170 BlueMax Desk Lamp
Rules:

Contest runs from May5–May 11

1. Go to this link and email us at the address above: How can you get free shipping on the BlueMax 70w Desk lamp? http://www.fullspectrumsolutions.com/bluemax_desk_lamp_189_prd1.htm

2. Go to this link and email us at the address above, what would be your favorite BlueMax product from Full PSpectrum lighting: http://www.fullspectrumsolutions.com/full_spectrum_3_ct.htm

3. Go to this link and email us at the address above: What is the Full Spectrum 1-800 #? Hint: Top Right http://www.fullspectrumsolutions.com/default.htm

4. Go to this link and email us at the address above, what Warranty does Full Spectrum give on their light bulbs? http://www.fullspectrumsolutions.com/full_spectrum_light_bulbs_30_ctg.htm

5.Go to this link and email us at the address above, Name one other BlueMax product, other than the Desk Lamp, that Full Spectrum sells? http://www.fullspectrumsolutions.com/full_spectrum_3_ct.htm

6. Go to this link and email us at the address above, What can you find out on this page: http://www.fullspectrumsolutions.com/cmenuitem_38.htm

7. Go to this link and email us at the address above, tell us which new product you would like: http://www.fullspectrumsolutions.com/featured_products_39_ctg.htm

8. Go to this link and email us at the address above, in your opinion, which feature about Blue Max Desk 70w desk lamps do you like best? http://www.fullspectrumsolutions.com/bluemax_desk_18_ctg.htm

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 11, 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.