Listen to Lena

Perfecting the Art of Conversuasion

Award Winners

Introducing… Thought Spots!

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Have you ever received a sweet little love note? How about an encouraging text from a good friend? Or perhaps it’s just a kind compliment from a stranger on the street. There’s no denying it – a few kind words can make you feel like a million bucks.

Now what if you could…

The creator of PTPA Award Winning Thought Spots instinctively realized that sometimes we forget to encourage, show gratitude for, or appreciate our loved ones… or simply can’t find the right words. With Thought Spots, a collection of reusable vinyl “stickers” (they adhere mess-free via static cling!), you’ll always be able to share your feelings in a playful way. The spots feature positive phrases to inspire and energize – encouraging love and laughter!

“It’s all about living with intention and keeping the good stuff in sight…and in mind! We’ve placed inspiring messages, learning concepts and growth-building thoughts on a “spot”. These “spots” are then grouped into theme based thought experiences called Thought Packs or individual thought experiences called a Big Thought. Thought Spots are made from high grade Static-Cling vinyl; you put them on your mirror or most shiny surfaces and they stick with no adhesive, which means no mess. Because they’re so easy to use (and re-use!), you can move them around and change them often so that you can keep your thoughts fresh.”

Place them on bathroom mirrors, fridges, windows, whiteboards, aluminum water bottles or any other clean, shiny surfaces and watch them get noticed!

Lynn Petruskavich, creator of Thought Spots, very kindly sent me the “Create a Smile” thought pack plus assorted Big Thoughts for review.

Such a simple concept brings so much joy! Even though my son is too young to read, he loved seeing the colourful sayings and words of inspiration pop up throughout the house. The Thought Spots were easy to peel and stick (static cling, while not so good for hair, works wonders to allow for mess-free adhesion). And I was most impressed by the fact that you truly can use these over and over again – the Thoughts all have special storage envelopes to ensure they keep their shape while not in use.

Do take some time to visit Thought Spots’ website and go through the Thoughts – you’re bound to find ones that are relevant to your present circumstances or even events on the horizon. I love that the Thought Packs speak to a variety of audiences – everyone from Teens and Tweens to Brides! And now, I’m part of The Joy Project! It is encouraged that I gift the Big Thoughts I received to other women I know who can use some inspiration or motivation. It’s all about having fun – and spreading joy!

And I just know I’ll be spreading joy with this announcement – Thought Spots is currently having a HUGE sale! Visit the online store for amazing savings on ALL Thought Packs and Big Thoughts. The sale lasts until December 19th, so make someone smile today. Thought Spots are wonderful for holiday gift giving as a stocking stuffer for kids/moms, plus it makes a fabulous teachers gift!

Could it get better? It just did! You’ll also receive a FREE THOUGHT PACK with any on-line order using coupon code SHARE (value $14). The coupon also expires on December 19th.

Oh yeah… just one more thing – WIN IT! Link on over to PTPA’s Blogaholics page to enter for your chance to win a “Mom Essentials” Thought Spots Prize Pack– featuring 1 Thought Pack for mom; 1 Thought Pack for sharing with the kids and 3 Big Thoughts as part of the Joy Project. Good luck!

The Fresh Diet: Day 1

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It’s Day 1 of The Fresh Diet!

I’ve been bouncing off the walls for the last few days waiting for my first delivery. I had even worked myself up into a tizzy, worrying that they may forget me “en route” (much like I used to fret that Santa would pass up my chimney).

So this morning, I bounded downstairs with what can only be described as joyful anticipation, et VOILA! The Fresh Diet’s trademark cooler bag was waiting for me!

LOVE that today’s menu was peeking out of a side pocket; it reinforced the fact that I was receiving chef-prepared cuisine. The bag was hinged shut with plastic tie strap, giving me confidence that no prying fingers were able to get to my food before I did.

So what’s on today’s menu?

Breakfast: Portabella Mushroom, Shallot & Parmesan Cheese Egg Bake with Fresh Papaya
Lunch: Lemon Pepper Grilled Shrimp Salad with Tomato, Romaine Lettuce, Whole Wheat Croutons & Ranch Dressing
Dinner: Grilled Chicken Breast with Roasted Yellow Pepper & Shallot Sauce with Roasted Red Beets and Cilantro Roasted Yellow Tomato
Hors d’oeuvre: Cucumber & Green Papaya Slaw with Low Fat Yogurt
Dessert: Raspberry Vanilla Pudding

Diet food? I don’t think so. I wolfed down my breakfast before it occurred to me to take a photo, but I was more patient with my lunch. Now tell me, wouldn’t you love to have this delicious grilled shrimp salad prepared for you – with the right proportions of carbs, fat and protein? The thinking (and cooking) are done for you – all that’s left is to enjoy.

You won’t be able to see it from the photo, but trust me: they don’t skimp on portion size. The salad was comparable to a packaged salad you would find in your grocery store or cold counter.

And the taste? Well, let’s rewind to breakfast – I simply could not believe that such a light, airy egg bake could also be so dense and delicious. I was seriously FULL after eating, and remained pleasantly so for about two hours, which took me to lunch time. Now I probably don’t have to say it, but the grilled shrimp salad was DIVINE.

It’s just about time for my mid afternoon snack – or hors d’oeuvre if you will – and I’m still feeling wonderfully satiated and high on the fact that I’m eating FRESH food.

Now here’s the elephant in the room – the cost. The Fresh Diet is not inexpensive. The Premium Choice plan is $1,394.69 USD for 31 days, and the Chef’s Choice is slightly less at $1,084.69 USD. But, YOU decide what your time, grocery bills, nutrition and healthy eating habits are worth. If you grab takeout a lot, on average, you can spend approximately $20-$25 each day on food that does not guarantee proper portions, convenience, balanced vitamins and minerals, nutrition, or overall quality. The Fresh Diet provides you with all of those benefits at a comparable daily rate.

I’ll be back later this week to update you on my progress – if the other 30 days are anything like today, I’d say this is one diet everyone can stick with.

p.s. Blogging a FABULOUSLY FRESH giveaway later today!

Aquatopia Deluxe Bath Time Easy Kneeler

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“Bath Time Makes a Comeback!”

At least that’s what my headline reads ever since I discovered the Aquatopia Deluxe Safety Bath Time Easy Kneeler. I know it sounds like a mouthful, but the concept is simple: save your knees, keep bath stuff where you need it, and once again have fun bathing your little one.

With comfortable padding for knees, elbows and forearms and bath-side pockets to keep bathing supplies at arms’ reach, this kneeler helps to create a safe, comfortable and practical environment for children’s bathtime, while saving you the aches and pains of kneeling on the floor beside the tub! Made with durable neoprene material, the same material used for wetsuits, the kneeler stands up against moisture and dries quickly. Anti-slip base material helps prevent slipping even on tiled floors. Kneeler attaches securely to any standard tub with large suction cups. Measures 29 1/2″ x 50 1/2″.

I was fortunate to test the product through PTPA’s Latest & Greatest Campaign, and I literally jumped up and down when I opened the box. For months, I had complained about my knees and elbows aching as I did the bath rounds with both boys, especially since Ryder loves a captive audience and insists that I hang around tubside while he splashes.

I love the super soft padding that literally wicks up moisture like nobody’s business. The non-skid base also ensures that I stay put as I reach over the bath tub, giving me peace of mind as I lather, rinse and repeat. And when bath time fun is over, it folds up neat as can be and stores out of the way. Bonus: the anti-slip mat and extra thick foam padding is detachable, making it great for all ground level chores. Whether washing baby, scrubbing floors/tiles or cleaning the oven, the kneeler protects those all-important joints while you get the job done.

The Aquatopia Deluxe Bath Time Easy Kneeler can be found in the US at Walmart, Toys R Us, Bed Bath & Beyond, etc, and can be purchased by everyone online at Amazon.com. It retails for $29.99, and if you suffer from joint pain, is worth every penny!

MD Moms: Cleansing Towelettes Travel Pack

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Every once in a while, I come across a brand or line that literally knocks my socks off. Of course, I then make it my mission to continually post about the products, because this blog wouldn’t be called “Listen to Lena!” if I didn’t try to exert a little influence from time to time :)

Such is the case with MD Moms. I first came across the line while testing their soothing bottom relief diaper rash cream and cleansing towelettes through Parent Tested Parent Approved (you know they’re Award Winners!) and was hooked. Not only are the products of the highest quality, but they’re packaged attractively and have the most glorious marine-inspired fragrance as well.

Why I trust the products:

Developed with pure, effective advanced ingredients
Gentle enough for sensitive skin but highly effective
Protect from environmental damage
Critical maintenance of skin’s natural moisture barrier
Promote bonding between parent & baby

Why I love the products:

Packaging & products thoughtfully developed
Products that do “double duty” by having a dual use
Modern aesthetics & smart design
Specially formulated so small doses provide big results

Now that the kiddies are back to school, why not consider the cleansing towelettes travel pack? They’re the same great towelettes in a convenient, on-the-go format.

These soft, luxurious cleansing and soothing towelettes are effective enough to use nose to toes, yet gentle enough to use even on irritated or sensitive skin. This alcohol-free hypoallergenic formula contains our exclusive marine silk complex to maintain the skin’s moisture barrier. Antioxidant vitamins E and B5 help protect from environmental damage and reinforce the skin’s natural defenses.

These wipes are the thickest, strongest and softest wipes you’ll ever encounter, hands down. Perfect for cleaning hands before snack time, tackling messy mouths, and with flu season around the corner, protecting the delicate skin around those tiny noses! I am thrilled that the cleansing towelettes are available in a travel pack – you’ll be sure to find them in my diaper bag.

(Actually, I’ve been using them all summer – to swipe away dirt from Ryder’s digging expeditions, to catch Baby Reid’s drool, and to freshen my own face and neck after an afternoon in the sun. I can literally find over 100 uses for this superb product. LOVE it.)

Click here for information and to purchase the MD Moms baby silk gentle all over clean cleansing towelettes travel pack.

PTPA Fall Winners Announced!

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Just in time for back to school… the PTPA Fall 2010 Winners have been announced!

PTPA’s mission is to discover and appraise new products designed for children and families. They research new products and coordinate testing with parents. Award winning products are selected based on value, functionality, quality and appeal.

This season, some of the winners include:

AirCut Home Haircutter – The Aircut handheld haircutter is lightweight, compact, and designed to last through years of use. Hair is collected right inside the unit, making cleanup a snap. The 41 MPH motor keeps even the thickest hair from making a mess.

Petunia Pickle Bottom Baby Carrier – Made from Certified Organic Cotton that is machine washable, the carrier slips on like a t-shirt and buckles simply and securely into place. Secure and versatile design allows your little co-traveler to face snugly inward, or outward with a view on the world. Exclusive fashion-print exterior and signature Petunia stitch detailing.

IdeaPaint – IdeaPaint’s innovative dry-erase paint products transform smooth surfaces into borderless, durable, dry-erase canvases.

View all the winners here.

This season, I’ve definitely got my eye on IdeaPaint –
The family needs a better place to gather than in front of the TV. IdeaPaint can turn virtually anything you can paint into a high-performance dry-erase surface, giving your family a place to interact, communicate and fully explore your creativity. No matter where you use it, it can keep your family connected. Who knows, it may even help end the battle over the remote control.

How Cool!