Gaiam Yoga Mat Review

Every Thursday, I teach a yoga/pilates class, and over the last couple months, my yoga mat has started chipping apart and chunks get all over the floor after every class. I think it is because my hair tie digs into the mat a little when I lie down. But, it is annoying and frustrating!!

There is a good end to this story, though. I received an awesome yoga mat from Gaiam, and I love it! It is a reversible, natural yoga mat that is PVC and LATEX FREE! It is made from TPE, which has none of the icky stuff like PVC, latex, or phthlates. That is really important to me!

I also love that my Eco Friendly Reversible Yoga Mat has closed cell construction, which means it is less likely to absorb germs or bacteria. And this mat doesn't clump off when I lay on my back. No more picking up little pieces of mat after class! It is really smooth and works perfectly for getting into even the trickiest yoga poses.

You know what else I love about this yoga mat? It comes with a free yoga workout video!! Who wouldn't love that? Just look for the code on your new mat.

Plus, I love supporting Gaiam. They are a market leader in producing and manufacturing eco, sustainable and wellness products for over 15 years. They work with ethical and fair trade manufacturers, and they are a super green company!! They use recycled and reused shipping boxes and biodegradeable shipping peanuts. Plus, they have a solar-powered green headquarters and Zero Waste recycling/compost program. Love that!!!

I really recommend this mat to everyone! It is so much more worth it to buy a high quality, very reasonably priced mat from Gaiam. Otherwise, you will find yourself replacing your other mat over and over again and spending way more money.

You will definitely want to add a Gaiam yoga mat to your Christmas list this year!

Cradle Rock CDs Review and Giveaway

Here is a unique idea for a Christmas gift, for yourself or your children, or as a baby shower gift - Cradle Rock Music! The Cradle Rock lullabies are unlike anything that I have ever seen out there! Cradle Rock takes contemporary artists and their popular songs and turns them into lullabies. Steve Jones, the CEO of Brash Music says, “Each project is produced with child and parent in mind, so the melodic structure and tempo of each song stays true to the original.”


I received the Michael Jackson Pop CD, "Thrillaby", Kenny Chesney Country CD, "No Shoes, No Diaper...Might Be a Problem" and the Johnny Cash Country CD, "I Crawl The Line." Aren't those CD names funny? I thought so. Each CD has some of your favorite songs from that artist. My favorite CD was the Michael Jackson, "Thrillaby" CD. It has such fun songs like "Thriller," "P.Y.T." and "Beat It."


All the fun songs you love are put to softer lullaby-like music without words, so it is quite relaxing and soothing. I think these CD's are the perfect thing to pop in the car when you are driving with your little one and you are sick to death of the regular kid's music that keeps playing over and over in your head.

You can check out the songs on each of these CDs and even listen to some of the songs right on the website.


I am really excited about some of the new additions that will be soon be added to the Cradle Rock Lullaby line. How does Black Eyed-Peas, Carrie Underwood, Nickelback, and The Eagles sound? I am especially excited for Black Eyed-Peas and Carrie Underwood!! Can't wait!


In the meantime, how does winning a Cradle Rock CD of your choice sound? That's right, one of my lucky readers is going to win their favorite Cradle Rock CD!!

Here is how to enter this awesome giveaway:

Just fulfill the mandatory entry and then add as many extra entries as you choose.

Mandatory Entry:

Become a public follower of this blog, Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it.

For more entries:

Head over to Cradle Rock's website and tell me which CD is your favorite.(1 entry)

Subscribe to Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it. (1 entry)

Vote for Your World: Healthy and Natural on Top Mommy Blogs or We're on the Fence. (1 entry per vote)

Blog about this giveaway and link back to this post.(3 entries)

Follow @carathenatural on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway.(1 entry)

Like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(1 entry)

Comment on any of my posts about healthy and natural living that you have not commented on before. I love to hear your thoughts!! (1 entry)

The deadline for this giveaway is December 11th at 11:59 pm EST, at which time a winner will be randomely chosen. The giveaway is open to US and Canada. Make sure that you include your email in your comments because if I can't get a hold of you, you can't win!

"This post was written for Family Review Network & Cradle Rock who provided the complimentary product for review and giveaway in exchange for my honest opinions."

BeFit-Mom Review

I am due to have my little girl in 4 days, and boy, oh boy, am I ready!

I am ready to lose my big belly, and all the craziness that comes with pregancy. But, I keep reminding myself that my body is going to need a lot of recovery after giving birth. I am very involved in fitness and health, since I am a fitness instructor and personal trainer, so I was really interested to learn more about what toll labor and delivery takes on a woman's body and how we can recover from it.

I learned so much from the "BeFit-Mom program." It includes an award winning DVD "Bounce Back Fast! Post Natal Core Conditioning", book called "Exercise After Pregnancy: How to Look and Feel Your Best," and a relaxing CD for your little one, "Tender Lullabies." The founder of this program, Helene Byrne, is an exercise perinatal specialist and has over 20 years in the fitness industry.

What is so unique about this system is that it works to rebuild the abdominal wall from the inside out, closing abdominal separation (diastasis recti), and restores functional core strength and stability. Her program also works great for the dreaded "still pregnant looking" belly pooch that far too many moms are left with after having kids.

Her book, "Exercise After Pregnancy: How to Look and Feel Your Best," offers a lot of great information for reconditioning after pregnancy. It also shows a 3-step program that is easy to follow and helps a new mom in all the areas she may need to strengthen. The first workout can be started a few days after giving birth to speed healing, relieve pain and start firming. The second workout offers a series of exercises to strengthen the ab muscles and core strength. The third workout is a little more challenging to start building strength all over. She uses pilates/yoga type moves and has good pictures to show exactly what you should do in each workout. This book is really informational, as well as functional, to help all new mothers get their strength and confidence back. I like that it is great for all fitness levels, helps every area of the core, and you can do the moves anytime you want, because it doesn't require a DVD player or any equipment!

The DVD, "Bounce Back Fast! Post Natal Core Conditioning" features two workouts that get progressively harder. It also has great explanations for you to watch before you begin the workout. The first workout can be started just days after birth. The second workout builds off the first one and is a little more challenging. There is also a special second workout for those women with abdominal separation. The moves in this DVD are well thought out, slow paced, and really cover the areas new moms need help with most. I am not used to doing such a slow paced workout without cardio, but it is relaxing and full of great moves. I especially like that it is short enough (30 minutes for the 1st workout, 35 minutes for the 2nd workout) to do while your baby is napping, and the only equipment you need is an exercise band that is already included. Perfect for busy, tired moms!

The CD, "Tender Lullabies: Soothing Classic Piano Melodies" is just lovely and so relaxing. It has 11 tracks that are played at the resting heart rate tempo of 60 bpm, which helps our little ones heart rates slow and helps them relax and fall asleep. Put this CD in before naptime or bedtime, let them fall asleep, and then you can get your workout in! This CD is also great for calming you down when you feel at the end of your rope.

Each of the products in the BeFit-Mom set are really high quality, useful products that I recommend to new moms! When you head on over to the BeFit-Mom website, check out all the other great information Helene offers. I guarantee you will learn a lot!!

You can buy any or all these great products on the BeFit-Mom website. Also, make sure to check out my free total body prenatal workout!

Get Rid Of The MSG In Your Food

Have you heard of Glutamates or MSG? Well, they are flavor enhancers snuck into our food by processed food companies. We're talking everything from canned soups to canned tuna to ice cream to ranch dressing...not to mention snack foods are full of them!

What is the big problem with glutamates? Well, high levels of unnatural glutamates can mess with your brain chemistry. They are a form of excitotoxin, which have been shown to screw up the nervous system. They can also damage your leptin receptors. This all can lead to obesity and endocrine problems. Sound icky? It is!

These food companies want you to love their food, so you'll keep buying more and more, but you have the power to choose what you want to nourish your body, so stick to natural flavorful ingredients such as: parmesan cheese, fermented foods, garlic, onions, and so on.

Here is something tricky to watch out for in your processed food - hidden code words in the ingredient labels that most likely indicate glutamates:

• autolyzed yeast
• calcium caseinate
• gelatin
• glutamic acid
• hydrolyzed corn gluten
• monopotassium glutamate
• monosodium glutamate
• natrium glutamate
• sodium caseinate
• textured protein
• yeast extract

Write these down and watch out for them the next time you are grocery shopping or just opt for organic versions so you know you will be safe!

To Your Health!!

Cara

Bootyful Baby Boutique Diaper Review and Giveaway

You all know how much I love using cloth diapers instead of disposable. I can't say enough good things about how much better it is for your baby, the environment and your bank account.

I recently found a lovely company that I can't get enough of - Bootyful Baby Boutique! Why do I love this cloth diaper company so much? Well, first of all, the owner, Ashley, is a mom just like so many of us working hard at her own business, passionate as ever, and she is even pretty local to me in Michigan. She understands the importance of doing what we can to help keep our earth healthy as well as keeping our family's safe from dangerous toxins.

As Ashley tells her story, I can completely relate. When I decided to go full force into cloth diapering with my first child, my family and friends thought I was really crazy too. She stuck to her guns though, and her ambition to create a diaper she thought was absolutely awesome led her to her own cloth diaper company - Bootyful Baby Boutique. Go Ashley!!

I received two of her awesome diapers - the AI2 and the new Hemp/Organic Contour diaper.

The Contour Diaper is a perfectly sized diaper that combines the best features of their Fitted diaper and Prefold diapers. What I love best about this diaper is that the whole thing is made from the safest of materials - Hemp and Organic Cotton. Yay!! It has a soft elastic around the legs and waist to help keep all messes in, and it has six layers through the wet zone, so no leaks! This diaper is not waterproof, so you need a diaper cover. You can find a diaper cover on her site too. I love how you can take the insert out when washing, so it will wash well and dry quicker.

The All in 2 (AI2) diaper is awesome too! This diaper doesn't need a diaper cover, because it has a layer of waterproof PUL on the outside. The inside is microfleece, and then you can get an absorbent insert of hemp/organic cotton, like I did. I just love this part of the diaper, because if your little one doesn't soak all the way through the insert, you can save the AI2 to use again and just wash the insert. How awesome is that?? My son usually soaks through his normal cloth diapers at night, but he only soaked through this AI2 insert a little bit, which I was very relieved about. Finally, a diaper that kept his pajamas dry!

The AI2 comes in lots of bright colors like plum, dark chocolate, baby blue, butter, white, and grass green and five sizes: newborn, small, medium, medium-long, and large.


No matter if you are a newbie to cloth diapering or a self-proclaimed expert, I think you will love Bootyful Baby Boutique. They offer great choices for any of your diapering needs. I have been so happy with their diapers!!
You can order any of their products on their website, and one of you lucky ducks is about to win one of their great AI2 diapers!! Hooray!
Here is how to enter this awesome giveaway:
Just fulfill the mandatory entry and then add as many extra entries as you choose.

Mandatory Entry:

Become a public follower of this blog, Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it.

For more entries:
Head over to Bootyful Baby Boutique and tell me something new you learned about any of their products.(1 entry)
Subscribe to Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it. (1 entry)

Vote for Your World: Healthy and Natural on Top Mommy Blogs or We're on the Fence. (1 entry per vote)

Blog about this giveaway and link back to this post.(3 entries)
Follow @carathenatural on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway.(1 entry)
Like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(1 entry)
Like Bootyful Baby Boutique on Facebook.(1 entry)
Comment on any of my posts about healthy and natural living that you have not commented on before. I love to hear your thoughts!! (1 entry)

The deadline for this giveaway is December 12th at 11:59 pm EST, at which time a winner will be randomely chosen. Make sure that you include your email in your comments because if I can't get a hold of you, you can't win!

* Thank you to Bootyful Baby Boutique for this product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review through Bootyfu Baby Boutique for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

"Beating The Marriage Odds" Book Review

I think it is so sad that the statistic for staying together forever in marriage is only 50%. For second marriages, it is even worse - 25%!! Jeepers, what can be done about that? Well, the first thing I can recommend for those of you who are thinking about getting married, are engaged, or are already married is to read this awesome book, "Beating the Marriage Odds."



This book is written by William Campbell. He says, "My wife Phyllis and I have a passion to help couples in troubled marriages and to assist those who are about to marry. You can avoid many of the common pitfalls that cause couples to stumble, and we are here to show you how."

William Campbell is a practicing pastor, and graduate of Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, with a Masters Degree and a Certificate in Christian Counseling from the American Association of Christian Counselors.

I personally have been married for 5 years, my husband is a pastor, and we struggle every day to keep our marriage strong. This book has helped us grow again in our relationship. I have been worried that adding another baby into our family is only going to create more tension and distance in our relationship, so I have really appreciated focusing on our marriage again and working to make it stronger. I know many of you can relate. It appears that so many people have the perfect relationship, but we all struggle. Marriage takes work every day. I have found "Beating the Marriage Odds" to be extremely helpful for both my hubby and I.

The book has such awesome principles for creating a good foundation for marriage, tips for keeping the relationship strong, and help with avoiding common pitfalls. It has chapters on finances, mind games, communication, fighting fair, trust and so much more. One of my favorite chapters is the one on communication, which is actually the leading cause of marital breakdowns. My husband and I are complete opposites, and we are constantly screwing up our communication. This chapter had SO MANY helpful thoughts and suggestions. (Now if I could only follow them...)

The book is easy to read, not preachy, and I highly recommend it to all of you who are engaged or married. I think that with how hard marriage is, we all could use a little refresher to work to make our relationships stronger. Just a few minutes a day of reading this with your significant other could make a HUGE difference in your lives!

You can buy this book online, at Barnes and Noble, Amazon.com, or Booktopia.

* Disclosure - This product was given for review for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Eco Nuts Review and Giveaway

You are not even going to believe this company and their products. I am so glad that I have been introduced to Eco Nuts, because they are one of a kind in my book! This company makes an amazingly safe, nontoxic, and natural laundry cleaner called Eco Nuts, that are actually dried fruit shells that come from the Sapindus mukorossi tree in Nepal, India and Indonesia. The ones they harvest come from high up in the Himalayas and are the highest quality "soap nut" on the market.How do Eco Nuts work?

Well, they contain saponin, a natural cleaner that works as a surfactant, breaking the surface tension of the water to penetrate the fibers of your clothing, lifting stains from the fabric and leaving dirt suspended in the water that is rinsed away.

This is what I love - Eco Nuts are gentle on both clothes and skin, making them ideal for those with sensitive skin, eczema, allergies and psoriasis. Because they are so mild, they are perfect for baby clothes and cloth diapers. The antimicrobial properties of Eco Nuts also make them great for septic and grey water systems. Here are even more benefits:

• Biodegradable


• Antimicrobial


• Hypoallergenic


• Nut Allergy Safe!


• 100% Natural and Free From Manmade Chemicals


• Sustainable


• Fragrance Free


• Reusable


• Vegan Friendly, Vegan Approved

I love, love, love Eco Nuts!! They work in all washing machines with any temperature of water. All you have to do is put 4-5 Eco Nuts in the the little reusable wash bag that is provided, tie it closed, and throw it in the laundry and wash as you normally would. At the end of the wash, remove the bag, let it dry and you can use that same bag at least 5-7 times in hot water and up to 10 times in cold water. Then, they can be composted!! How awesome is that!?
After doing a load of laundry with Eco Nuts, my clothes came out of my dryer very fluffy and soft, even without a dryer sheet. They didn't have any smell, and they were very clean. These come in trial, regular and large sizes. You can also find other Eco Nuts laundry products to order with them, if you would like.
Now, besides the totally awesome laundry Eco Nuts, they also offer spa products that are fabulous! I received the Green Tea and Dead Sea Salt Scrub, which is a great exfoliating salt scrub that utilizes dead sea salt and antioxidant-rich green tea. I know I need to exfoliate my skin more, but I just don't. Now, that I have been using this scrub, I love the difference I see in my skin. It is so soft and smooth. Besides making skin feel luxurious, exfoliating helps the lymphatic system work at its best.

And check out this short ingredient list: apricot oil, grape seed oil, dead sea salt, green tea leaves, vitamin E and a paraben free preservative. I always say, the shorter the ingredient list, the better! And these are words that you can pronounce and know. That is great too! Check out all of their scrubs here, including Chocolate Sugar Scrub. Doesn't that sound good?
I can't decide which of their products I like best, so I am recommending you head on over to the Eco Nuts website, check it all out, and pick your favorites!
One of you lucky ducks is going to win a medium sized box of Eco Nuts!!! That is up to 90 loads of laundry! Wahoo!
Here is how to enter this awesome giveaway:
Just fulfill the mandatory entry and then add as many extra entries as you choose.

Mandatory Entry:

Become a public follower of this blog, Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it.

For more entries:
Head over to Eco Nuts and tell me something new you learned about any of their products.(1 entry)
Subscribe to Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it. (1 entry)

Vote for Your World: Healthy and Natural on Top Mommy Blogs or We're on the Fence. (1 entry per vote)

Blog about this giveaway and link back to this post.(3 entries)
Follow EcoNuts on Twitter. (1 entry)
Follow @carathenatural on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway.(1 entry)
Like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(1 entry)
Comment on any of my posts about healthy and natural living that you have not commented on before. I love to hear your thoughts!! (1 entry)

The deadline for this giveaway is December 8th at 11:59 pm EST, at which time a winner will be randomely chosen. This giveaway is for US residents only. Make sure that you include your email in your comments because if I can't get a hold of you, you can't win!

* Thank you to Eco Nuts for this product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review through Eco Nuts for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Winner!

I have the winner of the Lightcatcher curtains!!!

It is #9 - Ape 2016!!

Congratulations!! What an exciting way to start off your Thanksgiving vacation!!

Organic Baby Products on Sale!!

Check out this major sale going on with Shaklee's awesome baby wash and massage oil.

BUY 1 SHAKLEEBABY GENTLE WASH AND GET 1 SHAKLEEBABY MASSAGE OIL FOR ONLY $5!!!

You end up saving $11.40, which is awesome! But, this offer only lasts until December 18th, so hurry! Use this code to order this great deal - #89199. Let me know if you have any questions or need help ordering.

Here are the reasons that I love and use the ShakleeBaby line with my son.

It is the perfect combo for baby's and toddler's tender skin.

•Shakleebaby Gentle Wash is naturally formulated and made with 76% organic ingredients to get your baby pip-squeaky clean from head to toe; pH balanced and hypoallergenic.

•Shakleebaby Massage Oil contains 99% organic ingredients—including lavender and chamomile. Helpssoothe and moisturize. Plus, studies show massages help improve digestion and sleep patterns in babies.

More reasons to love Shakleebaby personal care products:

•76%-99% organic ingredients

•99% natural

•Clinically tested

•No phthalates, parabens, sodium lauryl sulfate, or formaldehyde—chemicals that can easily be absorbed into ababy's skin, which is five times thinner than an adult's.

Oneida Dinnerware Review

Thanksgiving is in two days!! Yay! I am very excited! I love the day off, thinking about all the things we are thankful for, and spending time with ones you love. This year, we are just having a small family dinner, because I am due in a little over a week, so we can't travel to visit any family.

But, I am still excited, nonetheless. One of the reasons I am so excited is because I have this beautiful new set of Oneida dinnerware to use on this special day! You have heard of Oneida, right? If you haven't here is a little insight into this high-quality flatware and dinnerware company.

Oneida is one of the world’s largest marketers of stainless steel and silver plated flatware for both the consumer and foodservice industries. It is also the largest supplier of dinnerware to the foodservice industry in North America. Oneida makes beautiful flatware products, dinnerware, serveware, crystal and glassware. The company originated in the mid-nineteenth century and has since grown into one of the most recognized brands in the world. Driven by devotion to design, Oneida prides itself on the finest quality products for its modern, decorative and classic tableware collections.

I have never owned any Oneida products until now. I received their Sunset Round 16 piece service dinnerware set. This Sunset 16 Piece Service for 4 is absolutely lovely for entertaining, even if it is just my small family for Thanksgiving. A coupe shape gives this set a classic flair, while the dazzling red shine on the face of this pattern is modern and striking. See what I mean below... The set includes 4 Each: Dinner Plates, Salad Plates, Bowls, and Mugs. It is made of highly durable stoneware, and it is dishwasher and microwave safe.The reactive glaze technique gives each piece the look of handmade pottery, which I just love!!!!

I love that it is cozy and comfy enough to use every day, but it is also stylish enough to use for entertaining.

I especially love the nice big bowls that are perfect for big bowls of chili or soup on these cold winter nights. They hold the warmth of the soup nicely, so I like to wrap my hands around the sides and just take in the smells of yummy home-cooked soups.

I also love the tall, beautiful mugs. They feel very stylish, and they work so well with hot liquids. I am drinking all my pregnancy teas every day, and these are perfect to keep them warm until I am done sipping, while keeping my hands warm also.

I know that on Thanksgiving this year, we will be using this Oneida set, and I am sure thankful for that!

Now, did you know that Oneida is more than just flatware and dinnerware? Oneida has something for everyone on your holiday shopping list, including Multicookers, Wine Coolers, Cupcake Carriers and more! In addition, Oneida also has fantastic baby/toddler dinnerware & flatware sets, baby/toddler cups and more! They have the cutest apron sets and toddler cups!

I would highly recommend suggesting your spouse or other family take a little hint, hint and get you some Oneida products for Christmas. Then again, it would definitely be a great place to shop for all the people on your own list! If you want timeless, useful gifts, Oneida is a great place to shop.

* Thank you to Oneida for this product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review through Oneida for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Winners!!

We have some awesome giveaway prizes that are going out today!!!

The Zutano $75 Giveaway is going to #71 - Tiffany!!! Congrats! What an awesome prize!!

The Wild Dill $25 Giveaway is going to #47 - Knocked Up and Nursing!!! Congrats to you too!! I just love Wild Dill!

We have more low entry giveaways ending this week!! Check them out!

Christmas Gift Idea...

So, I know the toll it takes on our brains when we are trying to come up with all the perfect Christmas presents for everyone on our list. The other day when I was cruising around CSN I came upon their kids backpacks. I thought - genius gift idea! These aren't exactly your typical backpacks. They have a million varieties, and they are each so cute and unique to fit each child on your Christmas list's personality. For instance, check out this cute elephant backpack. It looks so soft and huggable, and the cute elephant comes out to be a child's new fav stuffed animal. This one would be perfect for my little sister who has a major thing for elephants.

Or check out this cute little girl's backpack that would be perfect for hauling toys and extra clothes to grandma's for a visit!
I just love the fact that with the one idea of backpacks, I can get a bunch of different varieties and fit them to the different personalities and wants of the kids on my Christmas list. I hope this has helped you brainstorm a bit about Christmas ideas. Don't stress about it too much. That takes all the fun out of giving...

Relax, and enjoy finding fun and unique gifts!

P'lovers Bamboo Crib Sheets Review

So, I am wishing I lived in Texas right about now. Not just because of the warmer weather and sunshine, but because I have just been introduced to this awesome environmental store that is located in San Antonio - P'lovers! Good news for all of us who don't live in Texas - we can still order online and support this awesome store!

You may be wondering what is behind the unique name, P'lovers. Let me explain. It stands for both Planet Lovers and Piping Plovers, which are small Nova Scotian birds that are an endangered species. (P'lovers originated in Canada, hence the care about Nova Scotian birds) What it all really breaks down to is that P'lovers is a store with a wonderful selection of products with you and the earth in mind.


They sell tons of great recycled, reused, natural, organic, nontoxic, and health products! P'lovers was created to help people live more sensitively with the earth. They believe the actions of each and every one of us can positively affect the quality of the world in which we live. By modifying our lifestyles, using our purchasing power to reflect our values, and supporting activities which respect and protect the diversity of life, we can all make a difference! Yes, we can!!!!



I received a bamboo crib sheet and bamboo washcloths from this fabulous store. Let me just start off by saying that these are the softest washcloths I have ever felt, even after washing them several times!! They are luxurious, not to mention that they are very eco-friendly! My son usually hates having his face washed with washcloths, but these he does not mind. He knows that when I tell him he can use the bamboo washcloths, he will be getting his favorite!



The Bamboo crib sheet is also very silky and smooth. It is naturally antibacterial, making it healthier to use. Because it is warmer in winter and cooler in summer, you can feel great knowing your baby is comfortable. Also, like I said earlier, bamboo is very earth friendly: being pesticide free, using low water to grow, and it is a renewable resource. Gotta love that!



Another thing I love about P'lovers is that they offer "green baby registry" services for the new baby! The owner, Laura, is also a "Green Irene" who can come to your home and map out a plan to be more green, safer, and environmentally sensitive home for baby! How cool is that? Plus, I love that when anyone registers baby gifts selections at P'lovers, they get these cute little cards to include with the invitations that offer the purchaser 10% off the registered gift. Where else can you get that on products that are really great for your baby and the environment? I told you this store was awesome!!!!



So, go check out P'lovers and their huge selection of over 1000 stocked items including: men, women, kids and babies, books and toys, air filters, home, body, and more!! These would make fabulous Christmas presents, baby shower gifts, or just thoughtful gifts for those you truly care about!



You can also find them and like them on Facebook. Check out more of their beautiful products listed there!

Minimize Toxins In Your Food

There are so many ways to get toxins in our foods, and there are so many foods with tons of dangerous endocrine disrupting toxins in them. So how do we avoid them? I understand not everyone is going to go all organic all the time, so here is a list to help get you started:

1. Don't eat nonorganic full-fat animal products including: meat, dairy, eggs.
2. Remove visible fat and skin from from any chicken, meat or fish.
3. Peel skins to eliminate pesticide residue from veggies and fruits.
4. Remove the outer layers of cabbage and lettuce and throw them away.
5. Chop off the tops of fruits such as apples, pears, etc. to avoid pesticides that might drain into the stem area.
6. Wash reusable plastic drinking bottles by hand, never in the dishwasher. If they get cracked or cloudy, recycle them and get a stainless steel bottle instead.
7. Avoid overprocessed meat products made from junk, such as hot dogs, bologna, and sausage.
8. Wash fruits and veggies with nontoxic natural dish soap that doesn't contain scents or phosphates. My fav is Shaklee Get Clean Dish Wash Concentrate.
9. Don't store food in plastic or styrofoam containers. Throw them out and replace them with glass ones.
10. Stay away from cans as much as possible by eating seasonal produce.
11. Buy canned foods ONLY from Eden Foods because they don't use BPA in their organic bean cans.
12. Don't use plastic wrap; if you must, choose BPA-free Saran.
13. Never microwave with plastic wrap or other plastic containers. Try to just minimize or eliminate microwaving period.
14. Don't buy boil-in-a-bag or microwave-in-a-bag veggies or rice.
15. Use glass baby bottles.

Try to use one or two of these tips every week, and you are on your way to eliminating many dangerous toxins out of your food and life!

To Your Health!!

Cara

Winners!!

We have two giveaway winners today.

The first one is for Warmly Yours. This is so funny, because I have never had this number come up yet on Random.org, but it did today!

The winner of the Warmly Yours Under Desk Heater is......

#1 - Leslie R.

Major Congrats, Leslie! I should try to get at least a warm slipper giveaway for the rest of you, because I don't want any cold feet while you are reading my blog! I will work on that one... :-)

Our second giveaway is for the Handmade Thai Bracelet from World Vision.

The winner is.....

#44 - Marija

Congrats, Marija! I hope everyone will continue to support World Vision, and think about helping those in need when we are blessed with so much!

Mamascarf Review

I am planning on breastfeeding my little bundle of joy when she comes out, as I did with my last child. However, last time I remember my son wiggling around and fooling around all the time. There were so many times when I was trying to discreetly breastfeed, and my son would have none of it!

I am so excited about Mamascarf, because the cute scarves they make are definitely going to help with this problem. Mamascarf is a is an award winning breastfeeding scarf that not only allows mothers to breastfeed stylishly and discreetly but also provides essential support without the need for a cushion. Part of the reason I think this is such an awesome breastfeeding problem solver is that it was developed by a fellow mom who was dealing with her own breastfeeding struggles with privacy.



I will let the founder, Keira, tell you her story. "I came up with the idea for a breastfeeding scarf whilst I was feeding my baby in a coffee shop. I was getting disapproving stares from the people at the neighbouring table and I felt extremely uncomfortable. I had attempted to cover up with a scarf that kept slipping off or was pulled off by my wriggling baby. In addition to this, my arm was aching as I didn’t have the support of the cushions I would have used at home. It was then that I started to think about designing something that would solve all of these problems providing cover, discretion, some additional support and even somewhere to hide your breastpad!"



How many of us breastfeeding mommas have felt the exact same way? I think this is just a genius scarf that is so useful!! Let me tell you some of my favorite things about Mamascarf:

• The Mamascarf can be worn with your outfit or folded away in your diaper bag or purse.


• It comes with a hidden pocket in the bottom corner to store your breastpad. How cool is that??


• It hides your post pregnancy tummy.


• 100% cotton and you can easily wash it in your washing machine.


• One size fits all.


• You can still see your baby and maintain eye contact, which is so important for bonding!


• There are cute little designs on each scarf, so you feel stylish instead of frumpy.


• One of my favs is that it offers some support to holding your baby, so you don't develop bad posture and an achy back. Yay!

These scarves come in a variety of colors, so you never have to worry about matching your outfit!

You may be wondering how actually use this scarf. Well, there are directions on the back of each box that show you and explain to you how to use the scarf. I caught on pretty quickly, even with a dash of pregnancy brain. Plus, you can also watch a little video about how to use the Mamascarf here if you are more of a visual learner.

I just love the Mamascarf, and I highly recommend it to all breastfeeding moms!! You can order your own or one for a pregnant mom you know right here on their website.

Also, visit Mamascarf on Facebook and like their page. Let's show our support for an awesome mom and her awesome product! You can also find the demonstration video on their facebook page too.

Mama Wants Her Body Back Review and Giveaway

Alright, ladies, listen up! I have another opportunity for you all to get back in the shape you want to be in.

You know that I am a fitness instructor, personal trainer, and nutrition consultant, AND about to have my second baby. I know that your body changes after having a baby, but that doesn't mean you can't get back into shape and have a healthy fit body. That is why I want to share with you a really great workout program that I think you will love: Mama Wants Her Body Back.

Now, just because you haven't just had a baby or aren't about to have a baby, doesn't mean you shouldn't be interested in this. A lot of moms hold onto some or all of the weight they gain during pregnancy for years and years. It doesn't matter why you have the extra weight, all that matters is that you are doing something about it!

The creator of this program, Lisa Druxman, has been in the fitness industry for over 20 years. Over the last decade Lisa's one and only focus has been working with moms to help them get fit and lose weight. Lisa says, "When my son was born, I blended my passion for fitness with motherhood and started a program called Stroller Strides, a program specifically designed for moms. Since then, my programs have reached hundreds of thousands of moms and we've gotten them in the best shape of their lives. I learned how to get the best results for a mom's body and I've put these incredible principals together to create Mama Wants Her Body Back."

The Mama Wants Her Body Back program includes three 20-minute total body workouts and a bonus DVD of three 10-minute abs workouts. To further help you practice a healthier lifestyle, a program guide and food journal are also included.

Included in each 20-minute workout are a warmup and cooldown and 5 sets, each containing cardio, strength, and core work.

Here are my thoughts on her workouts:

Pros:

• There is little equipment needed. All you need is a band, which was included in my package.


• I liked that there were bars along the bottom of the screen that show you where you are in the workout.


• There is also a timer to show you the last 20 seconds of a particular exercise. Love that!


• There are modifications for you to follow if you want to make it harder or easier.


• Lisa is encouraging and professional throughout the workout.


• I thought the moves were effective and efficient, which is most important!


• I LOVED the food journal that was included in my package. Lisa understands the importance of organic and natural food, and her recipes are really great too!

Cons:

• Jeepers, I don't really have any cons. I do like to really push myself and my clients, so maybe I would suggest there are more challenging exercises.

Overall, I would definitely recommend this to any woman who is working to get back into shape and live a healthier life. Lisa knows what she is talking about and has created a great program that will help you with your all-around health.

You can read more about and order any of the Mama Wants...DVD's on her website.

We are giving away one of the Mama Wants Her Body Back DVD's to one of my fabulous readers!! Yay!

Here is how to enter this giveaway:

Just fulfill the mandatory entry and then add as many extra entries as you choose.

Mandatory Entry:

Become a public follower of this blog, Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it.

For more entries:

Head over to Mama Wants Her Body Back and tell me which is your favorite DVD.(1 entry)

Subscribe to Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it. (1 entry)

Vote for Your World: Healthy and Natural on Top Mommy Blogs or We're on the Fence. (1 entry per vote)

Blog about this giveaway and link back to this post.(3 entries)

Refer a friend to become a follower of this blog, Your World: Healthy and Natural. (1 entry for your friend and one entry for you)

Follow @carathenatural on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway.(1 entry)

Like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(1 entry)

Comment on any of my posts about healthy and natural living that you have never commented on before. I love to hear your thoughts!! (1 entry)

The deadline for this giveaway is December 4th at 11:59 pm EST, at which time a winner will be randomely chosen. This giveaway is only open to US residents. Make sure that you include your email in your comments because if I can't get a hold of you, you can't win!

This post was written for Family Review Network & Savvier who provided the complimentary product for review & giveaway in exchange for my honest opinions.

38 Weeks!!

Yes, I am 38 weeks! My baby girl is full term, and I think I am ready for her to come out and join our family! I have been feeling quite emotional and up and down lately - I am sure due to hormone craziness. Here is the latest pic, and hopefully the next picture I put up will have me back in my pre-baby shape!

Winner!

Hello Everyone!!

We have a winner of the Bella Lume giveaway. It is....

#31 - Eve!! Congratulations! Enjoy the luxurious scents of Bella Lume!

Getting ready for Thanksgiving and the holidays? Don't forget to burn off all those extra calories you are taking in. I have some giveaways coming up that will help! Look for:

• Momma Wants Her Body Back DVD
• BeFit - Mom

Have a great Thursday!

My Family Christmas Book and Memories Review

Christmas is in 37 Days!!! Can you believe it? As we all get ready for Christmas, I want to share a lovely book that can help you remember what Christmas is all about and capture all your Christmas memories this year and in the years to come!

My Family Christmas Book and Memories is a book on Advent and Christmas traditions, readings, family prayers, and activities to have a Christ centered Christmas. It includes beautiful Christmas carols, favorite Christmas recipes, a Christmas planner and a section to record the most memorable moments of your Christmas celebration. It will help you form your own family traditions and will strengthen your family ties.

This book is written by three sisters, the Vela sisters, who were inspired to write this book because of the Christmas book their grandmother wrote to their family more than 30 years ago. What a neat idea!!

Now, all of us can have this easy-to-use Christmas book to help us stay focused during the busy Advent and Christmas seasons and make this time even more special for our own families.

The book is divided into 9 sections: Living a Christ Centered Christmas, Advent, Christmas Readings and Prayers, Christmas Songs and Carols, Christmas Crafts Ideas for Children, Favorite Christmas Recipes, Christmas Planning, Christmas Memories, and the New Year.

Each of these sections is easy to find and access, because this is a big three ring binder book that marks these sections with tabs that stick out, so that you don't have to page around to find what you are looking for. The book is definitely very organized and well put together.

While I really like the Favorite Christmas Recipes section, I think my two favorite sections are the Christmas Planning and Christmas Memories sections.

The Christmas Planning section has everything to help you stay organized and help you plan for a smooth sailing Christmas. There is a couple pages of activities or traditions that you want to remember to try next year, a page for decor that needs replacing, calendars for planning, Christmas card lists, and even "presents to buy" lists. It is so helpful!!

The Christmas Memories section has a couple pages to record your traditions, and it has a really neat Christmas journal, where you can record anything you want to remember for years of Christmas celebrations, including a place for pictures.

I think the best part of this book is that you have everything in one book. You don't have to go searching for recipes, flipping through books of Christmas songs and craft books, or try to remember all the lists of things you want or have to do. You can keep it all together in a very organized and helpful book! It is also a very durable book, so it will last for years and years.

I think this would be a perfect Christmas gift to give to yourself a little early, or you could also give it to someone else you love to help make their Christmas a little more meaningful and easy to handle. You can order this book through PayPal or Amazon.com for only $23.90.

This post was written for Family Review Network & My Family Christmas Book & Memories who provided the complimentary product for review in exchange for my honest opinions.

Stay-Dry Bath Apron and Towel Review and Giveaway

Once in awhile I find these amazing inventions that are just so genius, I am in awe of the person who thought it up. This is definitely one of those times.

Have you ever been trying to get your baby or toddler out of the bathtub, and you are trying to hold the towel and grab your child at the same time? If you are like me, I become extremely frustrated and scared that my slippery baby is going to fall out of my arms if I try to hold on to the towel. I end up dropping the towel and having my cold baby cry while I try to lay out the towel on the floor and wrap him up. Ughhh!

Well, that problem is solved, because one genius mother/daughter duo developed the Stay-Dry Apron and Towel. They developed the Stay-dry after the daughter had her 2nd baby to solve the safety and getting soaked issues mentioned above.

So, how does the Stay-Dry Apron and Towel work? Worn by mom (or dad - not meaning to be gender-specific), it enables her to swiftly scoop baby from the bath to her chest as she brings the long bath apron up and over wet baby -without having to awkwardly struggle with loose towels. Held inside the towel/apron on the way to and from the tub, baby continues to be warmly and securely wrapped. As the Stay-dry is released from mom at baby's changing area, it continues to completely cover baby front to back. One-size-fits-all by attaching at the neck with an adjustable Velcro® fastener and ties at the back. It includes an accessories pocket and comes with a fitted wash mitt that stays in place on the hand with its elastic wristband. Sounds genius, right??

All I can say is "Thank You, Ladies" for helping make bathtime less stressful and more safe! I love the soft cotton terry material, and it was very easy to use! It is nice and big, so that I can even snuggle my 2 year old in it after his bath. Now, that I am going to have two little ones, I can't imagine doing bathtime the old way. This apron and towel is a must!!

They come in three cute colors as the picture shows above, and you can buy them for only $19.99 at several online stores such as: Target.com, Amazon.com, BedBathandBeyond.com, and BuyBuyBaby.com. These would also make perfect baby shower gifts!!

One of you is going to get a chance to win your very own Stay-Dry Bath Apron and Towel right here!! Lucky ducky!!

Here is how to enter:

Just fulfill the mandatory entry and then add as many extra entries as you choose.

Mandatory Entry:

Become a public follower of this blog, Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it.

For more entries:

Head over to the Stay-Dry website and tell me something new you learned or particularly love about the Stay-Dry Bath Apron and Towel.(1 entry)

Subscribe to Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it. (1 entry)

Vote for Your World: Healthy and Natural on Top Mommy Blogs or We're on the Fence. (1 entry per vote)

Blog about this giveaway and link back to this post.(3 entries)

Follow @carathenatural on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway.(1 entry)

Like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(1 entry)

Refer a friend to like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(1 entry per referral)

Comment on any of my posts about healthy and natural living that you have never commented on before. I love to hear your thoughts!! (1 entry)

The deadline for this giveaway is November 30th at 11:59 pm EST, at which time a winner will be randomely chosen. Make sure that you include your email in your comments because if I can't get a hold of you, you can't win!

* Thank you to Stay-Dry for this product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review through Stay-Dry for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Winner!!

My winner of the day for the Olympic Zero VOC paint and primer is...

#43 - Night Owl

Congratulations!! Zero VOC paint is the best and most natural safe way to go!!

Musical Reflections CD Review

I have a lovely lady to introduce you to today: Tami Briggs, the beautiful harpist behind the two Musical Reflections CDs I received recently. I received "Dreaming" and "Cradled On Wings of Love" - which are both relaxing harp CDs.

Let me tell you a little more about Tami, since I think her story is fascinating and inspiring. She is a pioneer in the harp therapy field. Tami has played the harp at the bedside of hundreds of hospital and hospice patients. She uses her clinical training and musical experience to touch patients, caregivers, and staff members. Her music is an oasis of relaxation and peace. It can be heard in the halls of The Mayo Clinic and from coast to coast – City of Hope Hospital in Los Angeles to Baptist Health System in Miami. The statistic that 60% of all illnesses are stress-related motivates Tami to provide products and services for relaxation, comfort, stress reduction, and sleep. Her favorite compliment which she receives again and again is, “This is the most relaxing, healing music I’ve ever heard in my life!”

I would tend to agree with that compliment! When I received her CDs, I immediately stuck them into my CD player. I am a huge fan of music and so is the rest of my family. My 2 year old son was just as excited as I was to listen to these new CDs. I explained to him that this was harp music, and then we had a little lesson about what a harp was and so on. He was just fascinated! The music was so calming, and it really is perfect to help your children relax and fall asleep.

I also have been using these CDs in my yoga and pilates classes. They are so relaxing, they work perfectly. I have had nothing but compliments from my class participants.

"Dreaming" is a collection of beautiful classical songs that features both the harp and the violin. It is over 50 minutes long, and perfect for helping anyone relax or fall asleep. You can buy the CD for $15.00 or the MP3 download for $9.99.

"Cradled On Wings of Love" is a collection of lullabies that features harps, flute and cello. It is also over 50 minutes long and perfect for the nursery! It also sells for $15.00 for the CD and $9.99 for the MP3 download.

Tami also offers other books, DVDs, and many other CDs that focus on relaxation, stress reduction and deep peace. We all need more of that in our lives! Head on over to her website and check all the beautiful things she offers.

Winners, Winners, Everywhere!

I have some exciting news for three of you!!

My winner of the Kissaluvs Organic Cotton/Hemp Diaper is #5, Luv to Save!!! Congratulations! That is an awesome diaper!

My 2 winners of the Dymo Labeler are #18, Kirsten and #85 Mare!!! Congratulations to both of you for such an awesome prize!!

Let me remind you to make sure you are a public follower of my blog, since I came across a few people today that could have been winners, but weren't publicly following. Sad...

Have a great Monday, everyone!!
Get ready for some more awesome low entry giveaways this week!

Endless Energy Book Review

I am really excited to share with you some awesome new health information and a fabulous book all about a topic I don't think many people are familiar with - Endless Energy.

I am still learning about many natural health alternatives and fields, and the whole topic of energy health is fairly new to me. I want to start off by saying, if you are interested in your health in any way whatsoever, this is a book you should definitely read! I have been fascinated all the way from the first page.

The author, Debra Greene, Ph.D., is an Energy Health Specialist and frequently quoted expert in the field of energy medicine. She combine the best of leading-edge approaches with modern science in my clinical practice, writings, lectures, and nationwide media appearances. Having worked with thousands of clients and taught hundreds of workshops, she is known for her ability to get to the core of energy imbalances and facilitate lasting improvement.

You are probably asking, "What exactly is energy health and why is it important?" Well, it is hard to explain, especially by measly little me. Let me try a little bit - we all want more energy, more vitality, right? Well, the real key to that is by looking at our body's energy health and figuring out how to obtain optimum energy health inside of ourselves.

"This book is about human energy--where it comes from, where it goes and how to have more of it consistently. It takes the new science of energy medicine, translates it into clear and simple terms, then spells out easy ways to maintain energy health. The fields of energy medicine, energy kinesiology, epigenetics (beyond genetics), and energy psychology have vastly altered what is known about how we function. But much of this life-altering information has not made it into the mainstream. Endless Energy puts these revolutionary ideas into your hands in easy to understand and practical ways."

Dr. Greene does an awesome job of explaining this complex topic so that you can understand it, using wonderful illustrations and exercises to help explain. I really appreciated being able to learn another way to help my own body become healthier and help my family. I think parents everywhere would learn A TON from this book about the dangers of Electro-Pollution, including things like cell phones, laptops, and even baby monitors. Every parents wants to do their best to keep their children safe, but this is one area that is often overlooked in our highly technological society.

Let me give you a little taste of some of the great information Debra offers. She says, "No matter what advertisers may say, do not allow children to use a cell phone (except for emergencies). Children more susceptible to electromagnetic radiation (EMR) because of their developmental stages. Further, the negative health effects of radiation exposure have been shown to be cumulative. Research indicates that long-term cell phone use has negative effects physically, psycho-emotionally, and behaviorally."

Let me also share a really great short video of Debra's that is on YouTube - 8 Household Products That Are Hurting You.

I have marked up my "Endless Energy" book so much with all the helpful tips and information that is offered in this book. I just know you will all appreciate it as much as I have. You can order your own copy here for only $18.95. Trust me, this book will be a great investment in your family's health!

While you are reading or after you are done, I would love to hear your thoughts and the new things that you have learned!!

* Thank you to MetaComm Media for this product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review through MetaComm Media for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Relax...

Just a quick statistic that I thought was mind-blowing...

People who report job stress have a 73% higher chance of being obese and 61% higher chance of having abdominal fat, which is the most dangerous!

So, take some deep breaths, and relax. Remember, you only have each moment once. Don't spend your days being stressed, angry, or upset. Happy Saturday!

Mezoome Organic Baby Set Review and Giveaway

I am so excited to share one of my new favorite Etsy shops with you: Mezoome Designs.

Not only do I absolutely LOVE their products, but the designer and owner, Anat, is such a wonderful person who truly has great passion and design talent, which makes her products so special. Working with her was so much fun, because she is beyond sweet and helpful!

Anat says, "Mezoome designs was founded three years ago while I was home on bed rest. (I am an interior designer by trade). I decided to go into children's organic products once my son was born. It has been a long process over the past three years. I've designed everything from the characters(which all have names)to the logo and the packaging. All the textiles products are made from 100% organic cotton. All the dyes on the textiles are Eco friendly and the paper packages are all Eco tree-free paper." From start to finish, she is really at the heart of this brand.

I received the Mezoome Organic Baby Gift Set. It includes:

• 1 Organic receiving blanket with a large print on one side. It's made from 2 layers of organic cotton and is 31'x40' in size. All the dyes are Eco friendly and toxic free, which I just love! It is nice and large to cover a large area on the floor if you want to lay your baby down. It is also large enough to cover over your baby in bed and keep them comfortable and warm.
  
  
• 1 Organic fitted sheet for any standard crib and/or toddler transition bed. You are going to love this soft, high quality sheet, so it is great that you can use it for many years- from a new born to a toddler (5'x26'47').



• 1 set of wall stickers. These are high quality vinyl stickers that include all the mezoome characters (12'x17'). Since this is such high quality vinyl, you can enjoy the stickers anywhere you have a flat surface, including the bath. My son loves them in the bathtub. He loves moving the characters around and creating little stories about them. I have used vinyl wall stickers many times, and I definitely have never seen any like these. So cute and such great quality! Here are some pics of my little guy enjoying his stickers in the bath:
  

There is nothing negative I can say about Mezoome Designs' products. I so appreciate her effort to offer us nontoxic, organic products with such an eco-friendly approach. I mean, she even uses eco-friendly tree-free paper!


I cannot recommend Mezoome products fast enough! Not only will you be giving your little ones the safest bedding you can, you are also supporting a wonderful company and the passions of a hard-working mom!


You can find these lovely products on Mezoome's Etsy shop, Amazon, or the Mezoome website. They would make a perfect Christmas or Baby shower gift for any little ones you know and love!


Today, we are giving one of my readers a chance to win this same Organic Baby Gift Set! Thank you to Mezoome Designs for this generous gift! Here is how to enter:

Just fulfill the mandatory entry and then add as many extra entries as you choose.

Mandatory Entry:

Become a public follower of this blog, Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it.

For more entries:

Head over to Mezoome and tell me your favorite product or something new you learned(1 entry)

Subscribe to Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it. (1 entry)

Vote for Your World: Healthy and Natural on Top Mommy Blogs or We're on the Fence. (1 entry per vote)

Blog about this giveaway and link back to this post.(3 entries)

Follow @Mezoome on Twitter. (1 entry)

Follow @carathenatural on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway.(1 entry)

Like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(1 entry)

Refer a friend to like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(1 entry per referral)

Comment on any of my posts about healthy and natural living that you have never commented on before. I love to hear your thoughts!! (1 entry)

The deadline for this giveaway is November 27th at 11:59 pm EST, at which time a winner will be randomely chosen. Make sure that you include your email in your comments because if I can't get a hold of you, you can't win!

* Thank you to Mezoome for this product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review through Mezoome for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

CSN Review

I was lucky enough to go shopping again with one of my favorite online stores, CSN, a couple weeks ago. I had the hardest time ever picking out exactly what I wanted. I kept going back and forth in between kitchen utensils I needed, exercise equipment I have been craving for my classes and curtains for our new guest room we have been fixing up. I finally settled on the curtains and one exercise band for my fitness business.

I absolutely love the resistance tube that I received! It is by Body Solid, and it comes in 5 different colors for different levels of resistance:

1. Yellow - Very Light
2. Green - Light
3. Red - Medium
4. Blue - Heavy
5. Black - Very Heavy

I ordered the red tube for medium resistance. It is definitely a challenging resistance, even for someone who is in good shape. The handles are very comfortable, and the tubing is very durable. I love this tube, because it helps you get in a full body workout in less time than free weights, because you don't have to constantly change weights. Not to mention, this tube is only $12.99 at CSN, so it is way cheaper than to go out and buy a set of weights. Those can get pretty pricy!

Another thing I love about this tube is how versatile it is. You can use this for upper body and lower body exercise, in multiple planes of movement, and you can even change the intensity with this one tube to really challenge yourself. Using your imagination, you can do so many cool exercises with this tube!

I also received the Sure Fit Cotton Duck Window Panel in a cream color. I chose this curtain because I was looking for beautiful cotton curtains. Why cotton? Well, it is a natural fabric, which I appreciate. I also love how easy these are to take care of. All you have to do is throw them in the wash in cold water on the gentle cycle and then dry them on low heat. I did this right away, just to get any chemical residue off. It is always a good idea to wash curtains regularly to get the dust and gunk off of them. That is why these are a good choice. They are super easy to wash and dry.

These curtains come in lots of colors and fabrics, so you can choose what fits your style. At only $27.99, they are a great choice!

You know what I loved best about shopping at CSN? Both of my products came with free shipping, so I didn't have to pay an extra dime to shop in the comfort of my home. With all the cold weather and dangerous roads coming up, that is important to me.

With Christmas shopping coming up, this is a great option for shopping online and finding all the gifts you have on your list. I always have those people on my list that are so tricky to shop for, but CSN stores have so many products, you are sure to find something that fits their personality! Happy Shopping at CSN!

* Thank you to CSN for these products for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review through CSN for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

How To Burn Fat Faster

My fitness clients are always dying to know how to get that fat melting off in the fastest way. Let me share with you what I tell them.

You can't be afraid to push yourself harder! If you can talk while you are doing your cardio, you're not going hard enough. Research shows that vigorous workouts blast fat faster than longer, less intense routines. When you push your body hard, your body boosts blood flow and oxygen delivery. That increases calorie burn and your body's ability to metabolize fat. That is a key question to focus on - how is your metabolism? You want a strong metabolism that is burning tons of calories, not a sluggish one.

How do you rev up your metabolism? Interval training! One study found that a single 30-second sprint ups blood levels of human growth hormone - which boosts your lean muscle and burns fat - by a whopping 530 percent! For a better metabolism the key is:

• pure food in, including lots of healthy protein


• keep toxins out of your body


• plenty of interval training, adding in lots of weight toning to build muscle

Want to hear another bonus of working out more intensely? It can decrease your risk of breast cancer. Women who do vigorous exercise (think grunting and not being able to say more than a few words at a time) for at least 30 minutes a week have a 35 percent lower risk of that disease.

So, go and get your sweat on! You will not only be working toward a healthier body, but you will be reducing your stress and pumping up those feel good endorphins!

Winner!

We have a winner of our Little One Books $25 GC!! It is...

#5 - Kara Sceviour

Congratulations Kara!! A great chance to get some cute Christmas gifts!

As for the other giveaways, we have some awesome ones coming up!! We have 9 low entry giveaways going on right now!!! Yes, that is correct! And these are some awesome giveaway gifts!! Good luck to everyone!

BooginHead Review

BooginHead? You are probably wondering what kind of products this company sells with that silly name? Well, I think the name shows that they are very familiar with small children and the little stunts that they do. BooginHead makes practical products for parents to save us time, energy, and our sanity!

How many times have you picked up your child's pacifier after they threw it out of their bed, stroller, chair, or anywhere else? How many times have you scrubbed your kitchen floor after a food explosion?

These are the kind of problems that BooginHead gives solutions for. Let's first talk about the pacifier problems. I received some awesome solutions to the pacifier drama we all experience - PaciGrip, PaciBed, and PaciPouch.

The PaciGrip is a universal pacifier holder that attaches on one side to your child's clothes with a strong clasp and attaches to their pacifier on the other end. I love how strong the clasp is that attaches to their shirt, so they can't easily pull it off.

The PaciBed is a wonderful velcro attachment that works on any crib or bed post and helps prevent the infamous pacifier hunts. They come in packs of three, and are super easy to use!

The PaciPouch is a godsend for when you are out and about and the pacifier gets thrown on the dirty grocery store floor or in the dirt. You can store the pacifiers in this cute little pouch to keep them clean and close by. It attaches to any stroller or bag with it's snap handle. It can hold as many as 2 pacifiers and 2 PaciGrips. You can also use it to hold other useful small objects.

Now let's talk about another great idea - the BooginHead Splat Mat. It is a useful tool for defense against the messy eater! It is a nice large 52" round mat you can put under your child's chair to catch all the dropped food. I absolutely love that this mat is Phthalate and BPA free!! I also love how much more area it covers than a square mat. And it is so versatile! I also use it for art projects and picnics. All you do to clean it is wipe it clean with a soapy water.

With all the cute patterns to choose from and the great low prices, you can't go wrong with BooginHead products! You can buy them online on their website, at BabiesRUs, Burlington Coat Factory, Bed Bath and Beyond, or you can find a retailer near you that carries their products.

Shower Filters - Vital For Good Health

I have been meaning to get a shower filter for our shower for a long time. It is one of those things on my list that never seems to get attended to, and it has been bugging me...

Finally, I got around to researching the best ones and checking prices, and I found a great one by Aquasana, which I purchased and waited excitedly to get. When I received it, it was quite easy to install and use, and I absolutely love it!!

Now let me explain why any of this matters to you.

Your skin is the largest organ and can absorb contaminants found in the water supply, including trihalomethanes, which are chemicals that form when the chlorine added to water to help disinfect it reacts with organic matter, like leaves. I didn't think we would have any chlorine in our water, since it is well water, but sure enough, even we do too!!

So back to trihalomethane - one trihalomethane is chloroform, a known carcinogen. In addition to penetrating your skin when you shower, these chemicals pose a potential risk from being inhaled, says Olga Naidenko, Ph.D., a toxicologist for the Environmental Working Group.

In addition to this chemical, there are many other in your water, such as VOCs, and I don't know about you, but it gives me an icky feeling when I am taking a shower to be inhaling that steamy cocktail of chemicals and absorbing them into my skin. I feel so much more relaxed in the shower now, knowing that I have kicked out some of those toxins.

Oh, and another bonus, softer skin and hair! I can notice a difference already!

If you want to check the water quality in your area, visit www.epa.gov/drink and click on local drinking water information.

Happy Showering!

Lightcatcher Curtains Review and Giveaway

As I keep rushing around to get ready for our new baby girl, I am finishing up her nursery. The latest addition to her room was curtains! I chose to use Lightcatcher curtains that feature Insuldark technology.

What is Insuldark? It is a special kind of technology by Beacon Looms used in their Lightcatcher curtains that controls light, thermal temperature and sound all through careful fabric construction and triple-layer protection. Room darkening was an important thing that I was looking for in our nursery curtains. I know it will help during summer when the days are longer and during naptimes to keep the room dark and create a great sleeping environment. Also, we were looking for curtains that would help keep the cold out of the room in the winter and keep heat out during summer. It will not only make the room more comfortable for your child, but it will save you money on heat and air-conditioning costs if you use these curtains in several rooms of your house.

In addition, these Lightcatcher panels are wider than standard panels, which I love, because I don't like the look of curtains that look like they are barely covering the window. These curtains look plush, and you don't have to worry about spreading them wide enough to cover the whole window and get all the light out.

These curtains are just perfect for a nursery!! Who doesn't want a multi-tasking curtain that keeps out light, helps control temperature and keeps out noisy sounds that might wake your little angel?? The Lightcatcher curtains come in such cute colors and designs that are perfect for your baby or child's room.

We received the pink curtains with the cute little duckies on them.

They have tons of other color options such as: mint, lavendar, blue, yellow, navy, and more. They also have a wide variety of patterns you can choose from too such as: big dots, baby ducks, sailboats, jungle animals, clouds, bunnies, and more!

You can purchase these curtains or add them to your baby gift registry by visiting this site: Lightcatcher curtains. It is super easy to browse and order, so head on over!

Now, I have some great news for you - we are giving away one set of these awesome Lightcatcher curtains!

Here is how to enter:

Just fulfill the mandatory entry and then add as many extra entries as you choose.

Mandatory Entry:

Become a public follower of this blog, Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it.

For more entries:

Head on over and browse through the Lightcatcher curtains and tell me your favorite one(s). (1 entry)

Subscribe to Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it. (1 entry)

Vote for Your World: Healthy and Natural on Top Mommy Blogs or We're on the Fence. (1 entry per vote)

Blog about this giveaway and link back to this post.(3 entries)

Follow @carathenatural on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway.(1 entry)

Like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(1 entry)

Refer a friend to like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(1 entry per referral)

Copy and paste the Your World: Healthy and Natural blog button on your blog or website.(1 entry)

Comment on any of my posts about healthy and natural living that you have never commented on before. I love to hear your thoughts!! (1 entry)

The deadline for this giveaway is November 23rd at 11:59 pm EST, at which time a winner will be randomely chosen. Make sure that you include your email in your comments because if I can't get a hold of you, you can't win!

* Thank you to Lightcatcher for this product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review through Lightcatcher for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

Winner!

Congrats to Diaper Dad James for winning the awesome Northern Mom Etsy Shop giveaway. He has won some super soft lavendar bamboo fleece wipes! Yay!

Stay tuned for more awesome giveaways...

This next week we are giving away some awesome curtains that keep out light and coldness...Perfect timing! We saw our first snowflakes in MI on Friday.

Friday's Winner...and more

Congratulations to #21 - Amanda for winning the Dustin Maher Fitness DVD pack!!!!!! These are going to be a great addition to your workouts, and they will give you great results. I am very excited for you!

Happy Friday Everyone! Have you seen the great giveaways we have going on right now? We have everything from cloth diapers to Zero VOC paint to a $75 gift card to Zutano's!! There is definitely something for everyone!

I am also going to be posting a great article on Flu Season Prevention, which I think you will all appreciate!

Have a great healthy day!
Cara

Zutano Clothing Review and Giveaway

Who doesn't love getting a new outfit for their child(ren)? I know I sure do! I especially love when I can find a great organic clothing company. That is what first drew my attention to Zutano. They have this awesome organic Itsy Bitsy line, which is my absolulte favorite part of their online store. It is full of darling outfits and accessories for our littlest ones!

Before I go any further, let me share with you a little bit about Zutano. Zutano has been making children's clothing for over 20 years. Featuring bright colorful prints, Zutano's clothes provide a unique addition to any child's wardrobe. Available in Preemie to 4T, Zutano clothing has been carefully designed to meet the movement needs of growing babies and kids. Zutano was born out of the talent and dedication of one creative new mom and dad, who love adding color and fun prints to the Zutano clothing line.

"For designer & art director Uli and professional photographer Michael Belenky, the birth of their first child fostered a wholly new sense of artistic purpose and creative desire. Suddenly aware of the meager offerings in the children's clothing market in 1989, Michael and Uli came to a well-researched conclusion: even in the Big Apple, choices of style, fit, originality and color when dressing their new baby Sofia left much to be desired. Surely there was more to being a baby than pink and blue..."

After browsing around Zutano, you will find a rainbow of colors, fun patterns and styles. I love the creativity!

I received a darling little organic newborn footie for my coming little daughter. It is made of 100% organic cotton, and has cute little flowers in various colors and cocoa brown trim and feet. It is so cute, as you can see below!

It is especially cute when paired with this little cocoa organic newborn hat! Don't you just love the little ball at the top of the hat? That is my favorite part!

I didn't leave out my toddler son, though. He also got a darling outfit from their toddler boy collection. He was so excited to wear his new clothes! I love the bright colors, and I love that the hoodie is reversible. It makes it so much fun for him to make choices about his clothes!

You can find cute outfits just like these in their online store or you can find a store near you with their retail store finder. Either way, you are going to fall in love with their fun designs and colorful clothing. Don't forget to check out their fun accessories, plush toys, and other great gifts!

Today, we are giving one of you the awesome opportunity to win a a $75 shopping spree at their online shop at zutano.com!!! Who is excited about this giveaway??

Here is how to enter:

Just fulfill the mandatory entry and then add as many extra entries as you choose.

Mandatory Entry:

Become a public follower of this blog, Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it.

For more entries:

Subscribe to Your World: Healthy and Natural and comment about it. (1 entry)

Vote for Your World: Healthy and Natural on Top Mommy Blogs or We're on the Fence. (1 entry per vote)

Blog about this giveaway and link back to this post.(3 entries)

Follow @Zutano on Twitter. (1 entry)

Follow @carathenatural on Twitter and tweet about this giveaway.(1 entry)

Like Zutano on Facebook. (1 entry)

Like Your World: Healthy and Natural on Facebook.(1 entry)

Copy and paste the Your World: Healthy and Natural blog button on your blog or website.(1 entry)

Comment on any of my posts about healthy and natural living that you have never commented on before. I love to hear your thoughts!! (1 entry)

The deadline for this giveaway is November 20th at 11:59 pm EST, at which time a winner will be randomely chosen. If you have won a Zutano gift card within the past 6 months you are not eligible to enter. Make sure that you include your email in your comments because if I can't get a hold of you, you can't win!

* Thank you to Zutano for this product for review! Disclosure - This product was given for review through Zutano for my honest opinion. No other compensation was given.*

[Product review & giveaway disclosure: I received one or more of the products mentioned above for free using Tomoson.com. 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 Commissions 16 CFR, Part 255 "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."]