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Clothes that Fit Me from Kiyonna

September 20, 2012 by Melissa

I know Blogher was several weeks ago but I wanted to share with you what I wore to one of the parties.

The dress is from Kiyonna, on online plus size dress retailer. I found them accidently while searching for wrap dresses. I’m shaped weird. I’m a size 12 on the bottom but closer to a 16 on top. My belly is high so I don’t like fitted tops. In fact I’ll wear a loose tee any chance I can get. I joke and call my body shape lollipop.

When I stumbled on Kiyonna I fell in love with the many different styles of dresses and tops for women just like me. I knew even though I wasn’t a traditional plus size woman these dresses would be a perfect match for my body. I was sent the Legacy Wrap Dress. I had trouble picking between the Legacy and the Whimsy. They are both similar but the Whimsy has a ruffle along the bottom open edge. I think I would’ve been happy with either choice honestly. There are so many other dress choices that I really loved.

i wish i knew how to pose like this

Wrap dresses tend to offer a forgiving fit but I was worried about the coverage up top. I like cleavage, I think mine is good looking but i didn’t want to be inappropriate. i didn’t have to adjust my dress once that night and the night i wore this dress was a hectic one. The dress was overall very flattering, had a great fit, covered everywhere it was supposed to and was a gorgeous color. The color is called navy put it leaned a little to the violet side.

I also received this Polka Dot Abby Twist Front Top. This is something I’ve worn about 5 times with everything from jeans to capris to skirts. The flowy stretchy fabric is very comfortable and the flirty silouette is feminine without looking like a toddler’s top. The plunging neck was a little to much for me so I put in one tiny stitch to close it up about an 1 inch higher and haven’t had any issues at all. I’ve gotten more compliments wearing this top than with anything else I own.

I can’t wait to scour Kiyonna’s site for their newest styles and pieces.

2012 Kia Optima Hybrid

September 12, 2012 by Melissa

I love cars especially new cars and I was super excited when I recently got the chance to recap the 2012 Kia Optima Hybrid.

I see more and more hybrids on the road and I always wonder how much better they are on gas then a traditional car since they are both gas and electric. The Kia Optima Hybrid has about an 18 gallon gas tank and I was getting about 500 – 550 miles on a tank of gas. I was averaging around 32.2 miles per gallon which in my opinion is awesome for a mid to large size sedan. In comparison I drive a pretty small car that gets about 27 miles to the gallon and Melinda drives a minivan that get about 18 miles per gallon so as you can see the Kia Optima Hybrid is very good on gas especially for its size.

Not only was I impressed with the terrific gas mileage but I was also very impressed with the inside of the Kia. It came loaded with heated and cooled front seats (how cool is it to heat and cool your butt, LOL), heated rear seats, heated steering wheel, full leather, GPS, satellite radio, backup camera, panoramic sunroof, push button start and the list goes on and on. I must admit this is the first car that I have seen that comes with rear heated seats which I didn’t notice until Shaun pointed it out to me.

For you car geeks like myself if comes with a 2.4L 4-cyl Hybrid engine, 6 speed sportmatic transmission, 16” tires and alloy wheels, ABS brakes, traction control system and electronic stability control. The Kia Optima Hybrid also came with Dual front airbags, front seat mounted side airbags and full length side curtain airbags. This Kia was loaded with comfort, safety and was great on gas; what more could you ask for in a car.

The Kia Optima Hybrid was a blast to drive but it took me a while to get used to how quit it was since it is a hybrid. I would start the car and have to double check the RPM gauge to be sure it was running; that is how quiet this car is. It also took a little getting used to the acceleration again because it is a hybrid it’s a little different than a traditional gas vehicle but after getting used to it the Kia took off like a rocket.

I will say that Melinda and I were very impressed with everything that the Kia Optima Hybrid had to offer and Melinda even said she could see herself driving this car on a daily basis. I will admit that I really do love the gas mileage that this vehicle gets and could see replacing one of our cars with the Kia Hybrid for sure.

When You Can’t Find The Words #Hallmark

August 27, 2012 by Melissa

Hallmark is there. I’ve had the pleasure of visiting with Hallmark events 2 in the past few weeks.

NYC’s Holiday Product Preview at the London Hotel was like a little taste of Christmas in the Summer. Hallmark went all out not just showcasing their new products and decor for the holiday season but offering holiday cookies to match the ambience.

We got to see firsthand the innovative and interactive products for home decor and children’s memories.

The Philly HallmarkTour was entirely different and I think my favorite of the 2 events. This was a chance to meet the people behind the sappy notes and creative photographs.

We had the opportunity to write own captions for photos of children. Our team didn’t win but I think we came up some great inspirational ideas. We were also given the task to write messages of encouragement for back to school time. This was something that I found hard. I have the feelings in my heart and my head but trying to get them on paper I became a blubbering mess. I wasn’t the only one though. I peered over and saw some glassy eyes From Sherry of BabyPop and Randi from SAHM’s Crazy Life.
Hallmark is a wonderful fell good brand. A company that I’ve turned to for many years for holiday ornaments, baby’s 1st birthday momentos, e-cards and more.

shae’s message to sabreena and shaun for their 1st day of school

I was lucky enough to bring home Story Buddy, Nugget. The interactive plush comments and responds along to certain messages while you read the included book to your child. I was dreading opening this because I wasn’t in the mood to “put together” a toy but he was literally ready to go once he was out of the box.

Thanks so much for the experience in both NYC and Philly.

Kohls Back to School Shopping Haul

August 24, 2012 by Melissa

My job was simple. Go to Kohls with $100 in Gift Cards and get what you could for Back to School.

As I explain in the video I don’t usually do massive wardrobe redos for back to school. Since the weather is still warm the kids can get away with what they have. Within that first month of back to school we do a once over of everyone’s clothing and see what fits, what is worn out and what is just plain ugly.

This year Kohls is kicking off Back to School season in style with more than just great deals on jean. They aren’t leaving out those headed to Higher Learning or even their first apartment. Shop for clothes, bedding, organization materials, tools for the kitchen and more. Shop brands you and your kids will love like Princess Vera Wang, Rock and Republic, Bobby Flay, Candies and lots more to cover everything on your Back to School shopping list.

Looking great this school year doesn’t have to cost a lot. In addition to being the one-stop shop for basics and fashion essentials, Kohl’s also offers shoppers the thrill of savings with a variety of ways to get incredible values on the brands they love. There are no brand exclusions when using offers like Kohl’s Cash® coupons or Kohl’s charge card discounts. Additionally, these offers can be used in conjunction with sales events to maximize savings. From fashion to great value, Kohl’s is the shopping destination for savvy shoppers.

Shae’s Birthday at #Morey’sPier

August 23, 2012 by Melissa

Shae recently celebrated her 5th birthday. We spent the weekend doing things as a family, enjoying not only each other but soaking in the last days of summer vacation. I’m big on having parties and get togethers for the kids but this year we went a totally different direction.

Wildwood, NJ is home to some of the biggest and best beach fun on the east coast. The boardwalk is HUGE and home to games, rides, food and more. I grew up going to Wildwood and vividly remember rides like the Serpent and Olympic Fun Center for their arcades. This year is the first time we’ve taken the kids to Wildwood. We headed to Morey’s Piers.

Our day started early at the waterpark. Shae made her way down ShotgunFalls and WipeOut with NO FEAR. I on the other hand hate rides including the simpler things like the log flume.

The kids had a blast and we spent about 5 hours there before heading over to the rides. Sabreena is the daredevil and got on the “it”. It took Shaun an hour or so but he joined Sabreena on the scary rides.

The day was fantastic, one of the best times we’ve had as a family. We’re already talking about going back next year.

Minute Clinic Saves You Time

August 14, 2012 by Melissa

Shaun started football August 1st and so far he is doing awesome but before he was able to start we needed to get him a sports physical which is required by the league. I can totally understand since football is a contact sport the league wants to make sure that all of the kids are in good physical condition to play the game.

You may have read in the past that we DON’T have medical insurance which totally sucks but we make do and make sure the kids are healthy and see the doctor when necessary. Recently I was approached by Minute Clinic and asked if I wanted to take Shaun in for a free physical. Considering we have no health insurance and his physical was going to be paid out of my pocket I jumped at the opportunity and I am glad I did. MinuteClinic made the whole physical process very easy and stress free.

Minute Clinic makes it easy for people on the go because they do not require an appointment and they have evening and weekend hours which was perfect for us because our primary doctor couldn’t see Shaun for a few weeks and the only time I was able to take Shaun was first thing on a Saturday morning.

MinuteClinic is a division of CVS Caremark Corporation which launched the first retail health care centers in the United States in 2000 and is the first provider to establish a national presence, with approximately 600 locations across 25 states. MinuteClinic makes health care easier for people with a lot going on. Our family of nurse practitioners and physician assistants provide quality care every day, with convenient evening and weekend hours. We accept insurance and you don’t need an appointment. Just stop in when you need us.

The Minute Clinic we visited was in Springfield PA and we went first thing on a Saturday morning and when we arrived there was no wait. Like all doctor’s visits there were a few forms to fill out but we got right in and the physical went really smooth. The physician did a battery of tests on Shaun to determine that he was ok and healthy enough the play football and we were on our way. I would say the total visit took less than an hour.

Minute Clinic’s are located within CVS locations but don’t think they aren’t a real doctor’s office since they are inside a CVS because that isn’t true for a second. I feel Shaun got exception service and the service was no different than he would have gotten at his primary care physician but it was a lot cheaper. Sports physicals for a limited time are only $49. How can you bet that?

Minute Clinic does everything from minor illness exams to vaccinations to labs and tests. For a full list of services they offer click HERE!

Before this visit I didn’t know that Minute Clinic existed but now that I do I will be using them in the future for sure.

Back to School with Sharpie

August 9, 2012 by Melissa

It’s Back to School time. That means shopping for fun supplies and taking them to the creative max. I’ve seen an improvement in those boring marble notebooks lately but why not step it up with Sharpie Markers. Sharpie Markers are a staple in my supply stash. Fine point, retractable, neon and used for many projects and crafts. Recently we were sent Metallics and new Brush Tip Permanent Markers to doodle.

A must have accessory for back-to-school, the Sharpie brush tip marker creates fine lines, bold strokes and shading all in one, allowing you to control the width of your lines—thick or thin—with the pressure of your hand. Joining the Sharpie Silver Metallic marker, the new Gold and Bronze shades create brilliant sheen on both light and dark surfaces with quick drying and fade and water resistant ink.

Sharpie just ended their Start with Sharpie Facebook contest . Fans were encouraged to submit personal artwork to be a part of the brands first ever music video featuring the band California Wives. The video is set to debut on one of the largest stages in the music industry, MTV’s Video Music Awards on September 6, 2012. You can see the submissions on Sharpie’s Facebook Page

Our Sharpies are always handy; held in a cute green and purple Tinkerbell box for now but with the recent addition I’m going to have to find a bigger better storage idea as they are literally busting out. Having this box readily Sharpie Markers are the go to when Shae wants to draw. The larger the paper the bigger the creative genius.

Stock up on Sharpies of all sizes, tips, colors and purposes in time for school. Check out the Sharpie Pen-Fine Point for everyday writing and note-taking. It’s been my favorite pen for the last year, I can’t seem to keep in in my purse, is always stealing it from me.

School can still be fun time.

Diary of a Wimpy Kid in NYC

August 3, 2012 by Melissa

This weekend Shaun and I were in NYC to catch a special screening of Diary of a Wimoy Kid: Dog Days. This trip was more than just a chance to watch a movie before it was released in theaters we also were able to participate in a Q&A session with author Jeff Kinney and the main actors Zachary Gordon and Robert Cabron. Create your own Wimpy Kid character from the movie Diary of a Wimpy Kid at Wimp Yourself!

The movie itself was great. I’m sad to say that Ihadn’t watched the first film but I’m definitely going to now. This film of the Wimpy Kid, Greg Heffley, is about how his WANTS to spend his summer. Ideally it would be video games but of course plans go awry. The family in the series of Diary of a Wimpy Kid feels very familiar to me. There is a point in the story where the father takes drastic measures to ensure his children get OUTSIDE during the summer; it’s something that could have happened in our own home.

After the move we headed to the Q & A session . I personnaly didn’t ask any questions because I was impressed that mostly children were raising their hands to speak with the actors and author. They asked very good, well thought out questions about their personal lives and making of the film.

After a very successful Q&A the children were able to get books signed . Here is Shaun along with his new friends showing off their newly signed books.

Next was a Parent Round Table Discussion with author Jeff Kinney. This is where the parents got a chance to talk with Jeff Kinney and ask pretty much anything we wanted. The questions ranged from personal to the future of Diary of a Wimpy Kid to what projects are on the horizon.

Here is my own question to Jeff Kinney and his response

Melinda I want to express the same thing others have said, I have a son who was a very reluctant reader and last summer he found one of your books and we since then have bought them all.
Mr. Jeff Kinney: Oh, really? Wow. Thank you.
Melinda: When did you realize “I made something good?”
Mr. Jeff Kinney: What’s funny was that I didn’t think that the books would get published. I eventually decided that I would put them online first. I wrote about 1,300 pages and I figured that it didn’t have a chance –because I had experienced three years of being rejected by cartoon syndicates.
I thought that the book was too strange.
As far as when I thought it might catch on was pretty early on. I think it was about two or three weeks after it came out it became a New York Times bestseller. It started at the number seven position. And then, it went eight, nine, and then I thought for sure that it would drop off. And then, it recovered and it’s stayed on continuously for five years. Amazing.
Mr. Jeff Kinney: The run has been shocking to me. Everything in my life is really strange. In a good way.
Mr. Jeff Kinney: By strange I mean because it’s been all in one chunk. From that moment that the book got published until now, it’s gets crazier and crazier.
One day I’ll be able to look back and say, “Wow, that was a neat time in my life.”
The round table brought out lots of laughs and personal stories from Jeff Kinney and his family. I look forward to what happens next with the Heffley family.

The general sentiment from many of the bloggers was this series has made a postive impact on their children. It has been able to give many children who haven’t yet developed a love of reading a glimmer of something good to come.

Summer Snacking Bagel Sweepstakes

July 28, 2012 by Melissa

Who knew summer snacking could win you a great prize?

From June 28 to September 2, the Bagel Snack Star Sweepstakes gives fans a chance to win a red carpet movie experience with their friends and family!

Grand Prize: One winner will have the chance to win a private VIP photographed and catered experience at their local movie theater. New York Style will rent out the theater for you to host the ultimate experience with 50 friends. The winner will also receive a gift card for a year supply ($500 worth) of movie tickets.

Entering this sweepstakes is simple. Head over to New York Style Snacks Facebook Page, Like them and just enter your information.

Each summer right before vacation Rob and I head to the grocery store to shop for food and snacks. Since we are always limited on fridgespace in we like to grab snacks that we can throw in the beach or pool bag.

My favorite was always Plain but we were recently sent Roasted Garlic Bagel Crisps and BBQ Mini Bagel Crips. My new favorite flavor is Roasted Garlic…simply cream cheese. I sat by the pool, skipped lunch and ate this combo instead. I loved it and it was a perfect lunch for me.

Pick up your favorite flavor of Bagel Crisps, Mini Bagel Crisp, Pita Chips or Panetini at your local grocery or convenience store. Tell me how you like to eat them, just as they are or with a topping or spread.

“I wrote this review while participating in a campaign by Mom Central Consulting on behalf of New York Style and received a product sample to facilitate my review and a promotional item to thank me for participating.”

2012 Kia Sorento EX AWD

July 27, 2012 by Melissa

What is better than getting to drive an awesome new car for the week except maybe owning that awesome new car but I must say that I really enjoyed my week behind the wheel of the 2012 Kia Sorento EX AWD.

My commute to work one way is about 52 miles which takes about an hour with no traffic but could take as long as 1.5-2 hours depending on traffic. Having the Sorento get me through the daily traffic for an entire week was terrific. It was super comfortable to drive and had a ton of awesome features like Sirius Satellite radio, blue tooth enabled phone and navigation.

iPhone/iPad Cable

The Kia Sorento that we got to recap was a dark cherry/black color with black leather interior. To me there is nothing better than the feel and smell of new leather interior and I instantly feel in love and this was just the beginning. Sitting behind the wheel looking at all of the controls threw me into a little bit of overload since neither of our two cars have anywhere near this many features. Our Sorento had an AM/FM radio with Sirius Satellite radio, navigation, blue tooth enabled phone, backup camera and iPhone connection. That was just the entertainment features then I saw the dual heated leather seats, climate control settings and dual power seats and darn near lost my mind.

Ok, so that I don’t totally forget some of the features of the Kia Sorento that I really enjoyed I will list them for you now:

AM/FM/CD/MP3/SiriusXM Satellite Radio Audio System – What more could you ask for and I love Howard Stern so it col to have Sirius.
Infinity Surround Sound Audio System w/10 speakers – Shaun asked me on numerous occasions to turn the radio up so we could jam to Maroon 5.
Navigation System & Rear Camera Display – backup camera was a little hard to get use to because I was afraid I was still going to hit something or someone.
Push Button Start w/Smart Key – Really cool that you can start the car with the SmartKey in your pocket.
Eco Minder Indicator – Told me when I was achieving optimum fuel economy which is awesome since gas in Delaware is $3.47/gallon.
Auto-dimming Mirror w/Homelink – This is cool because cars behind you won’t blind you and I like that on the rear view mirror there are buttons that you can use to control your garage door.
Power folding outside mirrors – hit the lock button twice on the SmartKey and the vehicle locks and the mirrors fold in. TOO COOL!
8-Way Power Driver’s Seat and Lumbar Support – Seats were soooooo comfortable and with all of the different settings it seems impossible for anyone not to be comfortable while driving this vehicle.
Third Row 50/50 Split Folding Seats – Since we are a family of 5 the third row came in handy but didn’t figure out until the last day that the passenger seat in the second row folds up allowing easy access to the third row. LOL, we aren’t the smartest people in case you haven’t noticed.

These are just a few of the highlights for me but it had so many more cool little features that you probably would never even think about but make the Kia Sorento a really nice vehicle.

All in all an AWESOME vehicle and definitely a vehicle I would consider buying. The Sorento offered a really comfortable ride and I must admit I was a little sad when they picked it up.

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