Did you know that picking the right pillow can help lead to better sleep? This was the amazing data discovered from a recent study done by S...

Did you know that picking the right pillow can help lead to better sleep? This was the amazing data discovered from a recent study done by SleepScore Labs in partnership with Mattress Firm's pillow fitting process.

Note: This posted was written in partnership with SleepScore. However, any personal views expressed are always 100% my own

The study analyzed more than 750 total nights of objective and self-reported sleep data.

The study measured sleep before and after customers participated in Mattress Firm's in-store pillow fitting process and found that participants slept 487 more minutes per month on average (or 8.1 hours) when using the new, fitted pillow compared to when using their original pillow.

Data was collected objectively using SleepScore Max, a non-contact monitor that unobtrusively and objectively measures sleep at home. Participants also completed daily questionnaires about their sleep.

The most significant learning from this research is that the study found that fitting a pillow to participants based on their unique sleeping habits boosts sleep quality and duration.

Do you know which pillow height is best for you? It depends on how you sleep!



When compared to their sleep on the pillow they were using previously, participants who experienced in-store pillow fitting spent more time in bed, slept longer, and spent 10% more time in deep sleep, the stage of sleep that supports immune system functioning and metabolism, helps clear toxins from the brain, and repairs tissue damage.

That's exciting news based on finding the right pillow for sleep!

Colin Lawlor CEO, SleepScore Labs, shared "There are hundreds of thousands of products and services which promise to improve sleep, but very few with any real science or data behind them. This study shows that sleep expertise and data combine to help people find the right pillow for them and that can make a significant difference to sleep quality"

Mattress Firm's in-store pillow fitting process is designed to promote better sleep quality by considering each customers' unique body and sleeping position to match them with a pillow that best fits their body type and sleep preferences.

In tandem with SleepScore's objective data, participants' questionnaire data showed that those sleeping with a new, fitted pillow reported better overall sleep quality (27% increase), improved ability to sleep through the night (36% increase), and felt more well-rested in the mornings (24% increase) compared to when using their original pillow.

All of that sounds like great news to me. I confess I do have a preference for pillow types and noticed I sleep better with a certain type of pillow. Seems I'm not the only one.

Sleep.com mobile app

But this isn't the only time SleepScore Labs and Mattress Firm has partnered to help those seeking more and better sleep. A few weeks back they announced the launch of the Sleep.com mobile app (www.sleep.com/sleep-app) for iOS and Android devices.

With an embedded sleep tracker, the Sleep.com app unlocks personalized insights, recommendations, Sleep.com content and more, helping people improve their sleep and well-being.

FREE FEATURES

• Sleep Tracker — non-contact, accurate sleep tracker provides a detailed analysis of your sleep cycle
• Daily SleepScore™ — easy to understand score based on the quality of your sleep
• Personalized Recommendations — tips to improve your sleep from world-leading science experts
• Smart Alarm — designed to gently wake you in the morning at the ideal time in your sleep cycle
• Sleep Goals — set goals like fall asleep easier, wake up less, sleep longer, & more
• Sleep History – 7 rolling nights of sleep history

PREMIUM FEATURES

• Sleep Coach — personalized sleep insights & advice informed by top Sleep Experts™
• Sleep Challenges — participate to change small behaviors for sleep improvement
• Doctor Report — comprehensive 30-day sleep report and screener results for sleep concerns to share with your doctor
• Data Visualization — trend & correlation charts based on your sleep patterns & lifestyle analysis
• Sleep History — lifetime sleep history, trends, & sleep cycle analysis (instead of only prior 7 nights)

With a Sleep.com app Premium account, consumers get the added benefits of features such as, Personalized Sleep Improvement Plan, Lifetime Sleep History and CheckUp, a sleep screener that identifies concerning sleep patterns and a Sleep Report that can be shared with healthcare providers.

The app is powered by technology from SleepScore Labs, Mattress Firm’s strategic partner and the industry-leading sleep science and improvement company.

As you can see this partnership aims to find ways to get you better sleep! Good night!

For more information, visit - www.sleep.com
For more information, visit - www.mattressfirm.com

Getting enough sleep is key for better health. But sometimes it's not so easy to sleep. If you need some help getting into a sleepy stat...

Getting enough sleep is key for better health. But sometimes it's not so easy to sleep. If you need some help getting into a sleepy state, then try these products found on the SleepScore website.

Note: This posted was written in partnership with SleepScore. However, any personal views expressed are always 100% my own

SleepScore Validated products have been shown to improve sleep in SleepScore Labs’ extensive studies. SleepScore Labs curates sleep products through hands-on review and even scientifically validates the effectiveness of some solutions.

Explore these gift ideas under $50 for holiday gifting for a loved one or even yourself! There's also bestsellers, stocking stuffers, holiday deals, and more.

5 Products to Help Get Better Sleep Under $50

LectroFan Micro2 Bluetooth speaker - $34.95

ASTI LectroFan Micro2 is a portable Bluetooth speaker with 11 built-in sounds to help you get better sleep. Perfect for travel or home to play soothing sounds of your choosing, no matter where you are.

Pair the LectroFan Micro2 with your smart phone for streaming audio and making calls with the built-in microphone. Includes Five digital fan sounds, Four variations of white, pink and brown noise, Two ocean surf sounds. Internal rechargeable battery. USB charge cable and Deluxe travel case included.

Nasal Dilators for Snoring – $19.99 (Pack of Four)

BETTER by DESIGN. The Nasilator is a drug-free and adhesive-free, non-prescription nasal dilator, made of soft and flexible FDA approved material.

The comfortable, ergonomic design instantly expands nasal passages from inside the nose to significantly increase airflow. Also Reduces nasal congestion. Reduce snoring.

Unlike conventional nasal strips, the Nasilator is reusable and may help persons with sleep apnea and those using CPAP devices. This pack contains four NASILATORS (Nasal Dilators) for 120 days use.

Sleep Well Balm Stick - $24.00

Get ready for bed with the Sleep Well Aromatherapy Balm Stick by Scentered, featuring a sophisticated floral blend of to help you relax and get a soothing rest : Lavender, Chamomile, Palmarosa, Ho Wood, Bois de Rose and Geranium with the oriental notes of Ylang Ylang, Clove, and Patchouli.

100% natural fragrance, formulated with a blend of moringa and shea butters to ensure a non-greasy finish and long-lasting scent. Cruelty-free and suitable for vegetarians. Handmade in England.

Good Night LED Light Bulb - $28.00 (2 pk)

Exposed to HealthE GoodNight A19 LED bulbs, your eyes and body will naturally ease into a restful state as you prepare for a long night's sleep. Standard light bulbs often produce too much blue light that can impact your circadian rhythm. GoodNight LED bulbs use patented spectrum technology that can help your overall sleep health.

In addition to supporting sleep, the GoodNight light provides comfortable, warm light with high color rendering. Standard Medium Base - Fits most household lamps.

MistAire™ Silver Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier - $39.99

Moisturize the dry air in your home or office in minutes with the MistAire Silver Ultrasonic Cool Mist Humidifier from Pure Enrichment. This powerful and aesthetically pleasing tabletop humidifier is packed with smart features including

• The whisper-quiet operation of 31dB
• Quieter beeps when the unit is turned on/off
• A power light that automatically shuts off after 10 seconds (zero emitted light when the nightlight is off)
• 360-degree rotating nozzle makes it easy to adjust mist direction
• High and low settings speed to fit your comfort level.

About SleepScore Labs

SleepScore Labs was founded in 2016 by a team of sleep experts from companies, institutions and organizations such as ResMed, Apple, Philips, and Harvard. After studying over 90 million hours of sleep for over a decade, they created the world’s most comprehensive suite of services which help consumers improve their sleep and companies to improve their offerings in the space.

To learn more, visit - www.shop.sleepscore.com

Facebook - www.facebook.com/sleepscore
Twitter - www.twitter.com/sleepscore
Instagram - www.instagram.com/sleepscore

If you're anything like me, then you take a ton of photos when you travel. Doesn't matter if I travel within New York City or to ano...

If you're anything like me, then you take a ton of photos when you travel. Doesn't matter if I travel within New York City or to another state, I want to capture a memory of the moment with a photo. If I can take a selfie, even better.

Note: The reviewer has been compensated in the form of a Best Buy Gift Card and/or received the product/service at a reduced price or for free. While this is a sponsored post, any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.

But taking a selfie isn't always easy. You need to have the right lighting, or angle or sometimes the right camera. Some cameras are better when it comes to taking a selfie, like the Canon IVY CLIQ+ instant print camera - available at Best Buy.



I recently received one for review, so I can test out some of the features that make the Canon IVY CLIQ+ both a good travel camera and great for selfies.

Some of the Canon IVY CLIQ+ features includes

1. Features a large 2" selfie mirror with an 8 LED ring light for great looking selfies.
2. Features a memory card slot so you can actually keep digital copies of all the photos you take! (memory card sold separately)
3. IVY CLIQ+ comes in Pearl White, Ruby Red, Saphhire Blue and Rose Gold
4. Either choose to print 2x3" peel-and-stick photos direct from the IVY CLIQ+'s camera OR print photos taken from your smartphone via the Canon Mini Print app
5. When you connect your smartphone to the Canon Mini Print app via Bluetooth you can even use fun AR filters and add effects, frames, text, and stickers to your 2”x3” peel-and-stick photos!

So right away I wanted to try out the 2" selfie mirror. Because come on! Who doesn't want to get that great selfie?! So I took my Canon IVY CLIQ+ with me on a mini trip around NYC.



The first thing I notice is how light and easy to carry the Canon IVY CLIQ+ is. I can easily slip it into my bag or pocket and when I need to take a photo, it comes out, I figure out my angle within the selfie mirror guidelines and "click". So easy!


Since it was bright daytime I didn't need to use the 8 LED ring light, but it's good to know it's there in case I need "extra" lightening. And turning it on is as easy as sliding the button!


Once I took my photo, a few seconds later it prints nice and easy. In full color on ZINK photo paper (ZINK stands for Zero Ink printing technology. Instead of ink, it uses colorful dye-based crystals embedded inside the paper. The ZINK-enabled device uses heat to activate and colorize these crystals.)


The print itself is really good quality. But more cool then that, you can peel and stick the print on different surfaces. Just think how easy you can now make travel books, memory boards or anything else you can stick a photo on.


While getting my photo printed right away is amazing, in case I wanted to save the photos, I could use a memory card (sold separately). I can also edit my photos using the companion app for the camera.



Of course I tried this out and was pleased with the different filters and photo editing features available. There's lots to explore to enhance my travel photos. And again, it's all easy to use.


While I tested out the CLIQ+ instant print camera, for those folks not all about the selfie mirror, Canon also has the Canon IVY CLIQ, which has these features:

1. Instantly print a 2x3" peel-and-stick photo right after you shoot it, directly from the IVY CLIQ camera. Thanks to the peel & stick back you can place these practically anywhere!
2. Features a memory card slot so you can actually keep digital copies of all the photos you take! (memory card sold separately)
3. The IVY has a small selfie mirror for taking perfectly centered group shots.
4. CLIQ comes in Seaside Blue, Bumble Bee Yellow, Lady Bug Red and Mint Green.

No matter which Canon IVY camera you chose to check out, they both will help you take travel photos in a new and exciting way. And yes any travel selfies. LOL

To learn more about the Canon IVY instant print camera, visit your local Best Buy retailer or online:

Cannon IVY CLIQ Instant Print Camera: www.bby.me/ppjnu
Cannon IVY CLIQ+ Instant Print Camera: www.bby.me/h6y8e

Growing up one of my favorite boys bands were New Kids on the Block. They could dance and sing plus they had style. Did you see their hair?!...

Growing up one of my favorite boys bands were New Kids on the Block. They could dance and sing plus they had style. Did you see their hair?!

Note: Sponsored through the Role Mommy Writer's Network. I was invited as media to the screening and interview. However, any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.


Fast forward a few years later and I'm now part of a group getting ready to interview them about the second season of their show Rock This Boat.


When New Kids on the Block (Jordan and Jonathan Knight, Joey McIntyre, Donnie Wahlberg, and Danny Wood) came on stage, I was amazed. Yes they had grown into adult men but there was still that charm about them.


A charm I noticed during watching the preview episode of Rock This Boat: Season 2. But the charm of the guys is not just TV based. It flows from them in real life also.

I admit I was a bit surprised that the guys were both charming and SO real. Like down to earth, sit around sharing jokes, being honest about how hard it is filming at their age and discussing blogging... kinda real.

You can watch a reply of the New Kids On The Block Live Q&A below

WCBS-FM’s ‘Broadway’ Bill Lee and Entertainment Tonight’s Jen Peros with the New Kids On The Block during a live Q&A session at the Adorama Live Theatre

It's this same realness that fans can see and love, even after all these years. It's this realness that makes Rock This Boat, a great show to watch and enjoy as a fan (new or long time). Make sure to tune in!

This summer, Pop jumps on-board one of the hottest selling, fan-driven cruises of the year, with the second season television series ROCK THIS BOAT: NEW KIDS ON THE BLOCK (NKOTB) on Wednesdays at 8:00 p.m., ET/PT.

Season two of the music reality series brings fans intimate, unprecedented access to NKOTB in 10 new television episodes.

NKOTB bandmates, Donnie, Danny, Joey, Jordan and Jonathan, make the cruise one of those can’t miss annual experiences with up-close and personal interactions with fans, theme parties and special live music performances.

This season will give fans a whole new perspective on the NKOTB cruise as they experience it through the band members’ eyes with pre-cruise video shot in their homes, exclusive access to rehearsals for deck parties and concerts, and revealing looks inside their cabins.

Also, new for season two are five consulting producers behind the camera who are die-hard NKOTB fans, representing the voice and perspective of the band’s most loyal followers.

To learn more about Rock This Boat, visit - www.poptv.com
On Facebook - www.facebook.com/RockThisBoat
On Twitter - www.twiter.com/rockthisboat

With “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” releasing in theaters soon, many families are looking for star war themed items to help them get ready! ...

With “Star Wars: The Force Awakens” releasing in theaters soon, many families are looking for star war themed items to help them get ready! For the last few months so many cool toys and products have been released for star wars fans to bring home.

Note: This is a sponsored post and I received a Kohl’s gift card to shop the Star Wars collection for review purpose. However, any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.

I swear Star Wars has some of the coolest toys and action figures. Of course my son wants most things Star Wars and I can't really blame him. So when Kohl’s Department Stores reached out to me to share the news about their amazing selection of Star Wars toys and memorabilia, I know where to go shopping!

While I love walking through stores and window shopping, this time I decided to do my hopping online to save time and get our items quickly.



The Kohl’s Star Wars Collection on the site is filled with a range of Star Wars toys and memorabilia to please everyone. There's items for young kid all the way up to collectors. They even have online only products!


I quickly filled my virtual shopping cart, checked out and waited for our package to arrive. While waiting, I received email shipping updates to let me know where my package was and estimated delivery time. This saved me from stalking the delivery guys!

And then before I knew it, our Kohl’s Star Wars package was here and it was time to play!

But first my son had to take out and inspect all the items *sigh*

• Star Wars - Playskool Galactic Heroes Millennium Falcon & Figures Set
• Star Wars: Episode VII - Forest Mission Figures (3.75-in.)
• Star Wars: Episode VII - Hasbro Snow Mission Armor Finn (3.75-in./Starkiller Base)
• Star Wars: Episode VII - Kylo Ren & Stormtrooper Walkie Talkie Set

After getting his toy approval, we started opening our Star Wars products!



We started with Playskool Star Wars Galactic Heroes Millennium Falcon. My son was SO excited to open this. I knew it would be a god item for him. It's such an iconic ship from the Star War movies that any little boy would want one.


Not only does it look amazing, it opens for some serious playtime with Han Solo, Chewbacca, and R2-D2. When my son is done saving the galaxy, he can put the figures away and carry his Millennium Falcon to a secret location to be played with next time.



The next item we opened was Star Wars: The Force Awakens Forest Mission Figures 3.75-in. Like many little boys, my son loves the idea of battling. This set allows him to do that with BB-8, Kylo Ren, Chewbacca, First Order Stormtrooper & Resistance Trooper!


This set also come with some very cool attachments that make combine weapons and then attached to each figure. This allowed for creative and extended role play.


After opening those two items, my son became lost in a mini galactic battle that lasted for the rest of the afternoon.

Maybe tomorrow we can open the other Star Wars products I ordered from Kohl's.

And so my son's Jedi training continues....


If like us, your family would love a few Star War items, then shop Kohl’s for great gift ideas this holiday. Kohl's offers customers incredible values on the most sought-after, must-have gifts, including an expansive selection of Star Wars product for the entire family.

In addition, Kohl’s will offer customers more ways to save than ever with personalized deals and promotions on the most amazing products of the season, delivered to their door or picked up at their local store.

To learn more, visit - www.Kohls.com
On Facebook - www.facebook.com/Kohls
On Twitter - www.twitter.com/Kohls

I attended an event hosted by Safilo to learn about their KIDS BY SAFILO collection: for 0-8 year old's, designed with a medical-scienti...

I attended an event hosted by Safilo to learn about their KIDS BY SAFILO collection: for 0-8 year old's, designed with a medical-scientific approach and engineered with advanced technologies and materials, specifically that is child friendly.

Note: I was invited as media to this event and received a gift card to cover travel expenses. However, any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.

KIDS BY SAFILO optical frames are created to respond to children’s unmet needs. A blend of innovation and comfort, the new eyewear collection matches children’s requirements and their parents’ expectations.


Features include:

• SAFETY: frames are flexible, safe, and free from sharp surfaces and edges.

• COMFORT and FITTING: frames are lightweight and stable, thanks to the presence of a lower bridge and to the special design of the temples with a horizontal bend.  Moreover, thanks to the enhanced design of the front, the lenses cover the children’s entire field of vision, ensuring effective correction.

• RESISTANCE: frames are made with flexible, stable and washable materials to prevent them from becoming deformed or weakened.

• AESTHETICS: frames are discreet on the child’s face, almost invisible, especially for the youngest ones.

During the event we heard from a panel including Dr. Andrea Thau, President Elect of the American Optometric Association; Dr. Ken Nischal, Director, Pediatric Ophthalmology; Bruce Abramson, Director of Safilo NA Brand Management.

It was shared that parents take care of kids teeth with visits to the dentist more then their kids eye care with a visit to a professional eye doctor. But vision is just, if not more important. As much as 1 in 4 kids have vision problems.

Since most insurance covers eye exams for children, parents don't have to worry about the cost factor. While simple eye exams in schools and pediatrics offices might seem like enough, its better and so important to have get a full eye examination from a professional ophthalmologist or optometrist at a hospital or eye center.


The panel also shared what makes the KIDS BY SAFILO collection different then other kids eyewear brands

• INNOVATIVE “MADE-IN-ITALY” CONSTRUCTION. The KIDS BY SAFILO optical frames are “100% made in Italy” and developed in light, safe and bio-based materials: soft rubber moulded over the internal temple and bridge, as well as high-performance polymers for the front and temples. These bio-compatible, hypoallergenic, non-toxic and washable materials guarantee the safety of the product.

• A SUBTLE COLOR APPROACH. The collection is based on a dedicated color approach featuring a transparent front which harmonizes with the child's face and allows parents to see their children in all their beauty.

• CHILDREN’S UNMET NEEDS. The design of KIDS BY SAFILO eyewear was guided by a clear understanding of children's unmet needs. As a matter of fact, we found that on a global scale one in every six children has visual defects, and that approximately 15% of those refractive errors which require prompt correction. For this reason, Safilo decided to develop a unique collection designed to respond to the complex demands of children's eyewear, thereby improving children's quality of vision and their healthy development.

So if you need glasses for your child, then learn more about the KIDS BY SAFILO collection. They have lots to offer.

The KIDS BY SAFILO eyewear collection is produced and distributed by Safilo Group, retails for $98.00-$120.00 and is available at select high end optical retailers nationwide.

I did it! I had my first Mammogram DONE! I'm excited to share that the process went quickly and is in NO WAY as painful as I feared (or ...

I did it! I had my first Mammogram DONE! I'm excited to share that the process went quickly and is in NO WAY as painful as I feared (or heard).

Note: This post is part of a compensated campaign on behalf of Hanes and the National Breast Cancer Foundation. However any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.

But let me back up and share the experience from the beginning. It all started with a phone call to National Breast Cancer Foundation [NBCF] hear the schedule and make an appointment.

You can also check the schedule online. The National Mammography Program has different locations where you can go to get your screening done. Talk about being easy to fit into your schedule.

On the day of my appointment, I went to the location to check in. I confess I was REALLY nervous. But I reminded myself how important it was to do this!

"Each year it is estimated that over 220,000 women in the United States will be diagnosed with breast cancer and more than 40,000 will die."

So I took a deep breathe, checked in and took a seat to be called. Within a few minutes someone came out and walked me over to the van. Once inside I was asked to fill out some paperwork asking basic health and breast related questions. Then I handed my forms in to be checked over.

The woman checking forms noticed it was my first time getting a mammogram and took a few moments to chat and encourage me for getting it done. I suspect she knew I was nervous and wanted to reassure me.

Thank goodness for those few minutes with her because next I had to go right into the room and get the mammogram done.

Just like that...


I must have stood staring at the machine for a few minutes because the technician asked me if I had any questions about the procedure. Of course I did! I asked her about 20 questions about the machine, about what she was going to do and of course how much will it hurt!

After having all my questions answered (she was amazing) I knew lots more about what to expect and a bit more about the machine and how it works. So I was ready for the next step.



I had to remove my top and bra and put on a paper towel like top. Then I walk up to the machine and followed Georgia (my technician) instructions for different poses while she placed me breasts on the machine to be scanned.

Then a part of the machine came down and sorta sandwiched my breast against another section. While I did feel pressure, it's not painful or very uncomfortable.

Each scan takes a few secs and is over before you know it. Each step of the way Georgia (my technician) checked in with me and explained what was happening.

After being scanned, I asked a few more questions and learned, they ask us to do all those different positions so they can get a good scan of the breast tissue, to better check for abnormalities.


After that I had to visit with the nurse practitioner who did a visual and physical breast exam. She also spoke with me about signs to look for during my personal breast exam at home (something that all women should be doing).

Signs of breast cancer that you need to alert your physician about include

• A lump
• Breast pain
• Nipple discharge
• Thickening of skin on the breast
• Changes in the size or shape of the breast

After that I was told to put my top back on, and told to have a nice day. I was all DONE. Yes done. Well till next year anyway. They explained the results would be mailed to me or to my doctor (if I requested that).

Like most things we are scared of, once I faced it and went through the process I wondered why I was scared. Yes breast cancer is a scary topic, but it doesn’t have to be. Getting screened and tested regularly can save our lives! Early detection is key!

"When breast cancer is detected early, in the localized stage, the 5-year survival rate is 98%*"

Now that I've had my first mammogram, I plan on taking the National Breast Cancer Foundation [NBCF] suggestion and create a Early Detection Plan".

I also plan on being better about living a healthy lifestyle. I eat healthy and stay active but there's areas I can improve to help me reduce my factors for breast cancer and other illnesses.

I'm a firm believer in being proactive when it comes to doing positive things. I hope by sharing my Mammogram Monologues and first breast screening experience, I encourage you to be proactive with your health also.

Now ladies GO GET YOUR MAMMOGRAMs!

Thanks to Hanes and National Breast Cancer Foundation [NBCF] for partnering with me to help spread awareness during National Breast Cancer Awareness Month.

To see posts from Mammogram Monologues throughout the month, visit Hanes on Facebook - www.facebook.com/hanes

To learn more info about NBCF National Mammography Program, visit - www.nationalbreastcancer.org and www.beyondtheshock.com

Every year during October I usually post information about Breast Cancer Awareness and highlight companies doing something special in suppor...

Every year during October I usually post information about Breast Cancer Awareness and highlight companies doing something special in support. This year I planned to do the same thing, however things are not the same.

Note: This post is part of a compensated campaign on behalf of Hanes and the National Breast Cancer Foundation. However any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.

This year I turned 40 and spreading awareness about Breast Cancer became much more than just sharing information. The issue of Breast Cancer is now something personal because starting this year, it's recommended that I start screening for Breast Cancer by getting a mammogram.

While I've known for years this time was coming, now that it's actually here.... I'm so not prepared.


Thankfully, I don’t have to start this new journey alone. I'm not sure how they knew (could it be my 40 and fabulous tweet?!), but Hanes reached out and invited me to be part of their "Mammogram Monologues" social campaign, an initiative designed to make women more comfortable with the mammogram exam process.

At first I wasn't sure I wanted to blog about this experience. It's my first time! Ugh. But after thinking it over, I felt Hanes and their offer was a right fit.

Hanes is all about comfort and they hope their "Mammogram Monologues" will provide comfort to women who may be hesitant to receive a mammogram.

After all, how many other women having their first mammogram this year will feel as nervous as I do? I suspect quite a few. How much better if these women (and I) had someone who can walk with us through the new experience. Someone who can really share what the process is like?

And so I've joined Hanes to share my "Mammogram Monologues" during National Breast Cancer awareness month.


Not only has Hanes launched their "Mammogram Monologues", they've also teamed up with the National Breast Cancer Foundation [NBCF] to help generate awareness among women about the importance of receiving mammograms.

As a part of this effort, Hanes will be donating $50,000 to the NBCF in an effort to fund research and early detection screenings.


The NBCF provides free mammograms for women who could not otherwise afford them and supports early detection research programs in leading medical facilities across the country. This month I will receive my first mammogram at a NBCF center.

I'm excited to share my experience with other women who need encouragement getting their mammogram, whether their turning 40 this year or a few years ago.

To see posts from Mammogram Monologues throughout the month, visit Hanes on Facebook - www.facebook.com/hanes

To learn more info about NBCF National Mammography Program, visit - www.nationalbreastcancer.org and www.beyondtheshock.com

On a hot summer day one of my favorite treats to enjoy is ice cream. There's nothing like it's cooling sweetness. But for a while no...

On a hot summer day one of my favorite treats to enjoy is ice cream. There's nothing like it's cooling sweetness. But for a while now I've had to limit the ice cream enjoyment.

For some reason every time I'd eat ice cream, I would feel a sharp pains in my tooth.

Note: This is a sponsored post in partnership with One2One Network and Crest. I was invited as media to this event and received product samples for review purpose. Any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.

At first I thought I had a cavity, but a visit to the dentist didn't show any at time. So to avoid the pain, I would just eat my ice cream on one side of my mouth. But soon I noticed it wasn't just ice cream, it was anything that I ate that was too cold or sweet that would trigger the teeth pain.

For a while I was perplexed about the pain and my need to stay away from enjoying treats. Then recently I attended an event for Crest Sensi-Stop Strips, a new product released this year that provides tooth sensitivity relief.

During the event I learned that the pain I felt when enjoying cold sugary treats wasn't due to a cavity but sensitive teeth! An issue that affects more people then I would have thought.

As many as 57 percent of adults may be living with sensitive teeth. Common activities, like having a cold drink, brushing your teeth or biting into a hot meal may cause pain or discomfort.

At the event, a panel of experts explained about tooth sensitivity and it's different triggers. In healthy teeth, porous tissue called dentin is protected by gums and by teeth's hard enamel outer layer.

Tooth sensitivity happens due to receding gum tissue or enamel loss. Microscopic holes in the dentin called tubules, connect to the nerve, triggering pain when exposed to cold or hot temperatures by what we eat or drink.


For those dealing with tooth sensitivity, Crest Sensi-Stop Strips provides a long lasting solution.

Crest® Sensi-Stop™ Strips are thin, flexible strips that contain an active ingredient used by dental professionals. Unlike toothpaste, Crest® Sensi-Stop™ Strips are applied directly to sensitive areas, providing targeted delivery of the key ingredient that allows for longer contact time on the surface of the tooth.

Within minutes, strips build a lasting barrier that helps stop sensitivity pain by blocking tubules, relieving symptoms of dental sensitivity for up to 30 days*

After the event I took home Crest Sensi-Stop Strips to try out. They had simple and straight forward instructions and the strips were easy to apply. The strips are tiny enough to fit right along the gumline so you can just insert, wait and then enjoy what you use to avoid before due to tooth sensitivity.

Hello ice cream treat!

To learn more, visit - www.crest.com

Recently I shared with you about the opening of Cost Plus World Market store in Livingston, New Jersey and the events during the grand openi...

Recently I shared with you about the opening of Cost Plus World Market store in Livingston, New Jersey and the events during the grand opening week. I hope some of you visited the store and enjoyed the activities.

Note: This is a sponsored post on behalf of Cost Plus World Market. I was invited to a sneak peek night and received a gift card to shop the store. However any personal views expressed are always 100% my own.

During that week not only did I visit the store but I also shopped for a few items based on my readers comments. In my last post I asked what items you wanted me to shop and find for your homes.


Since Cost Plus World Market is filled with home furnishings, décor, fashion accessories, and gourmet food and beverage items from around the world, I knew I'd find some great items.

And I did! Here's a few of the items I found in Cost Plus World Market in Livingston, NJ just for you!


For Robin (Masshole Mommy) who said "I would love to see maybe some toss pillows?" I found pillows in lots of great color and patterns.


For Terry (My Journey With Candida) who said "I am looking for great storage ideas so if you happen to see anything, I would love to read about it." I found unique store containers, metal cabinets and rustic shelve units.


For Aimee Fauci who said "How about the unique foods and snacks." I found flavorful snacks and season sauce blends from other cultures. I also found (and sampled) refreshing beverages like these Italian sparkling sodas.


For Janelle Shank who said "...table decor, i am always looking for new stuff for my table" I found an assortment of table lines, dining sets and kitchenware.


For Ronnie E. who said "Surprise us! :D Find some unique goodies that look interesting and not like the typical, boring purchase." I found LOTS for all areas of the home.

And this is just a FEW of the items I saw. There was lots more. Lots more. So if you are in the New York/New Jersey Metro area and want to shop for unique and amazing items for your home, then be sure to visit Cost Plus World Market in Livingston, NJ.

For more information about Cost Plus World Market Livingston, NJ store, visit www.worldmarket.com/livingston

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