The Little Blog Dress: August 2014

My Obsession With Veggetti® #Giveaway

Yes, I am a blogger and yes I get a lot of fun and cool promotional opportunities to blog about. I'm pretty selective to what I say yes to, because I want it to match my readers and something that I am interested in. I could copy and paste all day long what the PR agency sends but how realistic is that?

Please meet my newest obsession. I have already threatened to marry it, or at the every least host my own weekly infomercials for my own enjoyment. You get a Veggetti and You get a Veggetti! Squash is healthy but after making it 100 different ways, along comes the Veggetti to shake it all up.

Everyone loves pasta, but pasta doesn’t always love everyone back. Especially since I am on the Death Diet 30000 for Megan's wedding in September. I have found a healthy, low-carb alternative to spaghetti that’s is still delicious and satisfying! Veggetti® is the perfect way to reinvent your favorite pasta dishes, with a twist!

Veggetti® is the quick & easy way to turn veggies into delicious pasta instantly! Simply choose your favorite veggies— zucchini, squash, carrots, cucumbers and potatoes work great—and twist them into thick or thin strands of pasta. From Veggetti® Marinara to Veggetti® Bolognese, you’ll enjoy homemade, low-calorie dishes quickly and easily. Veggetti® dishes are great for diabetics and gluten-free diets, too.

I have made a couple of different variations of Veggetti dishes that I think you will like. I was really surprised how simple it was to use.

I decided to do Garlic Squash Veggetti, four ingredients: Squash, Garlic, Olive Oil and Red Pepper. As simple as it sounds, it is that easy to make. This is DELICIOUS and guilt free!

Use the Veggetti to make the squash according to directions, this was two squashes

Mince three (or ten, I won't judge) cloves of garlic and add EVOO to frying pan

Saute for about three minutes and add red pepper to taste.

That is it! Its really that easy and delicious! Check their website out for more ideas.

This is way too good for me to keep to myself. How about a giveaway? Win your own Veggetti® and a $25 Visa gift card by entering the giveaway below! Good Luck!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

The Veggetti®, gift card, information, and additional gift pack have been provided by Ontel

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Friday Five: Five Things to love about Summer

Today I linked up with Eat, Pray, Run DC and You Signed Up for What, and Mar on the Run for this fun Friday Five.

This week's theme is Five Things To Love About Summer!! Living in Florida where it is always Haiti Hot, the summer love comes in waves.

1. I love the recipes in summer that make sense. As much as I love good old fashioned comfort food, little stands up to a delicious summer salad or grilled anything.

2. Running for me in the summer isn't the most ideal, but it is when I do it the most at dawn.

3. A good day with pool and friends and cocktails can never be beat!

4. I tend to give myself a little more of a break during the summer as an employer. I don't technically take vacations because I always have to prep and prepare but sometimes in a middle of a Tuesday, I will say cussword it and throw on my suit for a swim...just because I can. This goes for day drinking. Way better in the summer.

5. Big Brother. of course you know I am obsessed but also know that once summer hits three months of BB is not too far behind!

So what do you love about summer?

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Socially Acceptable-Kat Cole, COO Cinnabon

It's been a while that I stopped what I was doing on a Sunday morning and got really excited at all the inspiration in my ears. This weekend Kat Cole, COO Cinnabon was on CNBC On The Money, discussing her rise to President of Cinnabon. Its hard to not be inspired by a 36 year old woman that runs the company of one of my favorite treats! She had one resounding theme, failure can be a good thing. Hope you will grab a couple of takeaways like I did. The recap article is here.

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Make your Own Yummification 5-Hour Energy Recipe and Win #giveaway

For someone who sleeps very little, staying up past 9 or 10 at night is nearly impossible for me. I don't drink a lot of coffee, because sometimes it makes me jittery. I have been using 5-hour ENERGY® shots to prevent me from falling asleep in my soup when we go out to dinner with friends.

Do you need a little boost to get through the day? 5-hour ENERGY® shots are the perfect way to get that energized feeling! 5-hour ENERGY® shots are dietary supplements that provide hours of energy and alertness without those nasty jitters. It contains a blend of B-vitamins, amino acids, and essential nutrients, and helps people feel alert and energized for hours. Even better, it has zero sugar, zero carbs, zero herbal stimulants and 4 calories!

With the summer months upon us, it’s also important to have a refreshing drink to cool down with, so why not have both?

The makers of 5-hour ENERGY® know the flavors can be strong, so the folks at are 5-hour ENERGY® encouraging people to mix a 5-hour ENERGY® shot with an everyday beverage to create a yummy, enjoyable drink.

This was an exciting challenge for me to create a recipe using one of the many 5-hour ENERGY® flavors. I am sharing this contest with you so that you can have a chance to win too! Those who create combinations can win a share of $100,000 by entering the 5-hour ENERGY® “Yummification” video contest!

This is my Yummification concoction: I chose to use the Citrus 5-hour ENERGY® with orange flavored sparkling water and then added some lime for pizzazz! It is awesome!

Here is how you can enter this contest! :

1. Mix (1) 5-hour ENERGY® shot with 1 or 2 (MAX) of the following approved beverages:

Decaffeinated soda or cola
Fruit juice
Vegetable Juice
Smoothie
Lemonade
Decaffeinated tea (hot or iced)
Any form of water

2. Give your “Yummification” a name

3. To enter the contest, visit www.5houryummification.com and follow the instructions to complete the entry form; “Like” 5-hour ENERGY® on Facebook, then create and submit a video that is no longer than 60 seconds showing an original combination being made, tasted, and named (creativity counts!); however, it is not a requirement for your blog post.

Remember, 5-hour ENERGY® is not an energy drink or intended to be mixed with alcohol. It is not intended for children, women who are pregnant or nursing, or people with medical conditions. It does not increase physical performance, dexterity, or endurance and does not treat or cure any disease or medical condition. Do not drink more than two per day, do not drink more than one at a time.

Information about the “Yummification” Contest:
The makers of 5-hour ENERGY® announced the launch of the “Yummification” video contest, where entrants can win a share of $100,000 for creating a video of their favorite way to mix a 5-hour ENERGY® shot with an everyday beverage. The contest will be judged on the creativity of the video and the taste of the creation:

· Drink creations must follow the approved/non-approved ingredients guidelines (i.e. no caffeinated beverages or alcohol)

· To enter the contest, visit www.5houryummification.com and follow the instructions to complete the entry form; “Like” 5-hour ENERGY® on Facebook, then create and submit a video that is no longer than 60 seconds showing an original combination being made, tasted, and named (creativity counts!)

· One grand prize winner will receive $50,000, and the following prizes will also be awarded:

Second Prize (1): Thirty Thousand Dollars ($30,000)

Third Prize (1): Ten Thousand Dollars ($10,000)

Fourth Prizes (10): One Thousand Dollars ($1,000)

Hurry! Entries must be received by August 19, 2014 at 11:59 p.m. EDT to be eligible. No purchase necessary. US residents only. 18 years and up. To enter, visit www.5houryummification.com and follow the instructions to complete the entry form or “Like” the 5-hour ENERGY® page on Facebook and follow the instructions to click the contest tab

For official rules, visit 5houryummification.com and don't forget to check out 5-hour ENERGY® Twitter!

How about your chance to win a gift pack from 5-hour ENERGY® Enter here below!

The 5-hour ENERGY® samples, gift card, information, and additional gift pack have been provided by the makers of 5-hour ENERGY®, but all opinions are mine.

a Rafflecopter giveaway Pin It

Altuzarra For Target Hits Stores September 14

Mark your calendar for September 14th when Target partners with yet another fabulous designer to present about 50 pieces ranging in prices from $18-90. If you need me, that day I will be online not breathing. Thanks to my geographic of awesome this collection prob won't make it to Daytona Beach Target.

This collection is Joseph Altuzarra and I am in LOVE. I haven't been this excited since the Missoni or Phillip Lim launch. Thanks to my friend Beauty Mommy Nada, who sent me the LookBook, here is what i am pinning and pining over. Thank God for the Red Card, free shipping and no stress!!

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Celebrate Shark Week with some #SharkTankSwag #Giveaway

Unless you have been living under a rock, did you know it is Shark Week?? !!

To celebrate Shark Week, I have joined forced with CNBCPrimeTV to do another giveaway for Shark Tank.

Shark Tank is an American reality competition series produced by Mark Burnett.The show features a panel of potential investors, called "sharks", who consider offers from aspiring entrepreneurs seeking investments for their business or product. The entrepreneur can make a deal on the show if a panel member is interested. However, if all of the panel members opt out, the entrepreneur leaves empty-handed.The show is said to portray "the drama of pitch meetings and the interaction between the entrepreneurs and tycoons.

The CNBC network and that Shark Tank is now being syndicated on CNBC on Tuesdays from 8-10pm.

Your chance to win a box filled with Shark Tank goodies of businesses that survived the Shark Tank and managed to nab investments!

Check out what was sent in my gift box!

Origaudio Fold and Play Speakers

Season 2 - Episode 207

@OrigAudio

Gobie H2O

Season 04 Episode 26

@GOBIEH2O

Marz Sprays

Season 04 Episode 05

@marzsprays

Pork Barrel BBQ Sauce

Season 1 Episode 6

@porkbarrelbbq

Nuts n More

Season 04 Episode 20

@NutsNMoreUSA

Enter the Rafflecopter Giveaway Below and don't forget to watch Shark Week and episodes of Shark Tank on CNBC on Tuesdays!

a Rafflecopter giveaway

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NASCAR Foundation Starter Kit Helps You Host Your Own Fundraiser

Through our programs at-track or in the classroom, The NASCAR Foundation is helping kids learn to succeed, no matter their obstacles! During the 2012-2013 school year, one survey found the national average spent by teachers on their classrooms was $485. That accounts for $1.6 billion during one school year.*

Gearing up with supplies during the back-to-school rush doesn't mean teachers and students stop needing resources once the first school bell rings. Help us provide supplies and innovative technology throughout the year to classrooms across the country just by using our recently launched The Champions Starter Kit Informational Guide! You host the event, and we help! This kit was created to assist you in event planning and promotional efforts.

What does this mean? You could host an event that fuels NASCAR Chase enthusiasm and marks the first-ever 16 driver Chase for the NASCAR Sprint Cup, all while raising funds to benefit our kids. Win, win!

Celebrate all that you love about NASCAR by hosting a NASCAR Day in your community or neighborhood. Plan it in conjunction with Richmond International Raceway's race weekend!
Host a NASCAR race watch party and incorporate a barbeque for friends, family and coworkers.
Please help us enhance our fundraising efforts by signing up to host a fun event to raise funds for The NASCAR Foundation, all while engaging in the sport we love - NASCAR!

Read More Info here

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Venus Makes Shaving on the Go A Snap

One of the coolest thing I have been using this summer is the new Venus Snap by Gillette. It is genius in design, small but sturdy and fits in even the tiniest of handbags. This is great to throw in your gym bag, at yoga class or when you are traveling. I like that the case that it comes with is enclosed because I have this irrational fear of slicing my finger, shudder. Seriously, I took this on my cruise and it was really convenient and portable.

Shaving season is in full-swing and Gillette Venus has you covered when it comes to a skipped shave or if you just missed a few hairs. The Venus Snap with Embrace Razor is perfect for a close long-lasting shave for spontaneous, on-the-go moments like an impromptu date night or last minute gym class.

In the spirit of summer fun and adventure, Gillette Venus invites you to embrace all the on-the-go, leg-bearing moments. Venus is partnering with YouTube star Tessa Violet to help celebrate these ”wish I’d shaved” moments. All summer, women shared these funny, sometimes even embarrassing moments via the #InASnap hashtag on Twitter. Tessa has used her favorites as inspiration to create a series of music videos celebrating spontaneity. To see what #InASnap moments are brought to life, follow the #InASnap hashtag and @Gillette Venus on Twitter and visit the Gillette Venus YouTube page - to check out the music video series.

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Ormond Mainstreet presents Granada Grand Festival of the Arts

I am so lucky to be a part of Ormond Beach Mainstreet. It is great to be able to make a difference and help throw great events in the town who made me me. This should be a blast if you are an artist, a band or just someone like me who enjoys some great unique artsy but not fartsy entertainment. (You can see why I am not in charge of writing the copy for this one!)

Mark your calendars to attend the 1st Annual Granada Grand Festival of the Arts! Ormond Beach MainStreet Inc., will host this free arts festival Friday, September 26th, 2014 from 5 PM-8PM along West Granada Boulevard in the downtown Ormond Beach Arts District.

The Granada Grand Festival of the Arts will highlight our area’s rich accomplishments by showcasing visual artists, musical acts and spoken word performers.

Stroll Granada Boulevard as the street comes alive with paintings, public art displays, music, food and even live cake decorating. Find the perfect piece of art while you shop in our vendor area with over 20 accomplished area artists. Be inspired by the verses of spoken word poets or admire a beautiful work of chalk art!

On the main stage, local bands will square off for supremacy during our Battle of the Bands contest. Fans are invited to be a part of the action and vote for a favorite act.

Musical performances and dance groups will entertain attendees at the second stage.

Downtown restaurants will be offering food and drink specials along with musical entertainment.

Our kid’s zone will be art-centered, with craft projects and a bounce house.

Admission and parking are free for this event—so come join us for all of the fun!

The Granada Grand Festival of the Arts is a new event sponsored by Ormond Beach MainStreet and the Ormond Arts District as part of their mission to enliven downtown Ormond Beach.

For more information on this event, please contact Jamie

Bartholomew, Events Coordinator, at jamie@ormondmainstreet.com or by phone at

(386) 492-2938.

All vendor and battle of the bands apps can be accessed here.

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Pamela Barsky Words of Wisdom

God, How I love this woman and her designs!

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Pro Compression #KeepItTight

As one who used to not really care to run when it is too cold out, wearing compression socks and sleeves really help in the winter. Marathon runners have been sporting compression socks for several years. But even for my two mile treks around the neighborhood have a benefit. A lot of people compare compression methods to ice baths...which scare me. So this is an easy fix.

When I had a chance to try out Pro Compression with a #sweatpink campaign, I was game. Even though, obviously its summer, these sleeves from Pro Compression are completely breathable. My legs feel great during and after my runs and it really helps with my recovery. If you are like me and not jumping in a tub of ice any time soon, these are for you.

If Calf Sleeves aren't your thing, maybe you would like a pair of compression socks? I really liked the pink argyle ones. I mean, its really all about HOW you look while you run!

PRO Compression products are specifically designed to give you an edge and help you perform at the highest level possible.

They can be worn before, during and after a workout as the benefits of compression speed up muscle recovery through enhanced vascular flow in your lower extremities.

True Graduated Compression
PRO Compression socks deliver maximum comfort and speedy recovery times. The science is complex, but benefits such as improved blood flow, stability and comfort are universally understood. The moment you put these socks on your feet, you will feel the difference.

This design requires more effort to put on than standard socks. But it’s that extra effort and much-needed compression that make all the difference. Be patient and your feet will thank you.

True graduated compression promotes circulation by pushing fluid up from your feet and ankles to toward your knees. This design also helps reduce swelling and inflammation while providing critical support to muscles and tendons.

Find Pro Compression on the web, Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. I have a discount code for you!
"PINK" for 40% OFF an entire purchase at the PRO Compression online store. If you have been on the fence about purchasing compression socks the discount is a great way to try one of the top brands with little risk!

#KeepItTight on my run!

Tweet: I #KeepItTight w/ @PROCompression! Use the code PINK for 40% OFF your entire purchase! http://ctt.ec/W2UDL+ @fitapproach #sweatpink

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