Protect Your Active Kids from MRSA

With fall sports in full swing, equipment cleanliness and item-sharing on and off the field may get overlooked between carpools, homework and bedtime. But, skin infections like MRSA, a potentially life threatening antibiotic resistant Staph infection, are the cause of 56 percent of all infectious disease outbreaks in competitive sports in the U.S.

It’s important that as parents and coaches we do our part to help prevent the spread of MRSA. You can begin by getting involved in the Equip them Well program through three simple steps – collect, disinfect, donate.




***Disclosure-This post is my entry into a O2O Network sweepstakes. I am a member of One2One Network.

Around the Blogosphere...GIVEAWAYS..

Cottonelle Fresh Wipes - 5 Winners ENDS 11/9
Carmex Prize Pack ends 11/4
Betty Crocker Prize Pack ends 10/29
Duncan Hines 2 winners ends 10/31
The Unbride Giveaway 10/30
$40 Lett'er Express It Gift Certificate - 10/29
Preggers Maternity Tights, $50 value for 2 pairs

Clarins Rouge Prodige lipstick review

Beauty Benefits:
Rouge Prodige benefits from all the latest innovations in terms of formulation to create a texture that finally gives women what they have always wanted: lasting-hold, intense colour, incredible shine and comfort too. It stays flawless for hours and hours.
Application:
Thanks to its texture it is very easy to apply. For an intense make-up result, line the lip contour with a Lip Pencil, then apply Rouge Prodige with the Lip Brush.
Active Ingredients:
High Fidelity Pearl, a polymer composed of multifaceted molecules which trap colour pigments: long-hold, radiant colour.
Marine algae extract: nourishes.
Ceramides and waxes: protect the epidermis from dehydration and smooth lips.


My review:
Friday-We are headed on a fun night out. I am all glammed up, and my red hot lips are ready.

Saturday-Ready to run around all of Houston on errands, and shopping. My red hot lips are amazingly ready too.

Sunday-We are headed to the Texas Renaissance Festival. It is Pirate weekend. I love how my red hot lips go with my bandana.

Ok, so I love my new lipstick from Clarins. I have to say it is soft on my lips. It doesn't taste bad. I know, crazy but it doesn't. I have had other brands that will get on your teeth and this one doesnt. Also other brand feel powery on your lips or thick, and this one doesn't. It last long too. I really did not have to touch up, only after I ate. But it didn't take much.

***Disclosure-I received Clarins Rouge Prodige Lipstick to review. No monetary compensation was received. These are my honest opinions. Check out my facebook page for more pictures in my red hot lipstick!!!

Recap of My wedding

Today is my 1 month anniversary from the day I said "I DO". Many have asked about my wedding and as I am finally getting things straighten out and back to normal. I will share with you some of my moments. Thank you so much for wanting to share this moment with me, here are the pics...

Hi, welcome to a recap of my wedding. Here I am trying to get into my beautiful wedding dress. I have worked really hard for several months and finally, today all the hardwork pays off. I said Yes to the dress!!
This is my handsome son. You will see him later on. Looking so Fly!
The wedding is starting. This is my beautiful mom, who surprised me. She looked so beautiful. She is being walked in by my little brother, Christian. Christian looked very handsome.
Meet my sexy, Hot maids of honor. Yes, I had two of them. They are my bestfriends. My sisters from GOD. They looked amazing, struting them RED HOT PUMPS!!
All rise...here comes the bride. I was escorted in by my son, as my friend, and sister, Ashley sang God Bless the Broken Road. I was so emotional. I loved this song from the first moment I heard it. I love Rascal Flats, and these lyrics have moved me. Here are the words, to the song in my heart this day....

I set out on a narrow way many years ago
Hoping I would find true love along the broken road
But I got lost a time or two
Wiped my brow and kept pushing through
I couldn't see how every sign pointed straight to you
Every long lost dream lead me to where you are
Others who broke my heart they were like northern stars
Pointing me on my way into your loving arms
This much I know is true
That God blessed the broken road
That led me straight to you

I think about the years I spent just passing through
I'd like to have the time I lost and give it back to you
But you just smile and take my hand
You've been there you understand
It's all part of a grander plan that is coming true

Every long lost dream lead me to where you are
Others who broke my heart they were like northern stars
Pointing me on my way into your loving arms
This much I know is true
That God blessed the broken road
That led me straight to you



A few pics of the ceremony. He said "I DO", and I said "I do too". We were pronounced...Husband and wife..Mr. & Mrs. Garza


Mother and son dance to Momma by Boys2Men. I picked this song. I love the words, and it was perfect for these two. Everyone got emotional as Lupe and his mom danced.
My real dad is in El Salvador, and my stepdad could not attend being he was out of town as well. So my son danced with me to Miracle by Celine Dion.
Our first dance to It's Your Love. He sang to me. He surprised me by mixing in a Spanish song Caminare. He picked both of these songs. I had no say so. But it was perfect.

Mr and Mrs. Garza

It has been a month since this day. It seems as if it was yesterday. I achieved my goal of getting into my wedding dress. I still have 10 more lbs I would like to lose and just maintain. But I can't complain. My husband said I looked like a porcelain doll. He was speechless. I am living a dream that I never could have imagined. Thank you to everyone who made it to our wedding, and especially those who participated. This was my fairtale wedding.

Dressbarn 30% Friends & Family coupon

Thanks to Dressbarn for sending me this wonderful coupon to pass along to my friends and family. You need to print this flyer out and take it in with you to the store. I know where I am going this weekend, SHOPPING!!!

Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving

Every year we take the munchkins trick or treating. We walk as a group and go house to house. We have never had a problem. But we have seen some kids wandering alone in the streets trick or treating on their own. The streets are dark after a certain time. Kids are easily distracted trying to get more candy, running from house to house, or having fun at the fun houses.

But those without kiddos, go out to Halloween parties, clubs, or bars. Think about all the kids in the streets and start planning a safe and sober ride home from whatever fun you'll be having that night - so your evening doesn't turn into a real nightmare.

Whether at a Halloween party, a costume contest at a bar or trick-or-treating through the neighborhood, many of us will be on the road this weekend. The National Highway Traffic Safety Administration and the Ad Council are reminding everyone that the best way to stay safe is to plan ahead and designate a sober driver before you head out for your Halloween festivities.

Here are some tips:

-Designated Driver Drink List -If you're throwing a Halloween party, make sure to offer non-alcoholic drinks for the sober drivers. Here is a Facebook tab with 50 non-alcoholic party drink recipes.

-Alternative Ride Locator -Here is a Facebook tab with a list of nationwide alternative ride programs

Go to the Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving website pledge not to drink and drive; play "Spot the Difference," an interactive game that simulates the effects of buzzed driving; and watch a real-life video about how buzzed driving changed one woman's life.



Be safe. Have fun. Happy Halloween. Remember Buzzed Driving is Drunk Driving. So plan ahead and designate a sober driver before you begin celebrating.

***Disclosure-This post is my entry in a sweepstakes sponsored by Global Influencer.

Domestic Violence Awareness-Verizon Wireless

Did you know 1 in 4 Latinas will experience Domestic Violence in her lifetime?

October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

Verizon Wireless has partnered with Casa de Esperanza in the hope and fight to end domestic violence and developed the HopeLine program, which is a cell phone recycling program where Verizon Wireless refurbishes and gives to domestic violence victims and survivors with wireless service free of charge. Since the launch of the HopeLine phone recycling program in 2001, this initiative has collected more than 7 million phones, given out more than $7.9 million in cash grants, and distributed more than 90,000 phones with more than 300 million minutes of free wireless service for use by domestic violence survivors.

***Disclosure-Informational post only. No compensation received.

Support School-Based Vaccination This Flu Season

Support School-Based Vaccination This Flu Season

Last year, 341 children died from influenza-related diseases. This year, you can be a part of the solution by supporting school-based vaccination clinics.

Children are important in curbing the spread of influenza within households and communities. In one study, vaccinating children in school suggested there was a significant reduction in the rate of influenza-related outcomes in the households of children enrolled in the study.*

Therefore, focusing efforts for influenza vaccination in schools can be an effective and practical method of reducing the burden of influenza in the community.

CLick here to sign the pledge

Additional Resources: For the latest information on influenza vaccination, visit www.cdc.gov/flu. To find a flu location near you, use the flu locator at www.flu.gov. For resources on how to set up a school-based clinic, visit http://www.familiesfightingflu.org/.
*http://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa055414#t=articleBackground, Accessed 10/06/10

***Disclosure-Informational post only. No compensation received.

"Treasure Your Chest" Program!

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month. I am a proud supporter. Every year I walk the Susan G Komen walk and try and help raise funds for this great cause that affects all of us. I am passing along this great information. And remember to take the time to perform regular self breast exams.

Watch live streaming video from treasureyourchest at livestream.com

In honor of Breast Cancer Awareness Month, E! News host Giuliana Rancic and Lindsay Avner, founder of the national breast and ovarian cancer non-profit Bright Pink, "felt themselves up" during 'Treasure Your Chest' a live webcast to fight breast cancer hosted by Orbit White Bubblemint gum. Orbit White is donating 10 percent of every pack of Orbit White Bubblemint gum sold in September and October, up to $75,000, to Bright Pink.


***Disclosure-This post is my entry into a MomSelect sweepstakes sponsored by Orbit.

Bullied Children

Every morning I wake up to hear the news on tv. The tv automatically turns on every morning at 6 am. This morning, I hear a story that continues to be heard, different kid, different town, same story. Growing up, I did not have a bully in my life but I do remember some people who were bullies. I stayed away from them. I never saw them bullying anyone, I just saw them trying to act tough around everyone. The only incident I do remember was in middle school. Let me take you back to middle school. I was a nerd, still am. Proud to be. I grew up being in the advance classes, honors, PRE IB, whatever tell call them in your school. And when I am very friendly. I make everyone my friend. A girl wanted to pick on me and even told me she was going to Kick my you know what after school. I was scared like most kids. I did everything possible to avoid this girl, and ignored her. Eventually I guess she picked one someone else. She never picked on me again after that. I stood my ground, and never told anyone about this incident. I just remember being in the girls locker room with so much chaos going on. Her and her friends threatening me. As they circled around me, yelling at me. I was in my pep squad uniform, trying to change for gym class. I hear them taunting me, as finally the coach comes in. This is the worst feeling ever. I feel that I had a great group of friends to shelter me from all of this. They were my support system. Some kids dont have this at home or at school. I have a son and we try to talk to him everyday. I hope we are not missing anything. I would hate for something like this to happen to anyone, especially to hit home. We as adults made it, and for some we just live with the scars or memories of the past, but that makes us stronger. If you know someone who needs help or you need help here is some information. Don't let it be to late...talk to your kids today. At the bottom of the page I have the news story I heard this morning from Channel 26 news.

Are you in crisis? Please call 1-800-273-TALK

Are you feeling desperate, alone or hopeless? Call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), a free, 24-hour hotline available to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress. Your call will be routed to the nearest crisis center to you.

Call for yourself or someone you care about
Free and confidential
A network of more than 140 crisis centers nationwide
Available 24/7

Red Nacional de Prevención del Suicidio

Cuando usted llama al número 1-888-628-9454, su llamada se dirige al centro de ayuda de nuestra red disponible más cercano. Cuando el centro contesta su llamada, usted estará hablando con una persona que le escuchará, le hará preguntas y hará todo lo que esté a su alcance para ayudarlo. Para información en español haga clic aquí.

For Hearing and Speech Impaired with TTY Equipment:
1-800-799-4TTY (4889)



Self-Defense for Bullied Children

The death of 13-year-old Asher Brown is still fresh on everyone's mind. The teen took his life after he was often bullied at school. There are ways children can react when confronted by bullies.
Story and video are from Fox 26 News

I wrote this because our children are our future. It is our job to help them. Now a days you have to protected from everything.

Kinoko AHCC review and giveaway

It's flu season again. Have you gotten your flu shot? We are getting our flu shots today at work. If you have never had the flu, then you are lucky. I have, it knocks you off your feet. I catch everything. For some reason my immune system never seems catch a break. For this reason, I take multi-vitamins and am always looking for boosters. I was offered the opportunity to try Kinoko AHCC. Kinoko AHCC is a natural immune booster derived from Japanese medicinal mushrooms. It is a great addition to my cold/flu season arsenal.



During last year’s flu season, Active Hexose Correlated Compound (AHCC) became Japan ’s #1 selling immune supplement and the news about this unique compound is finally reaching our shores. And, there’s a new clinical study out of Michigan State University showing that AHCC enhances the effectiveness of the seasonal flu shot. How? Patients taking AHCC showed increased production of “T-cells” and natural killer (NK) cells -- those are the two types of white blood cells that help destroy virus-infected cells and fight off infections.

Kinoko AHCC also has a 20-year history of safety. It’s the world’s most researched natural immune supplement, supported by more than 50 human studies and 25 studies published in NIH-recognized peer-reviewed journals.

Would you like to try Kinoko AHCC? Here is how to enter:

1) What have you tried to help with the flu season? Flu shots, booster? (1 entry)
2) Be a blogger follower. (1 entry)
3) Be a twitter follower. (1 entry)
4) Tweet. (1 entry/per tweet)

Win a bottle of Kinoko AHCC @independentmami #giveaway 10/31 http://tinyurl.com/27o6afp


This giveaway ends Oct 31, 2010 @ 8am. The winner will have 24 hours to claim their prize. Please leave an email in your comment to be contacted at. Good Luck.

***Disclosure-I received a booster kit which included a bottle of Kinoko AHCC to review. No compensation was received.

Germiest Hot Spots at School

So I am sitting at the front desk at work, where everything is pretty much community property, as a co-worker sneezes into his hand. STOP...big no, no. Yes, into his hands. As he proceeds to ask to borrow my pen. I give a pen from the desk, not mine. He uses it and then attemps to give it back to me.
How many times has this happen to you? Imagine how many times a day we do things without thinking the germs we are passing to each other. The above is a true story that just happened like 15 minutes ago, and coincidentally I receive a press release of a new study that was conducting on the Germiest Hot Spots at School. I worry about the germs the kiddos will get all the time. So I am reading this and passing it on to you, hope it helps...and Yes I sanitized my hands, the desk, and the pen. At work we keep hand sanitizer on every desk.


New Study Reveals Germiest Hot Spots at School
Parents and teachers may want to consider disinfecting high traffic areas

OAKLAND, Calif., October 19, 2010 – In the cafeteria, the biggest threat may not be the kid that wants to eat your French fries or what is truly inside a hotdog. A recent study conducted by Dr. Charles Gerba and the University of Arizona in a K-12 school system found that the germiest place at school is the cafeteria table.

Researchers from the University of Arizona swabbed classrooms and common area surfaces at six schools in a K-12 school system to determine the relative numbers of total heterotrophic bacteria and coliform bacteria on frequently touched hard, non-porous surfaces.

In addition to the cafeteria table, the most contaminated sites include:

the computer mouse, which harbored nearly twice as many bacteria than desktops,
the bathroom paper towel handle
water fountain
bathroom sink faucets,
library table and
Computer keyboard.

Of the top eight most contaminated surfaces out of twelve sampled in the schools, six were in common areas demonstrating the need for a joint prevention effort among teachers, students and other school personnel.

Each day, about 55 million students and 7 million staff attend the more than 130,000 public and private schools in the United States[1]. – in fact, more than seven in 10 children (38 million) of school-aged children (aged 5-17 years) in the United States missed school in the past 12 months due to illness or injury[2].

“Some bacteria are capable of causing infections and tend to collect on frequently touched surfaces – particularly in areas where there is a lot of hand-to-mouth contact like the cafeteria table,” explains Dra. Aliza Lifshitz, internist at Cedars-Sinai Medical Center and editor of VidaySalud.com. “To help your children minimize the spread of germs, encourage them to wash their hands frequently or use an alcohol-based hand rub, especially when sharing school supplies or taking turns using the computer.”

Dra. Aliza has the following suggestions to help keep a cleaner classroom:

• Disinfect hot spots: Even if a classroom starts out clean, germs can – and do – build up all day. In fact, evidence of Influenza A virus was found on 13.6% of swabbed surfaces in the morning and jumped to about 50% by the afternoon.[3] That’s why teachers should implement a routine of frequently disinfecting germ hot spots in the classroom, like desktops and doorknobs, with disinfecting wipes, as directed. This can help supplement what the custodian is already doing.

• Arm them with the right tools: Parents should consider bringing teachers hand sanitizer or canisters of Clorox® Disinfecting Wipes to help make clean-up easier.

• Avoid Touching Surfaces in the Bathroom: Parents should teach kids to use paper towels to press the flush lever on the toilet and when turning water faucets on and off. If there are lids on the toilets, kids should learn to put them down before flushing.

• Walk the walk at home: children may be bringing more than just homework home to their families. That’s why it is important for parents to adopt the same routines at home, such as wiping down frequently-touched surfaces like the remote control, countertops, phones and light switches.

The full white paper is available here in Spanish on vidaysalud.com

VITTORIO GRIGOLO: THE ITALIAN TENOR

Let me introduce you to Vittorio Grigolo. He has an amazing voice. When you listen to his cd, it is so intriguing. It moves you. I love listening to this kind of music and just starring out into the world. It kinda slows everthing down for just a song. You can close your eyes and just take in the music as he sings to you. I loved this cd.




DEBUT RELEASE ON SONY CLASSICAL

Available October 5, 2010

"…a charismatic performer with undeniable audience appeal" – The New York Times


Sony Classical proudly announces its debut release by the highly-acclaimed tenor Vittorio Grigolo. Hailed as one of the finest tenors in recent times, Grigolo’s recording of The Italian Tenor will be available on October 5 and features famous arias and lesser known discoveries. Also, on October 16, Grigolo makes his highly anticipated debut at the Metropolitan Opera as Rodolfo in La Bohème.

Grigolo purposely waited to record his first operatic solo album until he had something unique to communicate in the repertoire. According to Grigolo, “I chose arias representing the culture I come from.”

Born in Tuscany, Grigolo began his career as a young boy performing as a soloist in the celebrated Sistine Chapel Choir. His distinctive voice attracted the praise of the great Luciano Pavarotti when, at age thirteen, he starred alongside him as the Pastorello in Tosca at the Rome Opera. He went on to be the youngest tenor ever to debut at the legendary La Scala, Milan and has conquered many of the world’s great opera houses since, appearing with the finest artists and conductors of our day. Grigolo made his Chicago debut in 2008 starring in a tribute to Pavarotti in front of thousands at Grant Park. He made his Washington, D.C. debut in 2009 sharing the stage with Renée Fleming in a lauded production of Lucrezia Borgia conducted by Plácido Domingo. Recently, he triumphed in his debut at Royal Opera House, Covent Garden in Massenet’s Manon.

The Italian Tenor presents arias from three great operatic composers - Gaetano Donizetti, Giuseppe Verdi and Giacomo Puccini. These include Donizetti's “Una furtiva lagrima” (L'Elisir d'Amore) which was made famous by Enrico Caruso, whose famous performance of the aria paved the way for the opera's return to the repertoire after years of neglect. Equally as beautiful is “Spirto gentil” (La Favorita) in which the lead character laments the loss of his love forever.

The recording also presents Grigolo as five Verdi characters. His selection begins with “Quando le sere al placido” from Luisa Miller and continues with “Ella mi fu rapita” and “Possente amore” from Rigoletto. Verdi’s early opera Il Corsaro is rarely performed on stage today, but the young tenor triumphed in the title role at the Zürich Opernhaus earlier this year and wanted to include it on the album. The arias “Tutto parea sorridere” and “Si de’ Corsari il fulmine” demonstrate his lyrical and dramatic gifts, as does the chosen aria from Un Ballo in Maschera, - “Forse le soglia attinse....ma se m'e forza perderti”. Following the cavatina “Ah si ben mio coll’essere”, Grigolo makes a rare venture into the spinto tenor repertoire with “Di quella pira” (Il Trovatore).

The Puccini selection features a seldom heard aria from the composer's first opera, Le Villi, “Ecco la casa...torna ai felici di”. Grigolo was drawn to the unusually dark, almost Wagnerian colors of the piece. “Donna non vidi mai” (Manon Lescaut), sung at the beginning of the opera as des Grieux falls in love with the young Manon, provides a clear contrast to the despair of Cavaradossi in “E lucevan le stelle” (Tosca) as the painter awaits his execution. The aria “Firenze è come un albero fiorito” from Puccini's only comic opera, Gianni Schicchi, foreshadows the melody of the celebrated “O mio babbino caro” in its central section. Of course, no survey of the Italian tenor repertoire would be complete without the most loved aria of them all - “Che gelida manina” (La Bohème).

The Italian Tenor was recorded in the Teatro, Regio di Parma, a venue particularly associated with Verdi. It was recorded with the resident orchestra and conductor Pier Giorgio Morandi, with whom Grigolo shares a personal musical connection and admires greatly. Grigolo makes special mention of Plácido Domingo for having offered him guidance and unwavering support throughout Grigolo’s career.

***Disclosure-I received this cd for this review. No compensation was received.

Paula Cole Ithaca

Sometimes in life, things just don't go as planned. Your dreams of how you thought your life would be are some how changed but not by you, by others. I love how in music you can hear people's stories, whether the story is happy or sad. They tell you stories. My life hasn't always been how I imagined it. I thought I had found someone I could count on, got engaged, had a baby, and then what happenend? It all fell apart. I ended up becoming a single mother. But life and I kept going.

Paula Cole is an artist I was introduced to. I like how she lets us in through her music. I was in tears at times listening to the her song Somethin’ I’ve Gotta Say. Great music, great songs, great stories..




The GRAMMY Award-winner, and one of the preeminent female singer/songwriters of our generation, journeys to ITHACA on her deeply personal new album to be released on September 21st (Universal/Decca Records).

On her fifth album ITHACA, Cole takes listeners on an intensely emotional, yet uplifting journey through divorce ("The Hard Way," "P.R.E.N.U.P") and the struggle to recover one's identity ("Elegy," "Waiting on a Miracle") before allowing herself to revel in the healing. Along the way, she acknowledges being torn between work and her daughter ("Somethin' I've Gotta Say"), and ultimately celebrates having music to get her through it all ("Music In Me").

The 42-year-old mother, who’s young daughter suffers from severe asthma, has penned some defining music over the years for women, including “Where Have All the Cowboys Gone?” and the theme to Dawson’s Creek, “I Don’t Wanna Wait.” Says Cole, "My albums are like Polaroid snapshots of my life. The writing is the hard part because my process is highly personal and autobiographical. This new album reflects me processing the things in life we all face on a daily basis."

ITHACA, a touching tour-de-force of emotions, showcases Cole's sharp and poignant songwriting, along with her moving voice - which The New York Times referred to as, "rich and tremulous" The album represents the difficult, yet healing journey we all go through to try to find the beautiful things in life. "The overall theme of ITHACA is making peace with life," Cole says. "I hope to show people through my music that these lessons in life can truly be a healing process."

1. The Hard Way
2. Waiting on a Miracle
3. Music in Me
4. Elegy
5. Come on Inside
6. P.R.E.N.U.P.
7. Violet Eyes
8. Somethin’ I’ve Gotta Say
9. Sex
10. 2 LIfetimes

Exciting Trilash Giveaway!

Are you interested in entering an exciting giveaway then visit BritneysBeautyBlog.com for a chance to win the Trilash lash serum. With Trilash lash serum it's possible to grow longer and thicker lashes giving you a fuller fabulous fringe. Enter by clicking on the following link http://www.britneysbeautyblog.com/2010/10/sweepstakes-giveaway-trilash-lash-serum.html.

EcoMom Referral Program

Independentmami readers-I have a special discount code to pass along to you for the EcoMom store. Any new customers Independentmami refers will automatically get 15% off their first order when using Independentmami's code. Remember to use my referral code when you place your first order at www.ecomom.com

Referral Code:
SB005493


***Disclosure-I will receive $10 cash for every referral. No other compensation was made or reeived.

Help Raise Money for Breast Cancer Research

I support breast cancer research. I have donated money and time. I have done walks. I try to do my part, even if it is a little part. Here is how Quill is trying to make a difference.

"Hello My Name is Hope" campaign, presented by Quill.com, a leading business-to-business online and direct marketer of office products. To boost breast cancer awareness, Quill.com is inviting all Facebook users to post and personalize virtual "Hello My Name is Hope" stickers on their profiles to honor both survivors and victims of the disease. The familiar "Hello My Name Is" stickers take on new meaning with personalized messages of hope and support shared across the Facebook community. For every sticker shared, Quill.com will donate $1 - up to $20,000 - to City of Hope, a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center dedicated to research, treatment and education.

Throughout October, every sticker created will be displayed in a community gallery on the Quill.com Facebook page, creating a virtual wall of breast cancer messages and images.
Because breast cancer is a disease that has impacted the lives of so many women all over the world, Quill.com is hoping to give a voice to those affected. And because they believe in the power of Moms, they're turning to our community to spread this powerful message of hope.

Show your support for someone special in your life that has been affected by breast cancer. Personalize a "Hello My Name Is" virtual sticker with an inspiring word of choice and photo to share with your Facebook community. Not only will your message spread the word about fighting breast cancer and making a difference, but Quill.com will donate $1 for every sticker created, up to $20,000. Go to http://www.facebook.com/quill and participate today.

So what are you waiting for? Visit the Quill.com Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/Quill to create a sticker and share a message of hope!For a complete selection of pink products and an overview of Quill.com's breast cancer campaign, check out www.quill.com/thinkpink.

**Disclosure-By passing along this information I will be entered to win a $250 Visa gift card.

APP FOR APPLE® iPAD – QUE RICA VIDA RECETARIO™

I wanted to share with you, the new Qué Rica Vida app for iPad. It is free and filled with over 900 recipes! Everything from desert, entrees, lunch, beverages, etc. I'm sure your readers will love to add this to their iPad. Here is the press release, in case you have any questions.


GENERAL MILLS INC. LAUNCHES ITS FIRST SPANISH LANGUAGE APP FOR APPLE® iPAD – QUE RICA VIDA RECETARIO™
The Application is Available on iTunes and Offers Hispanic Consumers Instant Access to Hundreds of Recipes for Delicious Latin-Style Meals


MINNEAPOLIS, Oct. 6, 2010 – General Mills Inc. today launched its first Spanish-language application for the Apple® iPad platform, which will provide Spanish-speaking consumers with instant access to more than 900 Latin-inspired recipes, in 12 different categories, such as appetizers and snacks, breakfasts, salads, garnishes, drinks and beverages, breads, pastas, pastries and cookies, entrees, desserts, sauces and soups. The app, Qué Rica Vida Recetario, is available at no charge on iTunes.
Recetario is Spanish for recipe depository, and Que Rica Vida (What a Rich Life!) is General Mills’ five year-old, multi-brand, Hispanic marketing platform, web site and free quarterly lifestyle magazine. The new Qué Rica Vida Recetario for the iPad comes in response to overwhelming demand the company has received for Spanish-language recipes from consumers.
Each recipe also comes with a full-color picture, and in a unique feature that will make preparing all these great dishes easier, Qué Rica Vida Recetario provides users with a measurement converter, with snap calculation capabilities.
“We are very excited to introduce this state-of-the-art form and think this technology is an excellent platform for showcasing our very popular recipes and our award-winning photography,” said Rodolfo Rodriguez, Multicultural Marketing Director for General Mills. “Meeting consumers’ needs and staying ahead of the competition in Hispanic marketing is foremost among our company’s priorities. Qué Rica Vida Recetario is a wonderful resource for Spanish speakers using the iPad platform.”


-more-

According to Adriana Amione, Executive Chef of General Mills’ Hispanic Kitchen, and the person responsible for creating most of the recipes in the new app,
“Consumers continue to ask us for recipes and solutions as they work to prepare traditional and convenient meals for their families. Today’s social media tools give us another, more modern way to respond to their requests.”
The app also connects directly with QueRicaVida.com’s web site, where users can immediately access more recipes and a wealth of other useful information about parenting, health and education.
Qué Rica Vida Recetario is expected to be the talk of this week’s Blogalicious Conference, in Miami, Florida, where hundreds of Hispanic bloggers and Latina consumers will gather Oct. 8-10 to celebrate the growing diversity of social media. General Mills is a main sponsor of the conference and has partnered with nine of the most influential Latina bloggers attending to demonstrate and blog about the new free app.

About Que Rica Vida
Now in its fifth year, the Que Rica Vida initiative is an important resource designed to provide Latina moms with culturally relevant lifestyle information and expert advice on Education, Holiday Occasions, Health & Wellness and Family - issues of great importance to Hispanic families in America. The program was developed by General Mills to help the Hispanic mother succeed in creating a healthier, easier, richer life for her and her family. The cornerstone of the Que Rica Vida initiative is its free quarterly lifestyle magazine and website of the same name, www.quericavida.com


About General Mills

One of the world's leading food companies, General Mills operates in more than 100 countries and markets more than 100 consumer brands, including Cheerios, Häagen-Dazs, Nature Valley, Betty Crocker, Pillsbury, Green Giant, Old El Paso, Progresso, Yoplait, Cascadian Farm, Muir Glen, and more. Headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota, USA, General Mills had fiscal 2010 global net sales of US$16 billion, including the company’s $1.2 billion proportionate share of joint venture net sales.


***Disclosure-This is information I am passing along. No compensation was received.

Cystex Liquid Cranberry Complex with Proantinox

This is some information I am passing along...



Cystex Liquid Cranberry Complex with Proantinox – Take Charge of Your Urinary Health – 1 Tablespoon = 8 Glasses of Cranberry Juice

Cranberries have long played a role in helping many women, particularly those with recurring urinary tract infections (UTIs), to promote better bladder health. In fact, some 50 percent of women report drinking a lot of cranberry juice when they suspect they have a UTI, according to a survey conducted for Cystex. But drinking eight glasses of cranberry juice is not enjoyable or tolerable, and can be loaded with sugar and calories. A clinically-proven alternative is just one tablespoon of new Cystex Liquid Cranberry Complex with Proantinox taken daily to promote urinary tract health, which can benefit millions of women most susceptible to recurring, painful urinary tract infections.

Cystex Liquid Cranberry Complex combines the health benefit of eight glasses of cranberry juice in one tablespoon of its unique, convenient Proantinox cranberry formula. More than just cranberry concentrate, its proprietary blend also contains D-Mannose (from cranberries), bromelain (from pineapple), inulin, and vitamin C, a combination designed to boost bladder health.

Cystex Liquid Cranberry Complex is backed by a new study being published in the journal Urology, which shows 91% of women taking daily Cystex Liquid Cranberry Complex with Proantinox remained free of recurring UTIs. In addition, Cystex Liquid Cranberry Complex:
Is lactose-, gluten- and sugar-free
Is only one calorie per tablespoon
Contains 17 times more proanthocyanidins (PACs) that cranberry tablets

More information on preventing and managing UTIs is available at www.cystex.com.

Introducing new Gain Dishwashing Liquid

Close your eyes; we’d like to take you to a magical place where sink meets scent. Achieve sensory nirvana with new Gain Dishwashing Liquid, now available in the dish aisle at your local retail store such as Walmart.

I know you are wondering what is going on. I love Gain. I, at one point in my life, had a bad allergic reaction to another soap. My mom had to stop using it and we have used Gain ever since. I received the Gain "Sniff, Sniff, Hurray" kit introducing me to Gain dishwashing liquid. It comes in different scents that will make you love washing dishes.

For more information about the new Gain Dishwashing Liquids, visit ILoveGain.com or YoAmoGain.com. In addition, be sure to "Like" Gain on Facebook and follow Gain on Twitter!

***Disclosure-Gain product, t-shirts, bubbles and Walmart gift cards were all given to Independentmami from P&G through MyBlogSpark. No compensation was received.

MyGetTogether-Chex Mix Snacks "Game Day" MyGetTogether

I was picked to be a MyGetTogether host for a Chex Mix Snacks "Game Day" MyGetTogether. It is football season and we love to watch football. What a better snack then Chex Mix. Everyone loves Chex Mix at my house. They can create their own combination. We received Honey Nut, Traditional, and Turtle flavor Chex Mix. I could not tell which one was the favorite around the house because they ate it all. The Chex Mix bowl was being passed around being all the game watcher during snack breaks. You know guys and football. I received coupons to pass out to my guest for them to grab their bags for our next football watch party.

Chex Mix comes in 13 unique flavors: the 3 we received, and
Cheddar
Bold Party Blend
Sour Cream & Onion
Peanut Lovers
Hot & Spicy (my favorite!!!)
Barbeque
Dark Chocolate (ok no this is my favorite!!)
Peanut butter
Trail mix
Caramel Crunch

About MyGetTogether-
Do you enjoy hosting? Do you like trying the latest products and sharing them with friends? Then MyGetTogether is right for you! And it is easy to participate.

To participate in MyGetTogether, you will need to be a member of General Mills’ Pssst... network. Pssst... lets you try new products, take part in surveys, get exclusive, behind-the-scene looks at the company, as well as coupons from General Mills’ many brands.
Pssst... members may be contacted via email when there are possible MyGetTogether hosting opportunities. Or you may find upcoming events listed on your Personal Page.
You may be invited to take a short online survey to see if you qualify to host a particular event. Not all get-togethers will be available to everyone, but there will be plenty of opportunities.
If selected as a host, you will be responsible for arranging the get-together (with our help!) and inviting friends.
Tell us how it went! After the get-together, we want to hear from you and your experience with the product. We value your opinion and want to continue offering only the best.

THE SOUND OF MUSIC in Movie Theaters!

Do you love the movie THE SOUND OF MUSIC? I remember the first time I saw this movie. I was in middle school. It was in my drama class. I have loved music ever since. And if you have never seen it or have never shared with it with your kiddos, here is your chance. Or if you are like me, and just want to see it again, check this out...


THE SOUND OF MUSIC is returning to over 500 movie theaters around the US for 2 nights only on October 19th and 26th in celebration of its 45th anniversary. The film has been newly restored (for the 1st ever Blu-ray release on November 2nd) and will include a sing-a-long!

So bring your kids and warm up your vocal chords! You can find theaters near you at www.fathomevents.com/soundofmusic.

Here is a clip from I’ll Sing Once More showing how the film was restored for the Blu-ray release: http://ow.ly/2QH3Q


Here is a clip from THE SOUND OF MUSIC for your enjoyment: http://ow.ly/2QEvN


find tickets in your area at: www.fathomevents.com/soundofmusic


***Disclosure-This is an informational post. No compensation was received.

Around the Blogsphere Oct 14..giveaways

Go Long! Go Green! giveaway a beanie and bow (Accessorize Kait’s Etsy shop) 10/25

Curious Georgia Giveaway Ends 10/24

A Twitter Giveaway! Godiva Chocolate Gift Set! 10/25

Verizon Prepaid Mobile Broadband Giveaway! 11/24

Cheryl's Cookies for the Cure Treats Tower - 10/25

Clinere Ear Cleaners review and giveaway***CLOSED***

So with getting ready for my wedding and starting this new life as a wife, I have been doing all kinds of cleansing. I earlier posted about nose cleansing, now I have a new product to tell you about.

Clinere™ Ear Cleaners are the latest innovation in personal ear cleaning and a much needed upgrade from the outdated cotton swab.

Complete with dual purpose ends and made of soft, flexible plastic, Clinere Ear Cleaners feature a scoop end that can be used to remove unwanted wax, dirt and debris, as well as a finned end that can be used to clean and exfoliate the outer surfaces of the ear and canal entrance.

Clinere Ear Cleaners are sold in 10-count packages and priced between $5.99 and $6.99. Currently, they are available in Walmart, Kmart, Walgreens, CVS, Meijer, H-E-B and Shopko stores nationwide.

My review-I am a cleaning your ear freak. I would line up my brothers and clean their ears one at a time. I hate seeing people with yellow crust in their ears. oohh, gross. And every now and again I yank their ears and check them out. I tried the Clinere Ear Cleaners on myself. I liked that I was able to throughly clean my ears. I followed the easy to use intructions. Lately my allergies have been killing me, so my ears are always feeling itchy. The Clinere Ear Cleaners help with the itching problem too. I like the unique design to help get all the ear wax that normally just gets pushed further into your ear. A normal Qtip sometimes may not help get the ear wax built up in your ears, and that can cause problems. I like that I can use these to get the crud out of my son's ear without having to wait until we get to the doctor's office and they pull out wax clumps, after clump.

Would you like to win a 10-count package of Clinere Ear Cleaners?

Here is how to enter:

1) Tell me an ear cleaning story you may have. (1 entry)
2) Follow my blog. (1 entry)
3) Follow me on twitter. (1 entry)

Giveaway ends on October 20, 2010 @ 8 am. Please leave your email in your comment. Winne will have 24 hours to claim prize. Good Luck.

Feel Good in Naturalizer event Review and Giveaway***CLOSED

Naturalizer...have you heard of them? I love their shoes. They are so comfortable. They carry shoes from hard to find sizes to different widths. And since I know not all shoes fit the same, I love them.

Feel Good in Naturalizer event was a nationwide tour where ladies were able to try the new fall shoes and boots.



I was invited to this wonderful event where I received a pair of new boots.

Naturalizer Barstowe
$129.99

You'll be dressed to impress in the Naturalizer Barstowe dress boots. Leather upper in a knee-high boot style with a round closed toe. Ruched side detail with stirrup-inspired strap and metal ring ornament. Elastic goring and full side zipper ensure an easy slip-on fit. Smooth lining, cushioning insole features N5 Comfort Elements. Non-slip outsole, 2 inch heel.



Naturalizer has the "Wide Shaft" boots. Which means people like me with fat calves can now wear cute boots. The boots are cute. No more looking for stretch boots for me to fit my calves. I love wearing dresses and skirts in the fall with boots. These boots are comfortable to wear at work, and then after 5, ready to hit the nite life.

Want to win some boots just in time for the fall? Here is how to enter:

1) Be a blog follower. (1 entry)
2) Be a twitter follower. (1 entry)
3) Tweet. (1 entry per day)
Win @NaturalizerShoe ($150 value) with #FeelGood @independentmami 10/31 http://tinyurl.com/34nl8pl

4) Link to a Giveaway linky. (1 entry, per linky) Please leave the link of where I can find the linky at.
5) Blog. (5 entry) Make sure you link back to this giveaway.

This giveaway ends on Oct 31 @ midnight. Winner will be picked at random.org. Please leave a valid email in your comment. Independentmami has the right to disqualify any entry. Good Luck.

TO THE WINNER: The code is good for up to $150 (this amount will need to include S&H). The code is good for 1 pair of shoes and does not apply to Naya or MBT (other Brown Shoe brands).

***Disclosure-I received a pair of boots to review. No compensation was received. These are my honest opinions.

www.FeelGoodInNaturalizer.com It is an online community where you can share your feedback in the reviews and forum sections. Take a tour... check out reviews, post yours.

DiamondEarrings.org review

Do you like to or want to buy diamond earrings? Well I have been wanting some, and I still haven't gotten any...hint, hint...(tell my hubby).

DiamondEarrings.org sent me a pair of earrings to review. Most costume jewelry if not all irritate my ears.
But these have been wonderful. I wore them on my honeymoon. I especially liked not having to worry about carrying real diamond earrings on a trip. I am always paranoid about those kinds things, or loosing something so expensive. The earrings are sparkly. They look real, so no-one can tell they are fake. I have been using them everyday. They have not irritated my ears not once. I wear them to work. They are a great compliment to any outfit. Check my pic out from today..

Do you want you want some?

Just mention DiamondEarrings.org anywhere on the web (twitter, facebook or myspace page, blog, youtube, etc.) and pay $3.77 and you'll receive a set of beautiful simulated-diamond earrings, set in sterling silver and delivered in a heart shaped box. There is a limit of one order per household, and hurry because this is a limited time offer and may expire at any time!



***Disclosure-I received a free pair of earrings to review. No compensation was received. These are my honest opinions.

Pepperidge Farm Donates Every Time You Share a MIlano Moment

October is Breast Cancer Awareness month and in honor of all of those who've been touched by the disease, Pepperidge Farm is turning their Milano packaging pink - inspiration for the cure!

To support this cause, Pepperidge Farm has launched a Facebook Campaign to encourage consumers to share a "Milano Moment" when they realized life is sweet.

It gets better! From now through October 31st, Pepperidge Farm is donating $.50 to Susan G. Komen for the Cure for every Milano moment shared on the Milano Facebook Page (up to $50,000) .



By supporting each other and sharing our strength, we can work together to find the cure. You can help right now by sharing your Milano Moment. Go to
to http://bit.ly/MilanoFacebook

**I am a One2One Network member and by posting this information I am being entered into a gc giveaway.

QUIERO MI BODA SEASON 2 starts Oct 25

Are you planning a wedding or love wedding shows, check this out?

El lunes, 25 de octubre, se estrena en el canal Tr3s la nueva temporada del único programa que ofrece un vistazo de la locura y el alboroto que rodea a las bodas interculturales – Quiero Mi Boda. Las bodas son un evento muy especial en la vida de una pareja: un día cuando no son solamente dos personas que se unen en matrimonio, pero dos familias. Ahora imagínese que estas dos familias sean de culturas completamente diferentes: distintos gustos, tradiciones, religiones y a veces hasta diferentes idiomas. Quiero Mi Boda te lleva detrás de las cámaras mientras que la unión de estas parejas se convierte en realidad.

I needed advice, and help for my weddding and I know I watched my fair share of shows. I took ideas from them and created my own from theirs. I also was able to combine my Salvadorian heritage, his Mexican traditions and our American life. Check these weddings out and Good Luck from this new bride to you!!


QUIERO MI BODA SEASON 2


STEPHANY & DOMINIC
PREMIERE DATE: OCTOBER 25TH, 2010

PREMIERE TIME: 7 p.m. EST

BRIDE AND GROOM: Stephany Perez – 22 yrs & Dominic Bell - 25yrs

BACKGROUNDS: Mexican (Stephany) & African American (Dominic)

PARTY DATE: August 7th, 2010

LOCATION: Mira Loma, CA

Stephany and Dominic began to do things the right way…Getting engaged and planning a wedding was on their checklist…however things suddenly changed from the right way to the backwards way when they found out they had a baby in the oven! Now, Steph had to move in with Dominic, have her baby and then finally graduate from school…Certainly not the way her parents expected it to happen…But getting married was still in Dominic’s head and he is now ready to pop the question once again…

Full time students with part time jobs, and a baby, have this couple desperate to search for the cheapest way to get married… And what better idea than having it in the backyard!

But this is not it! Choosing their first dance, cake and food has them fussing about each other’s decisions; of course all this while they have to feed the baby and change dirty diapers…!

If this wouldn’t be too much, with full wedding plans on a roll, Dominic becomes Catholic to try to surprise Stephany with a church ceremony…Will his intent work? Work or not, Dominic and his family are ready to get on the dance floor and eat as many tacos as they can, or will they?

MONICA & AJ
PREMIERE DATE: NOVEMBER 1ST , 2010

PREMIERE TIME: 7 p.m. EST

BRIDE AND GROOM: Monica Loera- Sanchez – 26 yrs & AJ Ghambari -28 yrs

BACKGROUNDS: Mexican (Monica) &Persian/ American (AJ)

PARTY DATE: August 14th, 2010

LOCATION: Seattle, WA

Monica and AJ are both very proud of their heritage and want to represent it at full scale on their wedding day. From asking Monica’s dad for her hand to taking him goats as dowry, AJ has done it all and is ready to include as many Persian traditions as he can possibly think of… Persian food, Persian dancers and… a Persian ceremony! But this becomes a challenge when Monica’s family also request’s plenty of Catholic traditions…El lazo, las arras and mariachis, all within a Catholic Church ceremony… All of these traditions have the couple butting heads…But in this case it’s because they want it all! They want Persian dancers and folkloric dancers, Persian food and Mexican food, Salsa, Merengue, Reggaeton and of course some Persian Jams! So many ideas for one wedding day have this couple running around making old and new traditions happen such as a first meeting before the wedding! Will they be ready for this traditional mix?

ALEX & ALEXANDRA
PREMIERE DATE: NOVEMBER 8TH, 2010

PREMIERE TIME: 7 p.m. EST

BRIDE AND GROOM: Alex Rizo– 24 yrs & Alexandra Chamorro- 26yrs

BACKGROUND: Cuban (Alex) & Peruvian (Alexandra)

PARTY DATE: June 4th, 2009

LOCATION: Miami, FL

Even though this couple almost shares the same name, they are everything but similar when it comes to their cultures. Alex is the loud Cubano used to wearing “Guayaberas” and “Chancletas” now marrying the fancy and elegant Peruana who fights for her groom to dress and speak appropriately. And if dealing with the Groom’s dress code wouldn’t be enough, Alexandra is also worried about her mother’s extravagant taste in style and her father’s stubborn tux decision making… And if you thought the bride has all the pressure, well then think again…Alex has his own motherly problems…Alex is the typical Latino “mama’s boy”, so mom is having a hard time at cutting the umbilical cord and now, she wants to walk him down the aisle! But family problems don’t end here, because Alexandra’s Peruvian family isn’t holding back from their special requests…Her mom wants to invite a list of friends just 2 weeks before the ceremony! And if that weren’t enough, she also wants to walk down the aisle with the bride to be just because “That’s how it’s done in “El Peru”.

Will all of these family differences cause couple disputes, or will Alex be able to keep a “Happy Wife, Happy Life”?

ANA LILI & EDGARD
PREMIERE DATE: NOVEMBER 15TH,2010

PREMIERE TIME: 7 p.m. EST

BRIDE AND GROOM: Ana Lilia Ortega– 31 yrs & Edgard Uy – 31 yrs
BACKGROUNDS: Mexican (Ana) & Filipino American (Edgard)

PARTY DATE: August 28th, 2010

LOCATION: Studio City, CA

Ana and Edgard met through a relative’s wedding. Without a common language to communicate by, or without much time to spend together, the couple still managed to be struck by cupid’s arrow. Dictionaries and sign language helped this couple pull through their long distance relationship. After back and forth visits Ana had to make one of the biggest decisions of her life, leave her profession behind for love and move to the United States. Alone, Ana Lili tries to learn the language as well as Edgard’s family life style and traditions. Soon Edgard popped the question and made this bride begin the wedding plans, which were full of Filipino traditions and not enough Mexican ones. As happy as Ana could be for marrying the love of her life, she couldn’t bear the sadness of her family not being able to come to her wedding so this bride planned the wedding and went with everyone else’s ideas and forgot to include her own. But to her surprise, her sister comes to put everything in its place and a little later so do her parents…

Now, this groom finds himself doing last minute Mexican traditions as well as having to change his sleeping plans the night before the wedding! It looks like Ana Lili might NOW start having things her way…!

CORINA & ERIC
PREMIERE DATE: NOVEMBER 22ND, 2010

PREMIERE TIME: 7 p.m. EST

BRIDE AND GROOM: Corina Garcia - 29 yrs & Eric Chen 28 yrs

BACKGROUNDS: Mexican American (Corina) & Chinese American (Eric)

PARTY DATE: September 18, 2010

LOCATION: Glendale, CA

Corina and Eric met through work. They both shared a cubicle while working for the same company in California (she did Marketing, he worked in Finance.) The company then transferred them to Nashville. Soon after, Corina purchased a home in Nashville and took Eric in as her roommate. This is when the sparks flew.

Ever since their engagement, they began the arduous task of planning a long distance wedding, since they decided to get married in L.A. (which is where they are from). Enter Corina’s mother who is a very conservative Catholic and only asked one thing of her daughter: that she marry at a church. The only downside to this is that Eric is Buddhist and per his Dad’s wishes, he must have a Buddhist Monk bless them at their ceremony. And to makes matters tenser, Corina is a little bit on the bossy side (some even say she’s who wears the pants in the relationship). Eric is a bit more conservative than Corina, especially when it comes to the budget. He’s the “bookkeeper” of the relationship. So when it comes to the wedding budget, he stands his ground and no other. Nonetheless, their union will be full of Mexican and Chinese traditions; including a Chinese Tea Ceremony, which is a custom Chinese couples carry out before they marry. In the end, will Corina’s mother have her way and get a church wedding? Or will she relax a bit and go with the flow?

ANYLZA & DAVID
PREMIERE DATE: NOVEMBER 29TH, 2010

PREMIERE TIME: 7 p.m. EST

BRIDE AND GROOM: Anylza Zorilla - 21 yrs & David Mignano 22 yrs

BACKGROUNDS: Dominican (Anylza) & Italian American (David)

PARTY DATE: September 19, 2010

LOCATION: Matawan, NJ

Anylza and David met through a friend who arranged their blind date. Only three months later David proposed and received an immediate YES from Anylza! With Italian parents very much in shock, meeting the “bride to be” was their main and first request…with of course, many more Italian traditions to be requested afterwards (A Sunday wedding…ripping the Veil…Carrying a piece of Iron in the groom’s pocket…Breaking a glass…) But the Dominican family isn’t holding back on their request’s either. Since Anylza hasn’t seen her mom for over 10 years, her “tias” have made sure to show Anylza the Dominican ways by planning her wedding…Or at least trying to!

Speaking of family taking over weddings… David also wants his dad, who is a Judge, to marry them! All these details take Anylza by surprise, but she must make her groom happy and opt to have a wedding before the wedding in NYC so dad can actually marry them!

All the madness and stress Anylza is dealing with causes David to plan a one day surprise trip to the D.R., now Anylza can see her mom before she says the “I DO” and David can finally meet her!

CHRISTINA & JEREME
PREMIERE DATE: DECEMBER 6TH, 2010

PREMIERE TIME: 7 p.m. EST

BRIDE AND GROOM: Christina Calderon - 27 yrs Jereme Adams 31 yrs

BACKGROUNDS: Newyorican (Christina) & American (Jereme)

PARTY DATE: October 9, 2010

LOCATION: Orlando, FL

This cute couple met thanks to today’s very often used social networking sites. Christina found herself alone in a new city with nothing more to do than surf the net. One day she finally found who she never thought would be the love of her life…2 years and a baby later the couple had bought a house and was now ready to tie the knot! To Christina’s surprise, her parent’s first suggestion was having a courthouse wedding in order to save money. But saving money for her own wedding went against Christina’s traditions who dreamt about having big wedding all of her life. So Christina decided to follow her heart and plan the wedding of her dreams, of course considering her groom’s very opinionated input. Fighting over the budget, the guest list, dancing or not, what types of food and even who the bride chooses for her Maid of Honor only seems to be the beginning of this wedding planning journey. And without a doubt, a baby along the ride doesn’t make it any easier. Will this couple pull through their different opinions and have the best day of their lives… and in a very unconventional venue?

JUAN & SWATI
PREMIERE DATE: DECEMBER 13TH, 2010

PREMIERE TIME: 7 p.m. EST

BRIDE AND GROOM: Juan Jaime - 28 yrs & Swati Agrawal- 24 yrs

BACKGROUND: Mexico (Juan) & Indian (Swati)

PARTY DATE: Oct. 17, 2010

LOCATION: Edison, NJ

If there was ever a couple that had odds stacked up against them, it’s Juan and Swati. Juan is a Catholic Mexican and Swati is an Indian who is now devoted to practicing Jainism. Swati’s parents have always wanted to arrange her marriage the way it’s traditionally done in India. But Swati is ready to be disowned by her family since she will not change marrying her Mexicano for anyone!

The thing is, Swati is now more devoted to her religion and expects for Juan to agree with all of her traditional requests: A Jainism ceremony (on party day); vegetarian food, and Punjabi music. She also expects for Juan to do his amazing arrival on a horse as his family dances around him to the beat of the drums. And as Juan tries to fight it, Swati is more determined than ever. She wants to make this wedding as Indian as it can get, she’s even traveling to India to buy the all of the typical outfits…Including Juan’s!

So many traditions in one day make it almost impossible for Juan to include the Catholic Ceremony...a possibility that’s out of the question for his family…! This is why his mom will be there to make sure he remembers where he comes from!

It’s all about decision making with this couple…Having meat, not having meat… Sitting arrangements and ceremony events… Respecting one culture and accepting another… Will Swati get everything her way or will Juan finally put his foot down?