Norio Corcoro Kids Playhouse

                                                 Video Credit: Jacqueline Y. Griebel

In our technology driven world it is so easy to just turn on the DVD player or XBox etc. and let the kids entertain themselves. While there are benefits to technology the downside can be not enough creative play for kids and that's where Norio Kids comes in. Norio Kids makes both miniature and full size playhouses that are interlocking. You could literally spend hours playing with a Norio Kids playhouse. Norio Kids playhouses are designed for children between the ages of three to ten which makes them a great buy, you can purchase one or two or even three and they will grow with your child.

Essie Ejuvenate Advanced Radiance Hand Treatment

                           Photo Credit: Jacqueline Y. Griebel

NAME OF PRODUCT: ESSIE EJUVENATE ADVANCED RADIANCE HAND TREATMENT

PRICE OF  PRODUCT: $12.00 for 2.7 oz

WHERE TO PURCHASE: ONLINE AT AMAZON Go HERE to order.

DESCRIPTION OF PRODUCT:  "Essie Ejuvenate is a revolutionary system for younger looking hands. The comprehensive hand treatment is infused with proven spa-quality age-defiers like rice extract, arginine, vitamins A and C, glycolic acid, and licorice root extract, to help combat signs of aging and reveal new, younger-looking skin."

REVIEW OF PRODUCT:  I was unaware of the Essie Ejuvenate hand care system until I received a bottle of the Ejuvenate hand treatment from Loreal Consumer Testing as compensation for a skin care study I participated in. Like a lot of women I focus mainly on my face and neck area but had never really thought about skin care products for my hands. Essie Ejuvenate is designed to help minimize the appearance of age spots and discoloration on the hands. While I do not have age spots my hands are starting to look dry and aged so I started using the Essie Ejuvenate hand treatment. This particular hand cream has a nice consistency, it is thick but not excessively think and goes on smoothly. After application your hands do not feel greasy and sticky as can be the case with some hand care products, have you ever put hand cream on and then tried to turn a doorknob and couldn't because your hands were greasy? After about a weeks use I noticed my hands feel smoother and look healthy. Essie Ejuvenate has a very pleasant scent that is not overpowering. Essie Ejuvenate Advanced Radiance Hand Treatment is part of a treatment system created by Essie to restore the youthful look of your hands, other products in the Essie Ejuvenate line include Hydro-Therapy Hand Revitalizer, Microdermabrasion Hand Refiner and Intensive Recovery Hand Cream. For instructions on how to use all of the products in the Essie Ejuvenate line read the article in Nails Magazine HERE.

When I saw the name Essie on the Ejuvenate hand treatment bottle I immediately thought of the great nail polish products that Essie is noted for. To see the newest nail polish shades and products from Essie and subscribe to their newsletter go to the company website HERE.

You can connect with Essie on FACEBOOK to become an Essie insider and learn about all the newest shade collections, products and special promotions.

Children's Over The Counter (OTC) Pain Medications

There are a variety of children's over the counter (OTC) pain medications available for infants and young children. Sometimes as a parent the question you ask yourself is what pain medication is right for my child's needs?

The following list is a brief summary of each OTC children's pain medication currently available and information regarding them. I am by no means a healthcare professional, please consult your doctor or local hospital for advice if you have concerns about OTC use in young children, I am only sharing my opinions and experiences here.

MOTRIN - Motrin is available in both a children's and infants formula. The children's formula can be purchased in both pill and liquid form while the infant formula is liquid only.  Children's Motrin is noted for relieving pain quicker than most other OTC products. However it is not as long lasting and you are not supposed to give a dose more than every six to eight hours. Something I was unaware of with children's Motrin is that it can inhibit platelet production. After my son had surgery I was specifically instructed not to give him Motrin because it could prevent his blood from clotting and lead to more  post surgery blood drainage. Infants and Children's Motrin is currently unavailable due to a voluntary recall by the manufacturer. You can visit the Motrin website HERE for updates on the recall and information on Motrin.

TYLENOL - Tylenol for infants and children is available in both liquid and pill form. Tylenol is very effective at relieving pain in young children due to teething pain, immunizations, colds and flu. Parents need to be aware that Tylenol is changing the dosage of their products. Previous versions of children's Tylenol had 3 times more acetaminophen than the new version of Tylenol. If you have an older version of children's Tylenol at home it is safe to use it if you follow the dosing instructions on the bottle according to the article HERE on the Tylenol website.

ADVIL - In my experience Children's Advil is the most effective at relieving fevers in children. Like the other OTC pain relievers it is available in both pill and liquid form.  The Advil website has an excellent Frequently Asked Questions area you can visit HERE for information.

ASPIRIN - When I was growing up motrin, tylenol, and advil did not exist. When you had a fever or pain mom gave you aspirin. There was also Bufferin and Anacin (products with aspirin mixed with another medication). Some companies still manufacture children's aspirin. However it is not recommended that you give a young child aspirin in any form and I personally do not use aspirin. The biggest risk with aspirin is Reye's Syndrome. When I was ten years old and growing up in Tampa, FL a girl from Tampa contracted Reye's Syndrome and died. It was one of the first cases reported and I always remembered it, her mother had given her aspirin because she had chicken pox. To learn about Reye's Syndrome, the causes and symptoms read this article HERE.

HYLAND'S HOMEOPATHIC MEDICINES - There are various companies who manufacture homeopathic medicines and remedies. I first became aware of Hyland's when a relative suggested I try their teething tablets for my youngest child and they worked. I also like their cough and cold remedy, when Josh has a runny nose I give him a dose and it stops the sniffles. I like Hyland's products because they do not contain harmful ingredients. Hyland's products are sold at major retailers including Wal Mart. You can go to the Hyland's website HERE to see the full line of their products and learn more.

Imusa Panini Press Giveaway Comments

Leave a comment below for your extra entry in the Imusa Panini Press Giveaway. Don't forget to click "Enter" on the rafflecopter giveaway form after you leave your comment!

The Rest of Laura Besley's Story

                                         Staff Sgt. Laura Besley
                                        (Photo Credit: Find A Grave)

A few months ago I visited the Clarion County Historical Society during their Civil War Open House and noticed a small display in a corner of an upstairs room. Behind the glass were pictures and letters of a Clarion County woman, Laura Besley, who enlisted in the WACS during World War II and was killed in an airplane crash while serving in Guam. The thing that caught my interest was the fact that Laura Besley was a Shippenville native which is less than two miles from my home. I went home and Googled her name to find out more about Laura Besley. I quickly discovered that a book had been written about the plane crash and the two survivors of that crash. Laura was not one of the survivors, she died two days after the crash most likely from internal injuries. I purchased the book, Lost in Shangri-LA by Mitchell Zuckoff and downloaded it to my Kindle. It is a very well written book that focuses on the tale of survival and rescue of those who survived the plane crash. It did touch briefly on Laura Besley with some information on her background and the details of her death.

I became so interested in Laura's story that I called the director of the Clarion County Historical Society and found out that they were in possession of a box of Laura's things that the director had found in storage. When I spoke to the director she had just recently become aware of the book Lost in Shangri-La. I told her of my deep love of history and fascination with the story of Laura Besley. She said that she wanted to do something to recognize Laura and was going to try and find out more about Laura and her service in the WACS.

I frequently do genealogy research on my own just for fun and started researching more about Laura Besley. I found some information but assumed the Clarion County Historical Society had better resources than I do and figured they had all the information I uncovered. Last week on the front page of my local newspaper, The Oil City Derrick, was a picture of Laura Besley and a brief article about her. The article mentioned that the Clarion County Historical Society Director had wanted to prove that Laura Besley was the only woman from Clarion County to die in World War II. She contacted the Clarion County Director of Veteran's Affairs who said that records indicated Laura enlisted in Dauphin County and not Clarion County and that she could find no record of Laura Besley's burial.

While I was researching Laura's story a few months ago I asked some local people if there was anyone in the Shippenville area who would still be alive that might have known Laura Besley. I was given the name Blake Lewis and contacted him. Mr. Lewis is 94 years old and was very kind when I spoke to him. He could not specifically recall Laura but he remembered that her family lived next to the site of the present day Shippenville Post Office and that her father had a garage he ran. Mr. Lewis also recalled that when Laura died it was big news in the area. The Besley family (father Earl, mother Sue and daughter Laura) appear in both the 1920 and 1930 census records for Shippenville Borough. The 1940 census records for Shippenville are unavailable. I would like to note that Laura's legal name was Earline Laura Besley so she appears in some records as Earline L. Besley, E. Laura Besley and/or Laura E. Besley.

I did a check of the enlistment records for World War II veterans at the National Archives and Records Administration and discovered that Laura Besley listed Dauphin County as her county of residence when she enlisted in the Women's Army Corps in August 1942. You can view Laura's enlistment record online HERE. At the time of her enlistment Laura was employed by the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania as a clerk-stenographer for the Pennsylvania Department of Labor in Harrisburg. Harrisburg is in Dauphin County and that is why Laura listed Dauphin County on her records, she was living and working there at the time. Laura was a native of Shippenville, Clarion County, who moved to Dauphin County for employment purposes and enlisted in the WACS there.

                Laura Besley's Grave Marker, National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific
              
When I read the book Lost In Shangri-La I discovered that Laura did not die quickly, it was two days after the  plane crash and she suffered. To add to the sadness of her story is the fact that she was not buried until nine years after her death. The area where the plane crashed was impossible for planes to land in and rescuing the two survivors took many months and was risky. Laura and the other victims bodies were left behind on the mountainside where the plane crashed. Nine years later the bodies were finally able to be recovered. The Clarion County Historical Society has papers from the Army informing Laura's mother that they could not recover her body and letters when they did recover the body. They also have papers where Laura's mother, Sue, gave the Army permission to bury Laura in Hawaii where she now rests.

I am puzzled by the statement that no record of Laura's burial could be found. If you check the US Department of Veteran's Affairs Graveside Locator Laura Besley's burial is listed including the cemetery and exact location of the burial. You can view the record at the Department of Veteran's Affairs HERE. She is buried right next to the Administration Building at the National Memorial Cemetery of the Pacific.  I also searched for Laura on the Find A Grave website and located her there. To view Laura's biography and cemetery marker go HERE.

If there is anyone who has more information about Laura Besley it would be great if they could share it. From all accounts she was a brave woman who enlisted in the WACS to serve our country and her fascinating story has gone untold for so many years.

Customized Super Hero Capes for Children from Power Capes

                        My little Super Hero Josh in his new Power Cape

Power Capes is a company located in Detroit that sells handmade customized super hero capes for boys and girls. They also offer adult capes, complete children's super hero costume and customized power cuffs with a mask. You can choose a pre-made cape that they already have in stock for faster shipping or you can order a cape in the color, emblem and letter of your choosing. Their website has an easy to use application that walks you through the process of designing your own cape. Regular children's super hero capes are priced at $24.99 which is a good price for a personalized item your kid will love.

                Josh modeling his Power Cape with the lighting bolt and letter J for Josh

I selected one of the pre-made  sidekick capes from Power Capes to review with my three year old Josh. Josh is in what I call the magical stage of childhood. Between the ages of three and eight children are able to fully comprehend things and communicate and they have that sense of wonder and believe in fairy tales and super heroes. Everything is fun and magical at this age and I wish it lasted longer. Josh's cape arrived nicely packaged and he was very excited to open it. He loves to wear it outside and run throught the yard yelling "It's Super Josh!". The sizing on Power Capes is pretty accurate, I ordered the size Small (children's sizes 2-7) and it fits him well. The cape is held together in the front with velcro. If you have little ones who can't do buttons and snaps yet like Josh velcro is great, they can dress themselves without getting frustrated. The Power Cape we received is made of good quality material, I have washed it twice and it shows no signs of shrinking, fading or fraying.

Power Capes sells items other than capes as I previously mentioned. You can check out some of my favorite items from their site at my pinboard on Pinterest HERE. Power Capes supports many children's charities and employs US workers to lovingly make each Power Cape by hand.

You can connect with Power Capes on FACEBOOK and TWITTER to learn about new products and specials.

Power Capes has generously agreed to give on Sidekick Power Cape ($24.99) value to one of my followers! Entry is easy in the Rafflecopter form below.

Disclosure: I received a Power Cape to facilitate my review. I only recommend products I personally use and my opinions remain my own.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Spin Shade Review & Giveaway

                          Laser Cut Gift Set (Photo Credit: Spin Shade)

Spin Shades are a very clever home decor item that I discovered on Facebook. Spin Shades are a patented night light that rotates on a spindle. The warmth of the light bulb makes the spin rotate, my husband loves science and was fascinated by the science that makes Spin Shade work.  Go HERE to watch a video of how the Spin Shade works and learn more about the company based in Ventura, CA.

I received the Laser Cut Gift Set pictured above to review. I installed it in my dining room and it has become a conversation piece whenever I have guests at my house, everybody wants to know how it works and where I got it from. The set I received has four different shades, one for each season, so I can change them year round. You can purchase a complete unit which includes the nightlight, bulb and shade of your choice for $14. or you can purchase a single shade for $5. to use with a unit that you already have. There are also several gift sets with four shades like the one I received available for $23.  Spin shades are made of good quality material with beautiful artwork. The interchangeable shades make them an affordable way to update your home decor on a regular basis.

There are so many categories and individual Spin Shades available you will probably have a hard time deciding which one to purchase, it took me awhile to decide which set I would like to review. Some of the categories of shades available include animals, seasons, sports, artist, Christmas, children's, garden and inspirational. Go to the Spin Shade website HERE and browse the large selection of Spin Shades available then leave a comment below with which ones you like.  You can go to my pinboard on Pinterest HERE to see some of my favorites!

You can connect with Spin Shades on FACEBOOK to learn about new products and specials.

Spin Shades is generously giving one reader of Miss Jackie's Views a Spin Shade unit of their choice!

Entry is easy in the Rafflecopter form below.

Disclosure: I received a product from Spin Shade to facilitate my review. I only recommend products I personally use and my opinions remain my own.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Balance Bar Review and Father's Day Giveaway

Balance Bar is a small company that was one of the first to produce energy and nutrition bars. The company was founded in 1992 and their focus is on helping people live healthy active lives. Balance Bars are a high energy, nutritious food made with  40% of calories from carbohydrates 30% of calories from  protein and 30% of calories from dietary fat to ensure lasting energy.

I received samples of the Balance Bare Bars in the peanut butter, chocolate almond and blueberry acai flavors to sample.  I have tried other nutrition bars in the past including Luna and Atkins but this was my first experience with Bare Bars. I must say I was not disappointed, Balance Bars taste good and are effective at leaving you with a full feeling and no "sugar crash" within a few hours like some products. My favorite flavor is the peanut butter (possibly because I am a peanut butter lover) and my husband's favorite flavor is the blueberry acai, all three flavors taste great in my opinion.

Balance Bar products are available at major retailers including Wal Mart, Harris Teeter, and CVS. To locate a retailer or order online from Balance Bar go HERE. You can also connect with Balance Bar on FACEBOOK and TWITTER for all the latest products and special offers.

  Balance Bar Father's Day Gift Set (Photo Credit: Balance Bar)

Balance Bar is offering a special Father's Day Gift Set which includes 15  Balance Bare Bars in three flavors, sweet & salty peanut butter, sweet & salty chocolate almond, and blueberry acai, a limited edition water bottle with a compartment to store a balance bar and a fun "Bare Hug" Father's Day card. The items are specially wrapped together for a nice Father's Day Gift. You can buy this gift set worth $27. for the introductory price of $17.84! What a great gift idea for all the special Dad's out there!

I am pleased to share with my readers that Balance Bar is generously giving one of the Father's Day Gift Sets pictured above to one of you! Entry is easy in the rafflecopter form below. Please note that this giveaway is open only to US Residents.

Disclosure: I received products from Balance Bar to facilitate my review. I only recommend products I personally use and my opinions remain my own.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Dale & Thomas Popcorn Father's Day Giveaway

I am pleased to bring a great Father's Day giveaway to my readers sponsored by Dale & Thomas Popcorn. Dale & Thomas has been called the "Rolls Royce of popcorn" and that statement is pretty accurate. I previously hosted a review and giveaway of Dale & Thomas popcorn for Mother's Day and love this popcorn.

Somehow Dale & Thomas makes the most delcious  popcorn that arrives beautifully packaged and is fresh, not stale. When I opened the box there was a coupon on top for $10. off my next order at Dale & Thomas, not only are you getting the best popcorn you get to save money too!  I received a four pack sampler box that includes the following flavors: cinnamon swirl and sugar, Dale's caramel corn, hall of fame kettle corn, and white cheddar and black peppercorn. All the flavors are yummy and if I had to choose a favorite it would be hall of fame kettle corn. Dale & Thomas offers samplers, popcorn tins, business gifts and specialty gifts with options for just about every occasion including Father's Day. Go HERE to see all the options they offer.

You can connect with Dale & Thomas Popcorn on FACEBOOK to learn about new products and special offers.

One reader is going to win a four pack sampler packaged for Father's Day just like the one I received thanks to Dale & Thomas Popcorn. Enter in the rafflecopter form below. PLEASE NOTE THAT THIS GIVEAWAY IS ONLY OPEN TO THOSE IN THE CONTIGIOUS US (those in Alaska and Hawaii are not eligible to win) per Dale & Thomas.

Disclosure: I received products from Dale & Thomas Popcorn to facilitate my review. I only recommend products I personally use and my opinons remain my own.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

SheSpeaks StyleUnited: New View, New You Program

                                 
                                   
As a member of She Speaks I recently received an invitation to join a new website called Style United. I went to the Style United homepage http://www.styleunited.com and created a profile to join, the whole process only took a few minutes and was very easy to do. 

Style United is a website sponsored by some top brands including Frederic Fekkai and Olay. What is really great about this site is that it provides personalized recommendations for every woman. I took the Style 360 (a diagnostic quiz that understands your own skin care, cosmetics, fashion and hair care needs) quiz and found the answers to be very accurate, for my fashion style the results were that I am Classic With A Twist which fits me perfectly! I love simple, classic clothes but like to mix it up once in awhile with edgy shoes or a vibrant accessory. Take the Style 360 quiz and leave a comment letting me know your fashion style!

There are hundreds of articles and video tutorials available at Style United and you can create an Inner Circle where you can connect with your friends on Style United. I would like to invite my readers to join Style United using this link: http://bit.ly/IYxxUy After you have joined have some fun on the site and don't forget to add me to your Inner Circle, my username is jgriebel.

After you join Style United make sure to follow them on FACEBOOK! Style United has one of the most interactive facebook pages, I regularly ask questions and receive answers in a timely manner. They have guest editors with great tips everyday that I love to share with my readers.

If you join Style United by June 8th you are eligible to enter a great giveaway for a $500. gift card to Macy's or Nordstrom's. Simply join Style United and then go HERE to complete your entry in the StyleUnited: New View, New You Giveaway!

Disclosure: I received a gift code for the Proctor & Gamble estore in exchange for my review of Style United. This in no way influenced my opinion of Style United and my opinions remain my own.

What Miss Jackie Is Wearing May 25th

St. John's Bay Tshirt (black)

Old Navy Capri Pants (Khaki)

Black Rialto sandals

Pictures On Gold Sweetheart Locket

Calypso Studios Bendi Bandz Hair Accessory

Want to win a beautiful Pictures On Gold Locket ($150. value) like mine? Read my review and enter the giveaway HERE.

Go read my review of Calypso Studios and enter to win a Bendi Bandz of your own HERE.

Golden Earth Naturals "Aromatherapy body care from nature"

Golden Earth provides aromatherapy products made with therapeutic grade esssential oils to provide your body with healing powers. Among the products you can purchase are body washes, moisturizers, chakra lotions, perfumes from nature, chakra wellness oils and single note essential oils. Golden Earth offers their products in six different scents. Golden Earth products are cruelty free and vegan and the company is both eco-friendly and supports various charities.  Golden Earth products are very reasonably priced ranging from $4. to $20. depending on the size you order. You can purchase Golden Earth products online and at select stores.To see the selection of products Golden Earth has and locate stores that carry their products go HERE.

I received a bottle of body wash, lotion, and perfume in the Love scent to review. Love is a mixture of jasmine, lavender, and rose and is a light floral scent. My tastes in perfume are florals and orientals so I selected Love to review. I was a little disappointed in the Love body wash because I thought it would have more scent in it. However it is an effective body wash in that it lathers well and leaves you clean, the consistency of it is a little thin and the best comparison I can make for this product is that it is similar to Ivory liquid soap.  I really like the Love body lotion it goes on very smoothly without being greasy and has a pleasant light scent that lingers for a few hours. The Love perfume comes in a really cute  pyramid shaped package (it is in the center in the picture above) that I hated to open just because it is so cute. The perfume is a roll on which is especially convenient to carry in your purse for mid-day touchups. The rose scent really comes through in the perfume so if you like floral scents this is a great perfume for you!

Golden Earth is giving one lucky reader of Miss Jackie's Views the same set of their products that I reviewed. Entry is easy in the Rafflecopter form below.

Disclosure: I received  products from Golden Earth for testing and review purposes. I only recommend products I personally use and my opinions remain my own.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Memorial Day 2012

An American cemetery in Impruneta, Italy where US soldiers who died in battle during World War II rest. Photo Credit:  Atlantide Travelphoto/Corbis

As the Memorial Day weekend approaches I wanted to remind my readers that Memorial Day is not just the start of the summer season or another three day weekend. Memorial Day started after the Civil War when women would decorate the graves of fallen soldiers. The holiday eventually gained popularity and is officially a day to remember those who have died in service to our country. I have the utmost respect for all veterans, living and dead. I find it particularly disturbing that some religious groups are disrespectful to our veterans, they seem to forget that if it were not for American soldiers fighting and dying they would not have the religious freedoms they enj

            C) 2003 SKG Music Nashville LLC/Dreamworks Records Nashville

As we approach the start of Memorial Day weekend please pause to remember our veterans who have served our country. I would like to remember my own family  members who have served our country:

Charles Joseph Smith Sr. US Army World War I

Theron Oscar Shumaker US Army World War II and Korea

Joseph Theron Shoemaker US Army World War II

Jeffery Martin Griebel  US Navy (Retired)  Persian Gulf

April Fasenmyer US Air Force (Active) Iraq and Afghanistan

Dalton Nash Griebel US Air Force (Active)

What Miss Jackie Is Wearing

 

This is the first post in a new series I am starting on the blog, What Is Miss Jackie Wearing?

Dress:  Ann Taylor Black Sheath Dress

Watch:  Popochos

Necklace:  Knots And Stones (Lola Necklace in Lime Green)

Shoes:  I Love Comfort Black 1" square stacked heels

*There will be a giveaway for a beautiful Knots and Stones necklace in the next week so be sure to come back and enter to win!

Father's Day Gift Guide

Miss Jackie's Views is excited to be part of a great giveaway coming up for Father's Day! The Blog It Forward Team has graciously agreed to include Miss Jackie in this giveaway and is giving my readers a chance to participate and win some great prizes! So don't forget to watch the blog and enter to win starting June 1st!

Welcome to the 2012 Father's Day Gift Guide hosted by Blog It Forward! If you are looking for great gift ideas for dad then you came to the right place! Men are so hard to buy for aren't they?! We want to help. We have gift ideas for all of the special men in your life! From hammocks to bathrobes to digital filing systems, we have ideas that will make your shopping easier!

Be sure to come back on June 1 because we will be giving away *every*single*gift* on the Father's Day Gift Guide!

1. NeatDesk :: For the digital dad. This year give him a sleek tech-tool that will help him manage and digitize important files at home, in the office, and on the road.
2. 3D Photo Crystal :: For the sentimental dad. 3D Laser Gifts can create etched crystals that show your love and appreciation for dad in a creative way.
3. Kentfield Men's Hiking Shoe :: For the active dad. The Kentfield by Ahnu is designed for the dad who wants the performance of a cross-trainer with the breathability and comfort of a water-sandal.
4. Xperience Days :: For the adventurous dad. With thousands of unique gift experiences nationwide, there is a perfect opportunity for dad in your area.
5. Organic Bamboo Bathrobe :: For the "green" dad. Any dad would love to receive such a luxurious and eco-friendly gift from The Ultimate Green Store!
6. EatSmart Precision GetFit Body Scale :: For the health conscious dad. This scale from EatSmart is perfect for dads who are serious about taking control of their health!
7. Hammock Bliss :: For the outdoorsy dad. Any dad who loves to spend time outdoors will love a new hammock from Hammock Bliss!
8. Galileo Weather Station :: For the weather buff dad. Dad will love to study the weather on the Galileo Weather Station from Wind & Weather!
9. King Louie Microfiber Windshirt :: For the All American dad. All USA Clothing offers many gift options that dad will love, all Made in the USA!
10. Journal 10 :: For the record keeper dad. Give dad his own personal time machine as he records precious memories and builds a memoir to treasure.
11. Sogno Coffee ::  For the coffee loving dad. Dad will enjoy premium Sogno Coffee made with only the finest Arabica beans.

Please visit the links above which will take you to a full review of our fabulous sponsors. You will also find special offers and discounts. We hope you found some gift giving inspiration for your dad!

Don't forget to come back to this blog on June 1. We are giving away over $1210 in prizes! 

Calypso Studios - Fun Fashion Accessories

            Video Credit: Jacqueline Y. Griebel

Calypso Studios offers fun and affordable fashion accessories at over 2,500 locations across the country. Some of the most popular items in the Calypso Studios line include their Bendi Bandz, Comforting Clay Gifts and Wrap Bracelets.

I received one of their Multi-Color Carnival Wrap Bracelets to review pictured below. This is a great bracelet, with all the different colors of beads it matches pretty much any outfit you are wearing on any given day. I don't know if the designers at Calypso Studios had this in mind when they created  wrap bracelets but they are wonderful for petite ladies. I have very small wrists and when I wear bracelets or watches they slip around or fall off when I put my hand down. These clever little wrap bracelets from Calypso Studios solve that problem, you wrap them around your wrist as many times as you wish and in my case I am able to wrap it three times and it stays comfortably on my wrist all day.

                  Photo Credit: Calypso Studios

You can go HERE to see the full line of bracelets available from Calypso Studios.

The folks at Calypso Studios are very creative, in addition to their great wrap bracelets they also sell Bendi-Bandz. In case you are wondering what Bendi-Bandz are they are a headband with a wire hanger inside. If you watch my video at the top of the post you can see how easy these great hair accessories are to use and the many ways you can use them. They can be worn various ways in your hair and can also be worn as a bracelet, belt or purse accessory. These neat hair accessories retail for $5.99 each! Go to the Calypso Studios homepage and check out the wide selection of Bendi-Bandz patterns available.

Calypso Studios has generously agreed to provide a Bendi-Bandz of the winners choice to one of my followers. Entry is easy in the Rafflecopter form below.

Disclosure: I received a wrap bracelet and Bendi-Bandz from Calypso Studios to facilitate my review. I only recommend products I personally use and my opinions remain my own.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Ball Park Flame Grilled Patties Review

I received a kit from Bzz Agent that included a coupon for a free package of a new Ball Park Flame Grilled Beef Patties. Yes you read that right, Ball Park the company famous for its hot dogs now makes beef patties too! These great burgers come in three flavors: beef, beef & cheese and beef & onion. I picked up a package of the beef flavor, invited a few friends over, and cooked some in the microwave. I usually do not care for frozen beef patties, most brands are pretty flavorless and shrink significantly when you cook them. Not the case with Ball Park Flame Grilled Patties, I found that they cooked up nicely and remained juicy even when I grilled them well done. My family really likes them and my friends agreed they are the tastiest frozen burgers they have tried.

The convience of Ball Park Flame Grilled Patties is probably what I like best about them, they are fully cooked  so all you have to do is put them in the microwave for one minute and voila you have a great tasting burger. Ball Park Flame Grilled Patties are on the permanent weekly grocery list at my house now, my husband and son can heat them up for lunch or dinner when I'm not home to cook and they make a great quick meal when I have had a hectic day and don't have time to cook.

Check out Ball Park Flame Grilled Patties on FACEBOOK to learn more about this great  product!

Disclosure: I received a sample of Ball Park Flame Grilled Patties through the Bzz Agent program to facilitate my review. I only recommend products I personally use and my opinons remain my own.

Movie Review & Giveaway "The Genesis Code"

  Trailer Courtesy of American Epic Entertainment

Synopsis:  Kerry Wells (Kelsey Sanders), a college journalist and committed Christian with an effervescent personality, has been assigned to do a story on Blake Truman (Logan Bartholomew) the college’s newest and very popular hockey superstar. As a relationship between them begins to develop Kerry finds that Blake, who hides behind a tough and independent façade, is actually struggling through a difficult personal crisis and that he bears the cross of a secret he has kept hidden for years. Blake rebuffs Kerry's suggestion that prayer might help ease his burden; he is convinced that modern science completely disproves the Bible, especially the opening verses of Genesis. Kerry — who is herself suddenly confronted with a challenge to her faith on another front — sets out to prove that science and Genesis are not in conflict and her quest leads to a startling revelation. Could it be that what science teaches us about creation and the Story as told in Genesis are both true!

Review:  I viewed The Genesis Code with my husband and found that it balanced well opposing viewpoints, Creation and Evolution. The young actors (Kelsey Sanders) and (Logan Bartholomew) were believable in their roles and this is a great family movie especially if you have teenagers or college age children. My oldest son is in college and he commented that he has questioned some of his religious beliefs after some of the material he was presented with in his philosophy and biology courses so our family found The Genesis Code very relevant to our lives. I found that it was a little difficult to follow in  places when the actors started arguing for Creation and talking about scientific theory but I loved the ending. I do not want to reveal the ending because that would spoil it for my readers but if it does not leave you in tears I would be surprised. This movie would make a great addition to the family collection and I recommend it.

"Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or
services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention it
on my blog. Regardless, I only recommend products or services I use personally
and believe will be good for my readers. I am disclosing this in accordance
with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255: “Guides Concerning the
Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”

One lucky reader of Miss Jackie's Views will win a copy of The Genesis Code! Entry is easy in the rafflcopter form below.

a Rafflecopter giveaway

Kiddie Car Wash

                       Photo Credit: Lowe's

Here's a super easy to make Car Wash for the kids. Since my husband is a contractor it took  him literally no time at all to put it together for our little guy Josh. Now we just have to wait for the weather to actually be warm enough for him to use it!

The cost of the materials was minimal for us since John used PVC and parts he had from his work, however the Lowe's Creative Idea book states the cost is around $22. which is pretty reasonable. For full instructions go HERE.

If you visit the Lowe's  homepage you can sign  up for several idea magazines and browse their library of projects. Most of the projects are really easy to do and affordable so check them out.

Pictures On Gold - Beautiful Keepsake Jewelry

 The inside of my custom laser engraved locket from Pictures On Gold! Enter the giveaway below to win one of your own.

Pictures On Gold offers great heirloom quality jewelry at very affordable prices. The options are endless to find a great keepsake gift for anyone on your list. Some of the categories of jewelry that Pictures On Gold offers include photo engraved lockets, medical id bracelets & necklaces, sports, graduation, rings, mothers, personalized watches, anklets, charms and religious jewelry. The engraving that Pictures On Gold uses is beyond comparison, it is  precise and very detailed.

With Father's Day just around the corner go take a look HERE on Pinterest for some great gift ideas!

Right now Pictures On Gold has a special sale of their Sterling Silver "Sweetheart" Locket. For just $31.95 you can have two pictures Laser Engraved in this beautiful heart shaped locket, the retail value of this locket is $150. Laser Engraving is a process where a picture is actually engraved right into the jewelry making it permanent. With traditional lockets you insert the actual picture and over time the edges can curl, the picture can become faded and water damage can occur. Laser Engraving ensures that the pictures in your locket will last forever and the pictures look real.  Pictures On Gold will also engrave a message of your choosing on the front or back of the "Sweetheart" locket.

I received a "Sweetheart" locket from  Pictures On Gold with a picture of my son John and a picture of my son Josh laser engraved inside. The front of the locket is engraved with roses and says "Mom" and the back is engraved with my sons names and the year 2012. I cannot described how beautiful this locket is and it is a keepsake I will treasure. Because of the laser engraving I know the locket will last forever and it is made of high quality sterling silver so it will stand the test of time. And I almost forgot the chain, it is a sturdy small rope type chain that matches the locket very well.

I created a pinboard on Pinterest to show my readers the locket since Blogger will not let me upload pictures. Go HERE to view my locket up close.

You can connect with  Pictures On Gold on FACEBOOK and TWITTER to keep up to date with sales, specials and new jewelry.

Pictures On Gold have so kindly offered to give one follower of Miss Jackie's Views a custom engraved "Sweetheart" locket just like the one I received!!

Entry is easy in the Rafflecopter form below.

Disclosure: I received a locket from Pictures On Gold to facilitate my review. I only recommend products I personally use and my opinions remain my own.
a Rafflecopter giveaway

Famous Grilled Cauliflower

Here's one of my favorite recipes from The Original Country Bob's Cookbook.

Grilled Cauliflower

1 large head of cauliflower

1/4 cup margarine

1 tbsp Country Bob's Seasoning Salt

2 tbsp Parmesan cheese

Remove green leaves from the cauliflower  and place whole cauliflower on a large sheet of aluminum foil  Rub margarine over the entire cauliflower head.  Sprinkle with Country Bob's Seasoning Salt and Parmesan cheese. Wrap the cauliflower in the foil. Place on the grill over medium-hot coals. Grill for 30 minutes or until desired tenderness.



Pond Life Study Unit For Preschoolers

                                        Photo Credit: Homeschool Creations

One of my favorite resources for activity ideas with my preschooler Josh is Homeschool Creations. Jolanthe has all kinds of downloads, printables, and craft ideas available for free. 

This week Josh and I are working on the Pond Life preschool pack with a trip  planned to a local pond later in the week.

Kiss Nail Dress

I previously reviewed Kiss Nail Dress which I received through the Influenster program. Influenster is a community of over 27,000 women who are selected to try new products and then use their influence to share the products with others. Influenster has what they call Brand Challenges where you have to complete specified tasks such as creating a video review or pinboard. If you successfully complete the tasks then you are awarded a badge for that brand. I earned the Kiss Nail Badge from the Love Vox Box and today received some free products from Kiss Nails, a set of Kiss Nail Dress and Metallic Art. I recommend Kiss Nail Dress as  a super easy way to do your nails, watch my video below to see how easy it is to apply this great product!

               Video Credit: Jacqueline Y. Griebel

Death Hag Update - Jimmy Stewart

                            Photo Credit: Hollywood Remains To Be Seen
Jimmy Stewart is one of my favorite actors along with Clark Gable. Jimmy was a scholar, gentleman both onscreen and off, a patriotic American who served his country admirably, a loving husband and father and just all around nice guy. I find almost all of his movies enjoyable, I don't know if I could pick a favorite. If you are feeling down pop in a copy of  "It's A Wonderful Life", I would be willing to bet you will feel better by the end of the movie!  Come visit my small corner of Pennsylvania and visit the nearby Jimmy Stewart Museum in Indiana, PA, Jimmy's hometown and the site of the museum in his honor. 

You can read his biography and view his headstone at Hollywood Remains To Be Seen. Jimmy died in 1997 at the age of 89 due to cardiac arrest according to the entry for him at Find A Death, his passing was a great loss to Hollywood and the world.

Fashion - H&M has a new designer

                        Photo Credit: Vogue

H&M the store that "offers fashion and quality at the best price" now has another designer, the Italian brand Marni. Karl Lagerfeld was the first designer to colloborate with H&M and the list of great designers working with the company has grown over the years. I started shopping at H&M around ten years ago and really like the fun fashion and prices.

For more details on the colloboration with Marni read the article in Vogue.

How To Clean An LCD TV Screen

After I purchased an LCD flat screen television last fall I tried various commercial cleaning products to clean my tv with little success. One day I read the following recipe/tip in a magazine and tried it. This really works to clean LCD screens including LCD computer monitors.

Mix 70% Isopropyl Alcohol and water in a 50/50 proportion (1/2 cup alcohol and 1/2 cup water) and put in a spray bottle. Spray LCD screen lightly and use a soft cloth to wipe clean (I find that cloth diapers work best).

Death Hag Update - Child Star Bobby Driscoll

Read Scott Michael's Find A Death article HERE about the untimely death of a Disney Movie child star, Bobby Driscoll.

Episencial Skin Care for Children

Episencial is an all natural skin care line for children from age birth up made with organic ingredients. Their products are cruelty-free, gluten free, vegan, and the company is eco-friendly. Episencial is made with solar power and is packaged in recycled material that features the artwork of Eric Carle and my son's favorite book The Very Hungry Caterpillar.  Episencial is especially effective for children with sensitive skin and children with skin concerns including eczema, allergies, diaper rash, sunburn, and cradle cap. Episencial products are designed to improve and promote a healthy skin immune system and are sold in hospitals, select stores, and online HERE. In addition to offering free shipping on orders over $45. Episencial also provides free samples (you have to pay $2.99 shipping).

I received samples of Episencial products to review and used them to bathe my toddler Josh. Josh has sensitive skin that gets irritated easily, none of the Episencial products caused him any irritation or redness. Josh especially enjoyed the Peaceful Bubbles that we tried and I really like the light scent (Episencial uses fruit extracts to create scent) of Episencial products. Because I received a few samples of each product my experience with Episencial is limited but I would recommend Episencial based on the good results I saw with Josh. An acquaintance of mine has used Episencial faithfully for her daughter (who is now 18 months old) since birth and highly recommends all Episencial products.

If you go to the Episencial website they have an area with testimonials and also a Parent's Library area. You can also look up your child's skin condition for product and treatment recommendations. Episencial is not a company that just wants to sell you their product, they want to  provide the best possible service to every customer and provide the right skin care for each child.

You can connect with Episencial on Facebook for all the latest news from the company and special offers.

Episencial has generously agreed to give a gift basket with a retail value of $29. to one reader of Miss Jackie's Views! The basket includes Episencial's Peaceful Bubbles, Playful Wash, and Soothing Cream (this product was rated #1 for eczema treatment by both  Parents and Parenting magazines). To see the products in the basket and learn more about them go to my pinboard on Pinterest HERE.

Disclosure: I received samples of Episencial products to facilitate my review. I only recommend products I would personally use and my opinions remain my own.


THE WINNER SELECTED BY RANDOM.ORG IS COMMENT #59 B. EISENMAN

TO ENTER THE GIVEAWAY:

1. Like Episencial on Facebook HERE and leave your Facebook User Name in the comments.

2.  Like Miss Jackie's Views on Facebook HERE and leave your Facebook User Name in the comments.

3. Follow Episencial on Twitter HERE and leave your twitter handle in the comments section.

4. Follow Miss Jackie's Views on Twitter HERE and leave your twitter handle in the comments.

5. Visit the Episencial website HERE and leave a comment with a product you would like to try or something you learned about the company.

6. Tweet the following:
"Enter to win an @Episencial Skin Care Basket at Miss Jackie's Views http://www.missjackiesviews.blogspot.com  @jygriebel"
and leave the link to your tweet in the comments section.

LEAVE A COMMENT FOR EACH TASK YOU COMPLETE AND BE SURE TO INCLUDE YOUR EMAIL ADDRESS SO I CAN CONTACT YOU IF YOU ARE THE WINNER!

This giveaway ends at midnight on June 2, 2012. The winner will be selected by Random.Org and notified via email. Winner has 48 hours to respond or a new winner will be selected.

Father's Day Gift Idea - Five Fingers Tees

              Photo Credit: Jacqueline Y. Griebel
Five Fingers Tees is a family owned and operated business that has a huge variety of tshirts! Some of the categories of  tshirts they have are cult classic, geeky/nerd, tv, Irish and video game shirts. Five Finger Tees are offered at the lowest possible price, hence the name of their business Five Finger Tees. The prices are so low it is almost like stealing! Five Finger Tees has a neat little special every day called the $6. Daily Steal Go check it out, you can't go wrong paying $6. for a great tshirt!

Five Fingers Tees has a  photo gallery of fans (referred to as "Our Thieves") wearing Five Finger Tees HERE. I received the Schrute Farms tshirt my son John is modeling above. He is a fan of the tv show The Office and really likes the Schrute Farms tshirt Five Fingers Tees sent us. We ordered a size large and the sizing of the shirt is true to size, it fits John really well.  I have washed it a few times and I can tell you Five Fingers Tees are good quality, there is no shrinkage or fading at all.

With Father's Day coming up soon head to the Five Fingers Tees website and order a tshirt for dad! Or order two or three since the prices are so awesome!!

Disclosure: I received a tshirt from Five Fingers Tees to facilitate my review. I only recommend products I personally use and my opinions remain my own.

Butt Bench Review

             Video Credit: Jacqueline Y. Griebel

While surfing Facebook one day I saw a giveaway post for a Butt Bench. The Butt Bench is a high quality bathtub seat made of wood. Watch my video above to see how easy installation of the Butt Bench is! Removal of the Butt Bench is as easy as installation too.There are currently four different styles of the Butt Bench available with prices starting at $43.95. The Butt Bench fits in most standard size tubs and will hold up to 300 lbs. of weight. In addition to the Butt Bench you can also purchase bath safety items and handheld sprays HERE.

I received the Cedar Butt Bench to review and I found it to be a nice addition to my bathroom. My bathtub has jets in it and I love to sit on my Butt Bench with the jets running and soak my feet. Shaving is much easier with the Butt Bench too. I have a toddler and I tried different products including bathtub toy nets to keep his toys neat and out of the way when he is not using the bathtub but I never really found a good solution until I got a Butt Bench. It was really frustrating to get in the shower first thing in the morning and trip over toys and gather them up, now they are out of the way neatly sitting on my Butt Bench. One word of caution, please do not leave children unattended in the bathtub with the Butt Bench installed. Removal and installation of the Butt Bench is so easy I don't mind removing it when my little guy is in the tub and putting it back in when he's done.

The Butt Bench is perfect for senior citizens and disabled persons. My father had his hips and knees replaced and for many years he had to sit in a plastic lawn chair when he took a shower, it wasn't very safe or comfortable for him. He could not find a safety shower chair that was comfortable and the lawn chair was a last resort my mother thought of. I wish the Butt Bench had been available when Dad was alive, it really would have improved the quality of his life.

I have been fortunate to have really great sponsors here at Miss Jackie's Views and I want to point out that Bill Corcoran of Butt Bench is one of the nicest and most generous sponsors I have worked with.

Stop by the Butt Bench Facebook page HERE and tell him Miss Jackie sent you!

Essential Swimwear Review and Giveaway

                                         Photo Credit: Jacqueline Griebel

Essential Swimwear offers a wide array of swimsuits ranging in size from S (0-2) to XL (18).  Prices are very reasonable and right now they have a large selection of swimsuits on SALE. Essential Swimwear swimsuits are flirty and feminine with some gorgeous colors that really pop!  Sometimes it can be hard to get the right size swimsuit especially if you are ordering online. Sizing is not a concern if you order from Essential Swimwear, they offer free exchanges! In addition Essential Swimwear offers free shipping on orders over $100.

Go check out the collection of one piece swimsuits Essential Swimwear has HERE and see if you can pick just one you love! In addition to one piece swimsuits Essential Swimwear has tops and bottoms that you can mix and match, swim skirts, and board shorts. The possibilities are endless with Essential Swimwear and I am sure anyone can find a swimsuit they love!

      Watch my video of some of the swimsuits Essential Swimwear currently has to offer:

                                     Video Credit: Jacqueline Y. Griebel

I received the Ocean Ruffled Halter Top and Ruffled Skirt that I am wearing in the picture above to review and I really like it. I mean I really, really like it!! It is very demure and provides coverage in just the right places. Usually I feel self-conscious wearing a swimsuit but not when I am wearing the Ocean Ruffled Swimsuit. Most swimsuit tops have a spaghetti strap to hold it up and it either comes undone in the water or slips a lot, the Essential Swimwear halter tops have a nice wide strap that is comfortable. And the Ruffled Skirt provides perfect coverage while looking cute and feminine. The sizing of Essential Swimwear is true to size, I wear a ladies Small or 4 Petite and ordered the size Small from Essential Swimwear and it fits perfectly.

You can connect with Essential Swimwear on FACEBOOK, TWITTER, and PINTEREST to keep up with all the latest swimwear they have and special deals and offers. For fun go check out my Essential Swimwear pinboard HERE

Guess what? Essential Swimwear has generously offered a $50. gift card to one lucky reader of Miss Jackie's Views!! Entry is easy in the rafflecopter form below.

Disclosure: I received a swimsuit from Essential Swimwear to facilitate my review. I only recommend products I would personally use and my opinions remain my own.

a'>http://www.rafflecopter.com">a Rafflecopter giveaway

The American Bible Challenge, Hosted By Jeff Foxworthy, Now Casting.

The American Bible Challenge is a new show hosted by comedian Jeff Foxworthy. The show is currently holding casting calls in the cities of Sacramento, Dallas, Chicago, Los Angeles and Atlanta. To sign up go to http://tv.gsn.com/shows/the-american-bible-challenge/casting/.  Watch the video for more information about the show and how the casting call process works.

Another Kennedy Tragedy

 

Mary Richardson Kennedy

I was saddened to read tonight of yet another tragedy in the Kennedy family. The wife of Robert Kennedy Jr. passed away leaving behind four children, the youngest is 11 years old. When I first saw a picture of Mary Kennedy I was struck by the resemblance to the most famous female member of the Kennedy clan, Jacqueline Bouvier Kennedy Onassis. In the picture above she reminds me of Jackie Kennedy when she was in her late 30's and 40's.  Apparently Mary Kennedy battled drugs and alcohol for a long time like many members of this famous family.

I am, of course, a Kennedy fan and follower. My first name is Jacqueline because of Jackie Kennedy. I admired Jackie not only for her style but her grace. She never once spoke out publicly about Jack Kennedy or Aristotle Onassis and I'm sure she had some stories to tell! I was saddened when Eunice Kennedy Shriver, the founder of Special Olympics, passed away. And her brother Ted died two weeks later which was really sad. Ted Kennedy had a lot of detractors but he served his country admirably in the US Senate for over 40 years. And the tragedies Ted endured would break a lot of men. He buried three brothers (Joe Jr., Jack and Bobby), three sisters (Kathleen, Rosemary, and Patricia), his parents (Joe Sr. and Rose) and three nephews (David, Michael Jr. and John Jr.). And he died after a painful bout with cancer which he managed to write a touching biography during his illness.

Some call it the Kennedy curse, these tragedies that strike this family. Some people do not like the Kennedys for whatever reason. And of course there are those who feel the younger members of the family who have battled drugs and alcohol are just spoiled rich kids. Maybe that's true but I would like to think they are all good  people. Can you imagine being a Kennedy and having everything you do scrutinized? And the level of expectation that was placed on the younger generation due to the accomplishments of their parents was very high. As far as the younger generation running into trouble with the law and having addiction issues I am not going to judge them. They say that addiction is a terrible thing and people who are addicts really struggle. I have been fortunate enough to never have a close family member struggle with alcohol and drug addiction. But if you think about it everybody has an addiction and/or vice. Whether it's smoking, gambling, spending money on things you don't need, food, or spending time on the computer.

Please take a minute and pray for the Kennedy family as they grieve and bury yet another member who died too young.

Arch Tags "Dress Your Sole"

Pink Bling Tag
Photo Credit: Arch Tags

                             

One of the great things about being a blogger is getting the chance to try new products. And sometimes I am given the opportunity to review a product that is really awesome and I love. Well Arch Tags are at the top of my list! Arch Tags are the coolest fashion accessory I have seen in a long time. They have been featured in Glamour magazine and on the Today Show. You can read the Glamour Magazine article HERE.  I think they are going to be the biggest hit in the fashion accessory category this year. And you can say that you heard about them on Miss Jackie's Views when you see them on the cover of Vogue or Elle magazine! Read my review on She Speaks of Arch Tags: http://www.shespeaks.com/Arch-Tags-Shoe-Stickers-Review.

You are probably wondering what is an Arch Tag? Well they are a sticker that you apply to the sole of your shoes. Sounds simple enough, right? Arch Tags are available in over 75 designs and are reasonably priced starting at $13.99. Given the current economic climate in the United States the scaling back on expenses a lot of  people are having to do  Arch Tags are a great solution for the fashionista in all of us. Arch Tags are an easy way to breathe new life into your shoes without having to buy a new pair. Do you have a special date? Dress up your plain black pumps with a pair of Arch Tags!  There are so many designs from rhinestone to animal prints to skull and crossbones. Check out the selection HERE and see if you can choose just one design you love. In addition to purchasing Arch Tags at the official website you can browse their shop on Etsy HERE for some really beautiful designs not featured on the official website.

If you want to see some of my favorite designs check them out on Pinterest HERE.

Want to know another thing I love about Arch Tags? The story behind them. Go read about the inventor, Alex, HERE, she is an awesome woman and inspirational!

I am so happy that Arch Tags has agreed to let me share their great product with my readers, they have generously agreed to send a pair of Arch Tags of the winner's choice to one lucky reader of Miss Jackie's Views!  Enter in the Rafflecopter form below.

Disclosure: I received a pair of Arch Tags to facilitate my review. I only recommend products I personally use and my opinions remain my own.
a Rafflecopter giveaway