EVENTS & GIVEAWAYS

  • 12 Days of Wellness Giveaway and Giveback (Value $200)

    FYI: The 12 Days of Wellness & Giveback is sponsored by Mommy R+R in partnership with Emma Loewe & Lindsay Kellner, Ami Wellness, and Moorea Seal. I was provided complimentary products for the purpose of this giveaway. All thoughts and opinions are always my own.

    It’s the most hectic time of the year which means it’s holiday time. The season isn’t even in full-swing yet and I’m ready tired and worn out. So I know if I’m feeling like this then you must be too. Which is why I thought this would be a great time to host a wellness giveaway. I haven’t hosted one in a long time so I came out swinging to close 2019 with the ’12 Days of Wellness Giveaway & Giveback’ which is valued at $200!

    The ’12 Days of Wellness’ giveaway with it’s carefully selected wellness-themed products is designed to help you get through the holiday season and beyond. In addition, to the giveaway, I’m also hosting a giveback. The giveback is a mirrored prize for a mom in need within the Mommy R+R community. The recipient of this prize who has already been chosen is going through a really difficult time right now and she really needs your prayers and positive energies. I added this layer onto the giveaway because I wanted her and all the women who follow me to know that I’m always thinking about them and their mental and physical well-being is important to me. I will share the name of this special recipient on Dec 4th when the giveaway winner is chosen.

    What are the prizes in the 12 Days of Wellness Giveaway & Giveback?

    12 days of Wellness mommyrandr

    The prizes for the giveaway and giveback are the exact same. These wellness-based products can be used separately for a few moments of relaxation or in combination for an extended rejuvenating experience. One lucky randomly selected winner and the special pre-chosen giveback recipient will receive:

    The Spirit Almanac: A Modern Guide To Ancient Self-Care by Emma Loewe & Lindsay Kellner

    This book right here – let me tell you, Emma and Lindsay of MindBodyGreen put both of their feet in this book. They beautifully and simply break down rituals that will nourish and empower you through the seasons of life. As soon as you open The Spirit Almanac you will learn about astrology, crystals, essential oils, and meditation. And don’t worry if you don’t know that much about it cause guess what? I don’t either and I still found it easy to follow along.

    My favorite part of the book are the rituals. I’m going to warn you right now get really to be pulled out of your comfort zone cause that’s what’s gonna happen. I’m actually looking forward to the New Year ritual in which I create my own calendar with will center around my astrology sign and instead on hardened new year resolutions, I’ll focus on who I am in the moment and where I want to be going forward. This book is deep and requires your time and attention which is why I thought it would be a perfect addition to this giveaway.

    MindBodyGreen.com

    Ami Wellness Calm Tincture

    Calm Tincture herbal remedy is all about relaxin you from the inside out. Simply put 3 drops of their vegan, all-natural, gluten-free supplement in your drink 3x a day and its ingredients will give you the peace and serenity you deserve. I’ve been adding it to my teas for the past week and I can really tell the difference and because it’s tasteless and odorless I couldn’t even tell it was there. While I may have some stress (I have 2 kids under 10) I’ve noticed I’m not as physically edgy or tension which is great cause I can accomplish more without the strain and drain of stress.

    What’s in the Calm Tincture supplement?
    Fresh California poppy: Helps with sleep and relaxation
    Fresh oat seeds: Eases stress and anxiety
    Fresh pulsatilla: Eases tension, nerve pain, and restlessness
    Rose flowers: Eases stress and anxiety
    Fresh lemon balm: Eases anxiety
    Fresh scullcap: Eases anxiety and tension
    Organic maple syrup: All natural organic sweetener
    Organic peppermint essential oil: Relieves mental fatigue

    AmiWellness.com

    52 Lists For Calm by Moorea Seal

    You might recognize this 52 Lists Calm by Moorea Seal from a previous feature as I recently shared my thoughts on her newest list journal. This weekly creative journal makes you slow down and reflect on people, places, and things that are important in your life through prompts. Now while the journal says ‘lists’ that doesn’t mean you have to use this journal in that way. You can get creative and do a collage, use washi and other stickers or even sketch the choice is yours. The ultimate goal of this journal is right in the title – to make YOU calm.

    MooreaSeal.com

    Calm Club Yoga Deck

    The soothingly scented (yes, scented) Calm club Yoga Deck has one goal – to introduce you to the world of yoga and take you from novice to enthusiast in 52 weeks. The cards show you positions and instruct you on how to position yourself. Now as you move along through the deck you’ll notice each week they will get harder and harder. But you won’t notice this as the transitions are smooth. What makes this deck so great is you can set aside some time in your day to fine-tune that week’s pose. do a stretch. At the end of the month put those 4 cards together and now you’ve created a yoga routine just for you. 

    Earth Therapeutics Anti-Stress Sinus Pillow

    When I’m stressed out and have a headache my lavender-scented weight eye mask comes to the rescue. I place it over my eyes and allow the scents to relax and comfort me. Now, this particular weighted eye mask from Earth Therapeutics is unscented and that’s because not 1. not everyone likes lavender and 2. there is a removable pouch so you’ll be able to make your own in whatever scent and weight you like. The best thing about this mask is you can use it hot or cold. And, unlike some others, this one has an adjustable head strap so it won’t fall off if you doze off.

    Pearlessence Argan + Vitamin E Nourishing Facial Oil

    Anytime someone asks me about my skin and it’s glow I direct them to Pearlessence. I really need you to experience product so I got the Argan + VITAMIN E Nourishing Facial Oil. Winter is coming and the cold air will crack your skin up so you want to make sure you keep it oiled and supple. Now if you’re not familiar with facial oil I need you to know this is not and heavily oily product. All you need are a few drops for complete coverage and you’ll be good to go. I even used it in the summer and I face was still able to breathe. What’s in it? Soybean oil, Aragan oil, Vitamin E, and fragrance – which is light. That’s it.

    The Republic Of Tea Get Relaxed

    Get Relaxed is a caffeine-free, herbal blend that’s pretty much composure in a cup. It has calming aromas of lavender and rose petals. Ahhhh. This brew has a blissful blend of health-promoting organic rooibos laced with nerve-soothing chamomile and passionflower, along with stress-reducing eleuthero root that helps you chill out, unbend and unwind. So you should just probably add it to your bedtime routine cause you’re going to be knocked out.

    La Jolie Muse Candle in Blue Louts Scent

    Scents play a huge part in dictating the mood of your home and this La Jolie Muse candle in Blue Louts is going to help you relax. I can only describe this candle as heavy and light as it has a base of musk and amber but also has bergamot, lemon, and hyacinth for top notes. Now you probably already have a ton of candles but you need this one. Its gonna transform you and your home.

    Azure Rose Gold Face Mask

    This luxury hydrating treatment has a Rose Hip oil that’s going to minimize any skin damage you have. So that breakout you got from your last cycle, say goodbye to those little scars. It’s also going to minimize wrinkles and improve your skin tone – yes and yes! This mask is meant to firm your skin and give it a healthy glow. I’m wearing it right now as I type this and it’s heaven on my face. You’re going to get two masks so you can put your best face forward for the holiday season.

    TheraWell Moisturizing Gel Socks

    If you’re prone to dry feet then treat your tootsies to these moisturizing gel socks. There is a gel lining on the inside of the sock that is infused with essential oils that are going to leave your feet feeling sooo soft – and believe me, you’re going to need to survive all your holiday preparations. You’ll be putting your best feet forward into the new year as you’ll be able to get 40 wears out of these socks.

    Shea Moisture Bath Soak in Coconut & Hibiscus

    I know your bathroom may not feel like the spa BUT this Shea Moisture bath soak is gonna get you close to it. Run a warm or hot bath add the bath soak, and allow the fragrance transport you. The soak is infused with organic coconut oil, shea butter, and botanical extracts. Your body hasn’t felt anything like this and is deserving of this experience.

    Beditations by Latham Thomas

    Let me just say off the bat I love me some Latham. Her voice puts me out as it’s so soothing and comforting. That said, her nighttime audio Beditations is a perfect bedtime wind down. Snuggle up and listen as Latham shares things you can do that lead you to improve your sleep. The better rest you get the more you will be able to function come sunrise. This audiobook is gonna have you feeling well-rested and ready to tackle the day.

    How do I enter?

    Easy. Complete the entry form below. The more you complete the more points you earn the better your chances are for winning.

    The 12 Days of Wellness Giveaway will run from Wednesday, Nov 20 through Wednesday, December 4th and is for U.S. residents only. Try your luck and YOU could spend the holiday season recharging yourself just in time for the new year. Thanks for entering!

     

  • MOMMY R+R’s HOLIDAY SELF-CARE GIFT GUIDE GIVEAWAY

    The holiday season is upon us and with it comes the stress. But there is no reason why we should let it keep us down.  So to combat the stress I have put together a Self-Care Gift Guide Giveaway! Below is a list of great products and services valued at over $250 that one lucky mom will win that will provide her with some much needed holiday self care.

    This list will also serve as a guide that will help you find gifts for your mom friends without breaking the bank. All products can be found for under $50 with some as low as $3, which makes them affordable and accessible for all. Buy one or group them together. Make yourself or another mom’s holiday happy with the gift of self-care.

    So what will the winner receive?

    For the self-care gift guide giveaway I thought long and hard about what moms would really want. There are a lot of holiday guides that point towards things that would benefit the entire family, which is great, but that’s not what Mommy R+R is about. I wanted to not only make this personal for moms who enjoy a multitude of things, but I also wanted it to last well beyond Christmas. This is what I came up with:

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    Every mom likes her cocktail (or mocktail) so why not give a Festive Cocktails recipe book. With nearly a 100 pages there are plenty of cocktails to prepare for holiday’s to come. A set of cocktail glasses and four glittery coasters brings the whole gift together. Total value $15

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    This is for moms who like to journal, sketch or simply keeping track of tasks the old fashioned way. A gold themed candle, notebook, pens and matching polka dot mug are simple yet classic.  These are also great additions to the office. It’s adds pop and pizazz. Total value $14

    self-care gift

    No self-care gift guide for moms in 2016 would be complete without Bad Moms. This was the movie of the year! I don’t care if this will be your first time seeing it or your third this movie will never get old. So before the kids get out of school for the holiday have a mommy only play date, mix some cocktails and enjoy! (Waterford Lismore crystal glass and liquor are my own.) Value $19.99

    self-care gift

    This for moms who love a little bit of everything.

    Flowers are a perfect gift for any time of year. I am a huge fan of Teleflora and use them often. They have some of the most beautiful arrangements, not only the holiday season but for ‘just because‘ all year round. Send them to yourself as a treat. Seeing them highlight an area of your home will give you a reason to stop and smell the roses.

    Monthly subscription boxes are more popular than ever, and if you’re into beauty you won’t get any better than Birchbox.  Every month you receive products that are guaranteed to give you a little self-care. And with their flagship store located in the city its easy to pop in and see what treats they have and make a special box for you.  Now if you aren’t a member but want to become one learn more about them here.

    Lots of moms read, when they can. So books are always a win and are great stocking stuffers. So also included in this giveaway is Christmas on 4th Street by Susan Mallery. It’s got Christmas, snow and romance how could I go wrong?

    You’ve got a novel and cocktails, yet something is missing. Oh yeah, snacks! Specifically ice cream. Breyers has hooked the luck winner up with not one but TWO coupons towards FREE ice cream or gelato. If you haven’t tried the gelato then your life is lacking the desert area.  I hosted a giveaway for Breyers last year and I still get emails from readers telling me how much they love it.  There nothing is more indulgent than a tub of Breyers Gelato (which comes in 11 assorted flavors) each one better than the last tucked in your lap, cuddled by the fire (or radiator) in your favorite chair with a book in hand and a spoon in the other.

    Perfume is always a favorite especially for those of are seeking a new scent. Which is why I’m including a sample bottle of Alien perfume by Thierry Mugler. It’s a great scent that isn’t too heavy that enters a room before you do, nor is it so light that it vanishes when the wind hits it. I’ve tried this scent and received a number of compliments so I’m hoping that you too will fall in love with it too.

    What woman doesn’t like jewelry? The Sparklepop Heartbeat Necklace in rose gold is the perfect compliment to any casual outfit from yoga pants to your favorite pair of jeans. In addition, you will also receive a special coupon for 30% your first purchase on Sparklepop.com.

    Total value $159.99

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    Speaking of getting cozy on lazy afternoons…

    The Snuggie is lazy day personified. I received one as a gift a few years back and it is the best gift I ever received. It’s your own personal blanket, but with arms. This is one gift that truly speaks for itself. Now when you’re on the couch binge watching Netflix you can keep your body warm while keeping your hands exposed. And best of all it has pockets! You know pockets makes everything better. Now you can keep the remote close while you snuggle and eat without coming from under the blanket.

    Every mom I know is always on the hunt for the perfect pair of jeans. Riders by Lee provides this with their Bounce Back collection. These jeans that will keep their shape while flattering yours, no matter how you move. This is so important because moms are on the go non-stop all day and we need pants that are going to move with us, not constrict us. Feeling uncomfortable and trapped in your own pants is not a good look or feeling. You’ll get to see for yourself as Riders by Lee will gift one pair of the Bounce Back jeans, in the style of your choosing. Once you wear them you’ll never be able to wear another pair.

    Total value $30

    But wait, there’s more…

    There are a couple of things that aren’t shown that you’ll also take home. First, is a gift card from Urbansitter.

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    I love them so much! I found my kid’s sitter through this service and I couldn’t be happier. I’m just sad that I don’t see my sitter more than I already do. How does it work? It’s simple, get on your desktop or phone, locate a sitter and book her. That’s it! Once the sitter accepts the job you will be notified. If you’re locating someone new there are various interview options available before you actually book to watch your kids. It really get no more perfect than that! Value $50

    And lastly, ComfiArt

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    Who doesn’t love stylish home decor? Graphic designer and internet marketer, Dionna Collins is the creator of ComfiArt. By sourcing designs from Atlanta and Miami, in addition to creating some herself she sets out to make ComfiArt the go-to for home and office decor.  I love these pillows with their bright designs and inspirational/funny saying.  ComfiArt will be giving gifting a single throw pillow to add a little pop to your home or office. I also love that they’re more than just pillows they also have decorative cover-ups and mugs. Value $35

    If you wanna win EVERYTHING shown then all you gotta do is enter below. The more entries you snag the better for your chance to win!

    FYI: A portion of this giveaway is a sponsored by some amazing brands. Thank you to Urbansitter, Riders by Lee, Snuggie, Breyers, Teleflora and ComfiArt. I truly appreciate your participation.

  • COOKING & EATING W/ CELEB CHEF CHARLES CHEN

    There are very few things in this world that will make me leave my house on a dreary Sunday afternoon. Food, specifically eating, is at the top of that list. Cause there’s a difference between going out to eat and going food shopping.

    When my email dinged less than 24 hours before and it was an invite to attend a cooking session with TV host, Healthy Chef and Wellness Expert Charles Chen I knew I would be putting the weather forecast out of my mind as I’m always down to eat rain or shine.

    This exclusive invite only event took place at Freshmade NYC and hosted by Charles Chen and Talent Jungle and the purpose of the event was to teach people how simple it is to make fresh healthy vegetarian meals at home. The menu consisted of 3 courses. He would teach me how to prepare dumplings, sushi and a simple dessert.

    First up were the dumplings. The tables were filled with various types of fillings. I chose corn, cabbage and a meatless substitute (which is delicious considering I’m a die-hard cow eater). As usual I had no clue as to what I was doing when I chose those ingredients, but I felt they were safe choices and it would be impossible to muck this up.

    And I was right! After boiling them for about 5 – 7 minutes or til they became a little translucent they turned out GREAT despite the fact I had never made a dumpling before in my life.

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    Filling my dumpling
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    After my dumplings finished cooking
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    Dumplings are in my belly

    The second course would teach us how to make sushi. Now I can openly admit that I am not a fan of sushi. My limit is California Rolls, which to most doesn’t even count. But hey, it’s what I like and what I chose to make. Which meant that I would need to invert my roll, meaning the seaweed goes on the inside and the rice is on the outside.

    If you’re a newbie to rolling sushi then get ready to roll up your sleeves cause this is a doozy. The keys to having it come out halfway decent is remembering to keep the sushi mat wet and to not pack it with so much rice or other things. If you make it too fat it will be hard to keep it together. Mine looked like 4 California Rolls rolled together to make one mega roll. It too was good but way more than I could chew.

    And lastly, we dipped fresh strawberries in melted chocolate and sat them in the freezer for a few moments. Talk about delicious…and filling.

    It may not seem like it was a lot of food but trust me I was full for the rest of the day. Whoever said you needed large portions to stay full is telling you lies. I happily did not look at another meal it was dinner time.

    This event was awesome and shout out to Charles who not only was super helpful the entire time, but he also changed the way I see myself in the kitchen. I say I can’t cook but I truly did better than I expected. There’s no excuse why I can’t recreate these quick and easy to prepare meals for my own family.

    I didn’t take many pictures as I was too busy eating and Snapchatting, so check out the video from the entire event.

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    Photo Credit: Charles Chen

     

  • GUEST POST: DISCOVER WELLNESS & TRAVEL WITH ORGANIC SPA MAGAZINE
    BY ALLAYA COOKS-CAMPBELL

    What do you get when you combine top-of-the-line skin care, high-end luxury spa resorts, and a aromatic greens salad?  The Organic Spa Magazine Media Event, that’s what!

    Held at the Mandarin Oriental New York, a premier New York City destination, the Organic Spa Media Event brought together dozens of brands and hundreds of influencers, united by the goal of creating holistic well-being.  This year marked the fourth such gathering, and attracted media attention from all over the northeast, with companies representing the United States, Europe, South and Central America, and China.

    While larger lines like Aura Cacia were there debuting their new product lineups, newer startups like Plume—Hair and Lash science were present as well, revolutionizing the cosmetics industry with a plant-based, all-natural lash boosting serum.  MyChelle boasted a highly effective, yet baby gentle line of sun care that felt more like a moisturizing treatment than a sunscreen.  Between visiting all the companies, attendees were encouraged to partake of a healthy and delicious lunch, with lush green salads, fresh fruit, sandwiches and hibiscus iced tea.

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    organic spa magazine

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    organic spa magazine

    The Media Event was a direct embodiment of the mission of Organic Spa Magazine, providing “insight and informed advice on natural beauty and skin care, health and wellness topics, fitness and food, eco fashion and design, green travel and much, much more.”  In addition to being a fantastic opportunity to meet other wellness-minded professionals, try luxurious new products, and scope out the best destinations for a much-needed break, the event was an oasis in and of itself, leaving attendees relaxed, rejuvenated and inspired.

    babydroppingsAllaya Cooks-Campbell is the mother of an adorable newborn and step-mommy to two gorgeous tweens. She works very hard to keep her children from developing her sense of humor. An avid yogi, gamer and novelist, Allaya lives in New York with her husband, Damany. You can find her exploring motherhood at babydroppings.com.

     

    Photo Credit: Damany Campbell of Kanji Photography