Want to get in on some FREE samples? There are many websites that promise free samples, but most send lots of annoying spammy emails. All You does not. I get emails occasionally for coupons and deals, but nothing I can't deal with. All You has a Daily Free Sample Calendar, where you can log links to free samples each day. You can also sign up for their email list, and you will receive an email each day with a link and instructions to redeem your free sample. They do the work of finding the samples, and you reap the benefits! Enjoy!

Online Surveys

Reviews of online survey websites based on my experience...

e-Rewards: It seems simple enough, take surveys and earn money! Well, the reality is that you need to earn at least $70 in order to receive $25 in gift cards. Some surveys pay out $15+, but I have found that it is very hard to qualify for these types of surveys. In fact, I have never qualified. Other rewards include magazine subscriptions and coupons. In my opinion, it is not worth the time to complete surveys to eventually earn a measly reward.

OneOpinion: Here is another case of "I never qualify for any surveys". I signed up with them a month ago, and only have the $5 in my account that I received for signing up. You need to have $20 in order to cash out, so I don't see that goal anywhere in the near future. 

Pinecone Research: This is my favorite survey website. The catch? You have to be invited. I have no idea how I got an invite a few years ago, but I did. I got paid $2 for each survey I completed, and it was mailed to me soon after I completed it. They always paid, and it was great! I also participated in studies to test products. They mailed me free products to evaluate and I got paid! I only got a few a month, so I didn't make any real money here, but every little bit helps. Unfortunately, I got busy and passed on some surveys and was subsequently removed from their list.  They like people to be active in their survey taking. I hear now that they are paying $3 per survey, so if you can get an invite take it! 

Tellwut: This is a point based survey site. For each survey/quiz you take, you receive points (the ones I have taken are 5-10 points each). For every 4,000 points you accrue, you can redeem a $10 Amazon gift card, or a $25 Walmart gift card for 10,000 points. That sounds like a lot, but it is easier than it sounds. It literally takes about 10 seconds to complete a survey. Unlike other sites, there is nothing to qualify for, which is great!

How to Have Biggest Loser Results

How do the contestants on The Biggest Loser do it? First of all, they are cut off from society. No phones, internet, or cable TV. They do not have to go to work, take care of the kids, or run errands. All they have to do is lose weight.

 

Food

The women are on a 1,200 calorie per day diet, and an 1,800 calorie per day diet for the men. There is no butter, white flour, or white sugar in the kitchen. They eat 3 meals and 2 snacks per day, and do not go more than 4 hours without eating. They are allowed one cheat day, where they women can max out at 2,000 calories and the men at 3,000. This is still a huge difference as many of them eat a couple thousand calories at one sitting before going on the show.

Exercise

All contestants work out at least 4 hours per day. 4 hours! They do a combination of cardio and weight training, and have different classes during the day, such as kickboxing. Many contestants are in the gym without the trainers, putting in extra time. Stretching is also an important component of their exercise regimen, and helps to prevent injuries. You may also notice them icing their joints and muscles after a tough workout.  

Education

The contestants on the show learn about nutrition and how to handle their emotions. Many people use food as a way to deal with emotions, so they will not keep the weight off without resolving deep emotional problems and learning how to deal with difficulties.  

How can you do it at home?

It is not realistic for most of us to exercise 4+ hours per day. That being said, we can all find an hour. Instead of watching TV, going online, or sitting on the sofa, get up and get out! 30 minutes in the morning and 30 minutes in the evening is a good way to sneak in an hour of exercise every day. If you have not had an exercise routine recently, start with walking or (if you are able) jogging. Add some weight training. If you do not have access to weights, use your body weight. Do pushups, sit-ups, and squats. Just make sure you always stretch after a workout.

Eat better. Cut out the bad food and replace it with healthful choices. Swap out a beef burrito for a black bean taco, white pasta for wheat or veggie pasta, or sugary cereal with oatmeal. Eat a salad before lunch and dinner. The veggies are great for you and will help fill you up before diving in to your higher calorie entrée. Although I am a big fan of Weight Watchers, you don’t have to count points or calories to lose weight. Some people (like me) thrive on control and work best this way. Others can simply just make better choices and be happy with the results. 

Don't forget the water! Aim to drink half your weight in ounces per day, and increase your water intake when you exercise. 

How to Remove Plaque Buildup

How to Remove Plaque Buildup from Teeth

Have a little time before your next dental cleaning, but want to give your teeth a clean boost? Try this method to get the fuzzy off your teeth! This method also helps to whiten your teeth. Be sure not to do this regularly, as baking soda can break down the enamel on your teeth.

1. Pre-rinse with a hydrogen peroxide and water mixture for 30 seconds.
2. Put some baking soda on your dry toothbrush, and brush your teeth like normal. For a guideline click here.
3. Thoroughly rinse your mouth.
4. Rinse with the peroxide mixture one more time.
5. Rinse with water again, or your favorite mouthwash to remove the peroxide taste.

Make sure to have your teeth cleaned by a dental hygienist every 6 months for optimal oral health.

Peanut Butter & Chocolate Brownies

Yummy Peanut Butter & Chocolate Brownies

These are delicious, and have just enough peanut butter to add flavor, without overpowering the chocolate. 

Ingredients:

4 (1 oz) squares unsweetened chocolate
3/4 cup butter
3 eggs
2 cups sugar
1/4 cup peanut butter
1/4 cup milk 1 cup flour

Steps:

1. Preheat oven to 350 degrees.2. Microwave the chocolate squares and butter about 2 minutes until melted.
3. Add eggs, sugar, and peanut butter. Mix well.
4. Stir in milk and flour.
5. Pour into a greased 13x9 baking dish or brownie pan.
6. Bake for 35 minutes. Do not overcook! Brownies should be a little moist when you remove them from the oven.

Homemade Hummus

Hummus made from scratch! This is so much cheaper than store bought.

It is very easy to make your own hummus. After trying many recipes, I found out my hummus tastes best when I follow my taste buds!

Ingredients:

Dry garbanzo beans
Garlic
Lemon juice
Tahini
Salt

I don't include amounts of each, because everyone likes their hummus made differently. 

Steps:

1. Cook your dry beans according to package directions.
2. Put cooked beans in your blender or food processor with a splash of lemon juice, a clove or two of garlic, a couple tablespoons of tahini, and a pinch of salt. Blend the ingredients until smooth, adding some water when and if necessary.
3. Give it a taste! Add more garlic, lemon juice, salt, and tahini as needed. 

Which Type of Cloth Diaper is Best for Me?

Most people have a preference when it comes to cloth diapers. Here is a basic overview of the different types.

All in ones (AIO)- As the name implies, these diapers are a cover and insert all in one. Sometimes the insert is sewn in, and sometimes it snaps in. While these are very easy for some people, others do not like the longer drying times. These diapers also tend to be more expensive than others.

All in twos (AI2)- This system is a cover and insert. The insert lays in the cover against the baby's skin. They are usually attached with Velcro, snaps, or flaps build into the diaper. These are great because you only have to replace the insert during the day, unless the cover gets dirty. Babies with sensitive skin may not be able to wear AI2s, as the wet insert stays against their skin.

Fitteds with covers- A fitted diaper is not waterproof, but is very absorbent. Some are made with a pocket that you can stuff for extra absorption. They need a waterproof cover for the outside to prevent leaks. Like the AI2s, these may not be best for babies with sensitive skin. They are also bulkier than other methods.

Pockets- These diapers have a waterproof outer layer, and a build in stay dry pocket that you stuff with absorbent inserts. The materials used for the pocket wick moisture away from the baby into the insert, keeping your baby's skin dry. This is great for babies with sensitive skin, although some moms dislike stuffing the pockets.

I would recommend trying a couple of each system you think would fit your needs. I have tried all of the above, and currently only use pockets and one brand on AIO.